Play Therapy in Bennington, VT

Photo of Christian Weeks, LCMHC, Counselor
Christian Weeks
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bennington, VT 05201
In my work with children, I also utilize Play Therapy techniques to help them comfortably express and overcome challenges in their natural language.
I invite clients into a supportive atmosphere where they can share and explore their different emotions, experience empathy, and being fully heard. Clients will develop skills to better manage their upsets, fears, or relational challenges, both past and present. From a mindful perspective, I challenge clients to create a ‘half-full' mindset, to gradually move beyond emotional reactivity or overwhelm. Regardless of the challenge, clients will learn to see the opportunities in life, rather than falling victim to upsets, and will gradually move into a new way of being - one with a renewed sense of possibility, peace, and freedom.
In my work with children, I also utilize Play Therapy techniques to help them comfortably express and overcome challenges in their natural language.
I invite clients into a supportive atmosphere where they can share and explore their different emotions, experience empathy, and being fully heard. Clients will develop skills to better manage their upsets, fears, or relational challenges, both past and present. From a mindful perspective, I challenge clients to create a ‘half-full' mindset, to gradually move beyond emotional reactivity or overwhelm. Regardless of the challenge, clients will learn to see the opportunities in life, rather than falling victim to upsets, and will gradually move into a new way of being - one with a renewed sense of possibility, peace, and freedom.
(802) 402-4830 View (802) 402-4830
Photo of Scott J. Burg, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Scott J. Burg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Bennington, VT 05201
I work closely with my clients to build relationships based upon mutual trust and respect, together creating a therapeutic environment in which they can feel safe and understood. My work is focused on children and adolescents, although I also work with parents. I am trained in a variety of treatment approaches, including EMDR, CBT, attachment, mindfulness, and trauma-informed therapies. This allows me to choose the best approach for each client. Along with my clients (and their parents, when appropriate), we establish clear treatment goals, and work together to achieve them. Specialties include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Trauma.
I work closely with my clients to build relationships based upon mutual trust and respect, together creating a therapeutic environment in which they can feel safe and understood. My work is focused on children and adolescents, although I also work with parents. I am trained in a variety of treatment approaches, including EMDR, CBT, attachment, mindfulness, and trauma-informed therapies. This allows me to choose the best approach for each client. Along with my clients (and their parents, when appropriate), we establish clear treatment goals, and work together to achieve them. Specialties include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Trauma.
(802) 768-7580 View (802) 768-7580
Photo of Robin Jackelow, MA, LPC, LAC, AASECT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin Jackelow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bennington, VT 05201
I specialize in helping people overcome complex and “difficult-to-treat” problems. Clients often come to therapy feeling "stuck" and wanting more freedom in their choices. I work with clients to help identify and bring light to the strategies that we often use to avoid our feelings and keep us locked in patterns we want to shift.
I specialize in helping people overcome complex and “difficult-to-treat” problems. Clients often come to therapy feeling "stuck" and wanting more freedom in their choices. I work with clients to help identify and bring light to the strategies that we often use to avoid our feelings and keep us locked in patterns we want to shift.
(516) 629-0359 View (516) 629-0359
Photo of Emma Wood, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emma Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bennington, VT 05201
Waitlist for new clients
I work with couples, families, and individuals looking to strengthen feelings of connection as they navigate relational challenges, transitions, and changes. I have witnessed the powerful healing that can occur when people, like you, allow themselves to be vulnerable and courageous in seeking support. I work to create an environment where people can feel safe to share their stories and open up about their challenges, strengths, values, perspectives, and hopes for the future. I believe in the importance of understanding problems through a systemic lens and supporting people in creating meaningful and lasting changes in their lives.
I work with couples, families, and individuals looking to strengthen feelings of connection as they navigate relational challenges, transitions, and changes. I have witnessed the powerful healing that can occur when people, like you, allow themselves to be vulnerable and courageous in seeking support. I work to create an environment where people can feel safe to share their stories and open up about their challenges, strengths, values, perspectives, and hopes for the future. I believe in the importance of understanding problems through a systemic lens and supporting people in creating meaningful and lasting changes in their lives.
