Play Therapy in York, PA
![Photo of Jacqueline George - Hope Renewed Counseling Services LLC, LCSW, RPT-S, CAAPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/682e728d-9708-4835-b4e5-f357c87eeb56/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Renewed Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, CAAPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
York, PA 17402
As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor I use both child centered and directive therapies, as well as Animal Assisted Play Therapy.
Whether you are looking for counseling for your child, yourself or your family, I would enjoy walking with you through your current need to the place of healing and success in life that you would like to reach. For 30+ years I have worked closely with children and their families who have experienced traumatic life events, including domestic violence, sexual assault and violent loss. There is hope for you to move from being a victim to being a survivor; or from being a harassed parent to one who experiences peace with their child.
As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor I use both child centered and directive therapies, as well as Animal Assisted Play Therapy.
Whether you are looking for counseling for your child, yourself or your family, I would enjoy walking with you through your current need to the place of healing and success in life that you would like to reach. For 30+ years I have worked closely with children and their families who have experienced traumatic life events, including domestic violence, sexual assault and violent loss. There is hope for you to move from being a victim to being a survivor; or from being a harassed parent to one who experiences peace with their child.
![Photo of Raamah Thomas Johnson - Breathe Christian Art Therapy & Therapeutic Svcs., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/372acaf4-3871-4a5b-b8e7-40268f5b3eee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Breathe Christian Art Therapy & Therapeutic Svcs.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17401
My goal is to help you express “that feeling” through emphasis on Expressive Art therapy (painting, drawing, music, movement and play) in addition to traditional therapy.
You know you need help, but don’t know who to talk to or if talking will even change anything. You’ve experienced a trauma and you are tired of talking about it, but you don’t want to feel “that feeling" anymore. You know that something is wrong, but you can’t seem to put words to it. Or maybe you have been to therapy before and just talking about it didn’t seem to help. Perhaps your child is not behaving in school like he or she used to, they’re no longer talking, grades are falling and their getting into fights. Maybe your family just doesn’t get it, if you could just do or be what they want things will be ok, but there not.
My goal is to help you express “that feeling” through emphasis on Expressive Art therapy (painting, drawing, music, movement and play) in addition to traditional therapy.
You know you need help, but don’t know who to talk to or if talking will even change anything. You’ve experienced a trauma and you are tired of talking about it, but you don’t want to feel “that feeling" anymore. You know that something is wrong, but you can’t seem to put words to it. Or maybe you have been to therapy before and just talking about it didn’t seem to help. Perhaps your child is not behaving in school like he or she used to, they’re no longer talking, grades are falling and their getting into fights. Maybe your family just doesn’t get it, if you could just do or be what they want things will be ok, but there not.
![Photo of Megan R Sparks, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d40c0d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal lens, Expressive therapies, nondirective play therapy, as well as Strength based and Client centered approaches.
Life can be overwhelming. It throws you curve balls, and sometimes it just feels hard to navigate. Maybe it’s a divorce, job change, becoming a parent, death in the family, or any other life transition. Life can bring us baggage and even though we think we have it contained, it can seep into other areas of our life that we are trying to navigate through. I work with people who want to understand themselves better so they can continue to thrive in life. I want to help empower you to find balance within yourself and learn to fine tune your ability to respond to situation in which you feel in control with better balance and regulation.
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal lens, Expressive therapies, nondirective play therapy, as well as Strength based and Client centered approaches.
Life can be overwhelming. It throws you curve balls, and sometimes it just feels hard to navigate. Maybe it’s a divorce, job change, becoming a parent, death in the family, or any other life transition. Life can bring us baggage and even though we think we have it contained, it can seep into other areas of our life that we are trying to navigate through. I work with people who want to understand themselves better so they can continue to thrive in life. I want to help empower you to find balance within yourself and learn to fine tune your ability to respond to situation in which you feel in control with better balance and regulation.
![Photo of Laura K Tauzin, LPC, MT-BC, NCC, RPT, CAAPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae08da8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura K Tauzin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MT-BC, NCC, RPT, CAAPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17402
Laura offers personalized mental health care, and a tailored approach, which may involve music, the expressive arts, play techniques, counseling interventions, and mindfulness skills designed to shape and improve your symptoms and help you achieve the outcomes we create together.
Feeling down, worried, or stressed at school, work, or home? Are you looking for life balance and satisfaction? Are you seeking healthier relationships with others? Do your team members feel connected, valued, and appreciated? Are you looking for creative, strength-based solutions proven to positively influence your life? Anxiety, depression, communication difficulties, work stress, life changes, parenting challenges, loss…you’re not alone. At SHCS we will work together to explore the triggers for your symptoms, and show you simple, creative, and effective ways to manage them, giving you more control over your life.
