Photo of Martin Patrick Noel, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Martin Patrick Noel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Bertram, TX 78605
People have always been my passion. They fascinate me...what makes them tick, what makes them happy, how they fit together. People are defined by their culture, their beliefs, their relationships, connections, communications, structure, and family. All people are connected. Everyone affects everyone they know. When one person has problems, everyone in the family is affected. Sometimes the relationships themselves need work; but everyone needs to tell their story, to feel heard and validated. Everyone deserves to declare their voice, their identity. And sometimes, we all need a little help with telling others our needs and feelings.
People have always been my passion. They fascinate me...what makes them tick, what makes them happy, how they fit together. People are defined by their culture, their beliefs, their relationships, connections, communications, structure, and family. All people are connected. Everyone affects everyone they know. When one person has problems, everyone in the family is affected. Sometimes the relationships themselves need work; but everyone needs to tell their story, to feel heard and validated. Everyone deserves to declare their voice, their identity. And sometimes, we all need a little help with telling others our needs and feelings.
(844) 590-0109 View (844) 590-0109

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa DeMoss, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa DeMoss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused and Play Therapy.
Is your life stressed? Are you or a family member experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues? Do you need a change, or for things to settle down in your life? Life can bring turmoil, conflict, frustrations, and a feeling of hopelessness. Together, we can find the root of your problems and develop a healthier way to navigate life. You deserve to have peace and joy in your life. Make yourself a priority today!
I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused and Play Therapy.
Is your life stressed? Are you or a family member experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues? Do you need a change, or for things to settle down in your life? Life can bring turmoil, conflict, frustrations, and a feeling of hopelessness. Together, we can find the root of your problems and develop a healthier way to navigate life. You deserve to have peace and joy in your life. Make yourself a priority today!
(737) 215-3912 View (737) 215-3912
Photo of Jenna Fleming - CTX Child & Family Counseling-Georgetown/Liberty H, Licensed Professional Counselor
CTX Child & Family Counseling-Georgetown/Liberty H
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
We have 20+ providers with specialty training including Child-Centered Play Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TBRI, Gottman Couples Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Behavioral training, DBT, DEEP training and Prepare and Enrich.
Life is stressful. Finding a great counselor shouldn't be. We care about you and make getting help easy. We find you the best fit and provide you with high-quality counseling. We are a group of licensed counselors in Georgetown and Liberty Hill, Texas. Anxiety, depression, parenting, relationship issues, parenting, and more- we HELP people. We work with children as young as 3 years old, teens, adults, couples, parents, and families. Not sure where to start? We can help. Give us a call- our care coordinator will help to find you a good match and schedule your first session with a counselor to help with YOUR needs.
We have 20+ providers with specialty training including Child-Centered Play Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TBRI, Gottman Couples Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Behavioral training, DBT, DEEP training and Prepare and Enrich.
Life is stressful. Finding a great counselor shouldn't be. We care about you and make getting help easy. We find you the best fit and provide you with high-quality counseling. We are a group of licensed counselors in Georgetown and Liberty Hill, Texas. Anxiety, depression, parenting, relationship issues, parenting, and more- we HELP people. We work with children as young as 3 years old, teens, adults, couples, parents, and families. Not sure where to start? We can help. Give us a call- our care coordinator will help to find you a good match and schedule your first session with a counselor to help with YOUR needs.
(512) 887-1609 View (512) 887-1609
Photo of Shelly Moreno, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelly Moreno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by life's demands? Are you worn out being a parent of a child with behavior that you don't understand? Do you have a traumatic past that keeps causing issues for you today? I can help. Haven Acres Counseling is set on a private farm utilizing the calming and restorative power of nature to enhance mental and emotional well-being. Animals can be included in your therapy experience if you choose. We are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where all clients can explore their emotions, overcome challenges, and build fulfilling lives.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by life's demands? Are you worn out being a parent of a child with behavior that you don't understand? Do you have a traumatic past that keeps causing issues for you today? I can help. Haven Acres Counseling is set on a private farm utilizing the calming and restorative power of nature to enhance mental and emotional well-being. Animals can be included in your therapy experience if you choose. We are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where all clients can explore their emotions, overcome challenges, and build fulfilling lives.
