Play Therapy in Gainesville, VA

Phoenix Counseling Group & Play Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAATS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
Our therapists use a play therapy approach to work with children to address their developmental needs in treatment more effectively.
At Phoenix Family Counseling & Play Therapy Center, PLLC we focus on helping children, adolescents and adults overcome the difficulties they are facing in life. We work with individuals, couples, families and groups. We are experienced in working to help our clients resolve issues depression, anxiety, relationship problems, divorce and remarriage, addiction, Adult Children of Alcoholics/Addicts, Children of Alcoholics/Addicts, school problems, anger problems, family conflict, ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome/High Functioning Autism. We use a variety of treatment methods that focus on changing negative thingking patterns and enhancing strenghts. We conduct workshops to the community on several topics.
Our therapists use a play therapy approach to work with children to address their developmental needs in treatment more effectively.
At Phoenix Family Counseling & Play Therapy Center, PLLC we focus on helping children, adolescents and adults overcome the difficulties they are facing in life. We work with individuals, couples, families and groups. We are experienced in working to help our clients resolve issues depression, anxiety, relationship problems, divorce and remarriage, addiction, Adult Children of Alcoholics/Addicts, Children of Alcoholics/Addicts, school problems, anger problems, family conflict, ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome/High Functioning Autism. We use a variety of treatment methods that focus on changing negative thingking patterns and enhancing strenghts. We conduct workshops to the community on several topics.
(571) 248-7249 View (571) 248-7249
Photo of Mary Kirkpatrick, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Kirkpatrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
I can help in many different ways including EMDR, talk therapy, and play therapy.
We have a few openings for adults and children at this time. We especially have availability for morning and mid-day appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
I can help in many different ways including EMDR, talk therapy, and play therapy.
We have a few openings for adults and children at this time. We especially have availability for morning and mid-day appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
(540) 351-9685 View (540) 351-9685
Photo of Hannah Ball Ic - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Photo of Beverley Boothe - Life Enrichment Counseling Center, Inc., PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Enrichment Counseling Center, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
We are experienced clinicians and use a number of treatment methodologies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy.
At Life Enrichment Counseling Center, we are committed to providing you with the support and compassion that is important to you in your time of need. We are all resilient and have the desire and ability to heal and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. However, there are times and situations where we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. We fully appreciate that, and we look forward to personally meeting with you and will strive to do our best to help find the best solutions for your situation.
We are experienced clinicians and use a number of treatment methodologies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy.
At Life Enrichment Counseling Center, we are committed to providing you with the support and compassion that is important to you in your time of need. We are all resilient and have the desire and ability to heal and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. However, there are times and situations where we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. We fully appreciate that, and we look forward to personally meeting with you and will strive to do our best to help find the best solutions for your situation.
(703) 754-0636 View (703) 754-0636
Photo of Denise Booth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Booth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
I utilize a strengths-based client centered approach incorporating cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness strategies, and expressive therapies such as art, play and sand therapy.
I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate difficult circumstances while instilling hope to help reach their personal goals and lead more satisfying lives. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment to help individuals gain insight and improve coping skills in order to move forward with health and healing.
I utilize a strengths-based client centered approach incorporating cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness strategies, and expressive therapies such as art, play and sand therapy.
I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate difficult circumstances while instilling hope to help reach their personal goals and lead more satisfying lives. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment to help individuals gain insight and improve coping skills in order to move forward with health and healing.
(703) 935-4209 View (703) 935-4209
Photo of Heidi Graybill, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Graybill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize clinically appropriate techniques such as mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral interventions, play therapy, sand tray therapy and am practiced in EMDR.
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
I utilize clinically appropriate techniques such as mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral interventions, play therapy, sand tray therapy and am practiced in EMDR.
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
(571) 470-5470 View (571) 470-5470
Photo of Doreen M Nagurny, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Doreen M Nagurny
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
She uses cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, Child-centered Play Therapy.
Doreen earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Cornell University and her Masters of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University. She is a National Certified counselor and a member of American Counseling Association (ACA) as a pre-licensed professional counselor. Doreen has a broad experience handling a wide spectrum of neurological and psychological conditions. She treats children, teens, adults, and couples presenting with anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral and relationship issues. Additionally, she works with adults with memory/dementia challenges and their families.