Laura offers personalized mental health care, and a tailored approach, which may involve music, the expressive arts, play techniques, counseling interventions, and mindfulness skills designed to shape and improve your symptoms and help you achieve the outcomes we create together.
Feeling down, worried, or stressed at school, work, or home? Are you looking for life balance and satisfaction? Are you seeking healthier relationships with others? Do your team members feel connected, valued, and appreciated? Are you looking for creative, strength-based solutions proven to positively influence your life? Anxiety, depression, communication difficulties, work stress, life changes, parenting challenges, loss…you’re not alone. At SHCS we will work together to explore the triggers for your symptoms, and show you simple, creative, and effective ways to manage them, giving you more control over your life.
![Photo of Betsy Craft, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d16bf51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Many hours of training in play, art, and sand therapy have prepared Betsy well to provide both short and long term treatment to people of all ages.
Betsy is a holistic therapist who enjoys helping both children and adults move towards emotional, spiritual, and physical health. Betsy is a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor.
Many hours of training in play, art, and sand therapy have prepared Betsy well to provide both short and long term treatment to people of all ages.
Betsy is a holistic therapist who enjoys helping both children and adults move towards emotional, spiritual, and physical health. Betsy is a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor.
![Photo of Angela Linebaugh, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462190b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered, Board Certified Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who believes in the power of art to transform and heal. I like to create a comfortable environment for children, teens, adults and families to work on change. I offer creative arts therapies including art therapy, sand tray, and play techniques to help them overcome challenges. In sessions, you will see how art can provide a way to express your inner most feelings when words sometimes fail you. Once the words have been spoken then it is often easier to address the deeper issues and conflicts.
I am a Registered, Board Certified Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who believes in the power of art to transform and heal. I like to create a comfortable environment for children, teens, adults and families to work on change. I offer creative arts therapies including art therapy, sand tray, and play techniques to help them overcome challenges. In sessions, you will see how art can provide a way to express your inner most feelings when words sometimes fail you. Once the words have been spoken then it is often easier to address the deeper issues and conflicts.
![Photo of Dr. Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0a46616-9cd8-4e72-8fc3-b6d423a9386b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17403 (Online Only)
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.- John Watson...I am humbled & honored to have over 30 years experience working with clients of all ages & stages to lead more authentic, joyful, & peace-filled lives. I am an integrative, attachment focused & trauma-informed play therapist - inspired by theories grounded in client-centered, family systems, humanistic, Imago, mindfulness, & parts work. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues & diverse backgrounds in the human experience including LGBTQIA2S+. We all need to be truly seen and heard AND it is courageous and wise to seek help as we journey through life & love!
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.- John Watson...I am humbled & honored to have over 30 years experience working with clients of all ages & stages to lead more authentic, joyful, & peace-filled lives. I am an integrative, attachment focused & trauma-informed play therapist - inspired by theories grounded in client-centered, family systems, humanistic, Imago, mindfulness, & parts work. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues & diverse backgrounds in the human experience including LGBTQIA2S+. We all need to be truly seen and heard AND it is courageous and wise to seek help as we journey through life & love!
![Photo of Nicole Thompson Cartwright, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a8d6f19-f0b3-4857-97a6-ef65ad3357d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
For children, I incorporate play therapy techniques to help them gain and practice skills.
Hello, I'm Niki. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling yourself, or maybe your child is concerning you? Let's talk, and we can work together to find solutions. I help others to find patterns in their lives that are keeping them stuck, and find ways to become unstuck. We'll find what is working and build on your strengths. We'll also find what isn't working, and develop a plan that's right for you.
For children, I incorporate play therapy techniques to help them gain and practice skills.
Hello, I'm Niki. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling yourself, or maybe your child is concerning you? Let's talk, and we can work together to find solutions. I help others to find patterns in their lives that are keeping them stuck, and find ways to become unstuck. We'll find what is working and build on your strengths. We'll also find what isn't working, and develop a plan that's right for you.
![Photo of Lauren O'Connor, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c763c73c-e8d9-4fea-b101-d55aca2f9e57/1/320x400.png)
Lauren O'Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17403 (Online Only)
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral therapy, and play therapy techniques to help you overcome challenges and to help you navigate and prepare for daily life by instilling the tools you need to be successful and thrive! We'll focus on your unique skills and strengths to tailor your treatment beneficially to your needs and goals.
Hi! I’m Lauren, and I've worked in the mental health field for over 7 years. I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bryn Athyn College and my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology in 2020 from Holy Family University. I work as a certified school counselor and as a licensed professional counselor both in regular education and special education. Also, I enjoyed working as a behavioral consultant and mobile therapist with children and individuals to treat anxiety, depression, anger, Autism, ADHD, impulse control, and stress. I'm looking forward to help support you through any life changes or stressors you may face.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral therapy, and play therapy techniques to help you overcome challenges and to help you navigate and prepare for daily life by instilling the tools you need to be successful and thrive! We'll focus on your unique skills and strengths to tailor your treatment beneficially to your needs and goals.