(737) 214-6243 View (737) 214-6243
Photo of Linda Mikesic - Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
(512) 675-1823 View (512) 675-1823
Photo of Amanda L Durst, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda L Durst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
Hello! I am Amanda, counselor of 15 years, wife of 17 years, and mother of 10 years and counting. I have been a resident of the North Austin area for the last five years and am a Texas native, though I did spend some time growing up in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. I am active in my son’s school, my church, and my community which I am happy to call home.
Hello! I am Amanda, counselor of 15 years, wife of 17 years, and mother of 10 years and counting. I have been a resident of the North Austin area for the last five years and am a Texas native, though I did spend some time growing up in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. I am active in my son’s school, my church, and my community which I am happy to call home.
(512) 675-1097 View (512) 675-1097
Photo of Andrew Lipinski, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Lipinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
I earned my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University - San Marcos in 2001. I believe the trusting relationship and a safe, nonjudgmental environment is vital to effective therapy. I utilize Solution-Focused, traditional and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational, and Person-Centered techniques in my approach.
I earned my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University - San Marcos in 2001. I believe the trusting relationship and a safe, nonjudgmental environment is vital to effective therapy. I utilize Solution-Focused, traditional and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational, and Person-Centered techniques in my approach.
(737) 200-5961 View (737) 200-5961

Online Therapists

Photo of Lindsey Howell - Counseling4Life, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling4Life, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
We offer after school and work availability for Kids & Play Therapy, Parents & Families, Couples, Trauma trained therapy, Faith-based needs.
We are not your average counseling practice. At Counseling4Life we understand our clients' need to find quality care at an affordable price. Our therapists are dedicated to assisting individuals, families, children, and teens in overcoming life's challenges and struggles, rebuilding and strengthening relationships, and experiencing deeper satisfaction in one's life. We meet our clients in a safe and encouraging therapy atmosphere that promotes laughter and healing for all!
We offer after school and work availability for Kids & Play Therapy, Parents & Families, Couples, Trauma trained therapy, Faith-based needs.
We are not your average counseling practice. At Counseling4Life we understand our clients' need to find quality care at an affordable price. Our therapists are dedicated to assisting individuals, families, children, and teens in overcoming life's challenges and struggles, rebuilding and strengthening relationships, and experiencing deeper satisfaction in one's life. We meet our clients in a safe and encouraging therapy atmosphere that promotes laughter and healing for all!
(210) 714-1565 View (210) 714-1565
Photo of Henrietta Dominguez, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Henrietta Dominguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
I have satisfied requirements by the Association for Play Therapy.
Thank you for considering me to guide you in your therapeutic process. I am committed to supporting my clients in a therapeutic relationship by implementing professional counseling practices and respectful client service. I work with my clients to establish a healthy mind, body and spirit for needed change, personal growth, and supportive relationships. I empower my clients to focus on their strengths as they explore their potential. In therapy, my clients are mindful of their needs as they reconnect with their true self and explore that which holds them back.
I have satisfied requirements by the Association for Play Therapy.
Thank you for considering me to guide you in your therapeutic process. I am committed to supporting my clients in a therapeutic relationship by implementing professional counseling practices and respectful client service. I work with my clients to establish a healthy mind, body and spirit for needed change, personal growth, and supportive relationships. I empower my clients to focus on their strengths as they explore their potential. In therapy, my clients are mindful of their needs as they reconnect with their true self and explore that which holds them back.
(210) 702-3066 View (210) 702-3066
Photo of Lexi Patrick, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lexi Patrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Play & fun are valued both in and out of therapy!.
