Play Therapy in Liberty Hill, TX
![Photo of Ryann Hierholzer, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0085e5c-bfe8-4594-92ce-11b4a1fafca8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I often incorporate play, movement, and mindfulness into my sessions in order to help address presenting problems related to anxiety, perfectionism, confidence, grief, trauma, and/or behavioral issues.
Welcome! My name is Ryann, and I’m a clinical intern supervised by Traci Marant, LPC-S, RPT. With the recognition that past experiences and current pressures shape our self-beliefs and worldview, I help clients identify their unique gifts and live in alignment with their values and goals. I work with children, teens, emerging adults, and adults.
I often incorporate play, movement, and mindfulness into my sessions in order to help address presenting problems related to anxiety, perfectionism, confidence, grief, trauma, and/or behavioral issues.
Welcome! My name is Ryann, and I’m a clinical intern supervised by Traci Marant, LPC-S, RPT. With the recognition that past experiences and current pressures shape our self-beliefs and worldview, I help clients identify their unique gifts and live in alignment with their values and goals. I work with children, teens, emerging adults, and adults.
![Photo of Taylor Kerns, MA, LPC-A, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f6d465c-2413-4b60-b75a-fbce0bc6368a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Kerns
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
Modalities I utilize include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Narrative therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Emily Slaughter who works with children of all ages, adolescents, teenagers, and adults. I have experience with a wide variety of clients in both an inpatient and outpatient setting. I am here to help and support you as you navigate life and grow into your most authentic, capable self. I have a passion for helping others and I'm proud to be in a career where I can do so daily.
Modalities I utilize include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Narrative therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Emily Slaughter who works with children of all ages, adolescents, teenagers, and adults. I have experience with a wide variety of clients in both an inpatient and outpatient setting. I am here to help and support you as you navigate life and grow into your most authentic, capable self. I have a passion for helping others and I'm proud to be in a career where I can do so daily.
![Photo of Jenna Fleming - CTX Child & Family Counseling-Georgetown/Liberty H, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12a44cd7-ae47-43de-a0b7-258d196ecd56/1/320x400.jpeg)
CTX Child & Family Counseling-Georgetown/Liberty H
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
We have 20+ providers with specialty training including Child-Centered Play Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TBRI, Gottman Couples Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Behavioral training, DBT, DEEP training and Prepare and Enrich.
Life is stressful. Finding a great counselor shouldn't be. We care about you and make getting help easy. We find you the best fit and provide you with high-quality counseling. We are a group of licensed counselors in Georgetown and Liberty Hill, Texas. Anxiety, depression, parenting, relationship issues, parenting, and more- we HELP people. We work with children as young as 3 years old, teens, adults, couples, parents, and families. Not sure where to start? We can help. Give us a call- our care coordinator will help to find you a good match and schedule your first session with a counselor to help with YOUR needs.
We have 20+ providers with specialty training including Child-Centered Play Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TBRI, Gottman Couples Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Behavioral training, DBT, DEEP training and Prepare and Enrich.
Life is stressful. Finding a great counselor shouldn't be. We care about you and make getting help easy. We find you the best fit and provide you with high-quality counseling. We are a group of licensed counselors in Georgetown and Liberty Hill, Texas. Anxiety, depression, parenting, relationship issues, parenting, and more- we HELP people. We work with children as young as 3 years old, teens, adults, couples, parents, and families. Not sure where to start? We can help. Give us a call- our care coordinator will help to find you a good match and schedule your first session with a counselor to help with YOUR needs.
![Photo of Lisa DeMoss, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d2f4eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused and Play Therapy.
Is your life stressed? Are you or a family member experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues? Do you need a change, or for things to settle down in your life? Life can bring turmoil, conflict, frustrations, and a feeling of hopelessness. Together, we can find the root of your problems and develop a healthier way to navigate life. You deserve to have peace and joy in your life. Make yourself a priority today!
I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused and Play Therapy.
Is your life stressed? Are you or a family member experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues? Do you need a change, or for things to settle down in your life? Life can bring turmoil, conflict, frustrations, and a feeling of hopelessness. Together, we can find the root of your problems and develop a healthier way to navigate life. You deserve to have peace and joy in your life. Make yourself a priority today!
![Photo of Alex Parnell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/914312b3-e4ce-4770-802a-10199eea90a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all my clients. My holistic approach intertwines Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Attachment Theory, and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) to foster deep emotional healing and develop secure relationships.
