Play Therapy in Rockwall, TX

Photo of Dustin Swann, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dustin Swann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I am trained in play-therapy for young children, and I have worked in both middle and high schools.
I offer help to teenagers and adults suffering from depression or anxiety due to a variety of factors such as family issues, grief, and fear. I can help you walk through the pain in your life and be there guiding you to a safe place where you can find solace. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2007 and I can tell you that you are not alone. Many, if not most, of us suffer through pain and heartache and it is okay to seek out help in your time of need. Let me help you find peace & joy.
I am trained in play-therapy for young children, and I have worked in both middle and high schools.
I offer help to teenagers and adults suffering from depression or anxiety due to a variety of factors such as family issues, grief, and fear. I can help you walk through the pain in your life and be there guiding you to a safe place where you can find solace. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2007 and I can tell you that you are not alone. Many, if not most, of us suffer through pain and heartache and it is okay to seek out help in your time of need. Let me help you find peace & joy.
(972) 992-5978 View (972) 992-5978
Photo of Sandra J Shields, RN, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra J Shields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
Choosing psychotherapy is a positive life changing decision for yourself and your family. My practice focuses on the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and families in a warm caring private office setting. A large part of my practice is children and adolescents. I love working with them and have many years of training in play therapy. Some of the most frequent problems addressed are behavioral, ADHD, abuse, grief and loss and divorce issues. I also see a lot of women in my practice and address women's issues. Many women have difficulty coping with relationship problems, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, grief and loss and divorce.
Choosing psychotherapy is a positive life changing decision for yourself and your family. My practice focuses on the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and families in a warm caring private office setting. A large part of my practice is children and adolescents. I love working with them and have many years of training in play therapy. Some of the most frequent problems addressed are behavioral, ADHD, abuse, grief and loss and divorce issues. I also see a lot of women in my practice and address women's issues. Many women have difficulty coping with relationship problems, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, grief and loss and divorce.
(972) 992-5217 View (972) 992-5217
Photo of Brandy Smith - Rockwall Heath Counseling , LMSW, LPC, BCBC, MA, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rockwall Heath Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMSW, LPC, BCBC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
Our focus areas: Narcissism & abuse, play facilitated therapy, infertility, child & teen behavior & self-control issues, grief & loss, adult & teen ADD/ADHD, trauma, teen issues, blended families/divorce & post-divorce care, family reunification, couples counseling: in crisis, pre-marital, communication & infidelity, & adoption.
At Rockwall Heath Counseling, our Dallas area clients know we provide a superior level of care & therapeutic excellence in areas that promote healing, growth & confidence in your counseling process. Our team treats grief & loss, neurodivergence/ADHD, marriage counseling, infidelity, infertility, narcissistic & abusive relationships, play therapy, blended & divorced families, family reunification, with over 35+ specialties & certifications and a 60+ combined years of counseling experience. Counseling ages 6 through adult, we are committed to your growth, change & healing. Change is hard but change is what we do.
Our focus areas: Narcissism & abuse, play facilitated therapy, infertility, child & teen behavior & self-control issues, grief & loss, adult & teen ADD/ADHD, trauma, teen issues, blended families/divorce & post-divorce care, family reunification, couples counseling: in crisis, pre-marital, communication & infidelity, & adoption.
At Rockwall Heath Counseling, our Dallas area clients know we provide a superior level of care & therapeutic excellence in areas that promote healing, growth & confidence in your counseling process. Our team treats grief & loss, neurodivergence/ADHD, marriage counseling, infidelity, infertility, narcissistic & abusive relationships, play therapy, blended & divorced families, family reunification, with over 35+ specialties & certifications and a 60+ combined years of counseling experience. Counseling ages 6 through adult, we are committed to your growth, change & healing. Change is hard but change is what we do.
(214) 833-9209 View (214) 833-9209
Photo of Natalie Shelton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Shelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
Play is the language of children! I am deeply committed to the knowledge that children communicate, process, and heal through play.
Welcome to Rockwall Heath Counseling! At the core of my therapeutic philosophy, is the unwavering belief in the transformative power of a safe and nurturing environments and relationships. I view therapy as a collaborative journey, a sacred space where individuals can embark on a path towards self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. Ultimately, my goal is to instill a sense of hope and possibility for all. I believe that, even in the darkest moments, there is potential for positive change, growth, and the realization of one's fullest potential. In offering safe spaces for healing, I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients.
Play is the language of children! I am deeply committed to the knowledge that children communicate, process, and heal through play.