Every day feels like a rollercoaster of worry, and you’re stuck in a cycle of seeking relief in distractions? You’ve poured everything into helping loved ones, only to hit a frustrating wall? Your mind is a battleground of conflicting thoughts, making decisions and changes seems not worth the fight? Tasks pile up, and the idea of starting to tackle them is overwhelming you? Wearing a mask, even with yourself, becomes a necessity to feel somewhat okay? Strong emotions trigger panic or self-harm, and the pain or numbness feels easier in the dark places? Things you used to love no longer bring joy, and even laughter feels empty?
Play & fun are valued both in and out of therapy!.
Every day feels like a rollercoaster of worry, and you’re stuck in a cycle of seeking relief in distractions? You’ve poured everything into helping loved ones, only to hit a frustrating wall? Your mind is a battleground of conflicting thoughts, making decisions and changes seems not worth the fight? Tasks pile up, and the idea of starting to tackle them is overwhelming you? Wearing a mask, even with yourself, becomes a necessity to feel somewhat okay? Strong emotions trigger panic or self-harm, and the pain or numbness feels easier in the dark places? Things you used to love no longer bring joy, and even laughter feels empty?
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Jenny Moores, PhD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Moores
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
I use treatment modalities including play, art, and sandtray therapies.
My area of expertise incudes children, adolescents and their families..
I use treatment modalities including play, art, and sandtray therapies.
My area of expertise incudes children, adolescents and their families..
(281) 730-5938 View (281) 730-5938
Photo of Erin Lockwood, LPC-A, CCHP, NCC
Erin Lockwood
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, CCHP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy and sand tray therapy, I draw upon the concepts of psychodynamic theory, Bowen Family Systems Theory, existential therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), as well as the principles of mindfulness in order to promote an increased sense of self-compassion, competence, and well-being in my clients.
I help individuals, adolescents, and families who have been impacted by serious mental illness, substance use, and trauma. I offer support to those involved in the criminal justice system throughout all phases of the legal process. I utilize a person-centered, non-directive, and integrative approach that offers space for both exploration and skill-building.
Trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy and sand tray therapy, I draw upon the concepts of psychodynamic theory, Bowen Family Systems Theory, existential therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), as well as the principles of mindfulness in order to promote an increased sense of self-compassion, competence, and well-being in my clients.
I help individuals, adolescents, and families who have been impacted by serious mental illness, substance use, and trauma. I offer support to those involved in the criminal justice system throughout all phases of the legal process. I utilize a person-centered, non-directive, and integrative approach that offers space for both exploration and skill-building.
(737) 352-4208 View (737) 352-4208
Photo of Pflugerville Counseling Center, LPC, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pflugerville Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660
Some of what we at PCC specialize in: Sandtray, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Circle of Security, Thera play (level 1 trained), Aut Play, TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention), Play Therapy, Animal Assisted Counseling, & Supervision .
Pflugerville Counseling Center offers a wide range of counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children/teens. Though each of us specializes in different areas, we all hold a belief that counseling is most helpful when it is about having a safe relationship to more fully explore, understand, and accept our authentic self. We believe that everyone has a story and the more we can own our stories, the more choice and control we have over writing the next chapters. We all love working with the brain/body/relationship connection we all hold within ourselves and between each other.
Some of what we at PCC specialize in: Sandtray, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Circle of Security, Thera play (level 1 trained), Aut Play, TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention), Play Therapy, Animal Assisted Counseling, & Supervision .
Pflugerville Counseling Center offers a wide range of counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children/teens. Though each of us specializes in different areas, we all hold a belief that counseling is most helpful when it is about having a safe relationship to more fully explore, understand, and accept our authentic self. We believe that everyone has a story and the more we can own our stories, the more choice and control we have over writing the next chapters. We all love working with the brain/body/relationship connection we all hold within ourselves and between each other.
(512) 843-8613 View (512) 843-8613
Photo of Sara Gormley, LPC, LMFT-A, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sara Gormley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LPC, LMFT-A, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I offer play therapy and expressive arts tailored to my clients' developmental needs.