Hi! I’m Lauren, and I've worked in the mental health field for over 7 years. I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bryn Athyn College and my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology in 2020 from Holy Family University. I work as a certified school counselor and as a licensed professional counselor both in regular education and special education. Also, I enjoyed working as a behavioral consultant and mobile therapist with children and individuals to treat anxiety, depression, anger, Autism, ADHD, impulse control, and stress. I'm looking forward to help support you through any life changes or stressors you may face.
![Photo of Daniel Wethington - Arise Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ee98df0-b8e7-4b29-9c73-f9264060a9ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arise Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17403
One of my strengths is that I know how hard it can be to get started in therapy, so I always try to be sensitive and reassuring to my clients as we get to know each other. I am capable of reaching many different types of clients, but I most enjoy helping people who have been struggling for a long time and who cannot see a way out of their situation.
One of my strengths is that I know how hard it can be to get started in therapy, so I always try to be sensitive and reassuring to my clients as we get to know each other. I am capable of reaching many different types of clients, but I most enjoy helping people who have been struggling for a long time and who cannot see a way out of their situation.
![Photo of Shana Block, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dee7de2-41b8-451d-81ff-da34a2d9aa4e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome ! I have been working with children and teens for over 20 years providing counseling. I strive to build rapport with my clients and take my time in getting to know your child. I use a blend of expressive therapies, coming from a person- centered approach. I work with children ages 6 and up.
Hello and welcome ! I have been working with children and teens for over 20 years providing counseling. I strive to build rapport with my clients and take my time in getting to know your child. I use a blend of expressive therapies, coming from a person- centered approach. I work with children ages 6 and up.
15 Second Videos
Hope Renewed Counseling Services LLC
Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused
Tyler Bishop
Latreshia Lilly
![Photo of Ashley Gavoni - Creative Arts in Healing, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94356f29-497c-4a15-8782-3a42c2d280d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Much of my experience is in working with clients in areas of anxiety management, mood management, social skills development, self-esteem, identity, emotional regulation, executive functioning, behavioral transformation, and trauma. I have 10+years experience in these areas as well as working with clients on the Autism Spectrum, ADHD, and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders. I believe in working with clients from a holistic viewpoint, attending to mind/body/spirit in order to support self exploration and understanding. We will work in some talk therapy techniques and possibly integrate other techniques.
Much of my experience is in working with clients in areas of anxiety management, mood management, social skills development, self-esteem, identity, emotional regulation, executive functioning, behavioral transformation, and trauma. I have 10+years experience in these areas as well as working with clients on the Autism Spectrum, ADHD, and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders. I believe in working with clients from a holistic viewpoint, attending to mind/body/spirit in order to support self exploration and understanding. We will work in some talk therapy techniques and possibly integrate other techniques.
![Photo of Chelsea Goody, BS, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc40a2f1-4d4d-4592-ac20-a352eaa80573/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea specializes in working with individuals with Anxiety Spectrum Disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Hoarding Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in addition to many other diagnoses. Chelsea has extensive experience working with young children, adolescents, and adults and works to individualize treatment to fit the needs of each unique client.
Chelsea specializes in working with individuals with Anxiety Spectrum Disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Hoarding Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in addition to many other diagnoses. Chelsea has extensive experience working with young children, adolescents, and adults and works to individualize treatment to fit the needs of each unique client.
![Photo of Tyler Bishop, MA, NCC, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c65e04bf-588d-43aa-8171-554f7196b3d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Check your spam folder if you send a message or email but do not receive a response! Are you nervous about getting help? Do you think therapy can't or won't help you? Are you worried that you aren't doing enough as a parent or that you don't know what to do? Nervousness is normal, and thinking you're beyond help is when reaching out for help is the best thing you can do. As for children, I've seen and been on the receiving end of many behaviors for several years, and I still love working with them. Needing help is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of awareness. Learning how to manage your symptoms means you're trying.
Check your spam folder if you send a message or email but do not receive a response! Are you nervous about getting help? Do you think therapy can't or won't help you? Are you worried that you aren't doing enough as a parent or that you don't know what to do? Nervousness is normal, and thinking you're beyond help is when reaching out for help is the best thing you can do. As for children, I've seen and been on the receiving end of many behaviors for several years, and I still love working with them. Needing help is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of awareness. Learning how to manage your symptoms means you're trying.
