Play Therapy in Yardley, PA

Photo of Patricia Gunerman - Licensed Professional Counseling Services, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
I provide Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Strategic/Structural, psychodynamic, play and creative therapies in order to resolve psychological symptoms for people ages 4-84 years old.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including; over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
I provide Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Strategic/Structural, psychodynamic, play and creative therapies in order to resolve psychological symptoms for people ages 4-84 years old.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including; over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
(267) 833-2425 View (267) 833-2425
Photo of Karen M Sheridan, PhD, Psychologist
Karen M Sheridan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through therapy, children can then learn to make better choices, have healthier relationships, and feel positive about themselves. My work with children includes trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges, ADD/ADHD; Asperger's Disorder, and Autism.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through therapy, children can then learn to make better choices, have healthier relationships, and feel positive about themselves. My work with children includes trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges, ADD/ADHD; Asperger's Disorder, and Autism.
(267) 281-6006 View (267) 281-6006
Photo of Christina A Fantauzzo, PhD, Psychologist
Christina A Fantauzzo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Your treatment might include family systems therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy and behavior modification, as well as interpersonal and insight-oriented therapies.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. They may be struggling with life transitions, dealing with anger or tantrum behaviors, or have problems focusing or paying attention. I encourage you to share your story through carefully guided questions and together we will explore the factors contributing to your struggles, work to uncover your personal strengths, and develop effective strategies to cope with stress. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in treating individuals with Anxiety and Mood Disorders, ADHD, and Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
Your treatment might include family systems therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy and behavior modification, as well as interpersonal and insight-oriented therapies.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. They may be struggling with life transitions, dealing with anger or tantrum behaviors, or have problems focusing or paying attention. I encourage you to share your story through carefully guided questions and together we will explore the factors contributing to your struggles, work to uncover your personal strengths, and develop effective strategies to cope with stress. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in treating individuals with Anxiety and Mood Disorders, ADHD, and Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
(267) 202-0701 View (267) 202-0701
Photo of Lauren M. Ondrejack, MS, NCC, LAPC
Lauren M. Ondrejack
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
Lauren has a focus in working with children (ages 4+) through a Child-Centered Play Therapy approach.
Lauren Ondrejack, MS, NCC, LAPC, is a Masters Level Counselor at Bucks Support Services. Lauren graduated from Villanova University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Lauren completed her Practicum at Banyan Philadelphia’s Eating Disorder Unit at the Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization levels of care. Her internship was completed in a private practice setting in Yardley, PA. Lauren practices under the supervision of Mark Ludwig, LMFT, CAADC. She is in pursuit of licensure.
Lauren has a focus in working with children (ages 4+) through a Child-Centered Play Therapy approach.
Lauren Ondrejack, MS, NCC, LAPC, is a Masters Level Counselor at Bucks Support Services. Lauren graduated from Villanova University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Lauren completed her Practicum at Banyan Philadelphia’s Eating Disorder Unit at the Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization levels of care. Her internship was completed in a private practice setting in Yardley, PA. Lauren practices under the supervision of Mark Ludwig, LMFT, CAADC. She is in pursuit of licensure.
(267) 204-2704 View (267) 204-2704
Photo of Lyndsey Hansen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyndsey Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Treatment is unique to the individual using developmentally appropriate techniques such as CBT, DBT, and/or play therapy aimed at building coping skills and fostering resilience.
Today’s teens and young adults are juggling endless expectations. The overwhelming demands of school, work, relationships, social media, and unexpected life events can feel so heavy at times. It is human to respond with negative thoughts, strong emotions, or changes in behavior that are not reflections of the best version of yourself. Remember: asking for help through therapy reveals how capable and courageous you truly are. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, a history of trauma, or family conflict, you can trust that healing is within reach. My role is to hold a safe, nurturing space for you along the way.
Treatment is unique to the individual using developmentally appropriate techniques such as CBT, DBT, and/or play therapy aimed at building coping skills and fostering resilience.
