Play Therapy in West Melbourne, FL

Photo of Karen Scalio, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Scalio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Melbourne, FL 32904
To build a working relationship that best meets my client's goals, I use a variety of integrated approaches including play therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, relaxation and other creative therapy techniques.
I have experience working with children, adolescents and their families. I am passionate about helping young people thrive. I like to challenge my clients to find their inner strength by helping them to develop effective coping skills. I like to engage my clients with creative interactions; this fosters trust and reinforces the practice of their skills. I believe development of one's strengths will create a lasting healing effect.
To build a working relationship that best meets my client's goals, I use a variety of integrated approaches including play therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, relaxation and other creative therapy techniques.
I have experience working with children, adolescents and their families. I am passionate about helping young people thrive. I like to challenge my clients to find their inner strength by helping them to develop effective coping skills. I like to engage my clients with creative interactions; this fosters trust and reinforces the practice of their skills. I believe development of one's strengths will create a lasting healing effect.
(321) 419-1790 x1 View (321) 419-1790 x1
Photo of Sarai Escarment, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Sarai Escarment
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Melbourne, FL 32904
Welcome, my name is Sarai Escarment and I thank you for taking the time to review this profile. Renewed Counseling operates in the business of restoring hope. We believe in the resiliency of people to overcome adversity. When given tools and affirmations, people have the power to rise above and take control. It is our pleasure to work with individuals, couples, and families who are motivated to learn; we want to help you cope with challenges and enhance your quality of life!
Welcome, my name is Sarai Escarment and I thank you for taking the time to review this profile. Renewed Counseling operates in the business of restoring hope. We believe in the resiliency of people to overcome adversity. When given tools and affirmations, people have the power to rise above and take control. It is our pleasure to work with individuals, couples, and families who are motivated to learn; we want to help you cope with challenges and enhance your quality of life!
(321) 265-3295 View (321) 265-3295
Photo of Kinasya Craven, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Kinasya Craven
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Melbourne, FL 32904
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for people and consider it a great privilege to serve my community by addressing the mental health needs of individuals from all walks of life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for people and consider it a great privilege to serve my community by addressing the mental health needs of individuals from all walks of life.
(321) 415-4121 x1 View (321) 415-4121 x1
Photo of Juda Marie DeCara, MA, LMHC, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Juda Marie DeCara
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Melbourne, FL 32904
Hello and thank you for viewing my page! I began practicing mental health therapy in 2009 and have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida since 2013. I am a L.P.C. in Connecticut and Pennsylvania and am a Tricare East and Aetna Provider. I am also an LCPC in Kansas. Given my licenses in many states, I work virtually to provide services to those residing in those locations. I primarily work with pre-teens, adolescents, young adults and adults seeking individual counseling sessions. She specializes in Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, child and adult ADHD, and Depressive/Mood Disorders.
Hello and thank you for viewing my page! I began practicing mental health therapy in 2009 and have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida since 2013. I am a L.P.C. in Connecticut and Pennsylvania and am a Tricare East and Aetna Provider. I am also an LCPC in Kansas. Given my licenses in many states, I work virtually to provide services to those residing in those locations. I primarily work with pre-teens, adolescents, young adults and adults seeking individual counseling sessions. She specializes in Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, child and adult ADHD, and Depressive/Mood Disorders.
(813) 513-9508 View (813) 513-9508
Photo of Nicolle Conley, RMHCI, MC, MEd
Nicolle Conley
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MC, MEd
Verified Verified
West Melbourne, FL 32904  (Online Only)
Experience and education have taught me to sit along side... and to listen to the needs of my clients. Allow me the opportunity to share in your experience. Through conversation, activities, and warmth, I will help you move through barriers to find your joy! As a counselor, my primary focus is to help individuals overcome their personal challenges and achieve their goals. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, and work towards developing a better understanding of themselves. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, and supportive, yet also challenging when needed.