I believe in the healing power of relationships because humans are innately wired for connection. Relationships, past experiences, and cultural contexts interact to shape our worldview and sense of self. In our work together, I aim to integrate these parts of you in order to help achieve your goals. My clients are often stuck in old patterns that were once adaptive, but are no longer serving them. I honor clients' inner wisdom to free them to find new ways of connecting to themselves and others within the safety of the therapeutic relationship. I strive to create an environment of warmth and compassion where clients feel understood.
I offer play therapy and expressive arts tailored to my clients' developmental needs.
I believe in the healing power of relationships because humans are innately wired for connection. Relationships, past experiences, and cultural contexts interact to shape our worldview and sense of self. In our work together, I aim to integrate these parts of you in order to help achieve your goals. My clients are often stuck in old patterns that were once adaptive, but are no longer serving them. I honor clients' inner wisdom to free them to find new ways of connecting to themselves and others within the safety of the therapeutic relationship. I strive to create an environment of warmth and compassion where clients feel understood.
(737) 265-7655 View (737) 265-7655
Photo of Tarah Glover, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tarah Glover
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130  (Online Only)
I have been working with children and families since 2010, and found success in working with children through play therapy and the use of therapeutic techniques to help families and couples grow closer.
New Evening Sessions Available! I provide counseling to children, couples, and families within a relational framework. I understand that people face problems in the context of relationships with others and our lives can be affected by outside influences. When your child’s tantrums feel overwhelming and frustrating, I help guide and direct you towards confidence in parenting. Since I apply Gottman Method Couples Therapy when working with couples, I support couples to build a deeper connection from arguments and anger in their relationship.
I have been working with children and families since 2010, and found success in working with children through play therapy and the use of therapeutic techniques to help families and couples grow closer.
New Evening Sessions Available! I provide counseling to children, couples, and families within a relational framework. I understand that people face problems in the context of relationships with others and our lives can be affected by outside influences. When your child’s tantrums feel overwhelming and frustrating, I help guide and direct you towards confidence in parenting. Since I apply Gottman Method Couples Therapy when working with couples, I support couples to build a deeper connection from arguments and anger in their relationship.
(830) 331-5991 View (830) 331-5991
Photo of Kathryn Nin Emery, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Nin Emery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Young children do not possess the vocabulary/self-knowledge to discuss their troubles in talk therapy, they instead naturally play them out.
After 7 years as a teacher and school counselor, Kathryn (Nin) Emery now serves as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her background was founded on a passion for working with teens, guiding them as they navigate the tumultuous period of adolescence. She will offer a safe, non-judgmental place to support personal growth. Older adolescents will be offered more privileges in privacy, however, parents will remain frequently updated and well-informed. Play therapy is also her passion; a research-based modality of working with younger children.
Young children do not possess the vocabulary/self-knowledge to discuss their troubles in talk therapy, they instead naturally play them out.
After 7 years as a teacher and school counselor, Kathryn (Nin) Emery now serves as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her background was founded on a passion for working with teens, guiding them as they navigate the tumultuous period of adolescence. She will offer a safe, non-judgmental place to support personal growth. Older adolescents will be offered more privileges in privacy, however, parents will remain frequently updated and well-informed. Play therapy is also her passion; a research-based modality of working with younger children.
(737) 520-6313 View (737) 520-6313
Photo of Tiffany Kory, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Kory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boerne, TX 78006
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My name is Tiffany Kory, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor serving Boerne and surrounding areas. I specialize in working with children and teens ages 3-17, divorced families, ADHD, and emotional/behavioral regulation concerns.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My name is Tiffany Kory, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor serving Boerne and surrounding areas. I specialize in working with children and teens ages 3-17, divorced families, ADHD, and emotional/behavioral regulation concerns.
(830) 376-2179 View (830) 376-2179
Photo of Matthew John Francis, MA, LPC, Counselor
Matthew John Francis
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
My Master’s program, postgraduate training, and clinical experience have equipped me with a wide variety of approaches to talk therapy as well as many Expressive and Creative Arts Therapy modalities (visual arts, dance, drama, music, digital art, play, and sand tray).
