Photo of Michelle Byrd, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77379
I use play therapy techniques along with teaching parenting skills.
Whether it's children with big feelings or behaviors they can’t control or teens struggling with sadness, anxiety, or stress, I'm here to help with teaching ways to identify and cope with these emotions. Are you a caregiver of a teen or preteen and feel disconnected and need a way to understand each other? Are you divorced or going through a divorce? My goal is to provide a compassionate and understanding space where we can work together to address concerns, build resilience, and foster positive growth.
I use play therapy techniques along with teaching parenting skills.
Whether it's children with big feelings or behaviors they can’t control or teens struggling with sadness, anxiety, or stress, I'm here to help with teaching ways to identify and cope with these emotions. Are you a caregiver of a teen or preteen and feel disconnected and need a way to understand each other? Are you divorced or going through a divorce? My goal is to provide a compassionate and understanding space where we can work together to address concerns, build resilience, and foster positive growth.
(281) 519-3176 View (281) 519-3176
Photo of Gail Wilson Kakishita, MS, LMFT, CTMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gail Wilson Kakishita
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CTMH
Verified Verified
Klein, TX 77389
You look around and think to yourself, what happened? Each day you feel pulled further and further away from the life you thought was yours. Your morning thoughts go something like this: please let my child have a good day at school; who is this person sitting across the table from me and what happened to the one I said "I do" to? how am I ever going to get through this day? It is so tough to maintain strength, hope, and individuality when your family is in distress, your marriage feels like a failure, your teen is unrecognizable, or you're just completely out of energy. I get it! I'm here! Together we can figure this out.
You look around and think to yourself, what happened? Each day you feel pulled further and further away from the life you thought was yours. Your morning thoughts go something like this: please let my child have a good day at school; who is this person sitting across the table from me and what happened to the one I said "I do" to? how am I ever going to get through this day? It is so tough to maintain strength, hope, and individuality when your family is in distress, your marriage feels like a failure, your teen is unrecognizable, or you're just completely out of energy. I get it! I'm here! Together we can figure this out.
(281) 990-6220 View (281) 990-6220
Photo of Sarah Kaye Rodriguez - District Counseling at Spring-Tomball, Licensed Professional Counselor
District Counseling at Spring-Tomball
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77379
Find Healing and Empowerment with Trusted Counselors in Spring-Tomball. Begin your healing journey now. Our counselors are ready to assist you with a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma within a safe, non-judgmental environment. Take the first step towards a better you. Our counselors in Spring-Tomball are committed to helping individuals of all ages find healing, joy and transformation. We provide a safe and judgment free space for exploring your inner world experiences, developing psychological skills to manage difficult emotions, and ultimately finding peace.
Find Healing and Empowerment with Trusted Counselors in Spring-Tomball. Begin your healing journey now. Our counselors are ready to assist you with a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma within a safe, non-judgmental environment. Take the first step towards a better you. Our counselors in Spring-Tomball are committed to helping individuals of all ages find healing, joy and transformation. We provide a safe and judgment free space for exploring your inner world experiences, developing psychological skills to manage difficult emotions, and ultimately finding peace.
(346) 200-6260 View (346) 200-6260
Photo of Erica Cleveland - Mindful Transformations Counseling Center, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Transformations Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Klein, TX 77389
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE to meet your needs! THERE IS AN OPEN SPOT FOR YOU! I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of counseling roles for the last 18 years. This experience has allowed me to effectively work with a wide range of individuals, groups, children, adolescents, teens, seniors, couples and families in anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, addictions, self-esteem, anger management, marriage conflicts, obsessive-compulsive disorders, phobias and post-traumatic stress disorders. My essential goal for each client is to establish empowerment, nurture successful growth and find positive direction.
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE to meet your needs! THERE IS AN OPEN SPOT FOR YOU! I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of counseling roles for the last 18 years. This experience has allowed me to effectively work with a wide range of individuals, groups, children, adolescents, teens, seniors, couples and families in anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, addictions, self-esteem, anger management, marriage conflicts, obsessive-compulsive disorders, phobias and post-traumatic stress disorders. My essential goal for each client is to establish empowerment, nurture successful growth and find positive direction.