Experience and education have taught me to sit along side... and to listen to the needs of my clients. Allow me the opportunity to share in your experience. Through conversation, activities, and warmth, I will help you move through barriers to find your joy! As a counselor, my primary focus is to help individuals overcome their personal challenges and achieve their goals. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, and work towards developing a better understanding of themselves. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, and supportive, yet also challenging when needed.
(321) 415-3431 View (321) 415-3431
Photo of Alyssa Buchanan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Buchanan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Melbourne, FL 32904
Not accepting new clients
**I am currently not accepting new clients; however, other providers are available at Skylight Counseling Services.** I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in providing professional, loving care and guidance to children, teenagers, individuals and families. I enjoy helping children and adults find their inner strengths to overcome life's burdens and challenges.
**I am currently not accepting new clients; however, other providers are available at Skylight Counseling Services.** I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in providing professional, loving care and guidance to children, teenagers, individuals and families. I enjoy helping children and adults find their inner strengths to overcome life's burdens and challenges.
(321) 766-6017 x1 View (321) 766-6017 x1

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janae Gardner, MA, RMHCI, LPCC
Janae Gardner
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI, LPCC
Verified Verified
Indialantic, FL 32903
Her treatment approaches incorporate Brainspotting, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome! Janae Gardner is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. She feels every human deserves the opportunity to process, heal, grow, and live their best life. Her counseling style is best described as non-judgmental, supportive, empathetic, and authentic. She helps clients manage behavior and learn how to identify and process emotions in a healthy way. She is passionate about supporting your journey in life and personal growth. Janae enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
Her treatment approaches incorporate Brainspotting, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome! Janae Gardner is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. She feels every human deserves the opportunity to process, heal, grow, and live their best life. Her counseling style is best described as non-judgmental, supportive, empathetic, and authentic. She helps clients manage behavior and learn how to identify and process emotions in a healthy way. She is passionate about supporting your journey in life and personal growth. Janae enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
(321) 396-5567 View (321) 396-5567
Photo of Diliana Polanco - Salix Behavioral and Wellness Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Salix Behavioral and Wellness Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32905
Our therapists incorporate CBT, DBT, Mindfulness skills, Art and Play therapy among other interventions to help you gain effective coping strategies for life's challenges, improved relationships and communication skills and enhance self-awareness and confidence.
Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Do you have a child with ASD or ADHD who struggles with depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, grief, stress related issues, family problems, relationship issues or feeling stuck in life? Our therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. We individualize treatment to client's specific needs, helping you gain clarity and understanding of yourself and your goals.
Our therapists incorporate CBT, DBT, Mindfulness skills, Art and Play therapy among other interventions to help you gain effective coping strategies for life's challenges, improved relationships and communication skills and enhance self-awareness and confidence.
Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Do you have a child with ASD or ADHD who struggles with depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, grief, stress related issues, family problems, relationship issues or feeling stuck in life? Our therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. We individualize treatment to client's specific needs, helping you gain clarity and understanding of yourself and your goals.
(321) 323-7264 View (321) 323-7264
Photo of Elana Breiner, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elana Breiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Satellite Beach, FL 32937
Waitlist for new clients
For children, I incorporate CBT into play techniques.
Sometimes we need support from a non-biased professional in a safe, calm environment. If you'd like to develop healthy ways to cope with stress, interact with others, or re-train your thought processes to have more self-control, I am happy to help!
For children, I incorporate CBT into play techniques.
Sometimes we need support from a non-biased professional in a safe, calm environment. If you'd like to develop healthy ways to cope with stress, interact with others, or re-train your thought processes to have more self-control, I am happy to help!
(321) 234-0523 View (321) 234-0523
Photo of Cassie Norsworthy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassie Norsworthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32901
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy modalities I most often utilize are cognitive behavioral, solution focused, trauma focused, mindfulness based, strengths based, and play therapies.
