Play Therapy in West University Place, TX

Photo of Whitney Phuong Nguyen - Spoon Therapy Group, Pre-Licensed Professional
Spoon Therapy Group
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005
Have you ever gone to a different country and not understood their native language? How difficult was it for you to get what you needed? Imagine you are a child, wanting to tell you what they are going through but cannot tell you in words. Play therapy is a language a child utilizes to express what cannot be vocalized. I am Whitney, trained to interpret this language to help you get the ease you need as a parent. You are a good parent, you are here; looking to do all you can for her child. Give me a call!
Have you ever gone to a different country and not understood their native language? How difficult was it for you to get what you needed? Imagine you are a child, wanting to tell you what they are going through but cannot tell you in words. Play therapy is a language a child utilizes to express what cannot be vocalized. I am Whitney, trained to interpret this language to help you get the ease you need as a parent. You are a good parent, you are here; looking to do all you can for her child. Give me a call!
(346) 536-8140 View (346) 536-8140
Photo of Savannah Harrah
Savannah Harrah
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005
Child Centered Play Therapy is a great foundation for building a relationship, gaining insight into the emotional world of the child, and creating a space to work toward change.
I love working with toddlers, children, preteens, and parents. My approach is to address the underlying needs of the child in therapy while simultaneously collaborating with parents to find strategies for success at school and at home. I also spend time communicating with other medical and educational professionals who work with the child in order to gather information and provide the most effective care.
Child Centered Play Therapy is a great foundation for building a relationship, gaining insight into the emotional world of the child, and creating a space to work toward change.
I love working with toddlers, children, preteens, and parents. My approach is to address the underlying needs of the child in therapy while simultaneously collaborating with parents to find strategies for success at school and at home. I also spend time communicating with other medical and educational professionals who work with the child in order to gather information and provide the most effective care.
(346) 512-2999 View (346) 512-2999
Photo of Lynn Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
I have counseled children and parents for twenty-eight years while also enjoying individual adult work. My experience encompasses private practice as well as agencies and hospitals, including DePelchin Children's Center and Texas Children's Hospital. In addition, I have supervised beginning social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Over the years, I have held faculty positions at Baylor College of Medicine and Smith College School for Social Work. My practice has included all facets of children's developmental and emotional concerns. Currently a large portion of my practice focuses on children's anxiety, depression, OCD, and divorce related issues.
I have counseled children and parents for twenty-eight years while also enjoying individual adult work. My experience encompasses private practice as well as agencies and hospitals, including DePelchin Children's Center and Texas Children's Hospital. In addition, I have supervised beginning social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Over the years, I have held faculty positions at Baylor College of Medicine and Smith College School for Social Work. My practice has included all facets of children's developmental and emotional concerns. Currently a large portion of my practice focuses on children's anxiety, depression, OCD, and divorce related issues.
(713) 338-9257 View (713) 338-9257
Photo of Erin R Whitney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin R Whitney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
(832) 850-2262 View (832) 850-2262
Photo of Lauren Richardson, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lauren Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005
You often care deeply for others but have difficulty giving compassion and space for yourself. You struggle to be vulnerable with your emotions and balance addressing the familial, societal, and cultural expectations that are placed upon you. Often it is easy to feel like no one could possibly understand your experience. However, relationships with friends, family, and partners have the power to connect us to something greater than ourselves. Unfortunately, relationships aren’t always easy to maintain, navigate, and understand.
You often care deeply for others but have difficulty giving compassion and space for yourself. You struggle to be vulnerable with your emotions and balance addressing the familial, societal, and cultural expectations that are placed upon you. Often it is easy to feel like no one could possibly understand your experience. However, relationships with friends, family, and partners have the power to connect us to something greater than ourselves. Unfortunately, relationships aren’t always easy to maintain, navigate, and understand.