Today’s teens and young adults are juggling endless expectations. The overwhelming demands of school, work, relationships, social media, and unexpected life events can feel so heavy at times. It is human to respond with negative thoughts, strong emotions, or changes in behavior that are not reflections of the best version of yourself. Remember: asking for help through therapy reveals how capable and courageous you truly are. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, a history of trauma, or family conflict, you can trust that healing is within reach. My role is to hold a safe, nurturing space for you along the way.
(267) 209-3652 View (267) 209-3652
Photo of Zachary Mauro, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zachary Mauro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or addiction? Struggling with life transitions or the impact of grief? You’re not alone. As a Licensed Social Worker with over a decade of experience, I specialize in helping you navigate anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, LGBTQ+, life transitions, stress, & general mental health concerns to reclaim your sense of well-being. My approach is designed to empower you to understand and manage your emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience, setting the stage for a more fulfilling life.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or addiction? Struggling with life transitions or the impact of grief? You’re not alone. As a Licensed Social Worker with over a decade of experience, I specialize in helping you navigate anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, LGBTQ+, life transitions, stress, & general mental health concerns to reclaim your sense of well-being. My approach is designed to empower you to understand and manage your emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience, setting the stage for a more fulfilling life.
(267) 762-1656 View (267) 762-1656
Photo of Kirsten Burks, LPC , NCC , MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirsten Burks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC , MSEd
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
I support those who are experiencing anxiety & depression and are looking for coping skills to help them. I can assist someone to uncover and understand the relationship that factors in their lives can have on their mental health symptoms. Additionally, I can help uncover negative patterns that maintain a lack of progress. An ideal client would be someone who comes to treatment open-minded, asks questions, and is open to sharing their thoughts, concerns, and questions. This way, the ideal collaboration between therapist and client can occur to achieve the most genuine success through treatment.
I support those who are experiencing anxiety & depression and are looking for coping skills to help them. I can assist someone to uncover and understand the relationship that factors in their lives can have on their mental health symptoms. Additionally, I can help uncover negative patterns that maintain a lack of progress. An ideal client would be someone who comes to treatment open-minded, asks questions, and is open to sharing their thoughts, concerns, and questions. This way, the ideal collaboration between therapist and client can occur to achieve the most genuine success through treatment.
(267) 754-2597 View (267) 754-2597
Photo of Alison Potye - Alison Potye LLC, MA, LPC, CCAT-CA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Potye LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCAT-CA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
My clients are children and teens experiencing difficulty with creating change on their own. I am a Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional. My primary specialty is anxiety and low self-esteem in children and teens. Treating anxiety has always been an interest of mine. There are many individuals dealing with anxiety, so I felt that it was important to understand it well. Anxiety impacts each person differently, and I have spent much time learning how to lessen symptoms and increase coping strategies for my clients.
My clients are children and teens experiencing difficulty with creating change on their own. I am a Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional. My primary specialty is anxiety and low self-esteem in children and teens. Treating anxiety has always been an interest of mine. There are many individuals dealing with anxiety, so I felt that it was important to understand it well. Anxiety impacts each person differently, and I have spent much time learning how to lessen symptoms and increase coping strategies for my clients.
(267) 774-2212 View (267) 774-2212
Photo of Jennifer Perez - Attention Deficit Specialists, PsyD
Attention Deficit Specialists
PsyD
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
We at Attention Deficit Specialists provide a comprehensive evaluation and treatment program for children and adults with ADHD, PDD, Aspergers, Learning Disabilities and oppositional disorders. Rather than relying exclusively on medication, we provide alternative approaches that boost self esteem and teach people to control symptoms on their own. Our staff offers a multimodal approach which offers the greatest possibility of long term success. In addition to Neurofeedback, Biofeedback and Interactive Metronome we offer a treatment approach that includes parent training, behavior modification, individual and family counseling and school advocacy. We also conduct psychoeducational assessments.
We at Attention Deficit Specialists provide a comprehensive evaluation and treatment program for children and adults with ADHD, PDD, Aspergers, Learning Disabilities and oppositional disorders. Rather than relying exclusively on medication, we provide alternative approaches that boost self esteem and teach people to control symptoms on their own. Our staff offers a multimodal approach which offers the greatest possibility of long term success. In addition to Neurofeedback, Biofeedback and Interactive Metronome we offer a treatment approach that includes parent training, behavior modification, individual and family counseling and school advocacy. We also conduct psychoeducational assessments.