Hello! Are you wanting to feel better? Or maybe your child or teen is having some difficulties and could use someone outside of the family to talk with. I am here to help! I work with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs. My areas of expertise include grief and loss, emotional regulation, behavior management, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. Prior to my current role, my professional experience includes 5 years of child and adolescent therapy and 3 years of grief counseling with adults and seniors.
The therapy modalities I most often utilize are cognitive behavioral, solution focused, trauma focused, mindfulness based, strengths based, and play therapies.
Hello! Are you wanting to feel better? Or maybe your child or teen is having some difficulties and could use someone outside of the family to talk with. I am here to help! I work with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs. My areas of expertise include grief and loss, emotional regulation, behavior management, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. Prior to my current role, my professional experience includes 5 years of child and adolescent therapy and 3 years of grief counseling with adults and seniors.
(321) 342-3259 View (321) 342-3259
Photo of Ilene A Scharf - Ilene A. Scharf, MSW, LCSW, Child Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilene A. Scharf, MSW, LCSW, Child Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Satellite Beach, FL 32937
So depending upon what they present, I may use non-directive or directive play therapy or art therapy.
I work exclusively with children aging 18 months to 18 years. I have been treating children in private practice for over 24 years. I treat ADHD, ADD, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression, Grief/Loss due to death, separation/divorce or deployment, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), verbal, physical, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have extensive training and experience in treating children of separating & divorcing parents. I work with divorcing parents and their children in the Collaborative Divorce process. I provide them with insight and the tools to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
So depending upon what they present, I may use non-directive or directive play therapy or art therapy.
I work exclusively with children aging 18 months to 18 years. I have been treating children in private practice for over 24 years. I treat ADHD, ADD, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression, Grief/Loss due to death, separation/divorce or deployment, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), verbal, physical, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have extensive training and experience in treating children of separating & divorcing parents. I work with divorcing parents and their children in the Collaborative Divorce process. I provide them with insight and the tools to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
(321) 574-6353 View (321) 574-6353
Photo of Kimberly Hintz, MA, ITDS , CHT, LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Hintz
Counselor, MA, ITDS , CHT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
Kimberly specializes in working with children, teens, and women covering a variety of issues. ADHD, Trauma, Anxiety, and Womens are just a few areas she specializes in. Kimberly is a Neurodiversity Affirmating therapist that believes treatment should be centered on a client's strengths, not their weaknesses. Kimberly's approach is to serve client needs through a holistic and client centered approach that fosters hope and recovery. Kimberly utilizes evidenced-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused behavior therapy, play therapy, EMDR, and EFT (tapping), hypnotherapy, and brainspotting.
Kimberly specializes in working with children, teens, and women covering a variety of issues. ADHD, Trauma, Anxiety, and Womens are just a few areas she specializes in. Kimberly is a Neurodiversity Affirmating therapist that believes treatment should be centered on a client's strengths, not their weaknesses. Kimberly's approach is to serve client needs through a holistic and client centered approach that fosters hope and recovery. Kimberly utilizes evidenced-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused behavior therapy, play therapy, EMDR, and EFT (tapping), hypnotherapy, and brainspotting.
(321) 635-0701 View (321) 635-0701
Photo of Susan M Whitney, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Susan M Whitney
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32904
I incorporate several techniques including person-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), play/art therapy, solution focused, and mindfulness to help you feel more compassionate toward yourself and others.
Life can be difficult, unfair, and unpredictable. Sometimes we find ourselves feeling lost, overwhelmed, anxious or having difficulty facing life transitions. Everyone needs a little support once in a while. You do not have to face your challenges alone. Together, we can find a way to make new meaning of your life; change behaviors that leave you feeling disconnected, lost or alone; and focus on your personal strengths and goals. I will work alongside you to help you understand yourself better and learn new ways of thinking about your life and yourself.