(281) 746-6581 View (281) 746-6581
Photo of Rebecca Jacklin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Jacklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77379
You are here for a reason. Maybe you need help with your loved ones. Maybe you don't know where to start but you want to get back to where you used to be, or at least, who you really are. I believe in your infinite worth. I believe you're capable of finding joy, even though you may not see it now. Are you ready to make a change? I'm ready to help you to find the progress you seek. It's not just talk, therapy is learning the skills to live your best life. You're here for a reason, and so am I. Let's find your path, together.
You are here for a reason. Maybe you need help with your loved ones. Maybe you don't know where to start but you want to get back to where you used to be, or at least, who you really are. I believe in your infinite worth. I believe you're capable of finding joy, even though you may not see it now. Are you ready to make a change? I'm ready to help you to find the progress you seek. It's not just talk, therapy is learning the skills to live your best life. You're here for a reason, and so am I. Let's find your path, together.
(281) 247-6283 View (281) 247-6283
Photo of Michael C Lucas, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Michael C Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77379
I am the ideal therapist for someone who doesn’t think they need therapy. Perhaps wonders if it will even work.. Skeptical Men. Exhausted Women. Socially Challenged Teens. Or even that family or couple that looks incredible from the outside… but inside it’s a completely different story. You may not realize, but studies have shown that the connection and shared energy between therapist and client is the best indicator of likelihood of therapeutic success. If you get a sense that we may be a good fit for each other, lets get you on a path of healing. Let's skip ahead to the part where life starts to get better.
I am the ideal therapist for someone who doesn’t think they need therapy. Perhaps wonders if it will even work.. Skeptical Men. Exhausted Women. Socially Challenged Teens. Or even that family or couple that looks incredible from the outside… but inside it’s a completely different story. You may not realize, but studies have shown that the connection and shared energy between therapist and client is the best indicator of likelihood of therapeutic success. If you get a sense that we may be a good fit for each other, lets get you on a path of healing. Let's skip ahead to the part where life starts to get better.
(832) 664-7840 View (832) 664-7840
Photo of Erin E Cominotti, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin E Cominotti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77379
Not accepting new clients
As a Play Therapist I am passionate about helping your child learn how to cope with their overwhelming feelings, cope with their stress, or heal from the trauma they have experienced.
You just want to go one whole day without an issue from your child. One day without a meltdown. One day without an angry outburst of throwing toys and hitting people. One day where no one ends up crying. When you dreamed of having kids one day, you had visions of happy days at the park, and fun evenings over the dinner table, movie nights on the couch, laughter and joy. But lately all it has been calls from the school, behavior outbursts, screaming, yelling, exhaustion, and overwhelming despair. As a parent you are at your wits end. You don’t understand what is going on with your child, it feels like you have tried everything.
As a Play Therapist I am passionate about helping your child learn how to cope with their overwhelming feelings, cope with their stress, or heal from the trauma they have experienced.
You just want to go one whole day without an issue from your child. One day without a meltdown. One day without an angry outburst of throwing toys and hitting people. One day where no one ends up crying. When you dreamed of having kids one day, you had visions of happy days at the park, and fun evenings over the dinner table, movie nights on the couch, laughter and joy. But lately all it has been calls from the school, behavior outbursts, screaming, yelling, exhaustion, and overwhelming despair. As a parent you are at your wits end. You don’t understand what is going on with your child, it feels like you have tried everything.
(281) 524-2598 View (281) 524-2598

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dorie M Hoffart, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dorie M Hoffart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77389
I offer a wide array of theoretical orientations including Adlerian therapy, relational therapy, Play therapy, CBT, DBT, family therapy, couples therapy and others.
"Listen, are you breathing just a little, and calling it life?" - Mary Oliver. There is more. As your therapist, my hope is that the journey we embark on together through your individual story, will offer you a solid foundation for growth, healing, and positive change. I bring an authentic, humorous, empathetic warmth while also challenging you to show up fully and bring your most present self. Through the therapeutic relationship and with you, the expert of your own life, we will access your strengths to navigate each moment.
I offer a wide array of theoretical orientations including Adlerian therapy, relational therapy, Play therapy, CBT, DBT, family therapy, couples therapy and others.
"Listen, are you breathing just a little, and calling it life?" - Mary Oliver. There is more. As your therapist, my hope is that the journey we embark on together through your individual story, will offer you a solid foundation for growth, healing, and positive change. I bring an authentic, humorous, empathetic warmth while also challenging you to show up fully and bring your most present self. Through the therapeutic relationship and with you, the expert of your own life, we will access your strengths to navigate each moment.