She uses cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, Child-centered Play Therapy.
Doreen earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Cornell University and her Masters of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University. She is a National Certified counselor and a member of American Counseling Association (ACA) as a pre-licensed professional counselor. Doreen has a broad experience handling a wide spectrum of neurological and psychological conditions. She treats children, teens, adults, and couples presenting with anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral and relationship issues. Additionally, she works with adults with memory/dementia challenges and their families.
(540) 516-3385 View (540) 516-3385
Photo of Patrick Curley - Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Our therapists specialize in play therapy, Emdr, CBT, DBT and trauma focused therapy.
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge isn’t your average therapy clinic. We want you to feel safe and comfortable with us. We want the real you. We want to talk about the Elephant in the Room. We will help you wherever you are located. We have Immediate Availability for Tele-Health Therapy and evening hours for those in school or who work. Whether your 5 or 99, if you feeling stuck, then it is Time for a change. We have 15 therapists waiting to take your call.
Our therapists specialize in play therapy, Emdr, CBT, DBT and trauma focused therapy.
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge isn’t your average therapy clinic. We want you to feel safe and comfortable with us. We want the real you. We want to talk about the Elephant in the Room. We will help you wherever you are located. We have Immediate Availability for Tele-Health Therapy and evening hours for those in school or who work. Whether your 5 or 99, if you feeling stuck, then it is Time for a change. We have 15 therapists waiting to take your call.
(703) 215-1831 View (703) 215-1831
Photo of Mercedes Alonso, MSW, LMHP-S, RYT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mercedes Alonso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMHP-S, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
I integrate a blend of therapeutic approaches to include Internal Family System (IFS), strength-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and expressive play therapy.
I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist/registered yoga teacher. I am a clinician who works with children (ages 5 and up), adolescents and adults. I specialize in supporting individuals with all types of Anxiety, Self-Harm, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anger, Autism, ADHD, OCD, Disordered Eating and Trauma. I work with students on 504 plans and IEPs and collaborate with their families, school systems and community. My guiding principles is to practice cultural humility, and utilize a neurodiversity affirming lens because differences in all are strengths to be explored.
I integrate a blend of therapeutic approaches to include Internal Family System (IFS), strength-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and expressive play therapy.
I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist/registered yoga teacher. I am a clinician who works with children (ages 5 and up), adolescents and adults. I specialize in supporting individuals with all types of Anxiety, Self-Harm, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anger, Autism, ADHD, OCD, Disordered Eating and Trauma. I work with students on 504 plans and IEPs and collaborate with their families, school systems and community. My guiding principles is to practice cultural humility, and utilize a neurodiversity affirming lens because differences in all are strengths to be explored.
(571) 548-3250 View (571) 548-3250
Photo of Tiffany Tait, MS, ASDI
Tiffany Tait
Resident in Counseling, MS, ASDI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Currently accepting adult new clients using virtual/teletherapy for support with career counseling, personality disorders, schizophrenia, phobias, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, couples/family counseling, relationship/intimacy dysfunction, establishing healthy boundaries, assertive communication skills, Autism Spectrum Disorder
Currently accepting adult new clients using virtual/teletherapy for support with career counseling, personality disorders, schizophrenia, phobias, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, couples/family counseling, relationship/intimacy dysfunction, establishing healthy boundaries, assertive communication skills, Autism Spectrum Disorder
(571) 517-1794 View (571) 517-1794
Photo of Stephen Pierce - William Floyd Counseling Center, BCPC, BCMHC, LPC, LCSW, BCLC
William Floyd Counseling Center
BCPC, BCMHC, LPC, LCSW, BCLC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Our group practice offers professional licensed therapy, certified life coaching and pastoral counseling focused on the foundations of the Bible. Our counselors includes LPCs, LCSWs along with Certified Life Coaches. The practice does not accept insurance. Learn more at www.williamfloydcenter.com. The William Floyd Counseling Center is a ministry of Park Valley Church.
