Play Therapy in Manalapan, NJ

Photo of Lauren Meyer, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I can offer supports through Play Centered Therapy and through a Strengths based approach.
My ideal client is a child or adolescent who is struggling with anxiety and their goal would be to learn effective coping skills and strategies to better manage this. Usually children want a quick fix- so I like to provide them with lots of quick breathing exercises or creating a "tool box" with fidgets and anything that we have worked on together to help them when they are feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
I can offer supports through Play Centered Therapy and through a Strengths based approach.
My ideal client is a child or adolescent who is struggling with anxiety and their goal would be to learn effective coping skills and strategies to better manage this. Usually children want a quick fix- so I like to provide them with lots of quick breathing exercises or creating a "tool box" with fidgets and anything that we have worked on together to help them when they are feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
(848) 281-3084 View (848) 281-3084
Photo of Barbara McKechnie, MA, LPC, LCAT, RDT, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara McKechnie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAT, RDT, RPT
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Are you feeling stuck in the past or worried about the future? Do you want to figure out what to do in the here and now? Would you like to accomplish your vision to live a joyful and meaningful life? In addition to "talk therapy", I use Creativity in Counseling, action oriented methods of psychodrama and the playfulness and the projective techniques (including sand-tray, role-play, masks and puppets) of Drama Therapy. These techniques have been proven to be effective with all ages, not just children. By using these creative techniques you will be able to explore issues that create obstacles in a safe and affirming environment.
Are you feeling stuck in the past or worried about the future? Do you want to figure out what to do in the here and now? Would you like to accomplish your vision to live a joyful and meaningful life? In addition to "talk therapy", I use Creativity in Counseling, action oriented methods of psychodrama and the playfulness and the projective techniques (including sand-tray, role-play, masks and puppets) of Drama Therapy. These techniques have been proven to be effective with all ages, not just children. By using these creative techniques you will be able to explore issues that create obstacles in a safe and affirming environment.
(908) 386-5325 View (908) 386-5325
Photo of Lisa F. Ligammari Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa F. Ligammari Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Lisa F. Ligammari, LCSW, Counseling Services & Associates is a group practice which includes 7 female therapists. We work with a diversity of clients and enjoy both play therapy for little ones and talk therapy for adolescents and adults. We can tailor interventions and techniques to help assist you with your goals. With over 20 years of experience and certified in psychodynamic analysis and a certified clinical supervisor, my goal is to offer everyone the best care with the right therapist for you! We all have our specialties and our modalities of treatment techniques! Feel free to call or email for your first appointment!
Lisa F. Ligammari, LCSW, Counseling Services & Associates is a group practice which includes 7 female therapists. We work with a diversity of clients and enjoy both play therapy for little ones and talk therapy for adolescents and adults. We can tailor interventions and techniques to help assist you with your goals. With over 20 years of experience and certified in psychodynamic analysis and a certified clinical supervisor, my goal is to offer everyone the best care with the right therapist for you! We all have our specialties and our modalities of treatment techniques! Feel free to call or email for your first appointment!
(732) 372-4318 View (732) 372-4318
Photo of Amanda Levitt, MS, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Amanda Levitt
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Have you been looking for ways to handle change, loss, or the unknowns of life? Being human means experiencing a wide range of emotions and finding a balance. It takes a lot of courage to reach out and connect with a therapist and I am here to support you and meet you where you are at! I work with children, teens, and adults mainly experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and adjustment issues. I love to bring creativity into the therapeutic setting utilizing art, play, and ecotherapy along with creating a safe atmosphere for clients to fully express themselves and work towards healing.
Have you been looking for ways to handle change, loss, or the unknowns of life? Being human means experiencing a wide range of emotions and finding a balance. It takes a lot of courage to reach out and connect with a therapist and I am here to support you and meet you where you are at! I work with children, teens, and adults mainly experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and adjustment issues. I love to bring creativity into the therapeutic setting utilizing art, play, and ecotherapy along with creating a safe atmosphere for clients to fully express themselves and work towards healing.