I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Art Therapy from Whitecliffe College in Auckland, New Zealand in 2015 following my Bachelor’s education at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. My clinical experience began in 2012 as a student therapist working with youth on the Autism Spectrum. This work soon developed into working with individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages facing a wide variety of challenges across public and private healthcare settings.
My Master’s program, postgraduate training, and clinical experience have equipped me with a wide variety of approaches to talk therapy as well as many Expressive and Creative Arts Therapy modalities (visual arts, dance, drama, music, digital art, play, and sand tray).
I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Art Therapy from Whitecliffe College in Auckland, New Zealand in 2015 following my Bachelor’s education at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. My clinical experience began in 2012 as a student therapist working with youth on the Autism Spectrum. This work soon developed into working with individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages facing a wide variety of challenges across public and private healthcare settings.
(575) 573-8386 View (575) 573-8386
Photo of Lillian B Matutes - Corazoncitos Alegres Counseling and Play Therapy, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corazoncitos Alegres Counseling and Play Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78247
Are you concerned about your child's behavior? Do you think you might need help and don't know where to start? Have your children experienced life changes and you would like them to develop healthy coping skills? At Corazoncitos Alegres we offer counseling and play therapy for children as well as parental support.
¿Le preocupa la conducta de su hijo? ¿Cree que necesita ayuda y no sabe dónde encontrarla? ¿Está buscando orientación para manejar cambios que han ocurrido en la vida de su niño, ya sean como resultado del desarrollo normal de la edad o por situaciones en el medio que le rodea? En Corazoncitos Alegres ofrecemos consejería infantil en español a través de la terapia de juego. Nos especializamos en niños de edad temprana, preescolar y primaria y ayudamos a padres que necesitan recursos para continuar dando lo mejor de sí en la ardua tarea de la crianza. Llame ahora para conocer más sobre nuestros servicios de consejería en español.
Are you concerned about your child's behavior? Do you think you might need help and don't know where to start? Have your children experienced life changes and you would like them to develop healthy coping skills? At Corazoncitos Alegres we offer counseling and play therapy for children as well as parental support.
¿Le preocupa la conducta de su hijo? ¿Cree que necesita ayuda y no sabe dónde encontrarla? ¿Está buscando orientación para manejar cambios que han ocurrido en la vida de su niño, ya sean como resultado del desarrollo normal de la edad o por situaciones en el medio que le rodea? En Corazoncitos Alegres ofrecemos consejería infantil en español a través de la terapia de juego. Nos especializamos en niños de edad temprana, preescolar y primaria y ayudamos a padres que necesitan recursos para continuar dando lo mejor de sí en la ardua tarea de la crianza. Llame ahora para conocer más sobre nuestros servicios de consejería en español.
(210) 571-7645 View (210) 571-7645
Photo of Jessica Calderon, MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Calderon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boerne, TX 78006
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a variety of modalities in therapy such as mindfulness, EMDR, and play therapy.
I enjoy working with adults, children and families who are struggling with life's transitions. The most important aspect of counseling is the relationship that I will build with you. It is through this relationship that change occurs. I will collaborate with you to identify an approach that fits best with your goals. I will use your strengths as building blocks in the counseling process. I will walk with you through the process of change and healing. If you are feeling stuck or ready to make changes in your life please consider reaching out to schedule a consultation.
I offer a variety of modalities in therapy such as mindfulness, EMDR, and play therapy.
I enjoy working with adults, children and families who are struggling with life's transitions. The most important aspect of counseling is the relationship that I will build with you. It is through this relationship that change occurs. I will collaborate with you to identify an approach that fits best with your goals. I will use your strengths as building blocks in the counseling process. I will walk with you through the process of change and healing. If you are feeling stuck or ready to make changes in your life please consider reaching out to schedule a consultation.
(512) 710-2973 View (512) 710-2973

See more therapy options for Bertram

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.