Therapists in Boerne, TX
![Photo of Paula Mokry With Genesis Counseling, MS, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74dbc325-6837-4393-8193-9e12b5e25a0f/4/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Mokry With Genesis Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boerne, TX 78006
I provide confidential therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to my clients when everyday problems become too overwhelming to handle on their own. I create a warm relaxing environment so clients feel comfortable exploring their situation and together we can find solutions. I am open to seeing either just the individual or incorporating members of the family to help achieve the best outcome through therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy techniques including art therapy to help children express their feelings through play.
I provide confidential therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to my clients when everyday problems become too overwhelming to handle on their own. I create a warm relaxing environment so clients feel comfortable exploring their situation and together we can find solutions. I am open to seeing either just the individual or incorporating members of the family to help achieve the best outcome through therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy techniques including art therapy to help children express their feelings through play.
![Photo of Heidi Renee Conlin - Heidi Conlin with Genesis Counseling Center, MS, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35f8ad1a-5d18-4b34-b259-0a7070865378/7/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Conlin with Genesis Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boerne, TX 78006
My experiences include counseling diverse populations of families, couples, and individuals, practicing play therapy, art therapy, and sand tray therapy with children, working with depression, eating disorders, anxiety and other disorders.
I provide affordable counseling to couples, adults, adolescents and children. I recognize that it is difficult to talk with a stranger about problems and therefore, I strive to see my clients' problems through their eyes. I am open minded in order to create a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere for change. I help my clients make small changes to their lives in order to achieve bigger goals.
My experiences include counseling diverse populations of families, couples, and individuals, practicing play therapy, art therapy, and sand tray therapy with children, working with depression, eating disorders, anxiety and other disorders.
I provide affordable counseling to couples, adults, adolescents and children. I recognize that it is difficult to talk with a stranger about problems and therefore, I strive to see my clients' problems through their eyes. I am open minded in order to create a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere for change. I help my clients make small changes to their lives in order to achieve bigger goals.
![Photo of Anna Wong, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d1346b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with individuals, families, & couples, but most of my experience is in working with teenagers. I utilize different theories and techniques, and work to develop age appropriate treatment plans, objectives, and goals in order to help the individual and their family to overcome their difficulties, and reach their optimal potential. In working with children, I utilize play therapy, which allows for children to use their natural language of play to express themselves, and to work through their problems. Let's work together towards your future! E-mail me today at annawongtherapy@gmail.com.
I have experience working with individuals, families, & couples, but most of my experience is in working with teenagers. I utilize different theories and techniques, and work to develop age appropriate treatment plans, objectives, and goals in order to help the individual and their family to overcome their difficulties, and reach their optimal potential. In working with children, I utilize play therapy, which allows for children to use their natural language of play to express themselves, and to work through their problems. Let's work together towards your future! E-mail me today at annawongtherapy@gmail.com.
![Photo of Yvonne Briones Elias, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff8c510-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize play therapy with children to facilitate process and communication and employ cognitive behavioral tools while working closely with parents and families.
I am a clinical psychologist with experience over twenty plus years providing family, couples, and individual counseling, play therapy, psychological assessment, and bilingual (English/Spanish) services to a client base spanning from young children to adolescents and adults. My extensive experience as a clinician and diagnostician includes working with ADHD, trauma, PTSD, anxiety based problems, depression, relational concerns, sports related concerns, and anger management, contributing to my approach to counseling grounded in the premise that the therapeutic relationship is essential in gaining meaning and resolving the conflicts that arise within our human experience.
I utilize play therapy with children to facilitate process and communication and employ cognitive behavioral tools while working closely with parents and families.
I am a clinical psychologist with experience over twenty plus years providing family, couples, and individual counseling, play therapy, psychological assessment, and bilingual (English/Spanish) services to a client base spanning from young children to adolescents and adults. My extensive experience as a clinician and diagnostician includes working with ADHD, trauma, PTSD, anxiety based problems, depression, relational concerns, sports related concerns, and anger management, contributing to my approach to counseling grounded in the premise that the therapeutic relationship is essential in gaining meaning and resolving the conflicts that arise within our human experience.
![Photo of Karen B Ohnheiser-Reischlng, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a68ccd3-dedf-49f6-832a-f10ca2fe98ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen B Ohnheiser-Reischlng
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Boerne, TX 78006 (Online Only)
My goal as counselor is to help individuals navigate through life. I have extensive experience with working with families, children and adults. I specialize in relationships, grief and trauma. I have 20 years of experience working in the field of counseling.
My goal as counselor is to help individuals navigate through life. I have extensive experience with working with families, children and adults. I specialize in relationships, grief and trauma. I have 20 years of experience working in the field of counseling.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Belinda Arriaga, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac75653a-dc86-4927-839e-b0b685ff4e88/2/320x400.jpeg)
Belinda Arriaga
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
I have additional training in cognitive processing therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder, sand play, & play therapy.
