Play Therapy in New Berlin, WI

Photo of Mary Plouff, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Plouff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Berlin, WI 53151
Waitlist for new clients
Is your Autistic child struggling socially, at school, at home or all of the above? Are you struggling with parenting your child? Do you feel that your child and you could use some strategies for better emotional regulation? I would be happy to help you and your family reach your goals. I provide psychotherapy to individuals of all ages with special interest in children and adolescents ages 3+. My experience includes years of working with children and families. I have provided services in schools, homes, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. In 2021 I began my private practice so that I can better serve my clients' needs.
Is your Autistic child struggling socially, at school, at home or all of the above? Are you struggling with parenting your child? Do you feel that your child and you could use some strategies for better emotional regulation? I would be happy to help you and your family reach your goals. I provide psychotherapy to individuals of all ages with special interest in children and adolescents ages 3+. My experience includes years of working with children and families. I have provided services in schools, homes, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. In 2021 I began my private practice so that I can better serve my clients' needs.
(414) 751-6647 View (414) 751-6647
Photo of Carmelita Aufdemberge, LPC, Counselor
Carmelita Aufdemberge
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
New Berlin, WI 53146  (Online Only)
Trusting people again after a traumatic relationship may seem impossible. Asking for help with stress may seem daunting. Traumatic stress may be making it difficult for you to function in daily tasks and to enjoy life the way you used to. Life changes may be making it hard for you to navigate your relationships and career. You may feel on-edge and may tend to doubt your feelings and thoughts, wondering if they’re valid. Getting help with life after a traumatic relationship doesn’t have to be scary. I am trained to move forward in a healthy way.
Trusting people again after a traumatic relationship may seem impossible. Asking for help with stress may seem daunting. Traumatic stress may be making it difficult for you to function in daily tasks and to enjoy life the way you used to. Life changes may be making it hard for you to navigate your relationships and career. You may feel on-edge and may tend to doubt your feelings and thoughts, wondering if they’re valid. Getting help with life after a traumatic relationship doesn’t have to be scary. I am trained to move forward in a healthy way.
(262) 300-5832 View (262) 300-5832
Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Waukesha, Psychologist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Waukesha
Psychologist
Verified Verified
New Berlin, WI 53151
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Waukesha understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Waukesha understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
(262) 747-2798 View (262) 747-2798
Photo of Jess Shaw {Modern Wellness} - Modern Wellness - Counseling Solutions, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Modern Wellness - Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Berlin, WI 53151  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
On the outside, it looks like you have it all together, but deep down you're filled with stress and anxiety. Are you trying to juggle everything, with little motivation and/or progress? It is a scary feeling that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, alone and stuck. Together we can work through life challenges, whether it involves current issues that interfere with daily life or past events that keep coming up. My goal is to open your mind, expand your thoughts on what is possible, to offer you a vision for your future, to enhance your current skills to create healthier ones. This is YOUR journey... Take charge today!
On the outside, it looks like you have it all together, but deep down you're filled with stress and anxiety. Are you trying to juggle everything, with little motivation and/or progress? It is a scary feeling that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, alone and stuck. Together we can work through life challenges, whether it involves current issues that interfere with daily life or past events that keep coming up. My goal is to open your mind, expand your thoughts on what is possible, to offer you a vision for your future, to enhance your current skills to create healthier ones. This is YOUR journey... Take charge today!
(414) 441-6006 View (414) 441-6006
Photo of Victoria Kirk-Julius, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Victoria Kirk-Julius
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Berlin, WI 53151
Let's be real. Life is exhausting and overwhelming. Regardless of what you’re experiencing, you don’t have to deal with it alone! Whether you are suffering from relationship issues, debilitating anxiety, overwhelming depression, low self-esteem, or everyday stress from feeling overworked and underappreciated, I am here to support you. As a therapist, I will strive to empower and emphasize your strengths, so life can feel more manageable again. I am here to work with you to create a safe, supportive and healing environment.
Let's be real. Life is exhausting and overwhelming. Regardless of what you’re experiencing, you don’t have to deal with it alone! Whether you are suffering from relationship issues, debilitating anxiety, overwhelming depression, low self-esteem, or everyday stress from feeling overworked and underappreciated, I am here to support you. As a therapist, I will strive to empower and emphasize your strengths, so life can feel more manageable again. I am here to work with you to create a safe, supportive and healing environment.
(262) 447-8850 View (262) 447-8850
Photo of Shelby Behnke, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Shelby Behnke
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
New Berlin, WI 53151
Reaching out for support can be difficult. Sometimes, the ideas of what we "should" do get overwhelming: we "should" be able to handle whatever life throws our way, and we "should" bear it alone, with grace and a smile on our face. Asking for help can feel scary. At the same time, it can also feel empowering.
