Play Therapy in Conroe, TX

Photo of Valerie St. Germain - Capstone Connect PLLC Counseling and Trauma, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Capstone Connect PLLC Counseling and Trauma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
Hello, my name is Valerie. I am a licensed Master Social Worker. I am currently working on my doctorate at Liberty University in community care and counseling with a focused-on trauma. I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I have a passion for working with adults who have been through traumatic experiences by utilizing motivational interviewing to instill hope and help them realize their capacity to change. I also enjoy working with younger children with varying behavioral challenges by utilizing techniques found in Child-Centered Play Therapy.
Hello, my name is Valerie. I am a licensed Master Social Worker. I am currently working on my doctorate at Liberty University in community care and counseling with a focused-on trauma. I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I have a passion for working with adults who have been through traumatic experiences by utilizing motivational interviewing to instill hope and help them realize their capacity to change. I also enjoy working with younger children with varying behavioral challenges by utilizing techniques found in Child-Centered Play Therapy.
(936) 279-3285 View (936) 279-3285
Photo of Jenny Jacobs, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304  (Online Only)
Jenny is a vibrant and compassionate clinical counselor with a remarkable 19 years of experience in child and adolescent counseling. Her specialty includes play therapy and animal-assisted counseling, using a trained therapy dog to enrich the counseling process. Dedicated to working with children and adolescents, Jenny employs creative techniques to foster healing and resilience. Her expertise extends to blending evidence-based treatments with innovative methods like sand tray therapy, art, and play. Jenny also focuses on helping parents improve communication, behavior management, and relationships with their children.
Jenny is a vibrant and compassionate clinical counselor with a remarkable 19 years of experience in child and adolescent counseling. Her specialty includes play therapy and animal-assisted counseling, using a trained therapy dog to enrich the counseling process. Dedicated to working with children and adolescents, Jenny employs creative techniques to foster healing and resilience. Her expertise extends to blending evidence-based treatments with innovative methods like sand tray therapy, art, and play. Jenny also focuses on helping parents improve communication, behavior management, and relationships with their children.
(737) 252-6442 View (737) 252-6442
Photo of Celeste Johnson, MA, LPC-S, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Celeste Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77302
I'm a registered play therapist (RPT) and provide canine-assisted interventions for children and teens.
I maintain a small, private practice that allows my fullest attention and care for each of my clients. My office is in a warm and inviting cottage on my personal property, providing a very private and relaxed home-like atmosphere.
I'm a registered play therapist (RPT) and provide canine-assisted interventions for children and teens.
I maintain a small, private practice that allows my fullest attention and care for each of my clients. My office is in a warm and inviting cottage on my personal property, providing a very private and relaxed home-like atmosphere.
(936) 209-5266 View (936) 209-5266
Photo of Iesha Sylvester -  Capstone Connect-- Rise and Shine , MEd, CSC, EMDR, Trained
Capstone Connect-- Rise and Shine
LPC Associate, MEd, CSC, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
With this mindset, I counsel using an integrative approach with Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, EMDR, and Child Centered Play Therapy.
Hello! I AM Iesha Sylvester, a Counselor who Cares! Are you struggling to manage the stresses or changes in work/school, marriage, family? Are you at a place in life where you seem out of balance? Are you stuck in an unwanted pattern? Are you tired of your past repeating itself? Well, I am here to meet you where you are to help you get to where YOU want to BE! As a professional helper, I have served as an educator and certified school counselor for over 17 years. I have educated and counseled individuals: children/adolescents/adults and families with a dedicated heart with the goal to help everyone be their best.
With this mindset, I counsel using an integrative approach with Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, EMDR, and Child Centered Play Therapy.
Hello! I AM Iesha Sylvester, a Counselor who Cares! Are you struggling to manage the stresses or changes in work/school, marriage, family? Are you at a place in life where you seem out of balance? Are you stuck in an unwanted pattern? Are you tired of your past repeating itself? Well, I am here to meet you where you are to help you get to where YOU want to BE! As a professional helper, I have served as an educator and certified school counselor for over 17 years. I have educated and counseled individuals: children/adolescents/adults and families with a dedicated heart with the goal to help everyone be their best.
(936) 226-0194 View (936) 226-0194
Photo of Natalie Baldwin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Baldwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
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.