I am a bi-iterate and bicultural psychotherapist that specializes on problems that affect the individual/couple/family when generations within the household have contrasting cultural understandings. When working with individuals, couples, and families, I explore cultural differences and values to find the strengths and the coping tools. I have also worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have experience in many areas, including trauma, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, multigenerational family conflict, couples counseling, life transitions, chronic pain, and grief.
I have additional training in cognitive processing therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder, sand play, & play therapy.
I am a bi-iterate and bicultural psychotherapist that specializes on problems that affect the individual/couple/family when generations within the household have contrasting cultural understandings. When working with individuals, couples, and families, I explore cultural differences and values to find the strengths and the coping tools. I have also worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have experience in many areas, including trauma, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, multigenerational family conflict, couples counseling, life transitions, chronic pain, and grief.
![Photo of Adrianna Garza-Gongora, MA, LSW, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a587ec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Adrianna Garza-Gongora
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LSW, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015
COUNSELING. What does it mean when we hear that word? To some its intimidation, fear, broken, and some may even think judgment. All of those definitions could not be further from the truth. We all have times in life when we need to clarify our perspective on life's challenges and opportunities. Counseling is an avenue to provide encouragement and assistance to those facing various life challenges. Sometimes we are unable to conquer serious challenges alone. I am able to provide the help and support needed to achieve that next level.
COUNSELING. What does it mean when we hear that word? To some its intimidation, fear, broken, and some may even think judgment. All of those definitions could not be further from the truth. We all have times in life when we need to clarify our perspective on life's challenges and opportunities. Counseling is an avenue to provide encouragement and assistance to those facing various life challenges. Sometimes we are unable to conquer serious challenges alone. I am able to provide the help and support needed to achieve that next level.
![Photo of Mayra L Chavez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e724514d-fe1e-4c0c-bb63-be091d85f199/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mayra L Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78257 (Online Only)
Seeking therapy may be scary sometimes, and I understand that. That is why I really like to focus on building a safe and nurturing relationship that allows the exploration of emotions without judgment so we can work towards acceptance and change. I use a person-centered approach which encourages team work and empowers you to direct the content of the sessions. Together we’ll explore how your experiences may be affecting your decisions and feelings about yourself and other aspects of life.
Seeking therapy may be scary sometimes, and I understand that. That is why I really like to focus on building a safe and nurturing relationship that allows the exploration of emotions without judgment so we can work towards acceptance and change. I use a person-centered approach which encourages team work and empowers you to direct the content of the sessions. Together we’ll explore how your experiences may be affecting your decisions and feelings about yourself and other aspects of life.
![Photo of Marceli Anahi Del Valle, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f52af7b4-ef22-4d4f-bae6-e4d0286fcf38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marceli Anahi Del Valle
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78257
My approach to therapy is genuine, mindful, and emotionally-focused. I believe that it is often not enough to challenge only negative thoughts. Thoughts are only one piece of the puzzle. We are complex human beings and our emotions are complex too! I strive to guide my clients to have a deeper understanding of who they are and who they want to become. We have all encountered different life paths all with their own particular obstacles and we all have obstacles we are yet to face. I want to empower my clients to build the resiliency necessary to face these challenges with open arms.
My approach to therapy is genuine, mindful, and emotionally-focused. I believe that it is often not enough to challenge only negative thoughts. Thoughts are only one piece of the puzzle. We are complex human beings and our emotions are complex too! I strive to guide my clients to have a deeper understanding of who they are and who they want to become. We have all encountered different life paths all with their own particular obstacles and we all have obstacles we are yet to face. I want to empower my clients to build the resiliency necessary to face these challenges with open arms.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Celeste R Inman - The Vine Wellness Group, LPC-S, LMFT-S, RPT-S, LPC, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c93bbd0-9862-4953-b6db-d204d2933512/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Vine Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT-S, RPT-S, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78247
Our services include: play therapy, individual counseling, pre-marital counseling, couples and marital counseling, discernment counseling for couples considering divorce, family therapy, parent coaching, career counseling, and group therapy.
Life in Balance. Health. Healing. Growth. The Vine Wellness Group, co-owned by Annie Viers and Celeste Inman, is here for you. We understand that life can throw us all a few curves, and sometimes the challenges can shake the very foundations of who we are. Our core belief is that every person can live a well rounded, fulfilling life that has purpose. We want to help you in your journey toward healing and growth. We have multiple counselors within our practice who specialize in different areas.
Our services include: play therapy, individual counseling, pre-marital counseling, couples and marital counseling, discernment counseling for couples considering divorce, family therapy, parent coaching, career counseling, and group therapy.
