Play Therapy in Murfreesboro, TN

Photo of Nicollette Sanders, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicollette Sanders
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
To tailor the needs of each individual I utilize modalities such as play therapy, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and mindfulness techniques to help them manage current life stressors.
Hi, my name is Nicollette! I am passionate about working with children by helping them where they are to provide hope that better days lie ahead. If your child is dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, or finding it difficult to manage current life stressors let’s begin the path to healing. Let’s work together to focus on strengths to help your child cope with difficult emotions, build resiliency, and find the skills to move forward to create overall happiness and satisfaction. Having worked in the school system for over a decade, I have witnessed firsthand many of the challenges children face.
To tailor the needs of each individual I utilize modalities such as play therapy, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and mindfulness techniques to help them manage current life stressors.
Hi, my name is Nicollette! I am passionate about working with children by helping them where they are to provide hope that better days lie ahead. If your child is dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, or finding it difficult to manage current life stressors let’s begin the path to healing. Let’s work together to focus on strengths to help your child cope with difficult emotions, build resiliency, and find the skills to move forward to create overall happiness and satisfaction. Having worked in the school system for over a decade, I have witnessed firsthand many of the challenges children face.
(629) 258-8234 View (629) 258-8234
Photo of Angie (Angelique) Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie (Angelique) Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I provide play therapy & I have experience with parenting, behavior management, troubled teens, self-harm, helping kids and adults navigate the life changes of divorce, anger management with kids/teens, child abuse, anxiety/depression, & ADHD.
Life can be hard, and sometimes we need some extra help and support to get through those difficult times. Whether it's dealing with young children or teenagers, relationship or family issues, anxiety or depression, the challenges of college life or jobs, or the curve ball that life throws at us, it can be stressful to manage, and can be helpful to have someone outside of the situation to talk with.
I provide play therapy & I have experience with parenting, behavior management, troubled teens, self-harm, helping kids and adults navigate the life changes of divorce, anger management with kids/teens, child abuse, anxiety/depression, & ADHD.
Life can be hard, and sometimes we need some extra help and support to get through those difficult times. Whether it's dealing with young children or teenagers, relationship or family issues, anxiety or depression, the challenges of college life or jobs, or the curve ball that life throws at us, it can be stressful to manage, and can be helpful to have someone outside of the situation to talk with.
(615) 235-1628 View (615) 235-1628
Photo of Diane Gammon -Living With Hope Counseling, LPCMHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Gammon -Living With Hope Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I Implement Art, Sand Tray and Play Therapy.
Welcome, 911 Help is here! I specialize in Crisis, Depression, Trauma, Autism Testing & Therapy, Couples/Marriage, Pre-marital Counseling, Family Reunification, Abandonment, Anxiety/Panic, PTSD, Neurodiverse/Neurotypical Relationships, Holistic Self-Care, Self-Harm, Suicide Ideation, Grief/Loss, RAD, Miscarriage/Infant Loss, ADHD, Personality Disorders, Drug/Alcohol/Other Addictions, Low Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Eating Disorders, Body Image, Communication Skills/ Relationships, Sexual Assault, Rape/Domestic Violence, Behavior Issues, Corrections, Foster Care, Adoption Transition, Postpartum, Illness & more.
I Implement Art, Sand Tray and Play Therapy.
Welcome, 911 Help is here! I specialize in Crisis, Depression, Trauma, Autism Testing & Therapy, Couples/Marriage, Pre-marital Counseling, Family Reunification, Abandonment, Anxiety/Panic, PTSD, Neurodiverse/Neurotypical Relationships, Holistic Self-Care, Self-Harm, Suicide Ideation, Grief/Loss, RAD, Miscarriage/Infant Loss, ADHD, Personality Disorders, Drug/Alcohol/Other Addictions, Low Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Eating Disorders, Body Image, Communication Skills/ Relationships, Sexual Assault, Rape/Domestic Violence, Behavior Issues, Corrections, Foster Care, Adoption Transition, Postpartum, Illness & more.
