Play Therapy in Fulshear, TX

Photo of Natalie Baldwin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Baldwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fulshear, TX 77441
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.
(817) 969-3116 View (817) 969-3116
Photo of Dr. Mary Lyles, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Mary Lyles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fulshear, TX 77441
I utilize a variety of helpful therapies, including emotional support, cognitive therapy, play therapy, DBT, & EMDR.
Are you struggling with challenges in your life? You are not alone! You can expect compassionate, nonjudgmental, professional attention based on proven therapeutic care. Adults, couples, teens & children of all ages are welcome! I see people for a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to, mood problems, anger issues, marital challenges, parenting, grief, trauma, & abuse. I will work with you toward your personal goals in therapy. My services combine the best in time-tested help with belief in your potential for healing, faith in the human spirit, & deep respect for you. Call for an appointment. Evening hours available.
I utilize a variety of helpful therapies, including emotional support, cognitive therapy, play therapy, DBT, & EMDR.
Are you struggling with challenges in your life? You are not alone! You can expect compassionate, nonjudgmental, professional attention based on proven therapeutic care. Adults, couples, teens & children of all ages are welcome! I see people for a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to, mood problems, anger issues, marital challenges, parenting, grief, trauma, & abuse. I will work with you toward your personal goals in therapy. My services combine the best in time-tested help with belief in your potential for healing, faith in the human spirit, & deep respect for you. Call for an appointment. Evening hours available.
(832) 323-1942 View (832) 323-1942
Photo of Dianne W Appolito - Stone Creek Psychotherapy & Wellness Center, LCSW
Stone Creek Psychotherapy & Wellness Center
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
Our multi-disciplinary team of clinicians offers a variety of treatment services including individual/family therapy, play therapy, Neurofeedback therapy, and social skills classes.
ADHD is often misunderstood, and by default, so are those who suffer from it. For this reason, it often goes undetected for many years. Un-diagnosed children are often seen as lazy and unmotivated or defiant and lacking discipline. As they transition into adolescence, symptoms of anxiety or depression may surface. As adults, they continue to struggle with underachieving, believing that "if they only tried harder" things could be better. ADHD often impact people mentally, emotionally, socially and physically. The effects are often painful and long-lasting. It can be equally frustrating for loved ones who want to help.
Our multi-disciplinary team of clinicians offers a variety of treatment services including individual/family therapy, play therapy, Neurofeedback therapy, and social skills classes.
ADHD is often misunderstood, and by default, so are those who suffer from it. For this reason, it often goes undetected for many years. Un-diagnosed children are often seen as lazy and unmotivated or defiant and lacking discipline. As they transition into adolescence, symptoms of anxiety or depression may surface. As adults, they continue to struggle with underachieving, believing that "if they only tried harder" things could be better. ADHD often impact people mentally, emotionally, socially and physically. The effects are often painful and long-lasting. It can be equally frustrating for loved ones who want to help.
(832) 780-2187 View (832) 780-2187
Photo of Kelly E Peyton, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly E Peyton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
As a play therapist, trauma specialist, and parenting professional, I provide services to clients of all ages in a supportive and caring environment focused on helping clients reach their goals and overcome life obstacles.
Are you parenting a child with behavioral issues, coping with divorce or trauma, or trying to improve quality of life? Have you ever said, "My child is out of control,” "I am just so tired", "Everything is so hard" or "This isn't the family I dreamed of?" These types of statements often reflect the type of feelings my clients or their parents have. The early and teen years create special challenges for children/teens and their parents alike. I use a compassionate healing approach tailored to identify problems and solutions. I specialize in children, teens, and families. Call me today for a free consultation. There is help!
As a play therapist, trauma specialist, and parenting professional, I provide services to clients of all ages in a supportive and caring environment focused on helping clients reach their goals and overcome life obstacles.
Are you parenting a child with behavioral issues, coping with divorce or trauma, or trying to improve quality of life? Have you ever said, "My child is out of control,” "I am just so tired", "Everything is so hard" or "This isn't the family I dreamed of?" These types of statements often reflect the type of feelings my clients or their parents have. The early and teen years create special challenges for children/teens and their parents alike. I use a compassionate healing approach tailored to identify problems and solutions. I specialize in children, teens, and families. Call me today for a free consultation. There is help!
(281) 524-2483 View (281) 524-2483
Photo of Maribel Hernandez, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Maribel Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
I tailor my therapeutic approach depending on the client and like to incorporate either child-centered play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and/or creative techniques through games and arts.
Are you having a difficult time adjusting to changes in your life? Is your anxiety creating limitations for you? Or maybe you are a parent that is trying to help their child regulate their emotions. People sometimes go through events in life where they need additional support as they attempt to navigate them. A therapist may be the unbiased and nonjudgmental person you can talk to.