Our group practice offers professional licensed therapy, certified life coaching and pastoral counseling focused on the foundations of the Bible. Our counselors includes LPCs, LCSWs along with Certified Life Coaches. The practice does not accept insurance. Learn more at www.williamfloydcenter.com. The William Floyd Counseling Center is a ministry of Park Valley Church.
(571) 946-8386 View (571) 946-8386
Photo of Shevy Kana, MA, LPC, LMHP, EdD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shevy Kana
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHP, EdD
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
The philosophy that guides me in my work with clients is a strong core belief in respect for each person's unique culture and heritage. There are no cookie cutter therapeutic interventions that work universally on all clients with the exception of the development of strong therapeutic relationship between client and therapist. I believe therapy needs to be meaningful, personal and tailored for each person or couple. A distinctive of my practice is to provide an integrated approach that treats the whole person. I am trained in Gottman Level 1 & 2, Prepare/Enrich certified, and use the skills learned when working with couples.
The philosophy that guides me in my work with clients is a strong core belief in respect for each person's unique culture and heritage. There are no cookie cutter therapeutic interventions that work universally on all clients with the exception of the development of strong therapeutic relationship between client and therapist. I believe therapy needs to be meaningful, personal and tailored for each person or couple. A distinctive of my practice is to provide an integrated approach that treats the whole person. I am trained in Gottman Level 1 & 2, Prepare/Enrich certified, and use the skills learned when working with couples.
(571) 601-4403 View (571) 601-4403
Photo of Margaret Harvey - Blue Ridge Psychological Center, Counselor
Blue Ridge Psychological Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
We are an established and well regarded group practice offering counseling and psychiatric services to our clients. We have 2 locations to meet our client needs.. Our experienced providers have a variety of specialties and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as other treatment approaches. We are pleased to offer Individual, Marriage and Family Counseling as well as Medication Management.
We are an established and well regarded group practice offering counseling and psychiatric services to our clients. We have 2 locations to meet our client needs.. Our experienced providers have a variety of specialties and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as other treatment approaches. We are pleased to offer Individual, Marriage and Family Counseling as well as Medication Management.
(571) 350-3441 View (571) 350-3441
Photo of Robert Nuenke, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Nuenke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Thank you for your interest in counseling. It has always been my goal to work in the mental health field to help individuals and families grow as they achieve a greater understanding of who they are and what they can become. I recently began working with children and have found great satisfaction in watching them grow as we build strong connections with family members. I believe that good relationships and communication are key aspects of healthy growth and development at all ages.
Thank you for your interest in counseling. It has always been my goal to work in the mental health field to help individuals and families grow as they achieve a greater understanding of who they are and what they can become. I recently began working with children and have found great satisfaction in watching them grow as we build strong connections with family members. I believe that good relationships and communication are key aspects of healthy growth and development at all ages.
(571) 619-8843 View (571) 619-8843
Photo of Lorrie L Beyerl - Gainesville Professional Counseling Center, LPC, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gainesville Professional Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
We realize that this past year has been overwhelming for everyone. We are here to help support you while we all continue to try to navigate uncharted waters. We want to help you find balance in your life.
We realize that this past year has been overwhelming for everyone. We are here to help support you while we all continue to try to navigate uncharted waters. We want to help you find balance in your life.
(571) 261-1921 View (571) 261-1921
Photo of Antoinette Jones, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Antoinette Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
A combination of therapeutic approaches is utilized to meet the personal needs and goals of individuals, couples, and families. I have over 20 years of providing substance abuse and mental health counseling services to adolescent and adult clients. Understanding that each client has an unique set of circumstances, my experience can help with a wide variety of complex problems, ranging from marriage or family issues, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or any other variety of life issues. Your privacy and confidentiality is a priority and I am committed to helping you reach personal goals and overcoming obstacles in your life.
A combination of therapeutic approaches is utilized to meet the personal needs and goals of individuals, couples, and families. I have over 20 years of providing substance abuse and mental health counseling services to adolescent and adult clients. Understanding that each client has an unique set of circumstances, my experience can help with a wide variety of complex problems, ranging from marriage or family issues, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or any other variety of life issues. Your privacy and confidentiality is a priority and I am committed to helping you reach personal goals and overcoming obstacles in your life.