(615) 654-6252 View (615) 654-6252
Photo of Nancy Spears, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Spears
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
- CBT, Family Systems, Prepare-Enrich and Gottman marital therapy techniques; Play therapy; Emotionally-focused therapy; and Attachment theory).
A successful counseling experience begins with a strong client/therapist rapport. As you consider your many highly-qualified options, look for professionals who specialize in your area of need and share your passion for growth. With an emphasis on high-conflict marital therapy, my expertise lies in helping clients develop crucial life-enhancement skills (e.g.-communication/conflict resolution/anger management) and a healthy sense of self. Using a variety of approaches, we will work together to build on strengths to maximize growth by learning and adapting more productive inter-relational methods, resulting in greater relationship satisfaction.
- CBT, Family Systems, Prepare-Enrich and Gottman marital therapy techniques; Play therapy; Emotionally-focused therapy; and Attachment theory).
A successful counseling experience begins with a strong client/therapist rapport. As you consider your many highly-qualified options, look for professionals who specialize in your area of need and share your passion for growth. With an emphasis on high-conflict marital therapy, my expertise lies in helping clients develop crucial life-enhancement skills (e.g.-communication/conflict resolution/anger management) and a healthy sense of self. Using a variety of approaches, we will work together to build on strengths to maximize growth by learning and adapting more productive inter-relational methods, resulting in greater relationship satisfaction.
(615) 437-4121 View (615) 437-4121
Photo of Maddie Sisavath, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maddie Sisavath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I am an involved member of the American Association of Play Therapy.
In my personal and professional life I have developed a deep passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I utilize various forms of therapy to help clients learn to better cope with mental, emotional, social, and/or behavioral struggles, and guide them towards health. I aim to help clients become emotionally resilient to the ongoing challenges that life continues to present! I empower clients to use their voice, challenge negative core beliefs, and celebrate their gifts and talents. Common areas of practice for me are adoption, divorce care, ADHD, emotional regulation, self esteem struggles, anxiety, and more.
I am an involved member of the American Association of Play Therapy.
In my personal and professional life I have developed a deep passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I utilize various forms of therapy to help clients learn to better cope with mental, emotional, social, and/or behavioral struggles, and guide them towards health. I aim to help clients become emotionally resilient to the ongoing challenges that life continues to present! I empower clients to use their voice, challenge negative core beliefs, and celebrate their gifts and talents. Common areas of practice for me are adoption, divorce care, ADHD, emotional regulation, self esteem struggles, anxiety, and more.
(615) 334-0323 View (615) 334-0323
Photo of Ellen K Slicker, PhD, HSP, RPT-S, Psychologist
Ellen K Slicker
Psychologist, PhD, HSP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
A large part of my practice centers around working with families and helping parents of children who may be having behavior problems at home or at school and working with the children and adolescents themselves. I incorporate child-centered play therapy with young children as well as Adlerian and behavioral concepts with parents. I am a licensed psychologist with Health Service Provider in Psychology credential, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and a retired MTSU professor after teaching in the Professional Counseling Program for 25+ years. In addition to helping families, I also work extensively with couples and individuals who may be experiencing a variety of problematic daily living situations.
A large part of my practice centers around working with families and helping parents of children who may be having behavior problems at home or at school and working with the children and adolescents themselves. I incorporate child-centered play therapy with young children as well as Adlerian and behavioral concepts with parents. I am a licensed psychologist with Health Service Provider in Psychology credential, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and a retired MTSU professor after teaching in the Professional Counseling Program for 25+ years. In addition to helping families, I also work extensively with couples and individuals who may be experiencing a variety of problematic daily living situations.
(615) 763-4975 View (615) 763-4975
Photo of Stacy A Klimkowski, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy A Klimkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed therapist specializing in trauma, addiction, EMDR, CBT, women's issues, parenting, and art/ play therapy with adults and children.