(732) 605-5485 View (732) 605-5485
Photo of Lisa Zaffarese, NCC, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Zaffarese
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
While I utilize many therapeutic interventions, Play Therapy is at the heart of my practice.
Hi! I'm Lisa. I am a National Board Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. Profound Insights serves the various needs of children, adolescents, young adults, parents and families.
While I utilize many therapeutic interventions, Play Therapy is at the heart of my practice.
Hi! I'm Lisa. I am a National Board Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. Profound Insights serves the various needs of children, adolescents, young adults, parents and families.
(732) 515-4160 View (732) 515-4160
Photo of Robyn A Schindler - Paint the Stars Art Therapy, LLC, LPC, LCAT, NCC, ATR-BC, LPAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paint the Stars Art Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT, NCC, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
We specialize in Clinical Art Therapy, utilizing additional creative outlets such as play therapy techniques including sand-tray, and traditional psychotherapy techniques.
As dedicated therapists, our top priority is to help you not only achieve greatness but to believe in that greatness as well. Have you tried other counseling options but none have helped? Paint The Stars Art Therapy offers a wide variety of creative outlets to be used alongside traditional psychotherapy in order to help children, teen and adults cope with various issues. We specialize in working with children/teens/college students ages 3-22 and adults 23+ in need of alternatives to talk therapy or those who want something more. We are happy to lend an ear and a paintbrush.
We specialize in Clinical Art Therapy, utilizing additional creative outlets such as play therapy techniques including sand-tray, and traditional psychotherapy techniques.
As dedicated therapists, our top priority is to help you not only achieve greatness but to believe in that greatness as well. Have you tried other counseling options but none have helped? Paint The Stars Art Therapy offers a wide variety of creative outlets to be used alongside traditional psychotherapy in order to help children, teen and adults cope with various issues. We specialize in working with children/teens/college students ages 3-22 and adults 23+ in need of alternatives to talk therapy or those who want something more. We are happy to lend an ear and a paintbrush.
(732) 820-3292 View (732) 820-3292
Photo of Estelle Lewis - Estelle Lewis LCSW Enterprises PLLC, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Estelle Lewis LCSW Enterprises PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy is generally ego supportive, cognitive behavioral, psycho dynamic and mindfulness When children are in therapy, play therapy is a soothing tool that children respond to positively.
Hello and welcome to my profile. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, work-related stress, familial conflict, depression or an overall feeling of emotional malaise, please know that I am here to support your travels out of the dark tunnel. Many people suffered social isolation during Covid. Some people continue to lack confidence of "getting back to living" because they aren't sure how to live without fear and uncertainty provoked by Covid. Please know that finding out who you are and what you are capable of will give you the strength to stand tall and feel confident and, most importantly, enjoy your life. Let's talk!
My approach to psychotherapy is generally ego supportive, cognitive behavioral, psycho dynamic and mindfulness When children are in therapy, play therapy is a soothing tool that children respond to positively.
Hello and welcome to my profile. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, work-related stress, familial conflict, depression or an overall feeling of emotional malaise, please know that I am here to support your travels out of the dark tunnel. Many people suffered social isolation during Covid. Some people continue to lack confidence of "getting back to living" because they aren't sure how to live without fear and uncertainty provoked by Covid. Please know that finding out who you are and what you are capable of will give you the strength to stand tall and feel confident and, most importantly, enjoy your life. Let's talk!
(917) 746-1037 View (917) 746-1037
Photo of Emily S Lowenfels, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily S Lowenfels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I am also a huge proponent of play therapy.
My ideal client is person who has been experiencing some difficulties understanding and or manipulating through their environment. Perhaps this client needs a group to work overcome shyness and learn to speak up for themselves or perhaps this client misreads social situations. My ideal clients range from 3-35. I service struggling parents/families and teens/young adults/adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and self-care. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be offering teletherapy sessions as an option to any individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to this ever evolving health crisis.
I am also a huge proponent of play therapy.