(281) 475-4620 View (281) 475-4620
Photo of Bethany Sznajder, MA, NCC, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Sznajder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77389
I am trained in a variety of approaches including EMDR, TF-CBT, somatic therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy.
I specialize in working with individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and attachment/relationship issues. I am a neurodivergent affirming AuDHD therapist and love to help other neurodivergent people learn how to better support themselves. Research and experience has shown that trauma is stored in your body and affects your mind, body, memory, mood, spirit, and relationships with yourself and with others. There is a way to befriend your nervous system, effectively heal your past wounds, cope with your current triggers, and discover your own personal post-traumatic growth and resiliency for the future.
I am trained in a variety of approaches including EMDR, TF-CBT, somatic therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy.
I specialize in working with individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and attachment/relationship issues. I am a neurodivergent affirming AuDHD therapist and love to help other neurodivergent people learn how to better support themselves. Research and experience has shown that trauma is stored in your body and affects your mind, body, memory, mood, spirit, and relationships with yourself and with others. There is a way to befriend your nervous system, effectively heal your past wounds, cope with your current triggers, and discover your own personal post-traumatic growth and resiliency for the future.
(281) 984-6765 View (281) 984-6765
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
Spring, TX 77379
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 Juliana Chesser, MS, NCC
Juliana Chesser
LPC Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
I am trained in child-centered play therapy, & collaborate closely with guardians to create the most supportive environment for the child.
Supervised by David Huffman, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S. You are looking for support, reflection, and joy - wanting to release your pain, trauma, or loss. Well then, let's collaborate! The heartbeat that sets our therapeutic journey apart is a relationship that's meaningful, healthy, and authentically deep. Together, uncover the layers of your existence, armed with skills and insight. Picture yourself gaining self-awareness that transcends both our sessions and the world outside, nurturing a confidence and responsibility to your truest self. Integrate your life experiences to shed the weight you have carried far too long.
I am trained in child-centered play therapy, & collaborate closely with guardians to create the most supportive environment for the child.
Supervised by David Huffman, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S. You are looking for support, reflection, and joy - wanting to release your pain, trauma, or loss. Well then, let's collaborate! The heartbeat that sets our therapeutic journey apart is a relationship that's meaningful, healthy, and authentically deep. Together, uncover the layers of your existence, armed with skills and insight. Picture yourself gaining self-awareness that transcends both our sessions and the world outside, nurturing a confidence and responsibility to your truest self. Integrate your life experiences to shed the weight you have carried far too long.
(346) 770-3007 View (346) 770-3007
Photo of Rhonda Septelka, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Septelka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77389
Waitlist for new clients
Therapists trained in Play Therapy interprets what the child is trying to communicate and helps the child to learn more about themselves and problem-solving skills.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and currently pursuing a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential. I hold a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health with a specialization in Play Therapy from Sam Houston State University. I specialize in trauma treatment with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing a variety of techniques and theoretical orientations, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), child centered play therapy (CCPT), sand tray therapy, and a variety of evidenced based approaches.
Therapists trained in Play Therapy interprets what the child is trying to communicate and helps the child to learn more about themselves and problem-solving skills.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and currently pursuing a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential. I hold a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health with a specialization in Play Therapy from Sam Houston State University. I specialize in trauma treatment with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing a variety of techniques and theoretical orientations, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), child centered play therapy (CCPT), sand tray therapy, and a variety of evidenced based approaches.
(281) 612-5522 View (281) 612-5522
Photo of Susan Bullock Zohn, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Bullock Zohn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379  (Online Only)
I am a native Texan who has lived and worked in the Houston area most of my career. I have a background in mental health providing services to individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief any issues which cause distress.
I am a native Texan who has lived and worked in the Houston area most of my career. I have a background in mental health providing services to individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief any issues which cause distress.
(281) 377-0756 View (281) 377-0756
Photo of Mary R Jenkins, MA, LPC, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary R Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77389  (Online Only)
My ideal client is a child or adolescent struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and identity issues. I have worked in public education for 27 years, PreK-12, so I have a good working knowledge of this type of client. I have also counseled parents and teachers, so adults are welcome too!
My ideal client is a child or adolescent struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and identity issues. I have worked in public education for 27 years, PreK-12, so I have a good working knowledge of this type of client. I have also counseled parents and teachers, so adults are welcome too!
