Play Therapy in Shorewood, WI

Photo of Sarah P. La Follette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah P. La Follette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shorewood, WI 53211
My preferred therapy styles include strengths-based talk therapy, CBT, Brainspotting, play therapy, and meditation for deep seated troubles/trauma from childhood sexual, emotional, physical abuse and neglect.
You deserve to be happy. No matter what has happened, or where you've been. We all have troubles, and we all need a little help sometimes. I am here to help you figure things out. You hold the key to getting better. You know yourself better than anyone, but sometimes when we're close to an issue it's hard to see the bigger picture or the best solutions. We will work together in a safe, non-judgmental space.
My preferred therapy styles include strengths-based talk therapy, CBT, Brainspotting, play therapy, and meditation for deep seated troubles/trauma from childhood sexual, emotional, physical abuse and neglect.
You deserve to be happy. No matter what has happened, or where you've been. We all have troubles, and we all need a little help sometimes. I am here to help you figure things out. You hold the key to getting better. You know yourself better than anyone, but sometimes when we're close to an issue it's hard to see the bigger picture or the best solutions. We will work together in a safe, non-judgmental space.
(414) 251-1413 View (414) 251-1413
Photo of Lauri Budzynski, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauri Budzynski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211
I use play therapy, art therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, & solution-focused therapy.
Is your child stressful? Do they get anxious more than their friends? Is your child or teen down & unmotivated? Is your family adjusting to adoption or foster care, or maybe a recent death or divorce in the family? Are you a young adult who isn't sure about what next steps are or maybe life is just really hard? If any part of these questions resonated with you, please reach out. Clients describe me as down to earth, easy to talk to, works well in crisis situations, & is non-judgmental. In my free time you can find me by Lake Michigan with a cup of coffee, on a walk with my family, finding new houseplants, or gardening outside.
I use play therapy, art therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, & solution-focused therapy.
Is your child stressful? Do they get anxious more than their friends? Is your child or teen down & unmotivated? Is your family adjusting to adoption or foster care, or maybe a recent death or divorce in the family? Are you a young adult who isn't sure about what next steps are or maybe life is just really hard? If any part of these questions resonated with you, please reach out. Clients describe me as down to earth, easy to talk to, works well in crisis situations, & is non-judgmental. In my free time you can find me by Lake Michigan with a cup of coffee, on a walk with my family, finding new houseplants, or gardening outside.
(414) 240-5906 View (414) 240-5906
Photo of Tayler Clark, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tayler Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211
New client spots available... Licensed in WI,IL,CO & FL(by endorsement). I identify as a Bi/queer cis woman (she/her) who was late diagnosed as ADHD. I provide LGBTQI+ and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy. I also provide therapy to those involved in Adoption & Foster through the TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) approach. We go against the grain of “typical” & how “things should be” & focus instead on what works for you. Are you ready to dig into root issues, explore your identity, set boundaries, communicate your needs and build healthy coping skills?
New client spots available... Licensed in WI,IL,CO & FL(by endorsement). I identify as a Bi/queer cis woman (she/her) who was late diagnosed as ADHD. I provide LGBTQI+ and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy. I also provide therapy to those involved in Adoption & Foster through the TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) approach. We go against the grain of “typical” & how “things should be” & focus instead on what works for you. Are you ready to dig into root issues, explore your identity, set boundaries, communicate your needs and build healthy coping skills?
View
Photo of Kristin Belkofer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Belkofer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211
I believe that human connection, compassion, and empathy are key to our wellness and becoming our authentic selves. As a psychotherapist, I use an integrative approach that is client-centered, insight oriented, and rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of stress and trauma on the body, mind, and relationships. Together we will create goals and a holistic plan to foster your strengths and empower you to live your best life possible.
I believe that human connection, compassion, and empathy are key to our wellness and becoming our authentic selves. As a psychotherapist, I use an integrative approach that is client-centered, insight oriented, and rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of stress and trauma on the body, mind, and relationships. Together we will create goals and a holistic plan to foster your strengths and empower you to live your best life possible.
(414) 509-0880 View (414) 509-0880
Photo of Laurie Yinko Groh, MS, LPC, SAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laurie Yinko Groh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211  (Online Only)
Need supervision or private practice consultation? Looking for a supervisor to help you grow as a professional? I understand the difficulties that go into developing professionally. With my supervision and consulting services, I can focus on helping wellness providers improve their work and their business. This isn't just about talking- it's understanding why we think what we do and how we can shift our mindsets when needed. Let me show you ways to improve your craft through individual or group supervision and consulting services so that you leave feeling an improved sense of confidence.