Reaching out for support can be difficult. Sometimes, the ideas of what we "should" do get overwhelming: we "should" be able to handle whatever life throws our way, and we "should" bear it alone, with grace and a smile on our face. Asking for help can feel scary. At the same time, it can also feel empowering.
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Photo of Alison Trembacki, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Trembacki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Berlin, WI 53151  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Through cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, behavioral activation, and dialectical behavioral therapy, I help client identify their values and where they struggle to live in alignment and work towards fulfilling their life vision.
Alison has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults through individual and family therapy. I am a lyme literate therapist who understands the complexity of living with a chronic illness like lyme disease. In addition to working with clients that struggle with mood or neurodevelopment disorders, I also work with children using play therapy. My experience has provided me insight into the importance of the therapeutic role with each individual. I strive to connect with each individual client in order to help them through their struggles and reach their full potential.
Through cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, behavioral activation, and dialectical behavioral therapy, I help client identify their values and where they struggle to live in alignment and work towards fulfilling their life vision.
Alison has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults through individual and family therapy. I am a lyme literate therapist who understands the complexity of living with a chronic illness like lyme disease. In addition to working with clients that struggle with mood or neurodevelopment disorders, I also work with children using play therapy. My experience has provided me insight into the importance of the therapeutic role with each individual. I strive to connect with each individual client in order to help them through their struggles and reach their full potential.
(331) 260-9534 View (331) 260-9534

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Martha Haynes, MEd, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martha Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53146
I can offer various methods including play therapy, art, and Brainspotting.
Is your family not functioning at its best? Would you like your children to listen better? Are you out of ideas/energy to strategize the best way forward for your special needs child? Have you experienced trauma that seems ever present? Sometimes we just need another perspective, a listening ear, or new ideas to move forward.
I can offer various methods including play therapy, art, and Brainspotting.
Is your family not functioning at its best? Would you like your children to listen better? Are you out of ideas/energy to strategize the best way forward for your special needs child? Have you experienced trauma that seems ever present? Sometimes we just need another perspective, a listening ear, or new ideas to move forward.
(262) 228-2246 View (262) 228-2246
Photo of Catherine Ann Gierszewski, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Ann Gierszewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188
I have used client-centered, positive psychology, CBT, play therapy, talk therapy, and solution-focused techniques.
Working with my clients we discover their strengths and resiliency to overcome not only challenges they face today but future challenges as well. Finding the right tools that they can use effectively when life gets tough. I especially enjoy working with children as they explore the world and their place in it. Working with my clients is an honor and a privilege.
I have used client-centered, positive psychology, CBT, play therapy, talk therapy, and solution-focused techniques.
Working with my clients we discover their strengths and resiliency to overcome not only challenges they face today but future challenges as well. Finding the right tools that they can use effectively when life gets tough. I especially enjoy working with children as they explore the world and their place in it. Working with my clients is an honor and a privilege.
(262) 588-3775 View (262) 588-3775
Photo of Alisha Olson, MSW, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisha Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53186
I also use brainspotting, play therapy, and CBT to address the mind-body connection.
Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling to support yourself and your child through challenging behaviors or traumatic experiences? As a therapist specializing in infants, young children, and families, I understand the complexities youre feeling. I offer individual and joint therapy sessions for both children and caregivers. We focus on improving your child's mood, behavior, learning, and symptoms. For you, we can work on enhancing your mood, reducing parenting stress, trauma, anxiety, depression and finding yourself again! By exploring the all the dynamics, I will work to empower you to feel confident again.
I also use brainspotting, play therapy, and CBT to address the mind-body connection.
Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling to support yourself and your child through challenging behaviors or traumatic experiences? As a therapist specializing in infants, young children, and families, I understand the complexities youre feeling. I offer individual and joint therapy sessions for both children and caregivers. We focus on improving your child's mood, behavior, learning, and symptoms. For you, we can work on enhancing your mood, reducing parenting stress, trauma, anxiety, depression and finding yourself again! By exploring the all the dynamics, I will work to empower you to feel confident again.
(262) 846-5441 View (262) 846-5441
Photo of Patricia Ann Glatzel Clough, LPC, ATR, CSAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Ann Glatzel Clough
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, CSAS
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53186
Art Therapy helps children and adults to explore through emotions and feelings at possibly a quicker pace than talk therapy and offers a chance to play! This is a BIG deal for kids!.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and licensed Art Therapist who approaches counseling in a holistic standpoint, by incorporating cognitive understanding, and emotional support with the creative self. While participating in therapy does not require you to engage in the experiential arts, I do encourage self-expression to release blocked emotion within sensitive surroundings. Some of the important areas of work include building self-esteem, self-identity, and helping to overcome deficits such as anger, communication, anxiety, separation of the family unit, depression, and substance abuse counseling. Being able to recognize your individual strengths and building on them helps encourage personal empowerment!