My ideal client is person who has been experiencing some difficulties understanding and or manipulating through their environment. Perhaps this client needs a group to work overcome shyness and learn to speak up for themselves or perhaps this client misreads social situations. My ideal clients range from 3-35. I service struggling parents/families and teens/young adults/adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and self-care. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be offering teletherapy sessions as an option to any individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to this ever evolving health crisis.
(973) 287-4706 View (973) 287-4706
Photo of Jill Berlin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Berlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I utilize many different treatment approaches including EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, play therapy and Sandtray therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified School Social Worker with a Master's degree from Widener University and additional post graduate training focused on the needs of children. Throughout my career, I have worked with children and their families in group homes, partial care programming, wrap around services, and as a School Social Worker. I take pride in creating a safe, warm and nurturing environment for clients to explore their experiences.
I utilize many different treatment approaches including EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, play therapy and Sandtray therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified School Social Worker with a Master's degree from Widener University and additional post graduate training focused on the needs of children. Throughout my career, I have worked with children and their families in group homes, partial care programming, wrap around services, and as a School Social Worker. I take pride in creating a safe, warm and nurturing environment for clients to explore their experiences.
(848) 252-1350 View (848) 252-1350
Photo of Jodi Goldberg - Children's Art Therapy, MS, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPAT, Art Therapist
Children's Art Therapy
Art Therapist, MS, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPAT
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Hi, I am Jodi Goldberg, board certified and licensed Art Therapist, owner and primary Art Therapist of Children’s Art Therapy. I have office locations in Hoboken and Manalapan, NJ, as well as offering telehealth services. During my career as an Art Therapist, I have worked with children and adults in settings such as outpatient hospital units, domestic violence and homeless shelters, schools, nursing homes/rehabilitation facilities, in addition to private practice. At Children’s Art Therapy, I see children ages 3-21 and also offer services to parents, as I believe it is necessary to connect the therapy process to home and school.
Hi, I am Jodi Goldberg, board certified and licensed Art Therapist, owner and primary Art Therapist of Children’s Art Therapy. I have office locations in Hoboken and Manalapan, NJ, as well as offering telehealth services. During my career as an Art Therapist, I have worked with children and adults in settings such as outpatient hospital units, domestic violence and homeless shelters, schools, nursing homes/rehabilitation facilities, in addition to private practice. At Children’s Art Therapy, I see children ages 3-21 and also offer services to parents, as I believe it is necessary to connect the therapy process to home and school.
(848) 204-0573 View (848) 204-0573
Photo of Lisa Hillman - Exceptional Wellness Counseling, LCSW, PAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Exceptional Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PAT
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
We know how difficult and stressful life can be. Our staff is committed in helping you reach your goals which will lead to a more fulfilling and happier life. At exceptional wellness we are dedicated to making our clients feel that they are of top priority. We work with children, adolescents, College students, adults, couples and families on identifying and fulfilling their goals. Reaching out and asking for assistance is the first courageous step in your journey. If you are ready to take that step please contact us. We look forward to meeting you!
We know how difficult and stressful life can be. Our staff is committed in helping you reach your goals which will lead to a more fulfilling and happier life. At exceptional wellness we are dedicated to making our clients feel that they are of top priority. We work with children, adolescents, College students, adults, couples and families on identifying and fulfilling their goals. Reaching out and asking for assistance is the first courageous step in your journey. If you are ready to take that step please contact us. We look forward to meeting you!
(908) 300-5871 View (908) 300-5871
Photo of Ben Shutman, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Ben Shutman
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and exhausted? Admitting that life’s daily stressors have become overwhelming can be one of the hardest admissions we make to ourselves, but that admission is also the first step towards true change. Change can be a challenging path to navigate but I believe that everyone has a path, as winding and difficult as it may seem, that we all have to go through at some point. Whether those stressors are anxiety, depression, trauma or a general life transition, my goal is to provide a comforting and safe environment where we can identify the steps that need to be taken and walk that new path together.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and exhausted? Admitting that life’s daily stressors have become overwhelming can be one of the hardest admissions we make to ourselves, but that admission is also the first step towards true change. Change can be a challenging path to navigate but I believe that everyone has a path, as winding and difficult as it may seem, that we all have to go through at some point. Whether those stressors are anxiety, depression, trauma or a general life transition, my goal is to provide a comforting and safe environment where we can identify the steps that need to be taken and walk that new path together.