Need supervision or private practice consultation? Looking for a supervisor to help you grow as a professional? I understand the difficulties that go into developing professionally. With my supervision and consulting services, I can focus on helping wellness providers improve their work and their business. This isn't just about talking- it's understanding why we think what we do and how we can shift our mindsets when needed. Let me show you ways to improve your craft through individual or group supervision and consulting services so that you leave feeling an improved sense of confidence.
(262) 684-2299 View (262) 684-2299
Photo of Devon Armstrong, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devon Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211
Hello hello! I work either in-person w/nature in local parks or virtually via zoom! If we walk or sit together, we'll work following your lead with gentle nudges into the abyss (metaphorically, unless you enjoy muddy!), seeing through blinders, and remembering accomplishments. As for me? I'm a human reclaiming my humanity. I'm recovering from the dominating social order of straight, cis-white men steeped in racism, sexism, patriarchy, homophobia, colonialism, ableism and all the oppressions dreaming of an equitable and environmentally friendly society. (deeply & vaguely spiritual, not religious).
Hello hello! I work either in-person w/nature in local parks or virtually via zoom! If we walk or sit together, we'll work following your lead with gentle nudges into the abyss (metaphorically, unless you enjoy muddy!), seeing through blinders, and remembering accomplishments. As for me? I'm a human reclaiming my humanity. I'm recovering from the dominating social order of straight, cis-white men steeped in racism, sexism, patriarchy, homophobia, colonialism, ableism and all the oppressions dreaming of an equitable and environmentally friendly society. (deeply & vaguely spiritual, not religious).
(414) 240-8415 View (414) 240-8415
Photo of Laurin LaBonte, MS, LPC, ATR, Counselor
Laurin LaBonte
Counselor, MS, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211
My name is Laurin and I have experience working with children (6+), teens, and adults. As a therapist, I believe families are a system and work to include parents in their child's treatment goals. When working with children, I believe working side by side with caregivers is essential to effective treatment. I am a licensed professional counselor and am a registered Art therapist in the state of Wisconsin. I come from a trauma informed background and have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, life changes, etc.
My name is Laurin and I have experience working with children (6+), teens, and adults. As a therapist, I believe families are a system and work to include parents in their child's treatment goals. When working with children, I believe working side by side with caregivers is essential to effective treatment. I am a licensed professional counselor and am a registered Art therapist in the state of Wisconsin. I come from a trauma informed background and have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, life changes, etc.
(414) 251-1959 View (414) 251-1959
Photo of Darcy Thompson, MSW, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darcy Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211
Hello! I am so excited to work with you on your treatment goals. I received my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where I studied and practiced Trauma-Informed care, Person-Centered treatment approaches and Solution-Focused therapies. I also have experience using Motivational Interviewing, Crisis Stabilization and Intervention, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotion-Regulation practices.
Hello! I am so excited to work with you on your treatment goals. I received my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where I studied and practiced Trauma-Informed care, Person-Centered treatment approaches and Solution-Focused therapies. I also have experience using Motivational Interviewing, Crisis Stabilization and Intervention, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotion-Regulation practices.
(414) 348-0043 View (414) 348-0043
Photo of Sarah Kate Rosenblatt, APSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Kate Rosenblatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211
In addition to seeing adults, I do thera play, this modality builds positive, warm, relationships between parent and child.
“Hope is the thing with feathers – That perches in the soul – And sings the tune without the words-and never stops at all.” Emily Dickinson. Hope begins the journey for each of us to become the person we want to be. With positive unconditional regard and someone who listens, we humans naturally gravitate to feel comfort in who we are. We move toward health, self discovery, and compassion for ourselves and others. I’m passionate about being part of each person’s journey, focusing on each individual’s strengths and resilience. Clients also become comfortable in their bodies as healing our bodies facilitates mental and physical health.
In addition to seeing adults, I do thera play, this modality builds positive, warm, relationships between parent and child.
“Hope is the thing with feathers – That perches in the soul – And sings the tune without the words-and never stops at all.” Emily Dickinson. Hope begins the journey for each of us to become the person we want to be. With positive unconditional regard and someone who listens, we humans naturally gravitate to feel comfort in who we are. We move toward health, self discovery, and compassion for ourselves and others. I’m passionate about being part of each person’s journey, focusing on each individual’s strengths and resilience. Clients also become comfortable in their bodies as healing our bodies facilitates mental and physical health.