I tailor my therapeutic approach depending on the client and like to incorporate either child-centered play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and/or creative techniques through games and arts.
Are you having a difficult time adjusting to changes in your life? Is your anxiety creating limitations for you? Or maybe you are a parent that is trying to help their child regulate their emotions. People sometimes go through events in life where they need additional support as they attempt to navigate them. A therapist may be the unbiased and nonjudgmental person you can talk to.
(281) 916-8637 View (281) 916-8637
Photo of Zachary Mortus
Zachary Mortus
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
Have you felt overwhelmed by your child's anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues or big feelings? Do you feel like you have tried everything and can't find the solution? You don't have to continue to feel exhausted, frustrated, and discouraged. I specialize in working with children and families to identify the best way to solve problems and learn new coping skills. My training in play therapy and problem teen behaviors will help you have a family that is connected, peaceful, and thriving again. Together we will work to help your child gain new skills, express emotions, and connect again. You are not alone and I will help you get there!
Have you felt overwhelmed by your child's anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues or big feelings? Do you feel like you have tried everything and can't find the solution? You don't have to continue to feel exhausted, frustrated, and discouraged. I specialize in working with children and families to identify the best way to solve problems and learn new coping skills. My training in play therapy and problem teen behaviors will help you have a family that is connected, peaceful, and thriving again. Together we will work to help your child gain new skills, express emotions, and connect again. You are not alone and I will help you get there!
(830) 581-0819 View (830) 581-0819
Photo of Natasha Prosperi, LCSW, RPT, IPT-CST, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natasha Prosperi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT, IPT-CST, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
We use an integrative approach that involves attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology, EMDR, sandtray, parts work, Adlerian play therapy, and expressive arts.
We work with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma. Our focus is to help individuals heal and become aware of their inner strengths and resilience. We provide a safe space, listen to your concerns, and customize a treatment plan using several modalities that integrate the whole brain. You need to be connected to others to best heal from challenging situations. While working with parents and families, we focus on increasing attachment and connection so you can be the parent you want.
We use an integrative approach that involves attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology, EMDR, sandtray, parts work, Adlerian play therapy, and expressive arts.
We work with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma. Our focus is to help individuals heal and become aware of their inner strengths and resilience. We provide a safe space, listen to your concerns, and customize a treatment plan using several modalities that integrate the whole brain. You need to be connected to others to best heal from challenging situations. While working with parents and families, we focus on increasing attachment and connection so you can be the parent you want.
(713) 715-9073 View (713) 715-9073
Photo of Desiree St Pierre, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Desiree St Pierre
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Fulshear, TX 77441
There is hope – and I am so glad you are now taking the first step toward feeling better. In the golden years of my life, I know the struggles life can bring and am passionate about helping others work through and heal from life’s challenges. I care about how you feel and what life has handed you. I would love to help support you in creating a roadmap to the life you deserve - a happier, brighter, healthier, balanced, calm, and whole life.
There is hope – and I am so glad you are now taking the first step toward feeling better. In the golden years of my life, I know the struggles life can bring and am passionate about helping others work through and heal from life’s challenges. I care about how you feel and what life has handed you. I would love to help support you in creating a roadmap to the life you deserve - a happier, brighter, healthier, balanced, calm, and whole life.
(346) 746-7970 View (346) 746-7970
Photo of Miracle Obeta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miracle Obeta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
You're probably wondering how I can best meet your therapeutic needs. With so many options out there, I wouldn't blame you. The truth is that we'll both work together to identity what those needs are, starting exactly where you're comfortable, and working together to ignite clarity, bring about healing, and restore hope within you or your family, one therapeutic session at a time. With over seven years of experience working with patients in the medical field, children/families in child welfare and mental health institutions, you'll be attended to with the most up to date evidence based practice tools and methods.
You're probably wondering how I can best meet your therapeutic needs. With so many options out there, I wouldn't blame you. The truth is that we'll both work together to identity what those needs are, starting exactly where you're comfortable, and working together to ignite clarity, bring about healing, and restore hope within you or your family, one therapeutic session at a time. With over seven years of experience working with patients in the medical field, children/families in child welfare and mental health institutions, you'll be attended to with the most up to date evidence based practice tools and methods.
(405) 784-5248 View (405) 784-5248
Photo of Sinia Campos, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sinia Campos
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
As a dedicated life coach, I specialize in guiding individuals and families through transformative journeys. My focus spans adolescents, teens, and adults, offering personalized coaching sessions in both English and Spanish. My mission is centered on empowering individuals to instigate vital changes for enhanced mental and emotional well-being. I firmly believe that the essence of effective coaching lies in fostering a relationship built upon respect and unwavering positive regard. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding and embracing diverse backgrounds, ensuring a safe and inclusive space for every individual.