(214) 949-1309 View (214) 949-1309
Photo of Dr. Sinem Akay-Sullivan, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Sinem Akay-Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77301
As a Registered Play Therapist who is also specialized in activity therapy, sandtray therapy and expressive arts, I will provide the optimal environment for your child to achieve treatment goals.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, ADHD, oppositional behaviors or other emotional and behavioral problems? Is a traumatic experience still following you or your child around? Are you having difficulties to find the best parenting style and discipline methods? With years of experience working with a wide variety of issues, I am here to help you and your loved ones to achieve your goals towards healing, happiness, and balance! I also work with adoptive and foster parents who want to learn better ways to help their children.
As a Registered Play Therapist who is also specialized in activity therapy, sandtray therapy and expressive arts, I will provide the optimal environment for your child to achieve treatment goals.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, ADHD, oppositional behaviors or other emotional and behavioral problems? Is a traumatic experience still following you or your child around? Are you having difficulties to find the best parenting style and discipline methods? With years of experience working with a wide variety of issues, I am here to help you and your loved ones to achieve your goals towards healing, happiness, and balance! I also work with adoptive and foster parents who want to learn better ways to help their children.
(936) 427-3076 View (936) 427-3076
Photo of Caroline DiNoto, MEd, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caroline DiNoto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77301  (Online Only)
As past Chief of Allied Staff of a inpatient psychiatric hospital plus 20+ years of private practice, I provide a strong base of clinical skill and experience for all my clients. Through building improved perception, insight,and judgment supported by the accepting psychotherapeutic relationship, my goal is to enable clients to effect positive change in their lives through awareness and resolution of issues. My practice focuses on the family as well as individual behavioral/emotional problems of children, through Play Therapy, and adolescents and adults. I believe every individual has internal resources to resolve conflict with support and guidance.
As past Chief of Allied Staff of a inpatient psychiatric hospital plus 20+ years of private practice, I provide a strong base of clinical skill and experience for all my clients. Through building improved perception, insight,and judgment supported by the accepting psychotherapeutic relationship, my goal is to enable clients to effect positive change in their lives through awareness and resolution of issues. My practice focuses on the family as well as individual behavioral/emotional problems of children, through Play Therapy, and adolescents and adults. I believe every individual has internal resources to resolve conflict with support and guidance.
(281) 305-3094 View (281) 305-3094
Photo of Jennifer J. Cain, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer J. Cain
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77301
With young children, I provide individual play therapy sessions in conjunction with monthly parent consultations to help you address the specific needs of your child.
I specialize in play therapy for children ages 3-8 and supervision for LPC Associates and RPT Interns (post graduate only). I do not accept insurance, but you can submit your claims for out-of-network reimbursement. Please contact me today to determine if we are a good match for this process, or if you have any questions.
With young children, I provide individual play therapy sessions in conjunction with monthly parent consultations to help you address the specific needs of your child.
I specialize in play therapy for children ages 3-8 and supervision for LPC Associates and RPT Interns (post graduate only). I do not accept insurance, but you can submit your claims for out-of-network reimbursement. Please contact me today to determine if we are a good match for this process, or if you have any questions.
(832) 734-6717 View (832) 734-6717
Photo of Erik Boie - Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
Welcome! If you're feeling overwhelmed and need help -You have come to the right place. Don't let anything stand in your way of achieving your life's goals, and ultimately feeling better. Capstone Connect is a group practice skilled in play therapy, trauma treatment, and psychotherapy. We are here to help you find solutions to your challenges. Capstone's therapists are master level therapists with advanced skills in psychotherapy and play therapy. We have the expertise to work effectively with diverse challenges including divorce, parenting challenges, behavioral concerns, school, environmental, and medical traumas, adoption, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! If you're feeling overwhelmed and need help -You have come to the right place. Don't let anything stand in your way of achieving your life's goals, and ultimately feeling better. Capstone Connect is a group practice skilled in play therapy, trauma treatment, and psychotherapy. We are here to help you find solutions to your challenges. Capstone's therapists are master level therapists with advanced skills in psychotherapy and play therapy. We have the expertise to work effectively with diverse challenges including divorce, parenting challenges, behavioral concerns, school, environmental, and medical traumas, adoption, anxiety, and depression.
(832) 981-5496 View (832) 981-5496
Photo of Logan Saley, LPC-A, LMFT-A
Logan Saley
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
Logan uses play therapy to help children express feelings and manage big emotions.
Logan's areas of expertise include treating anxiety and depression, children's behavioral issues, ADHD and autism, relationship dysfunction, parenting concerns, attachment issues, and life transitions. She works with children and adolescents, and adult individuals. She receives supervision from Erika Willis, LPCS, LSSP.
Logan uses play therapy to help children express feelings and manage big emotions.
