Play Therapy in Seattle, WA
Alexandria Scalone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
I am a play therapist who specializes in teens and young adults. I empower parents and children of all ages to resolve relationship conflicts, boosting parental confidence in handling children's emotions, while equipping children with vital emotional skills for independent problem-solving, fostering stronger attachment bonds and healthier relationships. Your child may be experiencing anxiety, depression, perfectionist behavior, and stress. Sometimes it's hard to talk about our problems, that's why my therapy sessions are often experiential.
I am a play therapist who specializes in teens and young adults. I empower parents and children of all ages to resolve relationship conflicts, boosting parental confidence in handling children's emotions, while equipping children with vital emotional skills for independent problem-solving, fostering stronger attachment bonds and healthier relationships. Your child may be experiencing anxiety, depression, perfectionist behavior, and stress. Sometimes it's hard to talk about our problems, that's why my therapy sessions are often experiential.
I incorporate play and art to enhance the therapy experience and provide a comfortable atmosphere for growth and change.
I believe Success in therapy is built on the strengths you have within. Whether you are a young child, a teen an adult or a family, I will work with you to find those strengths and use them to find the change you are looking for.
I work with individuals and families on issues ranging from depression and anxiety, behavior problems, school problems, and family conflict. I work with families with children of all ages. Whether working individually or with a family, I approach clinical issues from a systemic point of view.
I incorporate play and art to enhance the therapy experience and provide a comfortable atmosphere for growth and change.
I believe Success in therapy is built on the strengths you have within. Whether you are a young child, a teen an adult or a family, I will work with you to find those strengths and use them to find the change you are looking for.
I work with individuals and families on issues ranging from depression and anxiety, behavior problems, school problems, and family conflict. I work with families with children of all ages. Whether working individually or with a family, I approach clinical issues from a systemic point of view.
Stephen Plotz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
For younger kids, I use Family Play Therapy (a short-term approach where parents learn play therapist skills to use at home).
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA) who uses both talk & play therapy. My office is located in Seattle's Fremont Neighborhood. In therapy, your life takes priority; first and foremost, I am here to be with & listen to you. I am trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and welcome persons of all genders, sexual orientations, and systemic lifestyles. I treat all clients with unconditional positive regard. I am currently accepting new clients; please use the 'contact me' form-link which is accessible at the top of my website.
For younger kids, I use Family Play Therapy (a short-term approach where parents learn play therapist skills to use at home).
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA) who uses both talk & play therapy. My office is located in Seattle's Fremont Neighborhood. In therapy, your life takes priority; first and foremost, I am here to be with & listen to you. I am trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and welcome persons of all genders, sexual orientations, and systemic lifestyles. I treat all clients with unconditional positive regard. I am currently accepting new clients; please use the 'contact me' form-link which is accessible at the top of my website.
Suzra Martha Antoine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
Evidence-based practices I uses are Cognitive behavioral therapy, Dialectical behavioral therapy, Trauma- Play, Play Therapy, TF-CBT, Art Therapy, and mindfulness/coping skills.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, trauma, and multiple mental health diagnoses? I assist clients in healing from trauma, helping youth, adolescents, and adults cope with life stressors, and low self-esteem. I also assist individuals in identifying their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, establishing goals, empowering individuals to believe in themselves by offering compassion and support to clients in learning different coping skills to overcome life's stressors.
Evidence-based practices I uses are Cognitive behavioral therapy, Dialectical behavioral therapy, Trauma- Play, Play Therapy, TF-CBT, Art Therapy, and mindfulness/coping skills.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, trauma, and multiple mental health diagnoses? I assist clients in healing from trauma, helping youth, adolescents, and adults cope with life stressors, and low self-esteem. I also assist individuals in identifying their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, establishing goals, empowering individuals to believe in themselves by offering compassion and support to clients in learning different coping skills to overcome life's stressors.
Michelle Schneider
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Welcome. As a family therapist, I am passionate about coming alongside families to support them through the the more difficult moments of life. I work with children of all ages and their families to improve issues of anxiety, depression, family conflict, trauma, attachment, tantrums and more. I also work with parents to help support finding their confidence in parenting and self, as often parenting can feel like your entire identity, we work to find balance to give space to all the pieces of you. I help create change through play, art, conversation, and connection with caregivers.
Welcome. As a family therapist, I am passionate about coming alongside families to support them through the the more difficult moments of life. I work with children of all ages and their families to improve issues of anxiety, depression, family conflict, trauma, attachment, tantrums and more. I also work with parents to help support finding their confidence in parenting and self, as often parenting can feel like your entire identity, we work to find balance to give space to all the pieces of you. I help create change through play, art, conversation, and connection with caregivers.