Welcome to Rockwall Heath Counseling! At the core of my therapeutic philosophy, is the unwavering belief in the transformative power of a safe and nurturing environments and relationships. I view therapy as a collaborative journey, a sacred space where individuals can embark on a path towards self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. Ultimately, my goal is to instill a sense of hope and possibility for all. I believe that, even in the darkest moments, there is potential for positive change, growth, and the realization of one's fullest potential. In offering safe spaces for healing, I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients.
(214) 814-7162 View (214) 814-7162
Photo of Andrea Andes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Andes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I also blend into our work Brainspotting, dream analysis, meditation, breath work, mind/body awareness, active imagination, art, play, and sand tray therapies.
Being human isn't always easy, and when life gets complicated and becomes challenging, therapy can help offer tools to navigate through a crisis while providing you a deeper exploration of yourself. Problems in relationships often come from old ways of coping that served you in the past, but now may be keeping you from feeling fulfilled and satisfied with your life. I believe our most challenging times can also be our greatest opportunity for change. Healing is possible, and therapy is a journey towards self-discovery where you get to explore the landscape of your own mind.
I also blend into our work Brainspotting, dream analysis, meditation, breath work, mind/body awareness, active imagination, art, play, and sand tray therapies.
Being human isn't always easy, and when life gets complicated and becomes challenging, therapy can help offer tools to navigate through a crisis while providing you a deeper exploration of yourself. Problems in relationships often come from old ways of coping that served you in the past, but now may be keeping you from feeling fulfilled and satisfied with your life. I believe our most challenging times can also be our greatest opportunity for change. Healing is possible, and therapy is a journey towards self-discovery where you get to explore the landscape of your own mind.
(310) 773-5497 View (310) 773-5497
Photo of Kristy Moore, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristy Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
My office features therapuetic play space and office for counseling adolescents, adults, couples, and families in addition to a comfortable waiting room and a welcoming receptionist.
The therapist's response is to come alongside the client to provide professional and competent care.Counseling is most helpful when there is a relationship between client and therapist that is honest, empathic, and committed; and provides awareness and personal growth. I believe the therapist and the therapeutic relationship serves as a mirror to the client whereby the client can view his/her reflection in a setting of acceptance, affirmation, change, and hopefully - healing. The client's journey to wholeness and healing is personal and self-directed and the therapist joins only by invitation of the client.
My office features therapuetic play space and office for counseling adolescents, adults, couples, and families in addition to a comfortable waiting room and a welcoming receptionist.
The therapist's response is to come alongside the client to provide professional and competent care.Counseling is most helpful when there is a relationship between client and therapist that is honest, empathic, and committed; and provides awareness and personal growth. I believe the therapist and the therapeutic relationship serves as a mirror to the client whereby the client can view his/her reflection in a setting of acceptance, affirmation, change, and hopefully - healing. The client's journey to wholeness and healing is personal and self-directed and the therapist joins only by invitation of the client.
(469) 518-4314 View (469) 518-4314
Photo of Lauren Coats - Counseling and Wellness of Heath, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling and Wellness of Heath
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
We have an in house Registered Play Therapist with over 20 years of experience who specializes in working with children, teenagers, and their families.
Life and relationships can be difficult and painful. Sometimes you're left feeling "stuck." Our therapists offer counseling for those who want to improve their lives, alleviate anxiety or depression, & build positive relationships. We provide a warm space where we can discuss your situation and develop a plan that allows you to feel some relief from your current circumstances. We encourage clients by providing practical tools in the first session that can help with stress, depression, anxiety, & conflict. We will work together on a plan to help you in your everyday life. You will leave feeling relieved.
We have an in house Registered Play Therapist with over 20 years of experience who specializes in working with children, teenagers, and their families.
Life and relationships can be difficult and painful. Sometimes you're left feeling "stuck." Our therapists offer counseling for those who want to improve their lives, alleviate anxiety or depression, & build positive relationships. We provide a warm space where we can discuss your situation and develop a plan that allows you to feel some relief from your current circumstances. We encourage clients by providing practical tools in the first session that can help with stress, depression, anxiety, & conflict. We will work together on a plan to help you in your everyday life. You will leave feeling relieved.
(214) 833-9025 View (214) 833-9025
Photo of Ruth Whitely - Mental Health Clinic of Greenville, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, BCN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Clinic of Greenville
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, BCN