Overwhelmed? Anxious? Ready for change? I will gladly walk with you- step by step- working toward your healthiest, most authentic self. Navigating life's challenges can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. I work with adults, children, and groups who want to be the best versions of themselves- whether it is combatting depression, anxiety, PTSD, or embracing changes in life such as divorce, job transitions, and issues in parenting. Let's talk to see if I would be a good fit- and if I am not, I am happy to help refer you to someone who is!
I'm a licensed therapist specializing in trauma, addiction, EMDR, CBT, women's issues, parenting, and art/ play therapy with adults and children.
Overwhelmed? Anxious? Ready for change? I will gladly walk with you- step by step- working toward your healthiest, most authentic self. Navigating life's challenges can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. I work with adults, children, and groups who want to be the best versions of themselves- whether it is combatting depression, anxiety, PTSD, or embracing changes in life such as divorce, job transitions, and issues in parenting. Let's talk to see if I would be a good fit- and if I am not, I am happy to help refer you to someone who is!
(615) 431-8679 View (615) 431-8679
Photo of Carissa Seaton, MA, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carissa Seaton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
In order to meet the needs of each client, I integrate elements of CBT/DBT, EFT, Internal Family Systems, and play/art therapy, to help clients make positive changes in their lives.
My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in collaboration, empathy, and trust. Committed to seeing each client as unique, I practice from a strength based and person-centered approach so you can get to your best self and experience lasting change. My clients rely on me to help make sense of the issues bringing them into therapy and also better understand how their family of origin, upbringing, and life experiences have impacted and continue to impact their mental well-being. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families who may be experiencing a number of struggles or challenges.
In order to meet the needs of each client, I integrate elements of CBT/DBT, EFT, Internal Family Systems, and play/art therapy, to help clients make positive changes in their lives.
My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in collaboration, empathy, and trust. Committed to seeing each client as unique, I practice from a strength based and person-centered approach so you can get to your best self and experience lasting change. My clients rely on me to help make sense of the issues bringing them into therapy and also better understand how their family of origin, upbringing, and life experiences have impacted and continue to impact their mental well-being. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families who may be experiencing a number of struggles or challenges.
(615) 703-4971 View (615) 703-4971
Photo of Brittany Dyer, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Brittany Dyer
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I also have additional experience with Play Therapy when working with children.
I am passionate about my work as a counselor, and I believe in the client and counselor relationship. Through this relationship, clients can be comfortable dealing with issues of addiction, anxiety, depression, family issues, grief, as well as many other personal issues. Exploration of these problem areas can lead to healing.
I also have additional experience with Play Therapy when working with children.
I am passionate about my work as a counselor, and I believe in the client and counselor relationship. Through this relationship, clients can be comfortable dealing with issues of addiction, anxiety, depression, family issues, grief, as well as many other personal issues. Exploration of these problem areas can lead to healing.
(615) 685-2009 View (615) 685-2009
Photo of Jill Harcrow, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Harcrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
"Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you and listen in such a way that others love to speak to you." We are all going through own our journey through life and many times the path ahead feels and appears impossible. Or maybe there is so much damage from a road that blew up on you and now you can't see which way to go. No matter what age, we can all find pieces of our life that we can control and influence positively even in the midst of impossibility. Anxiety, anger, family conflict, behavioral issues, blended families, stress management. trauma, depression, and the list goes on of things that can impair our daily life.
"Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you and listen in such a way that others love to speak to you." We are all going through own our journey through life and many times the path ahead feels and appears impossible. Or maybe there is so much damage from a road that blew up on you and now you can't see which way to go. No matter what age, we can all find pieces of our life that we can control and influence positively even in the midst of impossibility. Anxiety, anger, family conflict, behavioral issues, blended families, stress management. trauma, depression, and the list goes on of things that can impair our daily life.