Welcome! I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all my clients. My holistic approach intertwines Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Attachment Theory, and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) to foster deep emotional healing and develop secure relationships.
![Photo of Andrew Lipinski, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a816de8-a37e-40ef-8732-8111ec218640/2/320x400.jpeg)
I earned my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University - San Marcos in 2001. I believe the trusting relationship and a safe, nonjudgmental environment is vital to effective therapy. I utilize Solution-Focused, traditional and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational, and Person-Centered techniques in my approach.
I earned my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University - San Marcos in 2001. I believe the trusting relationship and a safe, nonjudgmental environment is vital to effective therapy. I utilize Solution-Focused, traditional and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational, and Person-Centered techniques in my approach.
![Photo of Zina Eluri, PhD, LP, BCBA-D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cf75351-525e-43ed-80e7-1abc3a12379d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in assessments and treatments of children from 2 to 16 years of age with various neurodevelopmental, psychological, behavioral, emotional, or educational concerns.
I specialize in assessments and treatments of children from 2 to 16 years of age with various neurodevelopmental, psychological, behavioral, emotional, or educational concerns.
![Photo of Shelly Moreno, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5b1a4d6-653c-4f52-898e-219b70d9f0da/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shelly Moreno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by life's demands? Are you worn out being a parent of a child with behavior that you don't understand? Do you have a traumatic past that keeps causing issues for you today? I can help. Haven Acres Counseling is set on a private farm utilizing the calming and restorative power of nature to enhance mental and emotional well-being. We are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where all clients can explore their emotions, overcome challenges, and build fulfilling lives.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by life's demands? Are you worn out being a parent of a child with behavior that you don't understand? Do you have a traumatic past that keeps causing issues for you today? I can help. Haven Acres Counseling is set on a private farm utilizing the calming and restorative power of nature to enhance mental and emotional well-being. We are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where all clients can explore their emotions, overcome challenges, and build fulfilling lives.
![Photo of Amanda L Durst, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4bbcaba-99c8-4b20-a325-ca7e4cd018ca/6/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda L Durst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
Hello! I am Amanda, counselor of 15 years, wife of 17 years, and mother of 10 years and counting. I have been a resident of the North Austin area for the last five years and am a Texas native, though I did spend some time growing up in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. I am active in my son’s school, my church, and my community which I am happy to call home.
Hello! I am Amanda, counselor of 15 years, wife of 17 years, and mother of 10 years and counting. I have been a resident of the North Austin area for the last five years and am a Texas native, though I did spend some time growing up in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. I am active in my son’s school, my church, and my community which I am happy to call home.
![Photo of Linda Mikesic - Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bfde408-1bcf-4ff0-98cf-5056835b5ef4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Mandi Melendez, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e277913-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mandi Melendez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
As a parent myself I understand that raising children can be challenging, and I am passionate about supporting families in realizing their full potential for love, growth and peaceful relationships. I use evidence based practices to facilitate empowerment, self-control and healing through play, artistic expression, and sandtray therapy. I specialize in work with children, adolescents, and their caregivers, and have served as President of the Texas Association for Play Therapy and Clinical Editor for Play Therapy Magazine.
As a parent myself I understand that raising children can be challenging, and I am passionate about supporting families in realizing their full potential for love, growth and peaceful relationships. I use evidence based practices to facilitate empowerment, self-control and healing through play, artistic expression, and sandtray therapy. I specialize in work with children, adolescents, and their caregivers, and have served as President of the Texas Association for Play Therapy and Clinical Editor for Play Therapy Magazine.
![Photo of Lindsay Racino, MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2532226-7e70-4ef7-852e-77ef11e1964d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Racino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
I am passionate about being a Registered Play Therapist and working with children in their natural language of play.
Accepting New Clients as of March 2024! I have a heart for supporting children, adolescents, and young adults during challenging seasons of growth. I know that relationships are fundamental to the success of the therapeutic process, therefore building a safe and trusting relationship with my clients is essential. I view the therapy process as uniquely as I view the individuals and families I work with. I aim to customize my approach to meet the needs of each of my clients.
I am passionate about being a Registered Play Therapist and working with children in their natural language of play.
Accepting New Clients as of March 2024! I have a heart for supporting children, adolescents, and young adults during challenging seasons of growth. I know that relationships are fundamental to the success of the therapeutic process, therefore building a safe and trusting relationship with my clients is essential. I view the therapy process as uniquely as I view the individuals and families I work with. I aim to customize my approach to meet the needs of each of my clients.