Life in Balance. Health. Healing. Growth. The Vine Wellness Group, co-owned by Annie Viers and Celeste Inman, is here for you. We understand that life can throw us all a few curves, and sometimes the challenges can shake the very foundations of who we are. Our core belief is that every person can live a well rounded, fulfilling life that has purpose. We want to help you in your journey toward healing and growth. We have multiple counselors within our practice who specialize in different areas.
![Photo of Kristalyn (Kris) Allison, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S, CATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/497861b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristalyn (Kris) Allison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S, CATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
I have a fully equipped play therapy studio (for all ages) including sand tray, art and music therapy, and imaginative play equipment.
I work with a wide range of clients and concerns. Anxiety, depression, past trauma, relationship struggles, and behavior difficulties in teens and children are among a few of the common issues I treat. I have several years of experience with play therapy as well as therapy with adults and teens. I see each client and their experiences as unique to them with their own needs and strengths. I am very open minded and non-judgmental and really do care about each one of my clients. I consider the relationship I have with my clients to be central their success.
I have a fully equipped play therapy studio (for all ages) including sand tray, art and music therapy, and imaginative play equipment.
I work with a wide range of clients and concerns. Anxiety, depression, past trauma, relationship struggles, and behavior difficulties in teens and children are among a few of the common issues I treat. I have several years of experience with play therapy as well as therapy with adults and teens. I see each client and their experiences as unique to them with their own needs and strengths. I am very open minded and non-judgmental and really do care about each one of my clients. I consider the relationship I have with my clients to be central their success.
![Photo of Susan Anne Gallagher - Susan Anne Gallagher, LPC, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fbc46f7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Anne Gallagher, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78729
My work is eclectic, drawing upon different therapeutic modalities: play therapy (particularly effective with children), filial therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, depending upon individual needs.
Therapy is a collaborative effort. I am present to accompany, listen, and reflect. I work with a broad range of individuals. With over two decades as a school counselor, I particularly enjoy working with children and adolescents and their parents. I work effectively with clients who are going through a divorce, the death of a significant person, chronic family illness, job changes, domestic violence, or abuse. Clients can expect focused attention, quiet acceptance and honest feedback in a private space where they can clear their thoughts and feelings, sort through fears and pain, and redirect their lives.
My work is eclectic, drawing upon different therapeutic modalities: play therapy (particularly effective with children), filial therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, depending upon individual needs.
Therapy is a collaborative effort. I am present to accompany, listen, and reflect. I work with a broad range of individuals. With over two decades as a school counselor, I particularly enjoy working with children and adolescents and their parents. I work effectively with clients who are going through a divorce, the death of a significant person, chronic family illness, job changes, domestic violence, or abuse. Clients can expect focused attention, quiet acceptance and honest feedback in a private space where they can clear their thoughts and feelings, sort through fears and pain, and redirect their lives.
![Photo of Andra Soto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f862a551-68de-4b6d-abb7-4caf252a3d03/2/320x400.jpeg)
The language of children is play; so play is an integral part of child therapy sessions.
When you begin to recognize that your enjoyment of your child seems to be decreasing while feelings of being stuck, stressed, or overwhelmed are increasing, early childhood mental health services can be an effective tool to get things back on track. Healthy parent/child relationships reflect secure attachment, responsive attunement, and mutual enjoyment. But many things can interrupt that process, even typical things like the birth of a sibling or starting school. These experiences can contribute to challenging behaviors in children that are difficult to handle. Therapy can help to restore connection and understanding.
The language of children is play; so play is an integral part of child therapy sessions.
When you begin to recognize that your enjoyment of your child seems to be decreasing while feelings of being stuck, stressed, or overwhelmed are increasing, early childhood mental health services can be an effective tool to get things back on track. Healthy parent/child relationships reflect secure attachment, responsive attunement, and mutual enjoyment. But many things can interrupt that process, even typical things like the birth of a sibling or starting school. These experiences can contribute to challenging behaviors in children that are difficult to handle. Therapy can help to restore connection and understanding.
![Photo of Rachel Preston - Pursuit of Happiness, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d048b4d-ccb5-4098-bba8-b6babc0b44a8/1/320x400.png)
Welcome to Pursuit of Happiness! We have had the honor of providing trauma-informed counseling for over 3,000 children in foster care since our formation in 2011. All of our counselors practice trauma-informed counseling and have training in play and trauma techniques to help children and families heal and grow in a safe therapeutic space. Our counselors will come directly to you and meet in the home, school, or daycare depending on your schedule needs. Virtual counseling is also available. We are in network with Superior Healthplan, Traditional Medicaid, and Wellpoint.
Welcome to Pursuit of Happiness! We have had the honor of providing trauma-informed counseling for over 3,000 children in foster care since our formation in 2011. All of our counselors practice trauma-informed counseling and have training in play and trauma techniques to help children and families heal and grow in a safe therapeutic space. Our counselors will come directly to you and meet in the home, school, or daycare depending on your schedule needs. Virtual counseling is also available. We are in network with Superior Healthplan, Traditional Medicaid, and Wellpoint.
