Photo of Rama Yousef, MEd, LPCA
Rama Yousef
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
I offer play therapy for children and for teens and adults I offer talk therapy and incorporate expressive interventions using art and writing.
We struggle to know where we fit in - at work, at home, in our social circles. Sometimes you wonder if you're really being understood or feel like an outsider in a group of people. Most of us barely make it out alive and are left buried in anxiety about being good enough, our children being bad kids, our friends and family not understanding us, and exasperation as we try to keep the whole family together while navigating the world of judgment.
I offer play therapy for children and for teens and adults I offer talk therapy and incorporate expressive interventions using art and writing.
We struggle to know where we fit in - at work, at home, in our social circles. Sometimes you wonder if you're really being understood or feel like an outsider in a group of people. Most of us barely make it out alive and are left buried in anxiety about being good enough, our children being bad kids, our friends and family not understanding us, and exasperation as we try to keep the whole family together while navigating the world of judgment.
(346) 361-7300 View (346) 361-7300
Photo of Wendy Williams - Wendy Williams, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy Williams, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
I also help children ages 5 and up through play therapy.
AFTERNOON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Are you or your family struggling emotionally with life's challenges, you have tried everything to fix the problem with no avail, and you don't know where else to turn? I can help. Through focusing on your strengths, helping you create healthy habits, and teaching you healthy coping skills, I can help you and/or your family cope with and overcome family issues/couples issues, mental illness, work through struggles you may face during each stage of life, and work through traumatic life experiences so you can live a life free of emotional pain.
I also help children ages 5 and up through play therapy.
AFTERNOON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Are you or your family struggling emotionally with life's challenges, you have tried everything to fix the problem with no avail, and you don't know where else to turn? I can help. Through focusing on your strengths, helping you create healthy habits, and teaching you healthy coping skills, I can help you and/or your family cope with and overcome family issues/couples issues, mental illness, work through struggles you may face during each stage of life, and work through traumatic life experiences so you can live a life free of emotional pain.
(832) 734-9102 View (832) 734-9102
Photo of Brooke Gomes, MA, LPC A
Brooke Gomes
LPC-Associate, MA, LPC A
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
I'm a LPC Associate who uses a strengths-based model like solution-focused therapy and CBT. I'm also in pursuit of my Registered Play Therapy credential. I work well with all ages and treat symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, anger management, trauma, etc. I help my clients to find their strengths and move towards their wellness goals!
I'm a LPC Associate who uses a strengths-based model like solution-focused therapy and CBT. I'm also in pursuit of my Registered Play Therapy credential. I work well with all ages and treat symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, anger management, trauma, etc. I help my clients to find their strengths and move towards their wellness goals!
(281) 609-7627 View (281) 609-7627
Photo of Simrah Wasim, LPC-A, MS, NCC
Simrah Wasim
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy techniques.
Beginning the journey of therapy or picking up where you left off is a courageous step towards understanding and bettering oneself. Counseling is a collaborative process where we will work together to achieve goals and create the best versions of ourselves. I enjoy working with people of all ages but especially children. It is my passion to not only advocate for counseling but to ensure that the best resources are given and altered specifically to them. I understand that every person has their own story, background, and life path. I like to use people’s differences and embrace who they are with positive therapeutic methods.
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy techniques.
Beginning the journey of therapy or picking up where you left off is a courageous step towards understanding and bettering oneself. Counseling is a collaborative process where we will work together to achieve goals and create the best versions of ourselves. I enjoy working with people of all ages but especially children. It is my passion to not only advocate for counseling but to ensure that the best resources are given and altered specifically to them. I understand that every person has their own story, background, and life path. I like to use people’s differences and embrace who they are with positive therapeutic methods.
(346) 514-4047 View (346) 514-4047
Photo of Zachary Mortus
Zachary Mortus
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
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 Mary L Engle, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary L Engle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77493
I am a Christian Counselor that works with ages 3 to adults. I am EMDR trained. My areas of specialization are: trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, school problems, relationship problems, family of origin issues, and divorce. I have training in play therapy that I utilize when working with children.
I am a Christian Counselor that works with ages 3 to adults. I am EMDR trained. My areas of specialization are: trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, school problems, relationship problems, family of origin issues, and divorce. I have training in play therapy that I utilize when working with children.
(281) 819-5734 View (281) 819-5734
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
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 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 Dr. Mary Lyles, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Mary Lyles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
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 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
Katy, TX 77494
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 Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Fowler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CATP
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
When working with school-aged kids, I utilize play therapy techniques, and psychoeducation to teach skills and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who enjoys working with children (ages 5-17), young adults, and adults. For my education, I attended Texas A&M University in College Station for my undergraduate degree and the University of Houston – Clear Lake for my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Lastly, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional for Children and Adolescents (CCATP-CA) and a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional(CATP).
When working with school-aged kids, I utilize play therapy techniques, and psychoeducation to teach skills and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who enjoys working with children (ages 5-17), young adults, and adults. For my education, I attended Texas A&M University in College Station for my undergraduate degree and the University of Houston – Clear Lake for my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Lastly, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional for Children and Adolescents (CCATP-CA) and a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional(CATP).
(346) 676-1179 View (346) 676-1179
Photo of Dianne W Appolito - Stone Creek Psychotherapy & Wellness Center, LCSW
Stone Creek Psychotherapy & Wellness Center
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
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 Amy Oxener, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT™, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Oxener
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT™
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
You're parenting a child with behavior problems and you feel helpless. You have a wildly energetic child who doesn't "turn off", you're getting phone calls from daycare/preschool/school that your child is hitting, biting, being aggressive, or your child has anxiety and having a hard time separating from you. Anxiety, ADHD, and trauma can have lasting impacts on your child and I want to partner with you and your child to explore their feelings, needs, experiences, and thoughts through play therapy by identifying what's underneath their behavior, providing education, and learning applicable tools.