(732) 314-7265 View (732) 314-7265
Photo of Dr. Monique Griffith - Griffith Psychological Services, PsyD, CCTP, Psychologist
Griffith Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Congratulations on taking an important step in your journey to wellness! Knowing the difficulties some face when seeking support, our team is committed to walking you through the process and making it a positive and productive experience. I am Dr. Monique S. Griffith, the founder of Griffith Psychological Services (GPS), and a psychologist in NY and NJ who is also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional. For over 12 years, I have provided services to children, adolescents, and adults experiencing academic challenges, relationship difficulties, major life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Congratulations on taking an important step in your journey to wellness! Knowing the difficulties some face when seeking support, our team is committed to walking you through the process and making it a positive and productive experience. I am Dr. Monique S. Griffith, the founder of Griffith Psychological Services (GPS), and a psychologist in NY and NJ who is also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional. For over 12 years, I have provided services to children, adolescents, and adults experiencing academic challenges, relationship difficulties, major life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
(732) 860-2781 View (732) 860-2781
Photo of Dr. Suzette Sularski, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Suzette Sularski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Anxiety and stress are normal feelings that everyone has to signal that something is wrong. Children may express these feelings by having behavior challenges or isolating. Adults and teens may express these feeling differently. We use research-based interventions and solutions to build confidence, help with fitting in, and address school issues. If you allow us, we will expertly guide you or your child toward looking at things from a new perspective. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or your family, we invite you to work with us to develop the ability to deal with strong feelings.
Anxiety and stress are normal feelings that everyone has to signal that something is wrong. Children may express these feelings by having behavior challenges or isolating. Adults and teens may express these feeling differently. We use research-based interventions and solutions to build confidence, help with fitting in, and address school issues. If you allow us, we will expertly guide you or your child toward looking at things from a new perspective. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or your family, we invite you to work with us to develop the ability to deal with strong feelings.
(732) 675-2230 View (732) 675-2230
Photo of Rochelle Ladin, LPC, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rochelle Ladin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726  (Online Only)
Navigating life's challenges can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and uncertain. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, stress, family dynamics, the complexities of dating and relationships or coping with grief know that you don't have to face these journeys alone. I'm dedicated to providing a supportive, understanding, and confidential environment where you can openly express yourself and explore your challenges. My practice is built on the belief that everyone deserves a space where they are truly heard, validated, and given the tools to transform their struggles into stepping stones for growth.
Navigating life's challenges can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and uncertain. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, stress, family dynamics, the complexities of dating and relationships or coping with grief know that you don't have to face these journeys alone. I'm dedicated to providing a supportive, understanding, and confidential environment where you can openly express yourself and explore your challenges. My practice is built on the belief that everyone deserves a space where they are truly heard, validated, and given the tools to transform their struggles into stepping stones for growth.
(732) 490-8258 View (732) 490-8258
Photo of Allison Rosa, MA, LAC, Counselor
Allison Rosa
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Have you or your child decided that it is time to seek out help? Let’s face it, going to therapy can be a terrifying decision to make with a lot of uncertainties. Whether it’s family conflict, chronic anxiety/depression, relationship conflicts, overthinking, ADHD, insecure attachment, OCD, or a traumatic experience, you deserve a therapist who provides unconditional acceptance and compassion. One who helps you to figure out why we think, feel, and do what we do. I work with children, adults, couples, and families. I graduated with a specialization in Victim Counseling, and I am also a Certified Trauma Professional.