(215) 995-4066 View (215) 995-4066
Photo of Kim Burdick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Burdick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
(215) 515-2631 View (215) 515-2631
Photo of Erin Eckman, MSW , LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Eckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms that are exacerbated by external life circumstances? Do you want to understand your emotions and learn how to cope with them? My ideal client is seeking support and wants to begin the journey of improving their mental health. The client may have short-term or long-term goals but needs support to achieve them. The client might also want to improve their self-esteem through therapeutic work. Working with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered eclectic approach can help clients feel supported, develop coping skills, and improve self-esteem.
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms that are exacerbated by external life circumstances? Do you want to understand your emotions and learn how to cope with them? My ideal client is seeking support and wants to begin the journey of improving their mental health. The client may have short-term or long-term goals but needs support to achieve them. The client might also want to improve their self-esteem through therapeutic work. Working with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered eclectic approach can help clients feel supported, develop coping skills, and improve self-esteem.
(267) 310-1961 View (267) 310-1961
Photo of Patricia M Gunerman - Licensed Professional Counseling Services, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
(215) 688-5978 View (215) 688-5978
Photo of Meaghan Marron, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meaghan Marron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Are you experiencing concerns with anxiety or depression? Are your goals to lead a more fulfilled and satisfied life, increase your self-esteem, and develop self-awareness of the barriers and triggers in your life? Are you committed to making changes and being a collaborative member of your treatment plan?
Are you experiencing concerns with anxiety or depression? Are your goals to lead a more fulfilled and satisfied life, increase your self-esteem, and develop self-awareness of the barriers and triggers in your life? Are you committed to making changes and being a collaborative member of your treatment plan?
(267) 497-3841 View (267) 497-3841
Photo of Lori Fine - Liscensed Professional Counseling, MSEd, NCSC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Liscensed Professional Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, NCSC, NCC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
My goal as a therapist is to assist you in developing skills to help you thrive in life, feel grounded and a sense of peace and happiness. I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable in openly sharing your perspectives, hopes, aspirations, fears, and treatment goals. I strive to not only listen, but to truly hear your messages and stories. Throughout my training I have worked with individuals, families and group therapy to children, teens and adults. I draw from modalities that are tailored to each individual, depending upon their concerns.
My goal as a therapist is to assist you in developing skills to help you thrive in life, feel grounded and a sense of peace and happiness. I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable in openly sharing your perspectives, hopes, aspirations, fears, and treatment goals. I strive to not only listen, but to truly hear your messages and stories. Throughout my training I have worked with individuals, families and group therapy to children, teens and adults. I draw from modalities that are tailored to each individual, depending upon their concerns.
(267) 793-2643 View (267) 793-2643
Photo of Patricia M G, LPCS, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia M G
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and overly emotional? Trying to "fix" things on your own without success? Untreated, these feelings often lead to anxiety, depression, family conflict and increase stress; this prevents you from living your life to the fullest. Coping during stressful times requires talking to a compassionate professional who will treat you with dignity and respect. The goal of therapy is for each person to reach their highest potential in all areas of their lives. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing various emotional and psychological symptoms.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and overly emotional? Trying to "fix" things on your own without success? Untreated, these feelings often lead to anxiety, depression, family conflict and increase stress; this prevents you from living your life to the fullest. Coping during stressful times requires talking to a compassionate professional who will treat you with dignity and respect. The goal of therapy is for each person to reach their highest potential in all areas of their lives. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing various emotional and psychological symptoms.
(215) 839-1215 View (215) 839-1215
Photo of Timothy J Hegedus, MS
Timothy J Hegedus
MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
Life is filled with times of transition and times of change. This couldn't be more true than for the life of an adolescent or young person. Personal identity questions, family issues, the pursuit of healthy friendships, and an overwhelming desire for acceptance are all par for the course. In these moments, walking alongside a young person is critical. After 2020, we have all been carrying a good amount of stress, and the burdens of anxiety & depression weigh heavily. I desire to listen intently to the hearts of my clients, especially the hearts of adolescents and young people. Let us walk through the valleys of life together.