View
Photo of Lauren Pasqua, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Pasqua
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
Are you worried about your child? Struggling with meltdowns, crying, yelling, or even aggressive outbursts? As a parent it breaks your heart to see your child so overwhelmed by their feelings. You know they feel things very deeply, but the dramatic highs and lows are exhausting. You wish they could calm themselves down and cope with big feelings well. Seeing your child so upset makes you feel like a failure as a parent. You worry their behavior keeps them from making friends. You long for peace and harmony in your home. Every book or person has a different idea of how to help. You feel lost and confused on what to do next.
Are you worried about your child? Struggling with meltdowns, crying, yelling, or even aggressive outbursts? As a parent it breaks your heart to see your child so overwhelmed by their feelings. You know they feel things very deeply, but the dramatic highs and lows are exhausting. You wish they could calm themselves down and cope with big feelings well. Seeing your child so upset makes you feel like a failure as a parent. You worry their behavior keeps them from making friends. You long for peace and harmony in your home. Every book or person has a different idea of how to help. You feel lost and confused on what to do next.
(281) 783-3612 View (281) 783-3612
Photo of Neera Darvish - Dr. Neera, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Neera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You are not alone. Many things are possible even if they look impossible. Health, financial success, marriage and family restoration, parental success, career success and achieving your purpose can happen. I will walk beside you to overcome your fears and open up a joyful life pursuing your purpose.
You are not alone. Many things are possible even if they look impossible. Health, financial success, marriage and family restoration, parental success, career success and achieving your purpose can happen. I will walk beside you to overcome your fears and open up a joyful life pursuing your purpose.
(281) 602-8323 View (281) 602-8323
Photo of Elizabeth McCullough
Elizabeth McCullough
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life changes and struggling with feelings of hopelessness or isolation? I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges such as family transitions (divorce, separation, or the arrival of a new child), career changes ( job loss, promotions, or career shifts), life stage transitions (graduating from college, starting a family, or retirement), and school pressures (academic stress, social challenges, or bullying).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life changes and struggling with feelings of hopelessness or isolation? I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges such as family transitions (divorce, separation, or the arrival of a new child), career changes ( job loss, promotions, or career shifts), life stage transitions (graduating from college, starting a family, or retirement), and school pressures (academic stress, social challenges, or bullying).
(866) 748-4903 View (866) 748-4903
Photo of Kietha Adams - Heart of Mind Therapy, MS, LMFT, ABS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heart of Mind Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ABS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
Are you ready to end the toxic communication in your relationship? Are you ready to heal from the past hurts that have kept your relationship at a standstill? Not feeling heard or understood by your partner? Are you feeling stuck due to the constant back and forth about what was said, how it was said, and/or how your feelings are valid? We are ready to help your relationship get unstuck and start communicating your feelings effectively.
Are you ready to end the toxic communication in your relationship? Are you ready to heal from the past hurts that have kept your relationship at a standstill? Not feeling heard or understood by your partner? Are you feeling stuck due to the constant back and forth about what was said, how it was said, and/or how your feelings are valid? We are ready to help your relationship get unstuck and start communicating your feelings effectively.
(832) 612-3679 View (832) 612-3679
Photo of Paige Schultz, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, Psychologist
Paige Schultz
Psychologist, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379
For over 12 years, I have provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties. Currently in private practice, I specialize in depression, anxiety, self-harming, physical and sexual abuse/trauma, divorce-related problems, parenting issues, and behavior problems. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
For over 12 years, I have provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties. Currently in private practice, I specialize in depression, anxiety, self-harming, physical and sexual abuse/trauma, divorce-related problems, parenting issues, and behavior problems. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(281) 971-9066 View (281) 971-9066
Photo of Joslyn D. Curley, MA, LPC-S, C-CTRP, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joslyn D. Curley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, C-CTRP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379
Hello! My name is Joslyn Curley, LPC-S. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Texas. I have extensive history involved in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, emotional disturbance, depression, anxiety and/or overwhelming life challenges. I am with Dione Counseling & Associates, PLLC who are ready to assist you and meet your therapy needs!
Hello! My name is Joslyn Curley, LPC-S. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Texas. I have extensive history involved in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, emotional disturbance, depression, anxiety and/or overwhelming life challenges. I am with Dione Counseling & Associates, PLLC who are ready to assist you and meet your therapy needs!
(832) 307-3336 View (832) 307-3336

See more therapy options for Klein

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.