Have you or your child decided that it is time to seek out help? Let’s face it, going to therapy can be a terrifying decision to make with a lot of uncertainties. Whether it’s family conflict, chronic anxiety/depression, relationship conflicts, overthinking, ADHD, insecure attachment, OCD, or a traumatic experience, you deserve a therapist who provides unconditional acceptance and compassion. One who helps you to figure out why we think, feel, and do what we do. I work with children, adults, couples, and families. I graduated with a specialization in Victim Counseling, and I am also a Certified Trauma Professional.
(732) 907-8330 View (732) 907-8330
Photo of Tracy Hood - New Endeavors Couseling Associates, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Endeavors Couseling Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Deciding to start therapy for yourself or family member can be a difficult and challenging decision to make. We believe that clients entering therapy already possess the skills needed to tackle the problems they are currently facing. However, sometimes difficult and trying situations may be best approached with help of a trained professional. Our goal is to help our clients find their inner strengths, increase their coping skills and identify past successes that can be altered and used to help them now.
Deciding to start therapy for yourself or family member can be a difficult and challenging decision to make. We believe that clients entering therapy already possess the skills needed to tackle the problems they are currently facing. However, sometimes difficult and trying situations may be best approached with help of a trained professional. Our goal is to help our clients find their inner strengths, increase their coping skills and identify past successes that can be altered and used to help them now.
(732) 641-3520 View (732) 641-3520
Photo of Daniel Zykorie, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Zykorie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Supporting and helping struggling children, adolescents, adults, and their families is not just a career choice but a passion for me. Difficulties related to stress, sleep, mood, anxiety, behavior, trauma, socialization, relationships, & education are proactively addressed. You don't need to feel desperate, at your end, hopeless, or helpless. Navigating people through a difficult period toward progress with patience, understanding, compassion, empathy, experience, reassurance, and solutions is my aim. Armed with skills, insight and confidence we will harness your strengths and resiliency to build you toward lasting positive change.
Supporting and helping struggling children, adolescents, adults, and their families is not just a career choice but a passion for me. Difficulties related to stress, sleep, mood, anxiety, behavior, trauma, socialization, relationships, & education are proactively addressed. You don't need to feel desperate, at your end, hopeless, or helpless. Navigating people through a difficult period toward progress with patience, understanding, compassion, empathy, experience, reassurance, and solutions is my aim. Armed with skills, insight and confidence we will harness your strengths and resiliency to build you toward lasting positive change.
(732) 820-2545 View (732) 820-2545
Photo of Daniel Chabarek, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Chabarek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Do you suffer from a Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse Problem (drug and/or alcohol) Experience working with all ages and populations. Providing Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy. I am also SAP certified (Substance Abuse Professional). My approaches and therapy is designed to be a short-term utilizing a variety of concrete techniques that help achieve your goals and are tailored towards you. Progress is a step by step process, but the ultimate goal is to help you resolve difficulties as quickly as possible. Contact me to help you learn the past, live the present, and dream the future.
Do you suffer from a Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse Problem (drug and/or alcohol) Experience working with all ages and populations. Providing Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy. I am also SAP certified (Substance Abuse Professional). My approaches and therapy is designed to be a short-term utilizing a variety of concrete techniques that help achieve your goals and are tailored towards you. Progress is a step by step process, but the ultimate goal is to help you resolve difficulties as quickly as possible. Contact me to help you learn the past, live the present, and dream the future.
(732) 462-7877 View (732) 462-7877
Tree of Life Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LMHC, LPC, ACS, LSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Tree of Life Counseling Center is a mental health center dedicated to helping clients improve their quality of life. We are client-centered and strive to provide a comforting environment; this is evident in the tranquil environment as you walk through the door. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening appointments. We offer individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We treat children, teens, and adults. We are currently offering Telehealth and in person counseling
Tree of Life Counseling Center is a mental health center dedicated to helping clients improve their quality of life. We are client-centered and strive to provide a comforting environment; this is evident in the tranquil environment as you walk through the door. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening appointments. We offer individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We treat children, teens, and adults. We are currently offering Telehealth and in person counseling
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
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.