(615) 724-1019 View (615) 724-1019
Photo of Ashley Denton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Denton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Going to therapy is cool! But seriously, everyone can benefit from therapy sessions - whether it’s to learn usable coping skills, process grief and loss, change unhealthy behaviors that you find yourself stuck in, or explore and fully feel your emotions. Life is hard and I’d be honored to work with you on any goals you have. Nothing is too silly, small or embarrassing to bring to our sessions!
Going to therapy is cool! But seriously, everyone can benefit from therapy sessions - whether it’s to learn usable coping skills, process grief and loss, change unhealthy behaviors that you find yourself stuck in, or explore and fully feel your emotions. Life is hard and I’d be honored to work with you on any goals you have. Nothing is too silly, small or embarrassing to bring to our sessions!
(919) 646-2411 View (919) 646-2411
Photo of Jessica Ricalday, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Ricalday
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Do you find it challenging to connect with or support your child/teen? Is your child/teen struggling to adjust to a life transition? I am passionate about helping young people embrace their unique strengths, as they learn and develop the skills to overcome difficult life challenges. I believe everyone should feel connected and supported on their path to healing. I strive to create a safe space where clients can restore a sense of safety through connection.
Do you find it challenging to connect with or support your child/teen? Is your child/teen struggling to adjust to a life transition? I am passionate about helping young people embrace their unique strengths, as they learn and develop the skills to overcome difficult life challenges. I believe everyone should feel connected and supported on their path to healing. I strive to create a safe space where clients can restore a sense of safety through connection.
(615) 257-3246 View (615) 257-3246
Photo of Kim Turner - Birds on a Wire Counseling, LLC - Kim Turner, MA, NCCA, Pastoral Counselor
Birds on a Wire Counseling, LLC - Kim Turner
Pastoral Counselor, MA, NCCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Struggles can come about through a variety of reasons; marriage, kids, work, or an unexpected crisis. They all add up to a lot of pressure and stress leaving you feeling hopeless and out of balance. Having the tools to navigate these challenges can help you feel confident and deepen your self-awareness.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Struggles can come about through a variety of reasons; marriage, kids, work, or an unexpected crisis. They all add up to a lot of pressure and stress leaving you feeling hopeless and out of balance. Having the tools to navigate these challenges can help you feel confident and deepen your self-awareness.
(615) 547-3214 View (615) 547-3214
Photo of Jill Petersen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Petersen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Regain your balance one step at a time. Life can throw a lot at you, and it can be overwhelming to try to juggle it all. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness are common symptoms of trying to regain balance while carrying the weight of expectations. Often this pressure makes it impossible to prioritize the self let alone the relationships we are in. Balancing our needs and the needs of those we care about can feel like an impossible goal.
Regain your balance one step at a time. Life can throw a lot at you, and it can be overwhelming to try to juggle it all. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness are common symptoms of trying to regain balance while carrying the weight of expectations. Often this pressure makes it impossible to prioritize the self let alone the relationships we are in. Balancing our needs and the needs of those we care about can feel like an impossible goal.
(629) 262-9577 View (629) 262-9577
Photo of Corbett Hinkle, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corbett Hinkle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I have immense passion for helping people navigate through difficult times. Do you find yourself struggling in one or more ways? Perhaps you need a little guidance and support; I am here for you. My goal is to form a solid base of trust and a collaborative relationship with each individual I work with. I focus on empowering you while assisting you in finding healthy resolutions to issues you are facing. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature, with emphasis on your feelings, behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs. I am committed to assisting you to build upon your existing strengths to live your best possible life.
I have immense passion for helping people navigate through difficult times. Do you find yourself struggling in one or more ways? Perhaps you need a little guidance and support; I am here for you. My goal is to form a solid base of trust and a collaborative relationship with each individual I work with. I focus on empowering you while assisting you in finding healthy resolutions to issues you are facing. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature, with emphasis on your feelings, behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs. I am committed to assisting you to build upon your existing strengths to live your best possible life.