(832) 558-8732 View (832) 558-8732
Photo of Dr. Melanie Gregg, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist
Dr. Melanie Gregg
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005
Are you concerned that your child/teen is stressed and just not themselves? Have you tried to solve the problems in your family on your own and realized you and your child need more support? Want your teen to be more confident and connected? I'm passionate about working with children and teens through the tough stuff of their lives -anxiety, depression, friendship/relational skills, emotional dysregulation, difficult family dynamics, perfectionism, and gender identity concerns. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you and your child/teen with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
Are you concerned that your child/teen is stressed and just not themselves? Have you tried to solve the problems in your family on your own and realized you and your child need more support? Want your teen to be more confident and connected? I'm passionate about working with children and teens through the tough stuff of their lives -anxiety, depression, friendship/relational skills, emotional dysregulation, difficult family dynamics, perfectionism, and gender identity concerns. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you and your child/teen with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
(713) 714-1355 View (713) 714-1355

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Epstein-Santana, MA, NCC
Sarah Epstein-Santana
Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027
My methods include Integrative, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for teens and adults, and Play Therapy for children and adolescents.
I can help people best who are ready to face their challenges and improve their lives. Some people are tuned into optimism, but they find it difficult with their current situations and that's where we both can thrive, to help you improve your well-being and overall satisfaction with life. Coming out of therapy, you will find understanding, guidance, and coping strategies to overcome your challenges. I work with children, teenagers, and adults with anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, school related concerns, infertility issues, family conflict, women's issues, life transitions, and a variety of other concerns.
My methods include Integrative, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for teens and adults, and Play Therapy for children and adolescents.
I can help people best who are ready to face their challenges and improve their lives. Some people are tuned into optimism, but they find it difficult with their current situations and that's where we both can thrive, to help you improve your well-being and overall satisfaction with life. Coming out of therapy, you will find understanding, guidance, and coping strategies to overcome your challenges. I work with children, teenagers, and adults with anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, school related concerns, infertility issues, family conflict, women's issues, life transitions, and a variety of other concerns.
(713) 804-7167 View (713) 804-7167
Photo of Erik Boie - Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027
Welcome! If you're feeling overwhelmed and need help -You have come to the right place. Don't let anything stand in your way of achieving your life's goals, and ultimately feeling better. Capstone Connect is a group practice skilled in play therapy, trauma treatment, and psychotherapy. We are here to help you find solutions to your challenges. Capstone's therapists are master level therapists with advanced skills in psychotherapy and play therapy. We have the expertise to work effectively with diverse challenges including divorce, parenting challenges, behavioral concerns, school, environmental, and medical traumas, adoption, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! If you're feeling overwhelmed and need help -You have come to the right place. Don't let anything stand in your way of achieving your life's goals, and ultimately feeling better. Capstone Connect is a group practice skilled in play therapy, trauma treatment, and psychotherapy. We are here to help you find solutions to your challenges. Capstone's therapists are master level therapists with advanced skills in psychotherapy and play therapy. We have the expertise to work effectively with diverse challenges including divorce, parenting challenges, behavioral concerns, school, environmental, and medical traumas, adoption, anxiety, and depression.
(832) 981-5496 View (832) 981-5496
Photo of Ashlea Szanto, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashlea Szanto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77098
Through play therapy, kids are able to express their emotions and learn how to manage them in a healthy way.
Are you struggling to handle your child's big emotions and behaviors? You have thought of every option to help your child, but you feel like nothing is working. You're tired, busy, and overwhelmed. You've gotten to the point where you have to walk on egg shells to avoid conflict with your young child. It's okay that you feel tired and exhausted. Supporting children through big emotions and behaviors can be very hard.
Through play therapy, kids are able to express their emotions and learn how to manage them in a healthy way.
Are you struggling to handle your child's big emotions and behaviors? You have thought of every option to help your child, but you feel like nothing is working. You're tired, busy, and overwhelmed. You've gotten to the point where you have to walk on egg shells to avoid conflict with your young child. It's okay that you feel tired and exhausted. Supporting children through big emotions and behaviors can be very hard.