As a dedicated life coach, I specialize in guiding individuals and families through transformative journeys. My focus spans adolescents, teens, and adults, offering personalized coaching sessions in both English and Spanish. My mission is centered on empowering individuals to instigate vital changes for enhanced mental and emotional well-being. I firmly believe that the essence of effective coaching lies in fostering a relationship built upon respect and unwavering positive regard. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding and embracing diverse backgrounds, ensuring a safe and inclusive space for every individual.
(281) 688-6980 View (281) 688-6980
Photo of Jennifer J. Ponce de Leon, MA, LPC-A
Jennifer J. Ponce de Leon
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Fulshear, TX 77441
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here! Taking the first step of finding a therapist can be tough and overwhelming. I'm hoping to make your journey a little easier so i'd like to share a bit about the work I do. I enjoy working with individuals aged 6-40 on a variety of concerns. Some of those concerns include anxiety, depression, high functioning ASD, LGBTQIA+ issues, disordered eating, and OCD. If you’re looking for a compassionate therapist who is eager to help you find solutions, reach out and see how I can help!
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here! Taking the first step of finding a therapist can be tough and overwhelming. I'm hoping to make your journey a little easier so i'd like to share a bit about the work I do. I enjoy working with individuals aged 6-40 on a variety of concerns. Some of those concerns include anxiety, depression, high functioning ASD, LGBTQIA+ issues, disordered eating, and OCD. If you’re looking for a compassionate therapist who is eager to help you find solutions, reach out and see how I can help!
(346) 536-5236 View (346) 536-5236
Photo of Samantha Gaudie Ley Tavares, MEd
Samantha Gaudie Ley Tavares
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
Fulshear, TX 77441
My counseling journey began in Brazil in 2005 and expanded to the US in 2021. As a therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience, I aim to help clients feel immersed in a secure atmosphere. I offer counseling services to adolescents, adults, and families in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. In addition to providing services for Anxiety, Grief, and Chronic Pain, I am an Early Childhood Development specialist and have a background in counseling high schoolers and families. I am certified in hypnosis by IFEN (Brazil), and my approach is rooted in Solution-Focused techniques and person-centered therapy.
My counseling journey began in Brazil in 2005 and expanded to the US in 2021. As a therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience, I aim to help clients feel immersed in a secure atmosphere. I offer counseling services to adolescents, adults, and families in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. In addition to providing services for Anxiety, Grief, and Chronic Pain, I am an Early Childhood Development specialist and have a background in counseling high schoolers and families. I am certified in hypnosis by IFEN (Brazil), and my approach is rooted in Solution-Focused techniques and person-centered therapy.
(281) 626-1858 View (281) 626-1858
Photo of Kelly E Peyton - Katy Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
Katy Counseling provides services to the entire family whether you need marriage counseling, grief or trauma counseling or have a child with behavioral problems, depression or anxiety. You have been struggling and want help that is easy, fast, and effective. That is the mission of the counselors here at Katy Counseling. We specialize in helping struggling individuals and families get better faster! Together we will put you in the driver’s seat by developing a custom counseling plan to address your unique therapy goals, desired speed of treatment, and need for privacy.
Katy Counseling provides services to the entire family whether you need marriage counseling, grief or trauma counseling or have a child with behavioral problems, depression or anxiety. You have been struggling and want help that is easy, fast, and effective. That is the mission of the counselors here at Katy Counseling. We specialize in helping struggling individuals and families get better faster! Together we will put you in the driver’s seat by developing a custom counseling plan to address your unique therapy goals, desired speed of treatment, and need for privacy.
(281) 957-3653 View (281) 957-3653

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michele Wright, MA, LPC, LMHC, ASDCS, Counselor
Michele Wright
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
In addition to traditional “talk therapy” I enjoy using art and play as powerful tools for expression and exploration.
As a mental health therapist with a focus on children and adolescents, my specialty lies in providing targeted support for individuals who are neurodiverse, including those who are autistic and have ADHD. I bring a neurodiverse affirming, strengths-based, individualized approach to my practice, tailoring evidence-based interventions to address each client's unique challenges and strengths. I am committed to creating a safe and understanding therapeutic space, fostering collaboration with both the neurodiverse individual and their family to promote holistic well-being and personal growth.
In addition to traditional “talk therapy” I enjoy using art and play as powerful tools for expression and exploration.
As a mental health therapist with a focus on children and adolescents, my specialty lies in providing targeted support for individuals who are neurodiverse, including those who are autistic and have ADHD. I bring a neurodiverse affirming, strengths-based, individualized approach to my practice, tailoring evidence-based interventions to address each client's unique challenges and strengths. I am committed to creating a safe and understanding therapeutic space, fostering collaboration with both the neurodiverse individual and their family to promote holistic well-being and personal growth.
(509) 213-0918 View (509) 213-0918
Photo of Frances Dee Cook, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Frances Dee Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
Play therapy allows children to work through frustrations or fears in a nonthreatening setting.