(414) 240-8102 View (414) 240-8102

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Diana Dietzman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Dietzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
"Your vision will become clear when you look into your heart, who looks outside dreams, who looks inside awakens", Carl Jung. Temenos means sacred space and Sand Play Therapy is about the individual's free and protective space. Temenos Counseling Services can provide a free and protective sacred space to heal the trauma and awaken the vision within yourself.
"Your vision will become clear when you look into your heart, who looks outside dreams, who looks inside awakens", Carl Jung. Temenos means sacred space and Sand Play Therapy is about the individual's free and protective space. Temenos Counseling Services can provide a free and protective sacred space to heal the trauma and awaken the vision within yourself.
(414) 292-9488 View (414) 292-9488
Photo of Alisha Olson, MSW, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisha Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Whitefish Bay, WI 53211
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 Kennae Demus, LPC IT, LPC Intern
Kennae Demus
LPC Intern, LPC IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
I am a compassionate mental health counselor in-training dedicated to fostering healing and growth through a holistic approach. With a passion for integrating art and play into their practice, I believe in the power of creative expression and playfulness to unlock emotional insights and facilitate healing. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. My approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, recognizing each individual’s unique journey towards wellness.
I am a compassionate mental health counselor in-training dedicated to fostering healing and growth through a holistic approach. With a passion for integrating art and play into their practice, I believe in the power of creative expression and playfulness to unlock emotional insights and facilitate healing. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. My approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, recognizing each individual’s unique journey towards wellness.
(414) 895-0578 View (414) 895-0578
Photo of Cynthia B Vian - Avian Psychotherapy, MA, MS, LPC, Counselor
Avian Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My office on the east side is a low keyed space where anyone can feel welcome and at home to talk ( or play or draw or write) about what is bothering them.
My practice is half children and half adults. Having fostered and adopted myself, I am particularly skilled to assist foster and adoptive family needs. I also use play, expressive arts, sand tray and music to assist in therapy. First responders, gender non conforming, clients with anxiety, depression, thought and mood disorders, are particularly welcome. I am located in the east side of Milwaukee near the lake.
My office on the east side is a low keyed space where anyone can feel welcome and at home to talk ( or play or draw or write) about what is bothering them.
My practice is half children and half adults. Having fostered and adopted myself, I am particularly skilled to assist foster and adoptive family needs. I also use play, expressive arts, sand tray and music to assist in therapy. First responders, gender non conforming, clients with anxiety, depression, thought and mood disorders, are particularly welcome. I am located in the east side of Milwaukee near the lake.
(414) 312-5260 View (414) 312-5260
Photo of Alena Kanter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alena Kanter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My specialty is working with children and pre-teens, mainly using play-therapy.
Hello, my name is Alena Kanter. I am credentialed as an Advanced Practice Social Worker and love working with children and pre-teens. I have two years of experience as a school-based therapist. Most of my clients came to me due to behavioral concerns at home and at school, usually stemming from trauma, big life changes and transitions. Many children struggle with big emotions and how to express and process them. I help my clients with coping mechanisms, processing their trauma, safe expression of feelings, and being able to regulate their bodies and minds.
My specialty is working with children and pre-teens, mainly using play-therapy.
Hello, my name is Alena Kanter. I am credentialed as an Advanced Practice Social Worker and love working with children and pre-teens. I have two years of experience as a school-based therapist. Most of my clients came to me due to behavioral concerns at home and at school, usually stemming from trauma, big life changes and transitions. Many children struggle with big emotions and how to express and process them. I help my clients with coping mechanisms, processing their trauma, safe expression of feelings, and being able to regulate their bodies and minds.
(414) 622-1878 View (414) 622-1878
Photo of Isabel Kent, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isabel Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
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 Molly Selby, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Selby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitefish Bay, WI 53211
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches depending on your child's individual needs: CBT, SFBT, Mindfulness and Art or Play Therapy.
Are you looking for a therapist for your child or teen? Is your child struggling with anxiety/worries, social/emotional issues, or a life transition? I work with children (age 6+) and adolescents (up to age 18) and their families. I specialize in treatment of: Anxiety Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1)
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches depending on your child's individual needs: CBT, SFBT, Mindfulness and Art or Play Therapy.