![Photo of LaShekia Scott, Post-MA, LMFT-A, LCDC-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2746f931-9d49-494b-b4f0-7297e391c20d/1/320x400.jpeg)
LaShekia Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, Post-MA, LMFT-A, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Introducing a dedicated and compassionate guide to navigate through life's challenges. When faced with adversity or feeling trapped in difficult circumstances, I am here to offer unwavering support and accompany you on your path towards healing, freedom, and inner peace. As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate (LMFT-A) in the state of TX and WA, I provide support, guidance, and empowerment to my clients, assisting them in my journey towards long-lasting change, restoration of hope, and living authentically fulfilled lives. Utilizing modalities like CC Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Gottman Method CT.
Introducing a dedicated and compassionate guide to navigate through life's challenges. When faced with adversity or feeling trapped in difficult circumstances, I am here to offer unwavering support and accompany you on your path towards healing, freedom, and inner peace. As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate (LMFT-A) in the state of TX and WA, I provide support, guidance, and empowerment to my clients, assisting them in my journey towards long-lasting change, restoration of hope, and living authentically fulfilled lives. Utilizing modalities like CC Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Gottman Method CT.
![Photo of Ashley Hembrock, MS, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/316efb66-320f-4e22-a9d6-955d10b1aaa5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Hembrock
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
For children I believe that play is a child’s natural language, and the toys are their words.
My approach to counseling is guided by my client's unique needs and is collaborative in nature. I believe that you are the expert on your life therefore what you bring into counseling is what is important and I aim to empower you on your healing journey. I have experience working with children, pre-teens, teens and young adults.
For children I believe that play is a child’s natural language, and the toys are their words.
My approach to counseling is guided by my client's unique needs and is collaborative in nature. I believe that you are the expert on your life therefore what you bring into counseling is what is important and I aim to empower you on your healing journey. I have experience working with children, pre-teens, teens and young adults.
![Photo of Casie Ehrig, MEd, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa29fdab-a421-4fed-97c9-77e04ed658e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Casie Ehrig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shiner, TX 77984
I also provide Play Therapy helping children with their emotions and behaviors.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? Are you having relationship issues, feelings of low self-worth, or loss of hope? There comes a time when help is needed from a licensed professional who can come along side you to help you cope with many of life’s challenges.
I also provide Play Therapy helping children with their emotions and behaviors.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? Are you having relationship issues, feelings of low self-worth, or loss of hope? There comes a time when help is needed from a licensed professional who can come along side you to help you cope with many of life’s challenges.
![Photo of Natalie Baldwin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5fc4f35-b9be-4deb-9ac1-dcfdff68b2d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize my play therapy skills by communicating through reflective listening.
Natalie Baldwin, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). I've treated individuals and families with a myriad of concerns using an eclectic and holistic approach. Depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, emotional pain, physical illness, transitions, self-esteem, and acceptance have been some of the issues I've worked with among a diverse group of clienteles. I work with clients with complex trauma, teen, kids, couples, and addiction.
I utilize my play therapy skills by communicating through reflective listening.
Natalie Baldwin, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). I've treated individuals and families with a myriad of concerns using an eclectic and holistic approach. Depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, emotional pain, physical illness, transitions, self-esteem, and acceptance have been some of the issues I've worked with among a diverse group of clienteles. I work with clients with complex trauma, teen, kids, couples, and addiction.
![Photo of Kelley Jean Broadaway, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6af59d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelley Jean Broadaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660
I am trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, play therapy, expressive arts and family systems.
I am a trauma and attachment therapist. I am currently utilizing telehealth and in-office visits. I specialize in trauma and post-adopt family work, but also enjoy working with individual children, teens, adults and therapists. I have 26 years of experience in community mental health and with a Foster Care Agency .I believe that all family members deserve to feel safe, trusted, loved and understood. My passion is helping traumatized, abused and neglected ones heal and thrive.
I am trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, play therapy, expressive arts and family systems.
I am a trauma and attachment therapist. I am currently utilizing telehealth and in-office visits. I specialize in trauma and post-adopt family work, but also enjoy working with individual children, teens, adults and therapists. I have 26 years of experience in community mental health and with a Foster Care Agency .I believe that all family members deserve to feel safe, trusted, loved and understood. My passion is helping traumatized, abused and neglected ones heal and thrive.
See more therapy options for Boerne
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Boerne
- Alamo Heights
- Bulverde
- Castle Hills
- Converse
- Fair Oaks Ranch
- Garden Ridge
- Helotes
- Leon Valley
- Live Oak
- San Antonio
- Shavano Park
- Spring Branch
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.