(802) 659-2338 View (802) 659-2338
Photo of Timothy W Latsko, MA, LPC , LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Timothy W Latsko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , LMFT
Verified Verified
Bennington, VT 05201  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is a lifelong arduous learning and self exploration process that will improve the quality of life. I approach therapy with genuineness, unconditional positive regard, accurate empathy, and respect. I will competently employ techniques in which I have received training to assist you in reaching your goals. Technics I may use are EMDR, hypnosis, confrontation, desensitization, homework, humor, imagery, 'I' statements, modeling, psychodrama, journal writing and role-playing. If through the course of psychotherapy an acceptable degree of progress is not reached, I will refer you to another licensed professional.
Psychotherapy is a lifelong arduous learning and self exploration process that will improve the quality of life. I approach therapy with genuineness, unconditional positive regard, accurate empathy, and respect. I will competently employ techniques in which I have received training to assist you in reaching your goals. Technics I may use are EMDR, hypnosis, confrontation, desensitization, homework, humor, imagery, 'I' statements, modeling, psychodrama, journal writing and role-playing. If through the course of psychotherapy an acceptable degree of progress is not reached, I will refer you to another licensed professional.
(843) 281-7622 View (843) 281-7622
Photo of Rachel Hill, LCMHC, NCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bennington, VT 05201  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Email inquiries preferred. Seeking support is a courageous first step toward growth, healing, and self-improvement. I am passionate about helping people make positive changes within themselves and their lives. I meet clients where they are at in their journey. Together we will work to explore strengths, practice skills, and to help alleviate distress. I use a range of therapeutic interventions that include, but are not limited to, cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered, narrative therapy, and mindfulness based approaches.
Email inquiries preferred. Seeking support is a courageous first step toward growth, healing, and self-improvement. I am passionate about helping people make positive changes within themselves and their lives. I meet clients where they are at in their journey. Together we will work to explore strengths, practice skills, and to help alleviate distress. I use a range of therapeutic interventions that include, but are not limited to, cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered, narrative therapy, and mindfulness based approaches.
(802) 242-8461 View (802) 242-8461

Online Therapists

Photo of Eve DesJardins, MA , MHC , DMT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eve DesJardins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA , MHC , DMT
Verified Verified
Chelsea, VT 05038
With children, their innate strengths, curiosities, and developmental milestones are the foundation of our therapeutic play.
My strength-based practice welcomes children, tweens, primary caregivers - and individual adults. I work with men, women and non binary individuals. In my role as therapist, I act as guide, collaborator, and psycho-educator to help clients learn how to relate to thoughts, feelings, and a new sense of being. I support people to transform struggles into challenges that provide opportunity for growth. In sitting with you and your experiences, I offer validation, radical acceptance and compassion. I also invite clients to speak their truth about how I can best serve them. In these ways we share trust.
With children, their innate strengths, curiosities, and developmental milestones are the foundation of our therapeutic play.
My strength-based practice welcomes children, tweens, primary caregivers - and individual adults. I work with men, women and non binary individuals. In my role as therapist, I act as guide, collaborator, and psycho-educator to help clients learn how to relate to thoughts, feelings, and a new sense of being. I support people to transform struggles into challenges that provide opportunity for growth. In sitting with you and your experiences, I offer validation, radical acceptance and compassion. I also invite clients to speak their truth about how I can best serve them. In these ways we share trust.
(802) 866-6599 View (802) 866-6599
Photo of Jennifer Overton, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Overton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
West Berlin, VT 05663
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently making a waitlist for new clients! Welcome to Joyful Otter Therapy. I offer in-person and telehealth counseling and psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults and families, ages 4 and up. Through a holistic approach, I strive to provide a safe and accessible environment to explore your strengths and needs, and develop goals that fit your current situation. Using evidence-based therapy, such as cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, and play therapy, I incorporate expressive arts to allow for more accessible treatment.