Are you looking for a therapist for your child or teen? Is your child struggling with anxiety/worries, social/emotional issues, or a life transition? I work with children (age 6+) and adolescents (up to age 18) and their families. I specialize in treatment of: Anxiety Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1)
(414) 246-5205 View (414) 246-5205
Photo of Karolyn Tara Taylor, LPC, LPSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karolyn Tara Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPSC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53208  (Online Only)
I use integrative clinical approach, that includes clinical hypnosis, CBT, and play therapy that include music, journaling, expressive art, and psychodrama to connect, intervene, and educate.
Being a teen or young adult is hard. And, yes it is hard being a parent, too. I believe that working collaboratively with young people and their families is rewarding and necessary for positive change. I have witnessed how therapy can be a powerful way to learn more about yourself, resolve conflict, and develop and practice life skills. With the client, we will explore needs, motivation for change, and set goals that are achievable and desirable.This will happen in an authentic, safe, affirming way that is moving toward wellness.
I use integrative clinical approach, that includes clinical hypnosis, CBT, and play therapy that include music, journaling, expressive art, and psychodrama to connect, intervene, and educate.
Being a teen or young adult is hard. And, yes it is hard being a parent, too. I believe that working collaboratively with young people and their families is rewarding and necessary for positive change. I have witnessed how therapy can be a powerful way to learn more about yourself, resolve conflict, and develop and practice life skills. With the client, we will explore needs, motivation for change, and set goals that are achievable and desirable.This will happen in an authentic, safe, affirming way that is moving toward wellness.
(262) 500-3114 View (262) 500-3114
Photo of Hilda Dwumfuor - Ayaresa Therapy LLC, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayaresa Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, MS
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
Ayaresa Therapy LLC is a compassionate, Black woman-owned group practice dedicated to empowering Black women, LGBTQ, and BIPOC individuals across multiple states. Our experienced team specializes in cultural and gender-based trauma, ADHD, depression, BPD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex PTSD, mood and anxiety disorders, domestic violence, child and adolescent counseling, suicide support, alcohol and substance abuse, autism, couples counseling, sexual abuse, neglect, divorce reactions, and grief. We are passionate about supporting marginalized groups and creating safe, affirming spaces for healing. We get it. We’ve got!
Ayaresa Therapy LLC is a compassionate, Black woman-owned group practice dedicated to empowering Black women, LGBTQ, and BIPOC individuals across multiple states. Our experienced team specializes in cultural and gender-based trauma, ADHD, depression, BPD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex PTSD, mood and anxiety disorders, domestic violence, child and adolescent counseling, suicide support, alcohol and substance abuse, autism, couples counseling, sexual abuse, neglect, divorce reactions, and grief. We are passionate about supporting marginalized groups and creating safe, affirming spaces for healing. We get it. We’ve got!
(470) 354-1524 View (470) 354-1524
Photo of Laurie Lawrenz, LPC, LSW, CDVTS, CSOTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Lawrenz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LSW, CDVTS, CSOTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I believe that there is something positive to find in all situations. Therapy should be a positive step to change in life and I believe all clients have the power of change within them. I will help you or your loved one to find that power within and make positive changes in your life. I am a Substance Abuse Professional and I am certified to perform DOT assessments for positive alcohol and drug tests. I provide counseling for any type of addiction (heroin, alcohol, sex, Internet) in a non-judgmental manner.
I believe that there is something positive to find in all situations. Therapy should be a positive step to change in life and I believe all clients have the power of change within them. I will help you or your loved one to find that power within and make positive changes in your life. I am a Substance Abuse Professional and I am certified to perform DOT assessments for positive alcohol and drug tests. I provide counseling for any type of addiction (heroin, alcohol, sex, Internet) in a non-judgmental manner.
(920) 482-6529 View (920) 482-6529
Photo of Catalina Angelita De Luna, MS, LPC, SAC-IT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catalina Angelita De Luna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53206
Hi! My name is Catalina and I am a bilingual dual diagnosis therapist. I speak English and Spanish fluently. I am working on Portuguese as well. In the therapeutic process, it is a team effort between my client and I to work together to attain their goals. My focus is bringing about positive healing environment for my client to overcome their adversity.
Hi! My name is Catalina and I am a bilingual dual diagnosis therapist. I speak English and Spanish fluently. I am working on Portuguese as well. In the therapeutic process, it is a team effort between my client and I to work together to attain their goals. My focus is bringing about positive healing environment for my client to overcome their adversity.
(262) 592-5147 View (262) 592-5147

See more therapy options for Shorewood

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.