(832) 789-6903 View (832) 789-6903
Photo of Kelsie Valle, LPC-A, NCC
Kelsie Valle
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77019
I have a love for EDMR, artistic expression, and play therapy; I incorporate artistic expression and play into all of my work with clients.
In our practice, we work with individuals and families to create treatment plans to meet their goals. Our holistic approach integrates play therapy techniques and EMDR to heal from past trauma, allowing for the building of brighter futures. We work with all ages, ranging from toddlers to seniors. Our practice is experienced in supporting families from diverse backgrounds, including families with adopted children. Within our practice, we offer music therapy and Yoga services. I personally specialize in working with families and individuals suffering from eating disorders, trauma, and self-harm.
I have a love for EDMR, artistic expression, and play therapy; I incorporate artistic expression and play into all of my work with clients.
In our practice, we work with individuals and families to create treatment plans to meet their goals. Our holistic approach integrates play therapy techniques and EMDR to heal from past trauma, allowing for the building of brighter futures. We work with all ages, ranging from toddlers to seniors. Our practice is experienced in supporting families from diverse backgrounds, including families with adopted children. Within our practice, we offer music therapy and Yoga services. I personally specialize in working with families and individuals suffering from eating disorders, trauma, and self-harm.
(832) 952-1857 View (832) 952-1857
Photo of Iman Kanj, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iman Kanj
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77054  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of play, talk, and behavior therapy with children, adolescents, and families.
Seeking support requires plenty of courage, strength, and determination. Taking the first steps toward change can feel both invigorating and nerve-racking at the same time. I aim to create a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to share your life experiences. One of our most fundamental human needs is to form connections, and I strive to utilize our therapeutic relationship as a guide for growth and healing. As a partner in your personal journey, I hope to empower you to gain the valuable insight and practical skills essential for overcoming obstacles, achieving your goals, and living a well-balanced, self-fulfilled life.
I utilize a combination of play, talk, and behavior therapy with children, adolescents, and families.
Seeking support requires plenty of courage, strength, and determination. Taking the first steps toward change can feel both invigorating and nerve-racking at the same time. I aim to create a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to share your life experiences. One of our most fundamental human needs is to form connections, and I strive to utilize our therapeutic relationship as a guide for growth and healing. As a partner in your personal journey, I hope to empower you to gain the valuable insight and practical skills essential for overcoming obstacles, achieving your goals, and living a well-balanced, self-fulfilled life.
(408) 560-4078 View (408) 560-4078
Photo of Kirby Luna, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kirby Luna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006  (Online Only)
In person appointments are available through Joyful Hearts Play Therapy & Counseling, LLC in The Woodlands, TX.
Things may feel hard right now, and you're not sure who to turn to. I know how hard it can be to feel overwhelmed with anxiety and stress. You might be looking to find emotional relief, a greater sense of joy in your life, connection with your loved ones, and control over your life. You may be experiencing multiple life changes. Maybe you are a parent of a preteen or teen who just seems to struggle with getting back into the swing of things at school and want them to have a trusted adult to talk to. I'm also trained in accelerated resolution therapy (ART), which I use to help people gain relief from unwanted thoughts and trauma.
In person appointments are available through Joyful Hearts Play Therapy & Counseling, LLC in The Woodlands, TX.
Things may feel hard right now, and you're not sure who to turn to. I know how hard it can be to feel overwhelmed with anxiety and stress. You might be looking to find emotional relief, a greater sense of joy in your life, connection with your loved ones, and control over your life. You may be experiencing multiple life changes. Maybe you are a parent of a preteen or teen who just seems to struggle with getting back into the swing of things at school and want them to have a trusted adult to talk to. I'm also trained in accelerated resolution therapy (ART), which I use to help people gain relief from unwanted thoughts and trauma.