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
The Mental Health Clinic of Greenville specializes in play therapy, equine assisted therapy, brain mapping, and neurofeedback.
The Mental Health Clinic of Greenville provides counseling services for individuals, couples, families, and groups. We specialize in brain mapping, neurofeedback, play therapy, and equine-assisted therapy. Our clinic is dedicated to helping people improve their mental health and well-being. We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care and our team is committed to providing the best possible care to our clients.
The Mental Health Clinic of Greenville specializes in play therapy, equine assisted therapy, brain mapping, and neurofeedback.
The Mental Health Clinic of Greenville provides counseling services for individuals, couples, families, and groups. We specialize in brain mapping, neurofeedback, play therapy, and equine-assisted therapy. Our clinic is dedicated to helping people improve their mental health and well-being. We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care and our team is committed to providing the best possible care to our clients.
(903) 225-2358 View (903) 225-2358
Photo of Jennifer Taylor, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
As a former teacher and school counselor, my focus is on helping children and adolescents navigate the sometimes difficult and painful challenges they face. Childhood issues such as trauma, divorce, loss, anxiety, and behavioral concerns are just a handful of tough issues our children encounter. To help them find their voices and work through struggles, talk, play and expressive arts therapy are utilized in counseling sessions.
As a former teacher and school counselor, my focus is on helping children and adolescents navigate the sometimes difficult and painful challenges they face. Childhood issues such as trauma, divorce, loss, anxiety, and behavioral concerns are just a handful of tough issues our children encounter. To help them find their voices and work through struggles, talk, play and expressive arts therapy are utilized in counseling sessions.
(469) 649-7980 View (469) 649-7980
Photo of Kara Schramm, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kara Schramm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I utilize play therapy, activity therapy, and art therapy techniques.
I believe everyone has the potential to grow and heal and I am committed to helping them succeed. I work with each client where they are at today and create a treatment plan that is unique to them. I utilize cognitive behavioral, solutions focused, and family systems approaches as well as a person-centered orientation. I can provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy depending on each client's needs.
I utilize play therapy, activity therapy, and art therapy techniques.
I believe everyone has the potential to grow and heal and I am committed to helping them succeed. I work with each client where they are at today and create a treatment plan that is unique to them. I utilize cognitive behavioral, solutions focused, and family systems approaches as well as a person-centered orientation. I can provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy depending on each client's needs.
(469) 871-8876 View (469) 871-8876
Photo of Emily Mayhew, MEd, LPC, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Mayhew
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032
When working with children, I use a wide range of techniques that include play, expressive arts, music and movement techniques, and bibliotherapy.
If you’re seeking freedom and healing from wounds that keep you from enjoying an abundant life, are in need of relationship repair, desire to grow your Christian walk, or need someone to help you find and reach your purpose, I can help! My desire is to facilitate hope and healing to each of my clients as they navigate through life's challenges. I base my work on a strong Biblical foundation and work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and couples sessions.
When working with children, I use a wide range of techniques that include play, expressive arts, music and movement techniques, and bibliotherapy.
If you’re seeking freedom and healing from wounds that keep you from enjoying an abundant life, are in need of relationship repair, desire to grow your Christian walk, or need someone to help you find and reach your purpose, I can help! My desire is to facilitate hope and healing to each of my clients as they navigate through life's challenges. I base my work on a strong Biblical foundation and work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and couples sessions.
(469) 301-2985 View (469) 301-2985
Photo of Rebecca Olivares, LCSW, CIMHP
Rebecca Olivares
LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032  (Online Only)
Life in today's world is hard, but I can help make it better! You have already taken the first steps. Go you! I believe that therapy should not be boring or a one-sided conversation. Therapy is a team effort between you and me to help you or your family member feel their very best. Whether it is through play therapy or talking about the stressors of the week while you explore my virtual activity room, I would like to help you see and experience the changes you are looking for as you enjoy the journey along the way.
Life in today's world is hard, but I can help make it better! You have already taken the first steps. Go you! I believe that therapy should not be boring or a one-sided conversation. Therapy is a team effort between you and me to help you or your family member feel their very best. Whether it is through play therapy or talking about the stressors of the week while you explore my virtual activity room, I would like to help you see and experience the changes you are looking for as you enjoy the journey along the way.
(830) 500-5651 View (830) 500-5651
Photo of Sharla Parker, LPC, CSC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharla Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