Art Therapy helps children and adults to explore through emotions and feelings at possibly a quicker pace than talk therapy and offers a chance to play! This is a BIG deal for kids!.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and licensed Art Therapist who approaches counseling in a holistic standpoint, by incorporating cognitive understanding, and emotional support with the creative self. While participating in therapy does not require you to engage in the experiential arts, I do encourage self-expression to release blocked emotion within sensitive surroundings. Some of the important areas of work include building self-esteem, self-identity, and helping to overcome deficits such as anger, communication, anxiety, separation of the family unit, depression, and substance abuse counseling. Being able to recognize your individual strengths and building on them helps encourage personal empowerment!
(414) 269-3102 View (414) 269-3102
Photo of Lisa Ann Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Ann Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
I have experience working with children and families in many different settings over the past ten years. I have training and experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, ADHD, developmental and learning disabilities. I utilize CBT, solution focused, and play therapy.
I have experience working with children and families in many different settings over the past ten years. I have training and experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, ADHD, developmental and learning disabilities. I utilize CBT, solution focused, and play therapy.
(414) 269-3733 View (414) 269-3733
Photo of Isabel Kent, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isabel Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elm Grove, WI 53122
Are overwhelm, grief, rage, shame, etc. natural responses to living in systems that are often inequitable and unhealthy? If you feel taken over by such emotions, caught in behaviors that don't seem to help, or perhaps feel trapped in your own life, I would love to work with you. I am an anti-oppression practitioner. So, I want to work with people in a way that helps them see that they are inherently good, in spite of layers of social and cultural conditioning that may make them feel otherwise. Together we'll deconstruct the power dynamics at play in your life, and consider the multitude of factors that have created who you are.
Are overwhelm, grief, rage, shame, etc. natural responses to living in systems that are often inequitable and unhealthy? If you feel taken over by such emotions, caught in behaviors that don't seem to help, or perhaps feel trapped in your own life, I would love to work with you. I am an anti-oppression practitioner. So, I want to work with people in a way that helps them see that they are inherently good, in spite of layers of social and cultural conditioning that may make them feel otherwise. Together we'll deconstruct the power dynamics at play in your life, and consider the multitude of factors that have created who you are.
(414) 441-1785 View (414) 441-1785
Photo of Katrina Anderson, LPC-IT, Counselor
Katrina Anderson
Counselor, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53045
I take an integrative approach to my work using several modalities including, solution-focused therapy, CBT, DBT, and psychoeducation in sessions, as well as play therapy with my younger clients.
Appointments are available for ages 4+! I believe that finding a good therapist is about finding hope during hard times. Depression and anxiety are just a few examples of how distress can manifest in our lives and the lives of our loved ones. Therapy isn't about telling a client what to do or how to feel, but rather helping them gain a better understanding of "why" they - or a loved one - may be feeling or behaving in a particular way.
I take an integrative approach to my work using several modalities including, solution-focused therapy, CBT, DBT, and psychoeducation in sessions, as well as play therapy with my younger clients.
Appointments are available for ages 4+! I believe that finding a good therapist is about finding hope during hard times. Depression and anxiety are just a few examples of how distress can manifest in our lives and the lives of our loved ones. Therapy isn't about telling a client what to do or how to feel, but rather helping them gain a better understanding of "why" they - or a loved one - may be feeling or behaving in a particular way.
(262) 888-7330 View (262) 888-7330
Photo of Susan A. Ringle, MS, LPC, LPCC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan A. Ringle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188  (Online Only)
A sense of safety is critical for progress in psychotherapy, and I take care to provide that sense of safety for each person I serve. I appreciate the uniqueness of each person and family I encounter, and work in partnership with them to create their own unique healing process, based upon proven treatments, solid research, and recent advances in treatment protocol. I am a certified trauma counselor, registered play therapist, and Theraplay practitioner and trainer. I provide family therapy that prioritizes the value of each member of the family, healing individuals and relationships, and building or rebuilding healthy family dynamics.
A sense of safety is critical for progress in psychotherapy, and I take care to provide that sense of safety for each person I serve. I appreciate the uniqueness of each person and family I encounter, and work in partnership with them to create their own unique healing process, based upon proven treatments, solid research, and recent advances in treatment protocol. I am a certified trauma counselor, registered play therapist, and Theraplay practitioner and trainer. I provide family therapy that prioritizes the value of each member of the family, healing individuals and relationships, and building or rebuilding healthy family dynamics.
(262) 600-3145 View (262) 600-3145
Photo of Trisha S Wollin - Applied Therapies & Wellness Center, SC, LCSW, RPT, SAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Applied Therapies & Wellness Center, SC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT, SAC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
I incorporate the use of trauma-based techniques, play therapy, EMDR, theraplay, client centered, and cognitive behavioral techniques with individuals and children as young as 18 months.