(936) 215-8380 View (936) 215-8380
Photo of Jessica Ellin Schladt, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Ellin Schladt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77054  (Online Only)
With child clients (ages 6+ and computer literate), I utilize play therapy to provide a creative space to process through play via telehealth, using a combination of technology and a “Portable Playroom” which is delivered to the child’s home.
My mission through counseling is to foster hope to aid in inspiring change. I believe in the innate resilience of people to rise above their struggles. Sometimes we all need a little help to get there. I utilize a strengths-based approach to therapy, focused on resilience, empowerment, and building on a person’s current skill set. I am focused on meeting the client where they are to help them achieve where they want to be. Through compassion, challenging, and humor, I support my teen and adult clients in developing a growth mindset to reach their goals.
With child clients (ages 6+ and computer literate), I utilize play therapy to provide a creative space to process through play via telehealth, using a combination of technology and a “Portable Playroom” which is delivered to the child’s home.
My mission through counseling is to foster hope to aid in inspiring change. I believe in the innate resilience of people to rise above their struggles. Sometimes we all need a little help to get there. I utilize a strengths-based approach to therapy, focused on resilience, empowerment, and building on a person’s current skill set. I am focused on meeting the client where they are to help them achieve where they want to be. Through compassion, challenging, and humor, I support my teen and adult clients in developing a growth mindset to reach their goals.
(571) 450-9488 View (571) 450-9488
Photo of Danny Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danny Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
I provide both in-person and online therapy for adults and teens, as well as in-person play therapy for children, offering personalized support for your unique needs.
Coparenting can be especially challenging during times of transition, and both men and women benefit from support in navigating these changes. I specialize in helping families, with a particular focus on fathers who often face stigma when seeking guidance. It’s important for fathers to feel empowered in their parenting roles, and I provide support in fostering collaboration between parents. Whether dealing with grief, school anxiety, or shifting parenting dynamics, I work to improve communication and create a nurturing environment for the whole family.
I provide both in-person and online therapy for adults and teens, as well as in-person play therapy for children, offering personalized support for your unique needs.
Coparenting can be especially challenging during times of transition, and both men and women benefit from support in navigating these changes. I specialize in helping families, with a particular focus on fathers who often face stigma when seeking guidance. It’s important for fathers to feel empowered in their parenting roles, and I provide support in fostering collaboration between parents. Whether dealing with grief, school anxiety, or shifting parenting dynamics, I work to improve communication and create a nurturing environment for the whole family.
(832) 906-8212 View (832) 906-8212
Photo of Kathryn Kozak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Kozak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
There is room in my office for laughter, tears, play, challenges, problem solving, any and all emotions, and finding connection.
Finding a therapist can be like shopping for shoes - sometimes it is hard to find the right fit, but when you find it, they help you to feel strong and supported. Life can present so many difficulties, and sometimes it is hard to find the tools to be our best self. If you or a family member are experiencing stress or anxiety, relationship troubles, want to change behaviors, or need help coping with difficult moods and emotions, I would be honored to join you in your journey for happiness and balance. I believe we all have unique strengths and capacity for change, and my goal is to help you to find what allows you to thrive!
There is room in my office for laughter, tears, play, challenges, problem solving, any and all emotions, and finding connection.
Finding a therapist can be like shopping for shoes - sometimes it is hard to find the right fit, but when you find it, they help you to feel strong and supported. Life can present so many difficulties, and sometimes it is hard to find the tools to be our best self. If you or a family member are experiencing stress or anxiety, relationship troubles, want to change behaviors, or need help coping with difficult moods and emotions, I would be honored to join you in your journey for happiness and balance. I believe we all have unique strengths and capacity for change, and my goal is to help you to find what allows you to thrive!
(832) 735-5140 View (832) 735-5140
Photo of Ayesha Lakhani, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ayesha Lakhani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, CART
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
I primarily use Play Therapy when working with younger children.