![Photo of Erin T. White - The Whole Child Center, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8a0bad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Whole Child Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
Through counseling with your child (play therapy or other appropriate intervention) and consultation with you as their parent, we will help bring peace back into both of your lives.
Emails from this site are not coming through - please call instead! You knew that parenting would be difficult at times, but you didn't expect just how challenging your child's struggles could be. Seeking therapy has been a difficult decision. You have tried your best, doing all you can think of to help them get back on the right track. You feel worn out, frustrated, worried, embarrassed, confused, even guilty. Your child's problem has become more than you can handle alone. You need help. It's hard to imagine that it could be better, but it will.
Through counseling with your child (play therapy or other appropriate intervention) and consultation with you as their parent, we will help bring peace back into both of your lives.
Emails from this site are not coming through - please call instead! You knew that parenting would be difficult at times, but you didn't expect just how challenging your child's struggles could be. Seeking therapy has been a difficult decision. You have tried your best, doing all you can think of to help them get back on the right track. You feel worn out, frustrated, worried, embarrassed, confused, even guilty. Your child's problem has become more than you can handle alone. You need help. It's hard to imagine that it could be better, but it will.
![Photo of Star Celaya - Star Celaya, LMSW, LCSW - Supervisee, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/201095a1-dad2-4328-8c73-1f4735058ea8/1/320x400.png)
Star Celaya, LMSW, LCSW - Supervisee
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
I typically utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), SFBT, and play therapy.
I have a passion for working with school aged children to help them understand and overcome mental health barriers that may affect their academics or reaching their fullest potential. Many children suffer in silence with a wide array of issues that may arise with puberty, school problems, or mental health that may cause life transitions challenging. My therapeutic approach assists adolescents with their unique struggles that includes realistic goals to provide the necessary results needed by the client and parents. Providing a safe and comfortable space to freely express themselves that is judgement free.
I typically utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), SFBT, and play therapy.
I have a passion for working with school aged children to help them understand and overcome mental health barriers that may affect their academics or reaching their fullest potential. Many children suffer in silence with a wide array of issues that may arise with puberty, school problems, or mental health that may cause life transitions challenging. My therapeutic approach assists adolescents with their unique struggles that includes realistic goals to provide the necessary results needed by the client and parents. Providing a safe and comfortable space to freely express themselves that is judgement free.
![Photo of Kim Box, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04bc0c98-00bd-47cc-b9ca-a7297b913fad/4/320x400.jpeg)
For children and adolescents, my approach is a mixture of art, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and play.
For those experiencing a difficult season or life transition, talking with someone about the challenges you face is one of the healthiest decisions you can make for yourself and your loved ones. At times, life is messy! Talking it through and getting an outside perspective other than friends and family can help. In addition to counseling individuals, I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I provide guidance to those that struggle in many areas of school; emotional regulation, self-esteem, peer relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, and anxiety to name a few.
For children and adolescents, my approach is a mixture of art, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and play.
For those experiencing a difficult season or life transition, talking with someone about the challenges you face is one of the healthiest decisions you can make for yourself and your loved ones. At times, life is messy! Talking it through and getting an outside perspective other than friends and family can help. In addition to counseling individuals, I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I provide guidance to those that struggle in many areas of school; emotional regulation, self-esteem, peer relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, and anxiety to name a few.
![Photo of Rachel Hodgdon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4339ef5d-348a-4a2a-807c-84ec1af1bc00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in trauma-informed care, Rachel is proficient in evidence-based treatments including TF-CBT (for children), Child-Centered Play Therapy (for children), and the Safe & Sound Protocol (available for individuals of all ages).
Rachel brings a wealth of experience in counseling individuals across various age groups, from children and teens to adults. With a diverse background spanning roles in Child Advocacy Centers, College Counseling Centers, and Group Practices, Rachel has honed her skills in addressing a spectrum of psychological needs. Specializing in trauma-informed care, Rachel is proficient in evidence-based treatments including the Flash Technique (for all ages), TF-CBT (for children), Child-Centered Play Therapy (for children), and the Safe & Sound Protocol (available for individuals of all ages).
Specializing in trauma-informed care, Rachel is proficient in evidence-based treatments including TF-CBT (for children), Child-Centered Play Therapy (for children), and the Safe & Sound Protocol (available for individuals of all ages).