I am currently making a waitlist for new clients! Welcome to Joyful Otter Therapy. I offer in-person and telehealth counseling and psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults and families, ages 4 and up. Through a holistic approach, I strive to provide a safe and accessible environment to explore your strengths and needs, and develop goals that fit your current situation. Using evidence-based therapy, such as cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, and play therapy, I incorporate expressive arts to allow for more accessible treatment.
(802) 328-9434 View (802) 328-9434
Photo of Kara Dibble, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Dibble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, VT 05254
My specialized training includes EMDR, Sand Play Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga.
Now Accepting New Clients! I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach grounded in the biopsychosocial model, addressing the emotional, physical, and psychological aspects contributing to discomfort or life challenges. My clinical expertise spans working with trauma survivors of all ages, individuals managing chronic pain or complex medical conditions, those on the Autism Spectrum, and people seeking to overcome insecure attachment patterns affecting their relationships. If you're interested in exploring whether we're a good fit, feel free to reach out.
My specialized training includes EMDR, Sand Play Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga.
Now Accepting New Clients! I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach grounded in the biopsychosocial model, addressing the emotional, physical, and psychological aspects contributing to discomfort or life challenges. My clinical expertise spans working with trauma survivors of all ages, individuals managing chronic pain or complex medical conditions, those on the Autism Spectrum, and people seeking to overcome insecure attachment patterns affecting their relationships. If you're interested in exploring whether we're a good fit, feel free to reach out.
(732) 361-4332 View (732) 361-4332
Photo of Renee Kondos, LCMHC, MA, Counselor
Renee Kondos
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Brattleboro, VT 05301
Welcome to Hobbyhorse Counseling, LLC! My practice focuses on treating children and families that have experienced trauma, as well as working with those who experience trauma due to being marginalized by our society. I believe in focusing on strengths, spending time engaged in play, and building a team of supports to help achieve goals.
Welcome to Hobbyhorse Counseling, LLC! My practice focuses on treating children and families that have experienced trauma, as well as working with those who experience trauma due to being marginalized by our society. I believe in focusing on strengths, spending time engaged in play, and building a team of supports to help achieve goals.
(802) 808-6689 View (802) 808-6689
Photo of Morgan Leichter-Saxby, PhD, MA
Morgan Leichter-Saxby
PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Bellows Falls, VT 05101
Trauma-informed play support is incredibly impactful at all ages.
I work primarily with children who have experienced trauma, and adults who care for them. Perhaps you are a parent or professional, struggling with issues of self-regulation, motivation and burn-out. Whether activated by issues from your own childhood, or navigating complexities of practice, I can help you reflect and transform how you show up at work and in your creative life. Reconnect with what you love, and have more available for others.
Trauma-informed play support is incredibly impactful at all ages.
I work primarily with children who have experienced trauma, and adults who care for them. Perhaps you are a parent or professional, struggling with issues of self-regulation, motivation and burn-out. Whether activated by issues from your own childhood, or navigating complexities of practice, I can help you reflect and transform how you show up at work and in your creative life. Reconnect with what you love, and have more available for others.
(802) 424-9993 View (802) 424-9993
Photo of Cynthia Abry, LCMHC, CCATP, NCC, NCCMHC, Counselor
Cynthia Abry
Counselor, LCMHC, CCATP, NCC, NCCMHC
Verified Verified
Bradford, VT 05033  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is working with adolescents and adults to improve communication and facilitate healing from trauma and/or issues that are impacting life in a negative way. I have extensive experience working to address the effects of sexual and physical abuse history, PTSD, OCD, as well as anxiety and depression. I am passionate about working with women who are dealing with transitions, marital, relationship and other challenges. I focus on building a trusting relationship, identifying solutions and strengths in order to facilitate transformation. I am trained in IFS, EMDR, and Play Therapy, among other approaches.