Drawing on a desire to help people overcome obstacles in their personal relationships, my professional work involves counseling individuals and families in order to achieve conflict resolution and better communication. As a neutral third party, I am better able to identify the challenges my patients face and facilitate positive change. Working with families, it is essential to foster a high level of trust between the therapist and family members. Mutual respect and open communication are essential to the therapeutic process. Engaging patients at their level, I help people find the change that they desire and the strength within themselves to achieve that change.
I primarily use Play Therapy when working with younger children.
Drawing on a desire to help people overcome obstacles in their personal relationships, my professional work involves counseling individuals and families in order to achieve conflict resolution and better communication. As a neutral third party, I am better able to identify the challenges my patients face and facilitate positive change. Working with families, it is essential to foster a high level of trust between the therapist and family members. Mutual respect and open communication are essential to the therapeutic process. Engaging patients at their level, I help people find the change that they desire and the strength within themselves to achieve that change.
(281) 724-4296 View (281) 724-4296
Photo of Logan Saley, MS , NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Logan Saley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030
My passion lies in working with couples, families, and children between the ages of 3 and 10, navigating the complexities of life transitions and interpersonal dynamics. Utilizing modalities such as Child-Centered Play Therapy and Thera play, I create a safe and engaging environment for children to express themselves and develop crucial coping skills. For couples seeking to strengthen their bond and navigate challenges, I employ an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach, fostering secure attachment and effective communication. My goal is to empower couples to cultivate deeper connections and resilience in the face of adversity.
My passion lies in working with couples, families, and children between the ages of 3 and 10, navigating the complexities of life transitions and interpersonal dynamics. Utilizing modalities such as Child-Centered Play Therapy and Thera play, I create a safe and engaging environment for children to express themselves and develop crucial coping skills. For couples seeking to strengthen their bond and navigate challenges, I employ an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach, fostering secure attachment and effective communication. My goal is to empower couples to cultivate deeper connections and resilience in the face of adversity.
(346) 485-6940 View (346) 485-6940
Photo of Naomi Madell-Hernandez, MA, LMFT-S, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Naomi Madell-Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056
I have training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Triple P Parenting, Parent Child Interactive Therapy, Family Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor and a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor with 20-plus years of experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. I specialize in a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as school problems, parent-child relational issues, abuse, divorce, depression, anxiety, relational issues, postpartum depression, grief, and trauma.
I have training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Triple P Parenting, Parent Child Interactive Therapy, Family Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor and a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor with 20-plus years of experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. I specialize in a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as school problems, parent-child relational issues, abuse, divorce, depression, anxiety, relational issues, postpartum depression, grief, and trauma.
(281) 519-6656 View (281) 519-6656
Photo of Margaret Magness
Margaret Magness
LPC-Associate
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
I am a Play Therapist passionate about working with children experiencing behavioral issues, oppositional tendencies, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use a variety of therapies including Adlerian Play Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Parent Child Interaction Therapy. In addition, I am currently pursuing my Registered Play Therapy License to further enhance my skills as a therapist.
I am a Play Therapist passionate about working with children experiencing behavioral issues, oppositional tendencies, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use a variety of therapies including Adlerian Play Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Parent Child Interaction Therapy. In addition, I am currently pursuing my Registered Play Therapy License to further enhance my skills as a therapist.
(346) 472-5967 View (346) 472-5967
Photo of Anna Sand, LCSW-S, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Sand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
I have valuable experience in children and family therapy, expressive arts and supportive play therapy.
Connection, safety and support are what I can immediately offer you. I use evidence-based, effective, therapeutic modalities while also providing a wholistic human relationship. I work to enhance your livelihood mentally, physically, socially and spiritually.
I have valuable experience in children and family therapy, expressive arts and supportive play therapy.
Connection, safety and support are what I can immediately offer you. I use evidence-based, effective, therapeutic modalities while also providing a wholistic human relationship. I work to enhance your livelihood mentally, physically, socially and spiritually.
(346) 515-4359 View (346) 515-4359

See more therapy options for West University Place

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.