I feel most people have the ability to change their behavior and how they feel about their concerns. The methods I use in counseling are ones that focus on clients using their natural skills to change their feelings and behaviors and learn new ways that maintain change.
Play therapy allows children to work through frustrations or fears in a nonthreatening setting.
I feel most people have the ability to change their behavior and how they feel about their concerns. The methods I use in counseling are ones that focus on clients using their natural skills to change their feelings and behaviors and learn new ways that maintain change.
(281) 836-4994 View (281) 836-4994
Photo of Lorena Torres, MA, LPC-S, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lorena Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
My role as a registered play therapist is to empathetically help your child to understand their own emotions and provide them with the tools to better navigate their world through play and expressive arts.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist with over 12 years of treating children, teens, adults and families. I have experience working with clients coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, defiant behaviors, adjustment, school issues, and family conflict. I work with children and families to identify goals for personal success and work collaboratively to assist them in reaching those goals. I want therapy to be a positive experience for children, teens, and adults.
My role as a registered play therapist is to empathetically help your child to understand their own emotions and provide them with the tools to better navigate their world through play and expressive arts.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist with over 12 years of treating children, teens, adults and families. I have experience working with clients coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, defiant behaviors, adjustment, school issues, and family conflict. I work with children and families to identify goals for personal success and work collaboratively to assist them in reaching those goals. I want therapy to be a positive experience for children, teens, and adults.
(832) 639-1822 View (832) 639-1822
The Center for PEACE, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, LSOTP, LCDCI, LBSWIPR
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
We have specialization in play therapy; sand tray/play; anxiety, depression, grief counseling; sexual identify issues, chemical dependency and LSOTP.
Searching for PEACE?... We Have It. Imagine having the guidance to access Inner Peace, support for resolve and courage to embrace change. The Center for PEACE, PLLC will assist those desiring psychotherapy processing trauma, anxiety, depression, marital discord, addiction, play therapy and gender identify support. Our approach is to aid you through the journey of healing, mindfulness, insight and more importantly, peace. Let's us know when you are ready. We are here for you.
We have specialization in play therapy; sand tray/play; anxiety, depression, grief counseling; sexual identify issues, chemical dependency and LSOTP.
Searching for PEACE?... We Have It. Imagine having the guidance to access Inner Peace, support for resolve and courage to embrace change. The Center for PEACE, PLLC will assist those desiring psychotherapy processing trauma, anxiety, depression, marital discord, addiction, play therapy and gender identify support. Our approach is to aid you through the journey of healing, mindfulness, insight and more importantly, peace. Let's us know when you are ready. We are here for you.
(281) 816-4219 View (281) 816-4219
Photo of Roxy Riefkohl - Renewing Hope Counseling, PhD, NCC, LPC-S, RPT, NP
Renewing Hope Counseling
PhD, NCC, LPC-S, RPT, NP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77493
RHC also has a play therapy program to serve ages 1-10.
Individuals were not designed to go through the challenges of life alone. Renewing Hope and Children's Hope Counseling is dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges and find paths to new places of HOPE and PEACE. RHC offers individual therapy for children and adults as well as couples counseling, assessments, and medication management.
RHC also has a play therapy program to serve ages 1-10.
Individuals were not designed to go through the challenges of life alone. Renewing Hope and Children's Hope Counseling is dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges and find paths to new places of HOPE and PEACE. RHC offers individual therapy for children and adults as well as couples counseling, assessments, and medication management.
(713) 352-7979 View (713) 352-7979
Photo of Karen L Everson, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen L Everson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a play therapist, and an LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapist as well. I have a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling, from Amberton University, and also attended Abilene Christian University and New York University. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I'm a Person-Centered Counselor who sees clients of all ages, starting as early as 3 years old.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a play therapist, and an LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapist as well. I have a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling, from Amberton University, and also attended Abilene Christian University and New York University. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I'm a Person-Centered Counselor who sees clients of all ages, starting as early as 3 years old.
(832) 324-3731 View (832) 324-3731
Photo of Ashley Malone, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Malone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77493
I have basic and advanced training in Child-Centered play therapy and also utilize sand tray and art.
I provide an environment where you will be met with empathy and non-judgment. I want you to experience counseling as a place where you feel heard and understood. It takes risk and bravery to share your deepest struggles with another person; however, what can be experienced through this process is new insight, new ways of coping or change that can bring healing and hope for the future.
I have basic and advanced training in Child-Centered play therapy and also utilize sand tray and art.
I provide an environment where you will be met with empathy and non-judgment. I want you to experience counseling as a place where you feel heard and understood. It takes risk and bravery to share your deepest struggles with another person; however, what can be experienced through this process is new insight, new ways of coping or change that can bring healing and hope for the future.
(832) 669-6984 View (832) 669-6984
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.