![Photo of Shiloh Marie Johnson, LMFT, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d4abf5d-617c-4bd9-8840-7658c109a1f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shiloh Marie Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am so glad you found your way here. In this fast paced world, peace can be hard to find. Conflict, trauma, and everyday stressors impact all of us. My goal is to provide a warm setting for you to find rest and peace even in difficult circumstances. I help people work to find harmony through reinforcing what is working, repairing what is damaged, and building resilient relationships. I am passionate about helping people work through challenges in the present to discover hope for the future.
Welcome! I am so glad you found your way here. In this fast paced world, peace can be hard to find. Conflict, trauma, and everyday stressors impact all of us. My goal is to provide a warm setting for you to find rest and peace even in difficult circumstances. I help people work to find harmony through reinforcing what is working, repairing what is damaged, and building resilient relationships. I am passionate about helping people work through challenges in the present to discover hope for the future.
![Photo of Jane Weierbach, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0e4356-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to equipping children, teens,adults and families with effective skills to reduce stress. People with anxiety and mood disorders,exceptional learning, behavioral and emotional needs are welcome. Athletes who want to improve focus and reduce anxiety are taught individually-tailored effective skills. I use American Sign Language with deaf and hard-of-hearing children and adults. I work well with people who have gaps in social and language skills common to Asperger's Disorder, High Functioning Autism, and various learning disorders. I use research-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and solution-focused family therapy.
I am dedicated to equipping children, teens,adults and families with effective skills to reduce stress. People with anxiety and mood disorders,exceptional learning, behavioral and emotional needs are welcome. Athletes who want to improve focus and reduce anxiety are taught individually-tailored effective skills. I use American Sign Language with deaf and hard-of-hearing children and adults. I work well with people who have gaps in social and language skills common to Asperger's Disorder, High Functioning Autism, and various learning disorders. I use research-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and solution-focused family therapy.
![Photo of Taylor Hood, MT-BC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e48bfa80-6cac-46c0-b92b-7a2a9deecb34/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified music therapist, I use an eclectic approach to meet the needs of each client. I believe each person is unique; therefore, the person engaged in therapy is at the center, and meeting them where they are at emotionally, physically, cognitively, spiritually, and socially is essential. I work closely with my clients using a variety of techniques and interventions to achieve individualized goals which aim to enhance overall quality of life.
As a board-certified music therapist, I use an eclectic approach to meet the needs of each client. I believe each person is unique; therefore, the person engaged in therapy is at the center, and meeting them where they are at emotionally, physically, cognitively, spiritually, and socially is essential. I work closely with my clients using a variety of techniques and interventions to achieve individualized goals which aim to enhance overall quality of life.
![Photo of Rachel Bonser, MS, LPC, NCC, LBS, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cc59625-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Bonser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, LBS, CCTP
Verified Verified
York, PA 17401
My goal is to provide a safe and warm environment for you to be able to work on the path to healing and recovery. I utilize a holistic approach in my work and believe that collaboration is vital in the process of change. I will work closely with you to develop strategies that will help you in your journey towards healing.
My goal is to provide a safe and warm environment for you to be able to work on the path to healing and recovery. I utilize a holistic approach in my work and believe that collaboration is vital in the process of change. I will work closely with you to develop strategies that will help you in your journey towards healing.
![Photo of Michelle Timpson, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74731e4e-10d4-4b47-81e1-6d18412803e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a National Certified Counselor with my masters degree in clinical Mental health counseling. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy, as I believe therapy is not a one size fits all service; different people heal in different ways. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, DBT techniques, and ABA techniques. I work with anxiety disorders, depression disorders, ADD/ADHD, childhood trauma, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I am a National Certified Counselor with my masters degree in clinical Mental health counseling. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy, as I believe therapy is not a one size fits all service; different people heal in different ways. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, DBT techniques, and ABA techniques. I work with anxiety disorders, depression disorders, ADD/ADHD, childhood trauma, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
![Photo of Latreshia Lilly, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e92e8da-4884-418a-86bf-1fa93af513cd/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), I specialize in helping all clients manage life and their relationships. I work with people of all ages who are challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Loss, Adjustment/transitions (into College, a new job, Adulthood, etc.) Relationship Conflicts, Communication, Intimacy, ADHD, Trauma, Self-Harm, Identity, Gender Identity, and Drug/Alcohol addictions. In-office and Virtual Sessions are available for Couples, Individuals (adults and children), and Families. "You never have to do life alone." I'm here for you!
As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), I specialize in helping all clients manage life and their relationships. I work with people of all ages who are challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Loss, Adjustment/transitions (into College, a new job, Adulthood, etc.) Relationship Conflicts, Communication, Intimacy, ADHD, Trauma, Self-Harm, Identity, Gender Identity, and Drug/Alcohol addictions. In-office and Virtual Sessions are available for Couples, Individuals (adults and children), and Families. "You never have to do life alone." I'm here for you!
See more therapy options for York
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.