Life is filled with times of transition and times of change. This couldn't be more true than for the life of an adolescent or young person. Personal identity questions, family issues, the pursuit of healthy friendships, and an overwhelming desire for acceptance are all par for the course. In these moments, walking alongside a young person is critical. After 2020, we have all been carrying a good amount of stress, and the burdens of anxiety & depression weigh heavily. I desire to listen intently to the hearts of my clients, especially the hearts of adolescents and young people. Let us walk through the valleys of life together.
(267) 833-2260 View (267) 833-2260
Photo of Erin Fox, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Are you facing challenges like anxiety, depression, life transitions, or identity issues? Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space, craving validation, understanding, and guidance? You may be open to self-exploration, aiming for personal growth, seeking insights, coping strategies, and resilience. My ideal client values seeking support and actively participates in therapy. Motivated to improve their lives and relationships, they seek empowerment and self-discovery in therapy.
Are you facing challenges like anxiety, depression, life transitions, or identity issues? Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space, craving validation, understanding, and guidance? You may be open to self-exploration, aiming for personal growth, seeking insights, coping strategies, and resilience. My ideal client values seeking support and actively participates in therapy. Motivated to improve their lives and relationships, they seek empowerment and self-discovery in therapy.
(267) 727-2734 View (267) 727-2734
Photo of Eric Heinbach, M Ed, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eric Heinbach
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Ed
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067  (Online Only)
Life is a journey with ups & downs. No one is perfect, many mistakes are made along the way, barriers will arise, & the stress from it all can be downright crippling. Everyone needs help at different stages throughout life as well as a solid foundation of support to reach our full potential. I'm here to provide comfort, positivity, care, empathy, assistance, & more while doing so without judgement. My goal in life is to help others as others have helped me through hard times. No matter how burdensome life can be or how difficult obstacles may seem, no challenge is too big to overcome & there is a path forward. Regain control today!
Life is a journey with ups & downs. No one is perfect, many mistakes are made along the way, barriers will arise, & the stress from it all can be downright crippling. Everyone needs help at different stages throughout life as well as a solid foundation of support to reach our full potential. I'm here to provide comfort, positivity, care, empathy, assistance, & more while doing so without judgement. My goal in life is to help others as others have helped me through hard times. No matter how burdensome life can be or how difficult obstacles may seem, no challenge is too big to overcome & there is a path forward. Regain control today!
(610) 822-9496 View (610) 822-9496
Photo of Lori Weiniger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Weiniger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
For over 25+ years, I have been providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults in the Newtown and Langhorne area . Sometimes life throws curve balls. Children and teens can struggle at home and at school. Parenting may be challenging. Separation and divorce often stresses families, and the death of someone close can leave you grieving, sad and depressed. I use my extensive experience to help you find resolution with these issues and the ability to move forward.
For over 25+ years, I have been providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults in the Newtown and Langhorne area . Sometimes life throws curve balls. Children and teens can struggle at home and at school. Parenting may be challenging. Separation and divorce often stresses families, and the death of someone close can leave you grieving, sad and depressed. I use my extensive experience to help you find resolution with these issues and the ability to move forward.
(215) 977-4692 View (215) 977-4692
Photo of Sara Segal, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Segal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Choosing a therapist to work with you or your family can be an overwhelming process. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe and able to share their thoughts and feelings. I believe that everyone is capable of evolving in a positive way to make improvements in their daily life and relationships. Working collaboratively with my clients I provide the skills and techniques for personal growth and healthy relationships. My services include: family counseling, relationship counseling, child/adolescent therapy, and parenting support.
Choosing a therapist to work with you or your family can be an overwhelming process. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe and able to share their thoughts and feelings. I believe that everyone is capable of evolving in a positive way to make improvements in their daily life and relationships. Working collaboratively with my clients I provide the skills and techniques for personal growth and healthy relationships. My services include: family counseling, relationship counseling, child/adolescent therapy, and parenting support.
(267) 756-2417 View (267) 756-2417
1
Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.