Play Therapy Counselling in Kogarah, NSW

Photo of Natasha Ramessur, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Natasha Ramessur
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I use evidence-based techniques in my therapeutic work including CBT, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR and Play Therapy.
I am a registered psychologist with several years of experience helping clients with a number of issues, including depression, anxiety, bullying, stress, grief and loss, relationship conflicts, anger, social difficulties, behavioural issues, self-esteem, coping with change and life adjustments. My warm, open and non-judgemental approach allows me to easily build strong rapport with my clients and make them feel comfortable and safe. I have a keen interest in client-centred approach, drawing on an eclectic framework of therapeutic interventions, with the aim of building upon the client’s strengths.
I use evidence-based techniques in my therapeutic work including CBT, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR and Play Therapy.
I am a registered psychologist with several years of experience helping clients with a number of issues, including depression, anxiety, bullying, stress, grief and loss, relationship conflicts, anger, social difficulties, behavioural issues, self-esteem, coping with change and life adjustments. My warm, open and non-judgemental approach allows me to easily build strong rapport with my clients and make them feel comfortable and safe. I have a keen interest in client-centred approach, drawing on an eclectic framework of therapeutic interventions, with the aim of building upon the client’s strengths.
(02) 8074 5546 View (02) 8074 5546
Photo of Amrita Arvind, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Amrita Arvind
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kogarah, NSW 2217
I believe that trust is the highest form of human motivation and tricky situations challenge it in ourselves. We can have strengths that are as salient and unique as the barriers we face. My clients can have a good insight into themselves or their situation. They may have qualities that set them up for life or have achievements and yet experience significant setbacks that impact their mental health. I work with young people and adults from the diaspora, immigrants or of a multi-racial background navigating change in a personal or professional context. I also work with girls & women across the life-span.
I believe that trust is the highest form of human motivation and tricky situations challenge it in ourselves. We can have strengths that are as salient and unique as the barriers we face. My clients can have a good insight into themselves or their situation. They may have qualities that set them up for life or have achievements and yet experience significant setbacks that impact their mental health. I work with young people and adults from the diaspora, immigrants or of a multi-racial background navigating change in a personal or professional context. I also work with girls & women across the life-span.
(02) 4307 5406 View (02) 4307 5406
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930
Photo of Anthony Colantuono, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Anthony Colantuono
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Counselling sessions with me are non-judgmental, kind, empathic and confidential. I utilise Medicare approved focused psychological strategies and recovery-based principles. This includes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma informed principles, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and EMDR. A Counsellor should be appropriately qualified, genuine and authentic to facilitate a therapeutic alliance which should help you with moving forward with life. Working with the mind's plasticity takes due care and skill. I strictly adhere to the AASW code of ethics.
Counselling sessions with me are non-judgmental, kind, empathic and confidential. I utilise Medicare approved focused psychological strategies and recovery-based principles. This includes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma informed principles, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and EMDR. A Counsellor should be appropriately qualified, genuine and authentic to facilitate a therapeutic alliance which should help you with moving forward with life. Working with the mind's plasticity takes due care and skill. I strictly adhere to the AASW code of ethics.
(02) 9538 7967 View (02) 9538 7967
Photo of Tyla Stroebel, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA Prov
Tyla Stroebel
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I currently specialise in diagnostic, behavioural, cognitive, neurological and academic assessments and support thereafter. I have a keen interest in Autism and ADHD, specifically in woman and girls, and in helping adults explore this later in life. I conduct assessments in person and online, from a neurodiversity affirming framework, and currently focus on the following: Autism; Global Developmental Delay, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Specific Learning Disorders; Anxiety etc.
I currently specialise in diagnostic, behavioural, cognitive, neurological and academic assessments and support thereafter. I have a keen interest in Autism and ADHD, specifically in woman and girls, and in helping adults explore this later in life. I conduct assessments in person and online, from a neurodiversity affirming framework, and currently focus on the following: Autism; Global Developmental Delay, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Specific Learning Disorders; Anxiety etc.
(02) 8105 6892 View (02) 8105 6892
Photo of Venessa Diab, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Venessa Diab
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a dedicated and compassionate psychologist, I endeavour to make therapy a supportive and welcoming space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings. I specialise in providing evidence-based therapies for anxiety, depression, adjustment to change, stress, sleep, work challenges and relationship issues. I understand that life can be difficult and stressful at times and my aim is to provide you with practical tools to help you improve your life and achieve your wellbeing goals.
As a dedicated and compassionate psychologist, I endeavour to make therapy a supportive and welcoming space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings. I specialise in providing evidence-based therapies for anxiety, depression, adjustment to change, stress, sleep, work challenges and relationship issues. I understand that life can be difficult and stressful at times and my aim is to provide you with practical tools to help you improve your life and achieve your wellbeing goals.