Logan's areas of expertise include treating anxiety and depression, children's behavioral issues, ADHD and autism, relationship dysfunction, parenting concerns, attachment issues, and life transitions. She works with children and adolescents, and adult individuals. She receives supervision from Erika Willis, LPCS, LSSP.
(346) 482-5133 View (346) 482-5133
Photo of Kristi Coats Evans, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Coats Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77302
I am an LPC, with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling and a play therapy certificate from SHSU.
Fear, anxiety, and shame are often the root causes of many of our society’s mental struggles and concerns. If you or your child feels like you are in a pit of despair or stuck in a destructive pattern of thinking, you may need help getting a new focus or sharing your burden with someone who can listen without judgement. My current specialty is play therapy and helping families with conflicts and struggling youth. I also enjoy helping adolescents or young adults who are suffering from depression or anxiety. My philosophy and interventions are faith based, research supported, and very solution focused. Reach out for help today
I am an LPC, with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling and a play therapy certificate from SHSU.
Fear, anxiety, and shame are often the root causes of many of our society’s mental struggles and concerns. If you or your child feels like you are in a pit of despair or stuck in a destructive pattern of thinking, you may need help getting a new focus or sharing your burden with someone who can listen without judgement. My current specialty is play therapy and helping families with conflicts and struggling youth. I also enjoy helping adolescents or young adults who are suffering from depression or anxiety. My philosophy and interventions are faith based, research supported, and very solution focused. Reach out for help today
(281) 612-7510 View (281) 612-7510
Photo of Sherri Sawyer - Connecting Minds Counseling & Play Therapy Center, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connecting Minds Counseling & Play Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77384
We are dedicated to providing inclusive and affirming mental health care for individuals of all ages who have experienced trauma, identify as neurodivergent, and/or are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Our dedicated team of therapists is passionate about creating a safe and supportive space where everyone can feel seen, heard, and valued. Our therapists offer a range of specialized services, including play therapy and EMDR, to support healing and growth. Through trauma-informed, client-centered therapy, we support our clients in reclaiming their narratives, fostering resilience, and building fulfilling lives.
We are dedicated to providing inclusive and affirming mental health care for individuals of all ages who have experienced trauma, identify as neurodivergent, and/or are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Our dedicated team of therapists is passionate about creating a safe and supportive space where everyone can feel seen, heard, and valued. Our therapists offer a range of specialized services, including play therapy and EMDR, to support healing and growth. Through trauma-informed, client-centered therapy, we support our clients in reclaiming their narratives, fostering resilience, and building fulfilling lives.
(281) 843-9338 View (281) 843-9338
Photo of Claire Chabot, MA, LPC-A
Claire Chabot
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77384
Are big (or small!) life changes making you anxious? Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Has an abusive or violent relationship left you unsure of who you are? Maybe you're worried your child feels this way. No matter who you are, Connecting Minds Counseling & Play Therapy Center can help. I myself have two years of experience working with both children and adults from all walks of life. I strive to provide individualized care to meet clients’ differing needs.
Are big (or small!) life changes making you anxious? Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Has an abusive or violent relationship left you unsure of who you are? Maybe you're worried your child feels this way. No matter who you are, Connecting Minds Counseling & Play Therapy Center can help. I myself have two years of experience working with both children and adults from all walks of life. I strive to provide individualized care to meet clients’ differing needs.
(281) 801-4816 View (281) 801-4816
Photo of Mitzi McBride, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mitzi McBride
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77384
I have extensive experience and training in TBRI, EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, sand tray, and play therapy.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including foster care, community mental health, schools, and 5 years of work internationally in a multicultural setting. I specialize in working with children, teens and adults to address a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, foster care, adoption, grief, ADHD/inattention, learning differences, social skills, attachment difficulties, relational problems, and trauma.
I have extensive experience and training in TBRI, EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, sand tray, and play therapy.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including foster care, community mental health, schools, and 5 years of work internationally in a multicultural setting. I specialize in working with children, teens and adults to address a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, foster care, adoption, grief, ADHD/inattention, learning differences, social skills, attachment difficulties, relational problems, and trauma.
(281) 699-2979 View (281) 699-2979
Photo of Mikayla Williams - Mindful Movements Counseling Center, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Movements Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77385
We are trained in approaches including EMDR, used for trauma & anxiety; Sandtray, using sand and figures that facilitate a deeper level of processing; Play therapy for children; Gottman, Bowen, & EFT to facilitate healthy communication for couples; Adlerian to explore patterns rooted in the past, CBT to help develop strategies for current problems, and more.