I incorporate several techniques including person-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), play/art therapy, solution focused, and mindfulness to help you feel more compassionate toward yourself and others.
Life can be difficult, unfair, and unpredictable. Sometimes we find ourselves feeling lost, overwhelmed, anxious or having difficulty facing life transitions. Everyone needs a little support once in a while. You do not have to face your challenges alone. Together, we can find a way to make new meaning of your life; change behaviors that leave you feeling disconnected, lost or alone; and focus on your personal strengths and goals. I will work alongside you to help you understand yourself better and learn new ways of thinking about your life and yourself.
(321) 218-5841 View (321) 218-5841
Photo of Sara Christina Scott, MA, LPCMHSP, Counselor
Sara Christina Scott
Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne Beach, FL 32951
Do you have a good life, but feel stuck and want help staying on track with desired changes? Are you wanting more clarity with your goals? I'm here to assist the process of developing and maintaining positive healthy relationships with self and others to live freely, authentically and creatively. I use experiential, integrative and holistic modalities of therapy. I incorporate the energetic body (EMDR and meditation,) and spiritual aspects while using my professional psychology training as a foundation to assist improved and continued maintenance of healthy emotional health and creative expression.
Do you have a good life, but feel stuck and want help staying on track with desired changes? Are you wanting more clarity with your goals? I'm here to assist the process of developing and maintaining positive healthy relationships with self and others to live freely, authentically and creatively. I use experiential, integrative and holistic modalities of therapy. I incorporate the energetic body (EMDR and meditation,) and spiritual aspects while using my professional psychology training as a foundation to assist improved and continued maintenance of healthy emotional health and creative expression.
(615) 358-8976 View (615) 358-8976
Photo of Joseph Mathew Burton, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Joseph Mathew Burton
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32935
It takes a lot of courage to admit you need help, but it's the first step. Can't seem to find joy in your life? Feeling overwhelmed or chronically anxious? Feeling stigmatized, broken, unstable, different, or pessimistic about life? Allow me to help you or your child learn new tools to navigate distress and chronic stress in life. I'm trained to address sudden stressors, chronic stress, and prior traumas that continue to emotionally paralyze one years after the event, through talk therapy, DBT, activity therapy or EMDR. Let me help you learn new tools and strategies to reduce your symptoms, grow as a person, and find happiness.
It takes a lot of courage to admit you need help, but it's the first step. Can't seem to find joy in your life? Feeling overwhelmed or chronically anxious? Feeling stigmatized, broken, unstable, different, or pessimistic about life? Allow me to help you or your child learn new tools to navigate distress and chronic stress in life. I'm trained to address sudden stressors, chronic stress, and prior traumas that continue to emotionally paralyze one years after the event, through talk therapy, DBT, activity therapy or EMDR. Let me help you learn new tools and strategies to reduce your symptoms, grow as a person, and find happiness.
(352) 571-1868 View (352) 571-1868
Photo of Genger Kaye Benson Perez, MS, LMHC, KAP, Counselor
Genger Kaye Benson Perez
Counselor, MS, LMHC, KAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Satellite Beach, FL 32937
Do you sometimes feel alone, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your current life situation? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I enjoy helping individuals and couples who realize that it's ok to ask for help during these times. My mission is to help you work through any road blocks that are holding you back from moving forward on your path to a brighter day. I am an EMDREA approved EMDR therapist, an Informed IFS Therapist, call me to set a free 30 minute consult to see if we are a good fit. Ketamine Assisted Therapy consultation available in collaboration with Journey Clinical available upon request.
Do you sometimes feel alone, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your current life situation? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I enjoy helping individuals and couples who realize that it's ok to ask for help during these times. My mission is to help you work through any road blocks that are holding you back from moving forward on your path to a brighter day. I am an EMDREA approved EMDR therapist, an Informed IFS Therapist, call me to set a free 30 minute consult to see if we are a good fit. Ketamine Assisted Therapy consultation available in collaboration with Journey Clinical available upon request.