My specialty is working with adolescents and adults to improve communication and facilitate healing from trauma and/or issues that are impacting life in a negative way. I have extensive experience working to address the effects of sexual and physical abuse history, PTSD, OCD, as well as anxiety and depression. I am passionate about working with women who are dealing with transitions, marital, relationship and other challenges. I focus on building a trusting relationship, identifying solutions and strengths in order to facilitate transformation. I am trained in IFS, EMDR, and Play Therapy, among other approaches.
(802) 529-4054 View (802) 529-4054
Photo of Rachel Elizabeth Clokey, MA, Counselor
Rachel Elizabeth Clokey
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Barre, VT 05641
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with individuals ranging in age from five years old through adulthood. I have experience with a wide range of individuals of various identities, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. I have specialized training in PTSD, trauma, anxiety, school-related issues, and behavioral disruption issues. I also have specialized training in working with children and adolescents and utilizing play therapy.
I have worked with individuals ranging in age from five years old through adulthood. I have experience with a wide range of individuals of various identities, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. I have specialized training in PTSD, trauma, anxiety, school-related issues, and behavioral disruption issues. I also have specialized training in working with children and adolescents and utilizing play therapy.
(802) 242-8408 View (802) 242-8408
Photo of Susan G Jacobs, MA, LCMHC, LADC, EMDR, DCC, Counselor
Susan G Jacobs
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LADC, EMDR, DCC
Verified Verified
Randolph, VT 05060
I incorporate visual guided imagery, play therapy, pictures, music, gentle body movements, in a calm and soothing environment.
I really appreciate clients who are willing to look at themselves and are brave enough to ask for help. Asking for help shows a desire to understand themselves on a deeper more spiritual level. I work with people going through transitions in life ages 4-94. It doesn't matter the age, it is the heart behind the age that counts. I work with individuals, family, couples, and those working on addictions issues that are facing crossroads in their life. Therapy gives hope and renewed vision and allows support to those facing the fear of change.
I incorporate visual guided imagery, play therapy, pictures, music, gentle body movements, in a calm and soothing environment.
I really appreciate clients who are willing to look at themselves and are brave enough to ask for help. Asking for help shows a desire to understand themselves on a deeper more spiritual level. I work with people going through transitions in life ages 4-94. It doesn't matter the age, it is the heart behind the age that counts. I work with individuals, family, couples, and those working on addictions issues that are facing crossroads in their life. Therapy gives hope and renewed vision and allows support to those facing the fear of change.
(802) 523-2848 View (802) 523-2848
Photo of N. Arielle Cohn, MS, Counselor
N. Arielle Cohn
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellows Falls, VT 05101
Waitlist for new clients
Based on your proclivity, I weave in art, music, nature, meditation, and play.
Drawing from evidence-based and holistic therapy practices, I support people of all ages, children, teens, families and adults, in handling stress, emotions, distressing thoughts, and limiting beliefs. As you move towards your values and goals through mind-body-based treatments, you will develop self-kindness, acceptance, inner strength, improved communication, boundaries, and empowerment along the way. Whether you are navigating challenging relationships, difficult life circumstances, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, suffering, or a desire to change your lifestyle or career, I will meet you where you are.
Based on your proclivity, I weave in art, music, nature, meditation, and play.
Drawing from evidence-based and holistic therapy practices, I support people of all ages, children, teens, families and adults, in handling stress, emotions, distressing thoughts, and limiting beliefs. As you move towards your values and goals through mind-body-based treatments, you will develop self-kindness, acceptance, inner strength, improved communication, boundaries, and empowerment along the way. Whether you are navigating challenging relationships, difficult life circumstances, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, suffering, or a desire to change your lifestyle or career, I will meet you where you are.
(802) 823-8944 View (802) 823-8944
Photo of Corrine Mertz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrine Mertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VT 05443
I use trauma-informed methods, and build trust through somatic practices such as play and movement to calm anxiety and lift depression.
Private pay openings: Bristol 9 or 10AM Tuesdays, Burlington Wednesdays 10.30 or 4PM, Thursdays 7PM: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I support marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is like having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and children alike, I utilize a modality called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
I use trauma-informed methods, and build trust through somatic practices such as play and movement to calm anxiety and lift depression.