In my 19 years of providing mental health therapy, I have strived to assist individuals to find elements of success in managing their emotions and behaviors on a day-to-day basis. As a believer in effective communication, I develop a nurturing environment for individuals and families that involves enthusiasm, flexibility, accountability, and a willingness to change and adapt. I am credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist, and a Substance Abuse Counselor. Please look at our website and see what our therapists have to offer! www.appliedtherapiesandwellness.com
I incorporate the use of trauma-based techniques, play therapy, EMDR, theraplay, client centered, and cognitive behavioral techniques with individuals and children as young as 18 months.
In my 19 years of providing mental health therapy, I have strived to assist individuals to find elements of success in managing their emotions and behaviors on a day-to-day basis. As a believer in effective communication, I develop a nurturing environment for individuals and families that involves enthusiasm, flexibility, accountability, and a willingness to change and adapt. I am credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist, and a Substance Abuse Counselor. Please look at our website and see what our therapists have to offer! www.appliedtherapiesandwellness.com
(262) 599-6349 View (262) 599-6349
Photo of Jessica Lange, MA, LPC, Counselor
Jessica Lange
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
My specialty is working with children, adolescents, and families. I provide a relaxed environment and friendly approach to therapy. I work to help my clients feel at ease and engaged during therapy sessions by utilizing play therapy, art, games, and imagination to help my younger clients communicate their feelings and practice new coping skills.
My specialty is working with children, adolescents, and families. I provide a relaxed environment and friendly approach to therapy. I work to help my clients feel at ease and engaged during therapy sessions by utilizing play therapy, art, games, and imagination to help my younger clients communicate their feelings and practice new coping skills.
(262) 684-2295 View (262) 684-2295
Photo of Alexander Waites, MS, MDiv, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexander Waites
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53220
I work with individuals of all ages, and specialize in couples counseling and child play therapy.
Does it seem like the same old struggles keep coming up? Do many of your relationships bring you more stress than joy? Is your family life tumultuous, or your child just not acting right? Do you want to change how you move in your world, but can’t figure out how? That’s where I come in! Often a fresh set of eyes can be just what we need to find our way forward, and a compassionate listener or a challenging conversation can help us move toward greater health.
I work with individuals of all ages, and specialize in couples counseling and child play therapy.
Does it seem like the same old struggles keep coming up? Do many of your relationships bring you more stress than joy? Is your family life tumultuous, or your child just not acting right? Do you want to change how you move in your world, but can’t figure out how? That’s where I come in! Often a fresh set of eyes can be just what we need to find our way forward, and a compassionate listener or a challenging conversation can help us move toward greater health.
(414) 895-6925 View (414) 895-6925
Photo of Jennifer Stagg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Stagg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53210
I like to incorporate art and play therapy techniques when appropriate.
In my 15+ years of clinical practice I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. I have given special focus to adolescents and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, and self-identity issues. I am always learning in order to increase my specialized focus on concerns related to anxiety, adoption and emerging adulthood. I enjoy working with the 10-25 year old age group but throughout my years of private practice I have worked with children as young as 5 and adults as young as 65. I hope to help clients find satisfaction in life.
I like to incorporate art and play therapy techniques when appropriate.
In my 15+ years of clinical practice I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. I have given special focus to adolescents and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, and self-identity issues. I am always learning in order to increase my specialized focus on concerns related to anxiety, adoption and emerging adulthood. I enjoy working with the 10-25 year old age group but throughout my years of private practice I have worked with children as young as 5 and adults as young as 65. I hope to help clients find satisfaction in life.
(414) 455-5978 View (414) 455-5978
Photo of Carrie Banaszak, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Banaszak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
I know that no one single approach is right for everyone, therefore I utilize a client-centered approach while incorporating therapeutic interventions rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment theory, Play therapy, and Brainspotting to promote healing and personal empowerment.
As an LPC, I value the healing potential of human connection and believe that sharing moments of loss, shame, joy, and disappointment can lead to stronger self-acceptance and connection with others. My priority is to provide a comfortable and safe space for you to talk about your personal issues and concerns. I am non-judgmental, patient, and understanding. I have 9+ years of experience working with neurodivergent individuals, those who experience ADHD, attachment wounds, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss, suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
I know that no one single approach is right for everyone, therefore I utilize a client-centered approach while incorporating therapeutic interventions rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment theory, Play therapy, and Brainspotting to promote healing and personal empowerment.
As an LPC, I value the healing potential of human connection and believe that sharing moments of loss, shame, joy, and disappointment can lead to stronger self-acceptance and connection with others. My priority is to provide a comfortable and safe space for you to talk about your personal issues and concerns. I am non-judgmental, patient, and understanding. I have 9+ years of experience working with neurodivergent individuals, those who experience ADHD, attachment wounds, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss, suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
(262) 346-9146 View (262) 346-9146

See more therapy options for New Berlin

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.