Julianna Astaire (Buckmiller)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients from a strengths-based perspective, focusing on resilience development and a collaborative process. I take into consideration where the child or adolescent is truly at and what is going to best engage them—be it artistic expression, play therapy, narrative therapy, creative writing/journaling, or more structured interventions. I focus on the fulfilled development of the whole individual, taking into account a systems approach, intersectionality, and developmental psychology. My approach is deeply rooted in attachment theory; focusing on developing a healthy bond to better facilitate trust and overall growth.
I work with clients from a strengths-based perspective, focusing on resilience development and a collaborative process. I take into consideration where the child or adolescent is truly at and what is going to best engage them—be it artistic expression, play therapy, narrative therapy, creative writing/journaling, or more structured interventions. I focus on the fulfilled development of the whole individual, taking into account a systems approach, intersectionality, and developmental psychology. My approach is deeply rooted in attachment theory; focusing on developing a healthy bond to better facilitate trust and overall growth.
Chessie Rebecca Snider
Counselor, MEd-MHP, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
I use Parent Coaching, somatic approaches, Internal Family Systems, the Neurorelational Framework, Child-Centered Play, Multimodal, ND Affirming DBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, & Narrative Therapy.
I’m an individual & family therapist with a background based in research and evidence based practice. I provide support for kids, adults & caregivers in transition & needing support with life’s many challenges. I specialize in skill building for friendships, trans affirming treatment, emotional dysregulation, confidence, general anxiety & grief. My goal is to provide a space for adults, parents & children to engage in therapy to promote strong bonds within themselves & community, and become a self-sufficient unit outside of my care. I look forward to connecting with you and/or your family!
I use Parent Coaching, somatic approaches, Internal Family Systems, the Neurorelational Framework, Child-Centered Play, Multimodal, ND Affirming DBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, & Narrative Therapy.
I’m an individual & family therapist with a background based in research and evidence based practice. I provide support for kids, adults & caregivers in transition & needing support with life’s many challenges. I specialize in skill building for friendships, trans affirming treatment, emotional dysregulation, confidence, general anxiety & grief. My goal is to provide a space for adults, parents & children to engage in therapy to promote strong bonds within themselves & community, and become a self-sufficient unit outside of my care. I look forward to connecting with you and/or your family!
Rachael Blair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
My therapeutic practice incorporates evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play, Art and Expressive Therapies, Narrative Therapy and others.
I have a passion for working with young adults 18-35 and adolescents 13 and older, who are exploring their identities and trying to create their place in the world. Whether this includes healing past trauma, increasing coping skills or changing relational patterns, our work together can address a variety of topics, like increasing healthy coping strategies for anxiety and depression, breaking the cycle of perfectionism and self-judgment, increasing self-compassion, LGBTQIA+ identity exploration, family of origin issues and learning how to set healthy boundaries in relationships.
My therapeutic practice incorporates evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play, Art and Expressive Therapies, Narrative Therapy and others.
I have a passion for working with young adults 18-35 and adolescents 13 and older, who are exploring their identities and trying to create their place in the world. Whether this includes healing past trauma, increasing coping skills or changing relational patterns, our work together can address a variety of topics, like increasing healthy coping strategies for anxiety and depression, breaking the cycle of perfectionism and self-judgment, increasing self-compassion, LGBTQIA+ identity exploration, family of origin issues and learning how to set healthy boundaries in relationships.
“Children don’t get traumatized because they get hurt. They get traumatized because they’re alone with the hurt.” -Dr. Gabor Mate. I am a therapist specializing in the challenges faced by children and parents. I have over a decade of experience working with children of all ages (and their parents) as their teacher, coach, and counselor. For younger clients, I provide play therapy using storytelling, art, and self-expression to build emotional well-being. For older clients, I offer supportive talk therapy that gives them space to process struggles with relationships, academics, learning differences, anxiety, and pressure to achieve.
“Children don’t get traumatized because they get hurt. They get traumatized because they’re alone with the hurt.” -Dr. Gabor Mate. I am a therapist specializing in the challenges faced by children and parents. I have over a decade of experience working with children of all ages (and their parents) as their teacher, coach, and counselor. For younger clients, I provide play therapy using storytelling, art, and self-expression to build emotional well-being. For older clients, I offer supportive talk therapy that gives them space to process struggles with relationships, academics, learning differences, anxiety, and pressure to achieve.
Our Seattle- based staff therapists have specializations in play therapy, trauma therapy (via Brainspotting and EMDR) and ketamine therapy.
Have you tried other therapists but did not seem to connect? Our staff bring mindfulness and cutting-edge healing opportunities so you have access to the deepest healing possible. From ketamine therapy to brainspotting to play therapy, the Mindful Springs Counseling staff are trained and certified in many different areas to meet the needs of our clients without bias or judgement. We want our clients to heal, move forward and transform their lives in the safest space possible, while offering real opportunity for healing and recovery.