(321) 204-8435 View (321) 204-8435
Photo of Diane Evelyn Foley, LMHC, MA, Med , Counselor
Diane Evelyn Foley
Counselor, LMHC, MA, Med
Verified Verified
Satellite Beach, FL 32937
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Have you experienced a loss recently or in the past that you are trying to process? Are you a parent struggling to navigate the challenges of day to day conflicts? Do you struggle with decision making and relationships? I hope that I can help you manage some of these struggles. I have spent my career as an educator and mental health clinician engaging with individuals and families while they seek guidance in these areas. My experience in schools, homes, and agencies has allowed me the opportunity to help these individuals find hope and reach goals.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Have you experienced a loss recently or in the past that you are trying to process? Are you a parent struggling to navigate the challenges of day to day conflicts? Do you struggle with decision making and relationships? I hope that I can help you manage some of these struggles. I have spent my career as an educator and mental health clinician engaging with individuals and families while they seek guidance in these areas. My experience in schools, homes, and agencies has allowed me the opportunity to help these individuals find hope and reach goals.
(321) 617-1182 View (321) 617-1182
Photo of Mary Weiss, LMHC, Counselor
Mary Weiss
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32951
Mary is a board-certified licensed mental health counselor in Florida as well as a board-certified licensed professional counselor in Michigan. With close to 20 years of experience, Mary can assist you in overcoming many of the life challenges we all face. Her eclectic approach to therapy is very relaxed, non-judgmental, and respectful. Mary’s education and professional background in both mind and body provide a unique and effective therapeutic experience. She is sensitive to your needs as well as your past and present life experiences.
Mary is a board-certified licensed mental health counselor in Florida as well as a board-certified licensed professional counselor in Michigan. With close to 20 years of experience, Mary can assist you in overcoming many of the life challenges we all face. Her eclectic approach to therapy is very relaxed, non-judgmental, and respectful. Mary’s education and professional background in both mind and body provide a unique and effective therapeutic experience. She is sensitive to your needs as well as your past and present life experiences.
(305) 517-3229 View (305) 517-3229
Photo of Rebecca Thipsingh - Allies in Wellness, LLC, LCSW, TCT, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allies in Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TCT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
Allies in Wellness believes each day is an opportunity to become a better version of yourself. We serve children, adolescents, adults, couples / partners, and families who seek clarity, balance, insight, and self-acceptance. We're proud to offer specialized and individualized therapeutic services that are affirming to all and made accessible to many in a private practice group setting. We provide a supportive space to sort through the things that are impacting your daily life, the life of your children, and those you love.
Allies in Wellness believes each day is an opportunity to become a better version of yourself. We serve children, adolescents, adults, couples / partners, and families who seek clarity, balance, insight, and self-acceptance. We're proud to offer specialized and individualized therapeutic services that are affirming to all and made accessible to many in a private practice group setting. We provide a supportive space to sort through the things that are impacting your daily life, the life of your children, and those you love.
(321) 248-1846 View (321) 248-1846
Photo of Tiffany Moore, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffany Moore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
The purpose of therapy is to take what you have learned and apply it outside. It is not always easy to make changes, and change can be scary, but once you put your words into action, the change can be beautiful. I have worked with people who struggle with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, and families. I have a passion for working with people in the BiPOC community. I want my clients to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish without needing external validation. My goal is for you to feel confident in your decision-making to process your needs/issues without relying on others.
The purpose of therapy is to take what you have learned and apply it outside. It is not always easy to make changes, and change can be scary, but once you put your words into action, the change can be beautiful. I have worked with people who struggle with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, and families. I have a passion for working with people in the BiPOC community. I want my clients to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish without needing external validation. My goal is for you to feel confident in your decision-making to process your needs/issues without relying on others.
(321) 730-2980 View (321) 730-2980

See more therapy options for West Melbourne

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.