I have been working with children and adolescents for almost 20 years through the educational system and now private practice. I believe in the inherent ability of children, tweens and teens to achieve positive self-growth through the use of therapy. My extensive training in client-centered play therapy qualifies me to help young children work through, but not limited to a variety of issues including, behavioral issues, anxiety and trauma. It is important to meet tweens and teens where they are at which is why telehealth is a wonderful tool for them to work toward positive changes in their lives.
I have been working with children and adolescents for almost 20 years through the educational system and now private practice. I believe in the inherent ability of children, tweens and teens to achieve positive self-growth through the use of therapy. My extensive training in client-centered play therapy qualifies me to help young children work through, but not limited to a variety of issues including, behavioral issues, anxiety and trauma. It is important to meet tweens and teens where they are at which is why telehealth is a wonderful tool for them to work toward positive changes in their lives.
(469) 228-8681 View (469) 228-8681
Photo of Dr. Edna Chism Nicholas, LCSW-S, LCDC, CPC, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Edna Chism Nicholas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, CPC, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032
While working with families I utilize various approaches that include, marital/premarital, play therapy, family education, Christian counseling, sports performance and trauma informed care modalities .
Congratulations!! You have reached the next step on your new journey in life! We know it is difficult to come to counseling and even harder to choose a counselor that works for you. We are in such difficult times and our ACCC family wants to work with you!! Working with ACCC means that we believe that every individual has the key to successful outcomes within themselves. Ultimately we believe that you are the expert in your life. Our motto is "Authentically Inspiring Real Hope to Real People". This motto is representative of what restoration of hope can mean in healing everyday relationships among everyday people.
While working with families I utilize various approaches that include, marital/premarital, play therapy, family education, Christian counseling, sports performance and trauma informed care modalities .
Congratulations!! You have reached the next step on your new journey in life! We know it is difficult to come to counseling and even harder to choose a counselor that works for you. We are in such difficult times and our ACCC family wants to work with you!! Working with ACCC means that we believe that every individual has the key to successful outcomes within themselves. Ultimately we believe that you are the expert in your life. Our motto is "Authentically Inspiring Real Hope to Real People". This motto is representative of what restoration of hope can mean in healing everyday relationships among everyday people.
(817) 203-2991 View (817) 203-2991
Photo of Megan R. Young, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan R. Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
I utilize an integrative approach to meet my clients where they are at emotionally; however, I am trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, play therapy interventions, and sand tray, which are effective in treating a wide-range of concerns.
For some people, it is easy to ask for help & for others, it is extremely difficult. You might be struggling with managing difficult behaviors with your child & unsure of how to help them. You might question whether you should even come to counseling because you are not sure if what you are going through is "really bad enough" compared to others. Maybe you have done counseling before and did not feel it helped. Counseling is about learning how to manage difficult feelings as they arise. Mental health is not linear, & ups and downs will happen in the course of life, so it helps to have someone to listen when they are struggling.
I utilize an integrative approach to meet my clients where they are at emotionally; however, I am trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, play therapy interventions, and sand tray, which are effective in treating a wide-range of concerns.
For some people, it is easy to ask for help & for others, it is extremely difficult. You might be struggling with managing difficult behaviors with your child & unsure of how to help them. You might question whether you should even come to counseling because you are not sure if what you are going through is "really bad enough" compared to others. Maybe you have done counseling before and did not feel it helped. Counseling is about learning how to manage difficult feelings as they arise. Mental health is not linear, & ups and downs will happen in the course of life, so it helps to have someone to listen when they are struggling.
(214) 225-3881 View (214) 225-3881
Photo of Katheryn Chaney, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katheryn Chaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
I believe in creating an environment which serves as a ‘soft place to land’ for my clients. When children are challenged, the entire family is challenged. By creating a positive environment where children feel accepted, valued, and safe, they are able to make sense of their world by expressing themselves in a way that feels natural to them. Children do not always have words to communicate their struggles and can become overwhelmed by big emotions. As a Registered Play Therapist, I strive to give voice to these challenges and support caregivers in navigating the sometimes difficult and very important job of parenting.
I believe in creating an environment which serves as a ‘soft place to land’ for my clients. When children are challenged, the entire family is challenged. By creating a positive environment where children feel accepted, valued, and safe, they are able to make sense of their world by expressing themselves in a way that feels natural to them. Children do not always have words to communicate their struggles and can become overwhelmed by big emotions. As a Registered Play Therapist, I strive to give voice to these challenges and support caregivers in navigating the sometimes difficult and very important job of parenting.