You're parenting a child with behavior problems and you feel helpless. You have a wildly energetic child who doesn't "turn off", you're getting phone calls from daycare/preschool/school that your child is hitting, biting, being aggressive, or your child has anxiety and having a hard time separating from you. Anxiety, ADHD, and trauma can have lasting impacts on your child and I want to partner with you and your child to explore their feelings, needs, experiences, and thoughts through play therapy by identifying what's underneath their behavior, providing education, and learning applicable tools.
(281) 214-6125 View (281) 214-6125
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 Holly Hungate, MS, LPC-A
Holly Hungate
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77493
I am an LPC-Associate working towards my Registered Play Therapist credential.
Are you struggling to know how to help your child with big emotions? Are you worried about your relationship with your child due to behavioral issues getting in the way? Do they have big fears you aren’t sure how to manage? I’d love to help.
I am an LPC-Associate working towards my Registered Play Therapist credential.
Are you struggling to know how to help your child with big emotions? Are you worried about your relationship with your child due to behavioral issues getting in the way? Do they have big fears you aren’t sure how to manage? I’d love to help.
(281) 864-0170 View (281) 864-0170
Photo of Bethany Garay, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Garay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
I am trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy, Child Parent Relationship Therapy, EMDR, and TF-CBT.
Going through life transitions at various ages is hard. Being a parent is difficult in trying keep up with the demands of life while meeting the needs of your child’s mental health. Your child may need help in learning to identify, express, and cope with their emotions. As an adult, you may struggle to navigate life as you go through new changes. I would love an opportunity to come alongside no matter what stage of life you are in and equip you will tools to meet your needs you or your child's mental health journey.
I am trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy, Child Parent Relationship Therapy, EMDR, and TF-CBT.
Going through life transitions at various ages is hard. Being a parent is difficult in trying keep up with the demands of life while meeting the needs of your child’s mental health. Your child may need help in learning to identify, express, and cope with their emotions. As an adult, you may struggle to navigate life as you go through new changes. I would love an opportunity to come alongside no matter what stage of life you are in and equip you will tools to meet your needs you or your child's mental health journey.
(281) 667-4597 View (281) 667-4597
Photo of Jodi Arden Berger Cardoso, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodi Arden Berger Cardoso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77450
I have training in trauma treatments, like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems therapy, and play therapy.
The healing journey is a humbling process. Have you ever felt frustrated that you cannot outsmart your trauma history by thinking your way out of it? Do you avoid the painful memories, thinking it will help, but realize it finds its way back into your life even though you thought you managed to quarantine it. I know how that feels and I know how hard it is to rewire the neurobiology of your brain to allow for new and less painful experiences. You are not alone. I am inspired by the courage it takes to engage in therapy. I approach this work from an anti-oppressive framework and believe that clients know what they need to heal.
I have training in trauma treatments, like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems therapy, and play therapy.
The healing journey is a humbling process. Have you ever felt frustrated that you cannot outsmart your trauma history by thinking your way out of it? Do you avoid the painful memories, thinking it will help, but realize it finds its way back into your life even though you thought you managed to quarantine it. I know how that feels and I know how hard it is to rewire the neurobiology of your brain to allow for new and less painful experiences. You are not alone. I am inspired by the courage it takes to engage in therapy. I approach this work from an anti-oppressive framework and believe that clients know what they need to heal.
(832) 345-6915 View (832) 345-6915
Photo of Stephanie A Legendre, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie A Legendre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
She utilizes a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to each individual's unique needs, and personality including psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, and meditation.
Stephanie is a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a focus on emotional regulation, child personality development, and healing inner child wounds and trauma in adults and teens. With over 17 years of experience in the field, Stephanie’s primary areas of expertise lies in nervous system regulation, helping children and adults alike develop essential skills to soothe their nervous system, manage reactive behaviors, build emotional fitness, and heal wounds. Through personalized treatment plans, she empowers her clients to identify triggers, regulate emotional responses, and increase resiliency.
She utilizes a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to each individual's unique needs, and personality including psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, and meditation.
Stephanie is a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a focus on emotional regulation, child personality development, and healing inner child wounds and trauma in adults and teens. With over 17 years of experience in the field, Stephanie’s primary areas of expertise lies in nervous system regulation, helping children and adults alike develop essential skills to soothe their nervous system, manage reactive behaviors, build emotional fitness, and heal wounds. Through personalized treatment plans, she empowers her clients to identify triggers, regulate emotional responses, and increase resiliency.
(281) 940-8515 View (281) 940-8515
Photo of Kelsee Melton, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsee Melton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77493
I am also trained in Group counseling, TBRI- Trust Based Relational Intervention, and Play Therapy.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, life's challenges can leave your child, your family, or yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, and/or uncertain. We all experience times when extra support is needed. Finding the right counselor is an important step on the journey to emotional wellness and personal growth. I believe my role is to help your family find strength and solutions by creating a safe, accepting environment where we work together to explore problems, identify skills, and gain new insight. Together, we work to restore balance in your family's lives and gain personal acceptance.
I am also trained in Group counseling, TBRI- Trust Based Relational Intervention, and Play Therapy.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, life's challenges can leave your child, your family, or yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, and/or uncertain. We all experience times when extra support is needed. Finding the right counselor is an important step on the journey to emotional wellness and personal growth. I believe my role is to help your family find strength and solutions by creating a safe, accepting environment where we work together to explore problems, identify skills, and gain new insight. Together, we work to restore balance in your family's lives and gain personal acceptance.
(832) 965-0398 View (832) 965-0398
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.