(615) 410-9837 View (615) 410-9837
Photo of Crayton Counseling Associates Llc - Crayton Counseling & Associates, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crayton Counseling & Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
"Even the darkest nights end and the sun will shine." Regardless of the situation you may find yourself in, we believe we all have the ability to make meaningful changes in our lives. The past can be hard to let go, but each day brings with it a new opportunity. The opportunity to grow, to learn, to forgive, to move forward. If you are ready to take that first step, we am here to help at Crayton Counseling & Associates!!
"Even the darkest nights end and the sun will shine." Regardless of the situation you may find yourself in, we believe we all have the ability to make meaningful changes in our lives. The past can be hard to let go, but each day brings with it a new opportunity. The opportunity to grow, to learn, to forgive, to move forward. If you are ready to take that first step, we am here to help at Crayton Counseling & Associates!!
(615) 590-3471 View (615) 590-3471
Photo of Les Parker, LPC, MHSP, Temp, Pre-Licensed Professional
Les Parker
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, Temp
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Hello, I am Les Parker. I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards mental wellness and personal growth. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. The therapeutic relationship is built on mutual trust and understanding and provides a safe space for clients to focus on their goals. If you find yourself struggling to reach your goals in life let's work together to make that happen.
Hello, I am Les Parker. I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards mental wellness and personal growth. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. The therapeutic relationship is built on mutual trust and understanding and provides a safe space for clients to focus on their goals. If you find yourself struggling to reach your goals in life let's work together to make that happen.
(629) 299-1723 View (629) 299-1723
Photo of Kaylin Flamm Lawrence, MSOT, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Kaylin Flamm Lawrence
Occupational Therapist, MSOT, OTR/L
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Hi, I’m Kaylin. I’m an Occupational Therapist who is passionate about helping individuals across the life span develop life and work skills, emotional regulation techniques, sensory strategies, interpersonal skills, and grow into a life that brings joy and fulfillment. You may be dealing with difficulties adapting to current life demands or transition periods, struggle with sensory sensitivities, find difficulty with parenting, or are just ready for a hands-on skill and activity-based approach to therapy. Let’s work together to figure out what brings you meaning, independence, and stability in your life.
Hi, I’m Kaylin. I’m an Occupational Therapist who is passionate about helping individuals across the life span develop life and work skills, emotional regulation techniques, sensory strategies, interpersonal skills, and grow into a life that brings joy and fulfillment. You may be dealing with difficulties adapting to current life demands or transition periods, struggle with sensory sensitivities, find difficulty with parenting, or are just ready for a hands-on skill and activity-based approach to therapy. Let’s work together to figure out what brings you meaning, independence, and stability in your life.
(615) 645-1126 View (615) 645-1126
Photo of Cindy N Monroe, LCSW, EMDR-T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy N Monroe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Hi! I’m Cindy, a therapist in Murfreesboro, TN. I love working with kids and adults when life gets messy. As humans we are created to have a wide range of emotions but sometimes we get stuck in a way of thinking, feeling & behaving that’s unhealthy or downright destructive. Add stress & trauma to the mix and life gets overwhelming pretty quickly. I am fascinated with the power of human connection and how adaptable the brain is. If you are just curious about therapy, feel free to reach out!
Hi! I’m Cindy, a therapist in Murfreesboro, TN. I love working with kids and adults when life gets messy. As humans we are created to have a wide range of emotions but sometimes we get stuck in a way of thinking, feeling & behaving that’s unhealthy or downright destructive. Add stress & trauma to the mix and life gets overwhelming pretty quickly. I am fascinated with the power of human connection and how adaptable the brain is. If you are just curious about therapy, feel free to reach out!
(615) 632-6022 View (615) 632-6022
Photo of Allison Hunnicutt, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Hunnicutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see men and women whose lives have spiraled out of control become desperate for help. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see men and women whose lives have spiraled out of control become desperate for help. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
(615) 488-5389 View (615) 488-5389
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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.