Private pay openings: Bristol 9 or 10AM Tuesdays, Burlington Wednesdays 10.30 or 4PM, Thursdays 7PM: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I support marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is like having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and children alike, I utilize a modality called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Annie M Field, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie M Field
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753
I work with children & families. I believe that the relationship between children and families is essential to a child's well-being. When parents have the tools and education they need they are their children's best support and teachers. Parenting is the most challenging task you will undertake and when children encounter stress and difficulties it gets even harder. My goal is to support parents to have the tools they need to understand what their child is experiencing, and what the children may need from the parent and to support the parent and child along the way. I work with children 10 and under with two sub specalties
I work with children & families. I believe that the relationship between children and families is essential to a child's well-being. When parents have the tools and education they need they are their children's best support and teachers. Parenting is the most challenging task you will undertake and when children encounter stress and difficulties it gets even harder. My goal is to support parents to have the tools they need to understand what their child is experiencing, and what the children may need from the parent and to support the parent and child along the way. I work with children 10 and under with two sub specalties
(802) 278-9950 View (802) 278-9950
Photo of Tia Winter, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tia Winter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White River Junction, VT 05001
Waitlist for new clients
My particular interests are with infants, children, adolescents, and families. I specialize in working with trauma and attachment disorders as well as parenting skills. I also help with anxiety, depression, OCD, oppositional defiant disorder, and issues related to divorce. When working with parents and families, I focus on positive discipline techniques, and have been trained in child-parent psychotherapy (CPP), the attachment, self-regulation, and competence (ARC) model, Parent Management Training (PMT), and Helping the Noncompliant Child (HNC).
My particular interests are with infants, children, adolescents, and families. I specialize in working with trauma and attachment disorders as well as parenting skills. I also help with anxiety, depression, OCD, oppositional defiant disorder, and issues related to divorce. When working with parents and families, I focus on positive discipline techniques, and have been trained in child-parent psychotherapy (CPP), the attachment, self-regulation, and competence (ARC) model, Parent Management Training (PMT), and Helping the Noncompliant Child (HNC).
(802) 392-0469 View (802) 392-0469
Photo of Kyla Suarez, MS, RYT-500, Y4C, Registered Psychotherapist
Kyla Suarez
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, RYT-500, Y4C
Verified Verified
Hartland, VT 05048  (Online Only)
Please email to inquire about consultation. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to rediscover your truest self and remain an observant student to the challenges you are confronting. I will support you in facing fear so you can overcome challenges, achieve your goals and love yourself. You will learn ways to regulate your mind and body to support your goals and honor yourself. I support clients that are open and willing to dive deep and begin the practice of believing in themselves, remembering that you are amazing and loving your inner-child as well as connect to other inner-parts (IFS) of yourself.
Please email to inquire about consultation. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to rediscover your truest self and remain an observant student to the challenges you are confronting. I will support you in facing fear so you can overcome challenges, achieve your goals and love yourself. You will learn ways to regulate your mind and body to support your goals and honor yourself. I support clients that are open and willing to dive deep and begin the practice of believing in themselves, remembering that you are amazing and loving your inner-child as well as connect to other inner-parts (IFS) of yourself.
(802) 222-8938 View (802) 222-8938
Photo of Susannah Davis, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Susannah Davis
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Barre, VT 05641
I offer a combination of therapeutic modalities to help pre-teens, adolescents, and adults navigate and cope with their diverse life experiences. My approach is warm, relational, and client-centered, creating a non-judgmental space to explore feelings and concerns. We will discuss and agree upon your therapeutic goals at the outset, and then start the journey toward better life balance and understanding.
I offer a combination of therapeutic modalities to help pre-teens, adolescents, and adults navigate and cope with their diverse life experiences. My approach is warm, relational, and client-centered, creating a non-judgmental space to explore feelings and concerns. We will discuss and agree upon your therapeutic goals at the outset, and then start the journey toward better life balance and understanding.
(802) 992-1852 View (802) 992-1852

Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Bennington

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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.