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
We are trained in approaches including EMDR, used for trauma & anxiety; Sandtray, using sand and figures that facilitate a deeper level of processing; Play therapy for children; Gottman, Bowen, & EFT to facilitate healthy communication for couples; Adlerian to explore patterns rooted in the past, CBT to help develop strategies for current problems, and more.
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
(713) 804-4955 View (713) 804-4955
Photo of Deandre A. Dyer - Full Circle Therapy PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Full Circle Therapy PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77301
I utilize techniques found in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR.
Life is filled with things to worry about. Sometimes those worries come from trauma or within yourself. For adults this could be irritability, anxiety, or fear. For children & teens these worries could even present as behavioral issues or in-school disturbances. Developing confidence, self-esteem, and positive thinking habits can be the key to unlocking a better reality. I want to help you build this confidence & self-esteem; I want to equip you with the tools to create positive thinking habits, overcome trauma, and inevitably help you to use all of these skills to overcome your worries.
I utilize techniques found in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR.
Life is filled with things to worry about. Sometimes those worries come from trauma or within yourself. For adults this could be irritability, anxiety, or fear. For children & teens these worries could even present as behavioral issues or in-school disturbances. Developing confidence, self-esteem, and positive thinking habits can be the key to unlocking a better reality. I want to help you build this confidence & self-esteem; I want to equip you with the tools to create positive thinking habits, overcome trauma, and inevitably help you to use all of these skills to overcome your worries.
(936) 220-2290 View (936) 220-2290
Photo of Alyssa Biestek, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alyssa Biestek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77303
I am working on becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), and am a certified Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) provider.
Are you a parent concerned about your child's well-being? My ideal clients are children and teenagers who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, behavioral issues, sensory processing, and self-harm. I specialize in helping young people navigate the complex emotions that come with growing up in today’s world. Your child might be dealing with overwhelming feelings of worry, struggling to feel confident, or acting out in ways that are hard to understand. Perhaps they’re engaging in self-harm as a way to cope with their inner pain. As an experienced therapist, I offer a safe environment for growth and healing.
I am working on becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), and am a certified Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) provider.
Are you a parent concerned about your child's well-being? My ideal clients are children and teenagers who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, behavioral issues, sensory processing, and self-harm. I specialize in helping young people navigate the complex emotions that come with growing up in today’s world. Your child might be dealing with overwhelming feelings of worry, struggling to feel confident, or acting out in ways that are hard to understand. Perhaps they’re engaging in self-harm as a way to cope with their inner pain. As an experienced therapist, I offer a safe environment for growth and healing.
(281) 595-8893 View (281) 595-8893
Photo of Cecilia R Andrews, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecilia R Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77304
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who holds a Master’s of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Houston and a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Sam Houston State University. I utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered therapy, and various other modalities to customize a treatment plan for each client.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who holds a Master’s of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Houston and a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Sam Houston State University. I utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered therapy, and various other modalities to customize a treatment plan for each client.
(936) 939-6112 View (936) 939-6112
Photo of Marion Creighton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marion Creighton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77303  (Online Only)
Marion Creighton is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of professional experience working with children, teens, adults, and seniors who are struggling with the effects of difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, chronic stress, family issues, relationship dysfunction, women’s issues, academic- or athletic-related issues, and much more.Marion earned her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of Central Oklahoma and has been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2001.
Marion Creighton is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of professional experience working with children, teens, adults, and seniors who are struggling with the effects of difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, chronic stress, family issues, relationship dysfunction, women’s issues, academic- or athletic-related issues, and much more.Marion earned her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of Central Oklahoma and has been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2001.
(936) 241-4865 View (936) 241-4865
Photo of Haley Pettigrew, MS, LMFT, LCDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Haley Pettigrew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
Did you go to bed last night feeling angry or hopeless from the same continued fight with your partner or child? Has the anxiety, depression, conflict, or trauma become unbearable? Do you want to improve your personal relationships but don’t know how? I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 10 years of experience and understand those thoughts all too well. We all have the capacity for growth and healing, and I would be honored to partner with you and your family towards finding your happier and more fulfilling life.
Did you go to bed last night feeling angry or hopeless from the same continued fight with your partner or child? Has the anxiety, depression, conflict, or trauma become unbearable? Do you want to improve your personal relationships but don’t know how? I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 10 years of experience and understand those thoughts all too well. We all have the capacity for growth and healing, and I would be honored to partner with you and your family towards finding your happier and more fulfilling life.
(832) 905-8285 View (832) 905-8285
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.