(571) 330-9515 View (571) 330-9515
Photo of Megan Mekhail, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Mekhail
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Megan is passionate about working with adults and adolescents. She provides a compassionate, client-centered approach, helping individuals find healing and hope. She has experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, life transitions, and grief through Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, Person-Centered, and Solution-Focused Therapy. She is also certified in Prepare and Enrich for premarital counseling. She has gained experience working with Harrisonburg Foster Care as well as living in cross-cultural settings abroad. Megan offers services in Spanish, as well as Christian counseling for clients who request it.
Megan is passionate about working with adults and adolescents. She provides a compassionate, client-centered approach, helping individuals find healing and hope. She has experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, life transitions, and grief through Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, Person-Centered, and Solution-Focused Therapy. She is also certified in Prepare and Enrich for premarital counseling. She has gained experience working with Harrisonburg Foster Care as well as living in cross-cultural settings abroad. Megan offers services in Spanish, as well as Christian counseling for clients who request it.
(571) 554-2877 View (571) 554-2877
Photo of Larissa Carpenter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20156  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious? Unsure? Stuck? Disconnected? Disappointed? Do you feel like you are living a life that other people pushed you into instead of the life you want? I’m here to help you create a clear vision of who you are and a path for how you can reach that by breaking out of the patterns and cycles that are holding you back. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space in which we can work together to figure out what’s keeping you stuck, overwhelmed, or confused, and determine how we can help you undo what is keeping you from the life that was meant for you. You have been hurting long enough.
Are you feeling anxious? Unsure? Stuck? Disconnected? Disappointed? Do you feel like you are living a life that other people pushed you into instead of the life you want? I’m here to help you create a clear vision of who you are and a path for how you can reach that by breaking out of the patterns and cycles that are holding you back. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space in which we can work together to figure out what’s keeping you stuck, overwhelmed, or confused, and determine how we can help you undo what is keeping you from the life that was meant for you. You have been hurting long enough.
(571) 368-5850 View (571) 368-5850
Photo of Elizabeth M Wilkins-McKee, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth M Wilkins-McKee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
I believe in treating the whole person, so let me introduce myself. I’ve been practicing as a licensed clinical social worker for 25 years (in Michigan, Vermont, and Virginia). I’m a second-generation mental health provider (and third-generation health care provider). I’m a singer, gardener, swimmer, reader, and traveler. I live in Manassas, Virginia with my husband and two awesome kids. And I love what I do. I’ve had the privilege of serving more than a thousand clients, people who have come to me with the desire to live a healthier and less painful life. I’ve had the joy of nurturing their growth and witnessing their healing.
I believe in treating the whole person, so let me introduce myself. I’ve been practicing as a licensed clinical social worker for 25 years (in Michigan, Vermont, and Virginia). I’m a second-generation mental health provider (and third-generation health care provider). I’m a singer, gardener, swimmer, reader, and traveler. I live in Manassas, Virginia with my husband and two awesome kids. And I love what I do. I’ve had the privilege of serving more than a thousand clients, people who have come to me with the desire to live a healthier and less painful life. I’ve had the joy of nurturing their growth and witnessing their healing.
(571) 771-2720 View (571) 771-2720
Photo of Kristi Gibney - Bridge to Balance LLC | Kristi Gibney MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bridge to Balance LLC | Kristi Gibney MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
I believe that balance is essential to living life to the fullest. My experience includes helping individuals overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, relationship issues, self-growth and stress management. In addition, myself and our providers at Bridge to Balance LLC are all trained in Christian counseling services which can be incorporated into your sessions when requested. I enjoy using creative approaches and skill-based learning with a variety of age groups including children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
I believe that balance is essential to living life to the fullest. My experience includes helping individuals overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, relationship issues, self-growth and stress management. In addition, myself and our providers at Bridge to Balance LLC are all trained in Christian counseling services which can be incorporated into your sessions when requested. I enjoy using creative approaches and skill-based learning with a variety of age groups including children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(540) 699-1768 View (540) 699-1768
1

Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.