Rachel brings a wealth of experience in counseling individuals across various age groups, from children and teens to adults. With a diverse background spanning roles in Child Advocacy Centers, College Counseling Centers, and Group Practices, Rachel has honed her skills in addressing a spectrum of psychological needs. Specializing in trauma-informed care, Rachel is proficient in evidence-based treatments including the Flash Technique (for all ages), TF-CBT (for children), Child-Centered Play Therapy (for children), and the Safe & Sound Protocol (available for individuals of all ages).
![Photo of Beth Rodriguez, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24f54903-1651-4144-be75-fbc952e1ba98/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
To me, a safe therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of counseling and where growth happens! I use play therapy to help a child identify and express feelings and develop healthy coping skills, and I also offer parenting support by sharing strategies to influence behavioral change.
Are you struggling on how to best support your child? The early years can be trying for children who struggle with feelings of anxiety, adjusting to blended family issues, or dealing with school concerns. When your child's needs surpass your capacity, finding the right helper who can provide the right support is necessary. Helping struggling kids and families is my passion! I help children through a play therapy model, which ultimately helps them learn how to express their thoughts and feelings, increase their self-esteem, increase their self-regulation, and accept responsibility for their behavior.
To me, a safe therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of counseling and where growth happens! I use play therapy to help a child identify and express feelings and develop healthy coping skills, and I also offer parenting support by sharing strategies to influence behavioral change.
Are you struggling on how to best support your child? The early years can be trying for children who struggle with feelings of anxiety, adjusting to blended family issues, or dealing with school concerns. When your child's needs surpass your capacity, finding the right helper who can provide the right support is necessary. Helping struggling kids and families is my passion! I help children through a play therapy model, which ultimately helps them learn how to express their thoughts and feelings, increase their self-esteem, increase their self-regulation, and accept responsibility for their behavior.
![Photo of Jennifer Reyes, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e9dc59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
For this reason, I am highly trained in play therapy, sand tray therapy, and traditional talk therapy.
Is your child having difficulties in daycare, school, or at home? Maybe your family is going through a big transition, and your child could benefit from working with someone who can understand and help. Are you a stressed parent who is looking for ways to help your child, or just want to be the best parent you can be? I am an experienced therapist who specializes in working with children, teens, and parents.
For this reason, I am highly trained in play therapy, sand tray therapy, and traditional talk therapy.
Is your child having difficulties in daycare, school, or at home? Maybe your family is going through a big transition, and your child could benefit from working with someone who can understand and help. Are you a stressed parent who is looking for ways to help your child, or just want to be the best parent you can be? I am an experienced therapist who specializes in working with children, teens, and parents.
![Photo of Samantha Serbin, MA, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fae38fb4-5012-4910-b558-918dac3a383a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Serbin
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
Ever felt like parenting or growing up should come with a manual? Well, guess what? You've just found your guide! My name is Samantha and I am a former middle and high school teacher. I have experienced firsthand the need for mental health care and general awareness in our educational system. But first and foremost, I care about YOU and creating a space where young minds can grow, laugh, and tackle life's twists and turns together.
Ever felt like parenting or growing up should come with a manual? Well, guess what? You've just found your guide! My name is Samantha and I am a former middle and high school teacher. I have experienced firsthand the need for mental health care and general awareness in our educational system. But first and foremost, I care about YOU and creating a space where young minds can grow, laugh, and tackle life's twists and turns together.
![Photo of Thomas Malone - Thomas Malone, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47542142-2ec8-419d-b1ed-7ab8b6967df1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas Malone, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78646
Waitlist for new clients
If you’re a parent with a child or teen that is experiencing a rough time and you’re unsure of what steps to take next, then I am here to help. Youth that act out, who are easily overwhelmed, have a difficult time focusing at home or school, who have outbursts, or who are experiencing growing pains and need extra support are ideal candidates for my services. It may seem that right now, in this moment, your son or daughter’s troubles have become unmanageable, but things will get better for your little one and your family.
If you’re a parent with a child or teen that is experiencing a rough time and you’re unsure of what steps to take next, then I am here to help. Youth that act out, who are easily overwhelmed, have a difficult time focusing at home or school, who have outbursts, or who are experiencing growing pains and need extra support are ideal candidates for my services. It may seem that right now, in this moment, your son or daughter’s troubles have become unmanageable, but things will get better for your little one and your family.
See more therapy options for Liberty Hill
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Liberty Hill
- Austin
- Bee Cave
- Cedar Park
- Georgetown
- Hutto
- Lakeway
- Leander
- Marble Falls
- Pflugerville
- Rollingwood
- Round Rock
- West Lake Hills
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.