Our Seattle- based staff therapists have specializations in play therapy, trauma therapy (via Brainspotting and EMDR) and ketamine therapy.
Have you tried other therapists but did not seem to connect? Our staff bring mindfulness and cutting-edge healing opportunities so you have access to the deepest healing possible. From ketamine therapy to brainspotting to play therapy, the Mindful Springs Counseling staff are trained and certified in many different areas to meet the needs of our clients without bias or judgement. We want our clients to heal, move forward and transform their lives in the safest space possible, while offering real opportunity for healing and recovery.
These include Modern Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Stress Management, Behavioral Medicine, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming), Guided Imagery, Play Therapy, Parental Counseling, Psychodrama, Meditation, and Spiritual Counseling.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
These include Modern Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Stress Management, Behavioral Medicine, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming), Guided Imagery, Play Therapy, Parental Counseling, Psychodrama, Meditation, and Spiritual Counseling.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
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Teen And Young Adult Therapist Patricia Candela-Hagen
For younger clients, I integrate play therapy, art therapy, and sandtray therapy alongside EMDR, offering a holistic approach to healing and growth.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA), EMDR clinician, School Counselor and owner of Katie Waller Counseling Services, serving the greater Seattle area. I offer compassionate therapy for individuals of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. With specialized training in supporting neurodivergent children, I provide tailored interventions to meet their unique needs. My approach focuses on creating a safe space for exploration and growth, empowering clients to navigate their emotions and build resilience.
For younger clients, I integrate play therapy, art therapy, and sandtray therapy alongside EMDR, offering a holistic approach to healing and growth.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA), EMDR clinician, School Counselor and owner of Katie Waller Counseling Services, serving the greater Seattle area. I offer compassionate therapy for individuals of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. With specialized training in supporting neurodivergent children, I provide tailored interventions to meet their unique needs. My approach focuses on creating a safe space for exploration and growth, empowering clients to navigate their emotions and build resilience.
I have a masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy and I am a registered play therapist.
It takes courage to reach out for support during times of struggle and hardship. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment where clients can build self-awareness, a feeling of wellbeing and confidence, and coping skills to face life transitions and obstacles. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities from experiential therapies ( play, art, and sand tray) with young clients, to cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and narrative therapy for older clients. I believe in tailoring a therapeutic approach that is specific to the individual needs of each client.
I have a masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy and I am a registered play therapist.
It takes courage to reach out for support during times of struggle and hardship. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment where clients can build self-awareness, a feeling of wellbeing and confidence, and coping skills to face life transitions and obstacles. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities from experiential therapies ( play, art, and sand tray) with young clients, to cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and narrative therapy for older clients. I believe in tailoring a therapeutic approach that is specific to the individual needs of each client.
I strive to create relationships based on acceptance in a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment and only utilize evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral and play therapies.
Even the most talkative child may not have the words to accurately and effectively communicate his/her/their emotions, experiences and needs. This can make a child feel frustrated, sad and misunderstood. As a result, some children may express themselves through aggressive behavior, impulsivity and defiance. Other children might direct their feelings inward and withdraw from social activities, become fearful or experience hopelessness and loneliness. Both externalizing and internalizing behaviors may lead to trouble concentrating, academic difficulties, somatic concerns (stomach aches and headaches) or changes in sleeping or eating.
I strive to create relationships based on acceptance in a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment and only utilize evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral and play therapies.
Even the most talkative child may not have the words to accurately and effectively communicate his/her/their emotions, experiences and needs. This can make a child feel frustrated, sad and misunderstood. As a result, some children may express themselves through aggressive behavior, impulsivity and defiance. Other children might direct their feelings inward and withdraw from social activities, become fearful or experience hopelessness and loneliness. Both externalizing and internalizing behaviors may lead to trouble concentrating, academic difficulties, somatic concerns (stomach aches and headaches) or changes in sleeping or eating.
Carly Cassidy
Mental Health Counselor Associate, LPCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Ihave experience with play therapy and animal assisted therapy.
As a therapist, I enjoy working with young adults,teens,and adolescents. Life can be difficult and overwhelming at times. It is my goal to work together with my clients to help them take steps to deal with lifes challenges. Anxiety, depression, and Low self-esteem are real issues, and I believe that we can develop strategies to grow and love ourselves and others. Therapy provides a connection and a chance to grow and change within any circumstances you may be experiencing.
Ihave experience with play therapy and animal assisted therapy.
As a therapist, I enjoy working with young adults,teens,and adolescents. Life can be difficult and overwhelming at times. It is my goal to work together with my clients to help them take steps to deal with lifes challenges. Anxiety, depression, and Low self-esteem are real issues, and I believe that we can develop strategies to grow and love ourselves and others. Therapy provides a connection and a chance to grow and change within any circumstances you may be experiencing.