(469) 345-8820 View (469) 345-8820
Photo of Deanne Rose, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanne Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
Besides working with children in play therapy, I have worked extensively with individuals suffering from eating disorders such as compulsive overeating and bulimia.
My name is Deanne Rose and I have been a licensed counselor for many years. I am blessed to have 6 horses who assist me in supporting others in their healing process. I work with children using a combination of play therapy techniques and help from my animal team of horses, dogs, and bunny. I work with adults who are struggling with a variety of issues from personal challenges to relationship issues. The option for adults to include horses in their process can have magical results.
Besides working with children in play therapy, I have worked extensively with individuals suffering from eating disorders such as compulsive overeating and bulimia.
My name is Deanne Rose and I have been a licensed counselor for many years. I am blessed to have 6 horses who assist me in supporting others in their healing process. I work with children using a combination of play therapy techniques and help from my animal team of horses, dogs, and bunny. I work with adults who are struggling with a variety of issues from personal challenges to relationship issues. The option for adults to include horses in their process can have magical results.
(214) 239-1830 View (214) 239-1830
Photo of Brandi Bailey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandi Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I believe "Knowing oneself comes from attending with compassionate curiosity to what is happening within." - Gabor Mate. That curiosity regarding our struggles and connecting with others facilitates the change we want to see. I am a LPC and earned my degree from DBU. I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist & have substantial training & experience working with kiddos and parents. I also enjoy working with adult individuals, especially women, & our unique challenges. I use a variety of modalities including Relational Neuroscience, Humanistic, Attachment, Mindfulness, Strengths-Based, Person-Centered, and Cognitive approaches.
I believe "Knowing oneself comes from attending with compassionate curiosity to what is happening within." - Gabor Mate. That curiosity regarding our struggles and connecting with others facilitates the change we want to see. I am a LPC and earned my degree from DBU. I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist & have substantial training & experience working with kiddos and parents. I also enjoy working with adult individuals, especially women, & our unique challenges. I use a variety of modalities including Relational Neuroscience, Humanistic, Attachment, Mindfulness, Strengths-Based, Person-Centered, and Cognitive approaches.
(469) 723-9903 View (469) 723-9903
Photo of Christal Mihalo - Christal Mihalo Counseling, PLLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christal Mihalo Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a pattern that you have trouble breaking free from? Feeling lost, isolated, or lonely? Overwhelmed? Exhausted from racing thoughts? Not sure about the next steps? Some days you struggle to tell people how you really feel? My heart's desire is to provide you with a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings, gain clarity, feel heard, and supported.
Are you feeling stuck in a pattern that you have trouble breaking free from? Feeling lost, isolated, or lonely? Overwhelmed? Exhausted from racing thoughts? Not sure about the next steps? Some days you struggle to tell people how you really feel? My heart's desire is to provide you with a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings, gain clarity, feel heard, and supported.
(972) 895-8394 View (972) 895-8394
Photo of Bretta O Moore - Jeremiah Counseling Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeremiah Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087  (Online Only)
Let's be honest. Life can seem hopeless at times. Between the pressures that the world puts on us, and the pressure we put upon ourselves, expectations can feel overwhelming. Am I a good parent? Is my marriage working? Am I getting the most out of my career choices? Why don't I ever have peace in my life? There are also times in our lives when we could use the assistance of a helper. Someone that can help us understand and work through all of our challenges. To be a part of this process is truly an honor. And, as a Mental Health Practitioner, I have had the privilege of helping many individuals, couples and families.
Let's be honest. Life can seem hopeless at times. Between the pressures that the world puts on us, and the pressure we put upon ourselves, expectations can feel overwhelming. Am I a good parent? Is my marriage working? Am I getting the most out of my career choices? Why don't I ever have peace in my life? There are also times in our lives when we could use the assistance of a helper. Someone that can help us understand and work through all of our challenges. To be a part of this process is truly an honor. And, as a Mental Health Practitioner, I have had the privilege of helping many individuals, couples and families.
(612) 999-2983 View (612) 999-2983
1
Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

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

Why do people need play therapy?

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

What happens in play therapy?

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

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

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

How long does play therapy last?

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