Amanda Fowler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with teens and young adults, spanning ages 13 to 35. With extensive expertise in assisting neurodivergent individuals and those within the LGBTQ+ community, I welcome anyone seeking care through creative or somatic methodologies. Employing a holistic therapeutic approach, my methods integrate cognitive and somatic interventions, drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Synergetic Play Therapy, Cognitive Processing, Polyvagal Therapy, and Mindfulness. It is my fervent commitment to empower every individual I work with, ensuring they feel
I enjoy working with teens and young adults, spanning ages 13 to 35. With extensive expertise in assisting neurodivergent individuals and those within the LGBTQ+ community, I welcome anyone seeking care through creative or somatic methodologies. Employing a holistic therapeutic approach, my methods integrate cognitive and somatic interventions, drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Synergetic Play Therapy, Cognitive Processing, Polyvagal Therapy, and Mindfulness. It is my fervent commitment to empower every individual I work with, ensuring they feel
Madeleine Bloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
When working with children, I utilize art therapy, play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy, mindfulness, and emotional regulation techniques.
Hello! Welcome to therapy. I’m Madeleine. If you are seeking therapy, you may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family/relationship issues, or perhaps you just need someone to talk to without fear of being judged. I use a collaborative approach and believe that you are the expert in your own life. We will work together to identify any patterns of behavior that you feel are interfering with your life, discuss the ways your family, environment, and society may be reinforcing these, and develop the skills to alter or cope with these patterns more effectively.
When working with children, I utilize art therapy, play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy, mindfulness, and emotional regulation techniques.
Hello! Welcome to therapy. I’m Madeleine. If you are seeking therapy, you may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family/relationship issues, or perhaps you just need someone to talk to without fear of being judged. I use a collaborative approach and believe that you are the expert in your own life. We will work together to identify any patterns of behavior that you feel are interfering with your life, discuss the ways your family, environment, and society may be reinforcing these, and develop the skills to alter or cope with these patterns more effectively.
When seeing children/teens, I often incorporate play and creative expression.
Mental health struggles can make it challenging for anyone to enjoy their life fully. It is my passion to support others in finding healing in whatever way that feels right and useful for them. I believe in creating a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for therapy, in which each client can show up as they are. I have extensive training and experience with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and I also have a lot of experience (clinical and personal) working with neurodiverse individuals, particularly with ADHD.
When seeing children/teens, I often incorporate play and creative expression.
Mental health struggles can make it challenging for anyone to enjoy their life fully. It is my passion to support others in finding healing in whatever way that feels right and useful for them. I believe in creating a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for therapy, in which each client can show up as they are. I have extensive training and experience with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and I also have a lot of experience (clinical and personal) working with neurodiverse individuals, particularly with ADHD.
I use CBT informed play therapy, supportive therapy and skill building.
Every life is a series of transitions, some of which can feel impossible to navigate. People and families can often feel ‘stuck’ in their current struggles and unable to overcome the challenges and changes they are experiencing. Whether the tough moments are navigating issues in daily life or processing landmark events such as pregnancy or parenthood, the need for support is valid and you don’t have to push through alone. Therapy helps you develop the tools and knowledge needed to bring out your unique strengths and abilities. No matter what age or life stage you are in, healing is possible.
I use CBT informed play therapy, supportive therapy and skill building.
Every life is a series of transitions, some of which can feel impossible to navigate. People and families can often feel ‘stuck’ in their current struggles and unable to overcome the challenges and changes they are experiencing. Whether the tough moments are navigating issues in daily life or processing landmark events such as pregnancy or parenthood, the need for support is valid and you don’t have to push through alone. Therapy helps you develop the tools and knowledge needed to bring out your unique strengths and abilities. No matter what age or life stage you are in, healing is possible.
Darcy Greene
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I use Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), and Structural, Emotionally Focused, Collaborative and Person Centered Therapies in my practice.
Fall brings many transitions and for a lot of kids and parents/caregivers, back-to-school worries. For adults, the upcoming season can feel like a new beginning, but what if you are unsure where to start? If you are looking for support for yourself, your child or your family, I have current openings Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Therapy with me is a collaborative process. I want to hear about your hopes and dreams and co-create a plan for you to meet them.
I use Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), and Structural, Emotionally Focused, Collaborative and Person Centered Therapies in my practice.
Fall brings many transitions and for a lot of kids and parents/caregivers, back-to-school worries. For adults, the upcoming season can feel like a new beginning, but what if you are unsure where to start? If you are looking for support for yourself, your child or your family, I have current openings Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Therapy with me is a collaborative process. I want to hear about your hopes and dreams and co-create a plan for you to meet them.
See more therapy options for Seattle
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Seattle
- Bainbridge Island
- Bellevue
- Bothell
- Burien
- Kenmore
- Kirkland
- Lake Forest Park
- Lynnwood
- Medina
- Mercer Island
- Shoreline
- Tukwila
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.