(02) 8105 5172 View (02) 8105 5172

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gurprit Ganda, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Gurprit Ganda
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, NSW 2153
I have also done extensive trainings on " Play Therapy", CBT.
I lead the team of Psychologists at Potentialz Unlimited. I have a wide and deep background in supporting patients with complex mental health issues through evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, PET, TF-CBT, MBCT, Interpersonal Therapy. My warm and empathetic nature and advanced psycho-therapeutic skills promote open discussion and an environment for healing. I am passionate about my client's recovery and in returning value and meaning to the lives of those in my care. I am registered as a Tier-2 Counsellor with Victim Services, NSW and been treating patients suffering from Trauma and PTSD over the last 12 years.
I have also done extensive trainings on " Play Therapy", CBT.
I lead the team of Psychologists at Potentialz Unlimited. I have a wide and deep background in supporting patients with complex mental health issues through evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, PET, TF-CBT, MBCT, Interpersonal Therapy. My warm and empathetic nature and advanced psycho-therapeutic skills promote open discussion and an environment for healing. I am passionate about my client's recovery and in returning value and meaning to the lives of those in my care. I am registered as a Tier-2 Counsellor with Victim Services, NSW and been treating patients suffering from Trauma and PTSD over the last 12 years.
(02) 9158 6384 View (02) 9158 6384
Photo of Disha Sasan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Disha Sasan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Norwest, NSW 2153
With a Master’s in professional psychology and membership in the Australian Association of Psychologists, I specialise in Play-Based CBT and ACT to name a few.
I provide support to neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals. My dedication is to empower you on your journey towards mental and emotional resilience. Together, we will manage distress, environmental stresses, behavioural difficulties and emotional dysregulation, and find ways to forge a new path for your future. I also conduct psychological and learning difficulties assessments. This includes assessments for Autism, ADHD, Learning Difficulties such as dyslexia and dyscalculia, and Cognitive profiles.
With a Master’s in professional psychology and membership in the Australian Association of Psychologists, I specialise in Play-Based CBT and ACT to name a few.
I provide support to neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals. My dedication is to empower you on your journey towards mental and emotional resilience. Together, we will manage distress, environmental stresses, behavioural difficulties and emotional dysregulation, and find ways to forge a new path for your future. I also conduct psychological and learning difficulties assessments. This includes assessments for Autism, ADHD, Learning Difficulties such as dyslexia and dyscalculia, and Cognitive profiles.
(02) 8403 0713 View (02) 8403 0713
Photo of Jessica Lorna Crowther - Wildflower Psychology and Assessments, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wildflower Psychology and Assessments
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jessica. I am a psychologist, a mother, neurodivergent, and a flower lover. I have been described as having a quiet confidence, calming vibe, and quirky persona. I aim to be authentic and unmasked in our interactions together so that you feel comfortable to be yourself. I am passionate about holding space for those who need it. My driving force is to be the psychologist who I would want to support my own loved ones. I believe each client is special, worthy of connection, and that their story deserves to be heard. My approach is never to fix. It is to support.
Hi, I’m Jessica. I am a psychologist, a mother, neurodivergent, and a flower lover. I have been described as having a quiet confidence, calming vibe, and quirky persona. I aim to be authentic and unmasked in our interactions together so that you feel comfortable to be yourself. I am passionate about holding space for those who need it. My driving force is to be the psychologist who I would want to support my own loved ones. I believe each client is special, worthy of connection, and that their story deserves to be heard. My approach is never to fix. It is to support.
0434 000 116 View 0434 000 116
Photo of Sanela Harbas, Counsellor, PACFA
Sanela Harbas
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Denham Court, NSW 2565
I enjoy engaging with young children in play therapy on up through teens and adults who have a desire or need for hope and change.
In my role as a clinicaI Counsellor and acquainted beliefs I will listen to you. I was drawn to the helping profession through each day, my ministry experiences and a deep desire to understand emotional processes and healing. A wealth of life experience provides me with an ability to understand common patterns which affect most people in their journeys. I have a passion for emotional healing that improves relationships and the overall quality of daily experiences for each individual, family, youth, children, women and elders mindfulness, specifically emphasises the value and the importance of them due to the vulnerability of life
I enjoy engaging with young children in play therapy on up through teens and adults who have a desire or need for hope and change.
In my role as a clinicaI Counsellor and acquainted beliefs I will listen to you. I was drawn to the helping profession through each day, my ministry experiences and a deep desire to understand emotional processes and healing. A wealth of life experience provides me with an ability to understand common patterns which affect most people in their journeys. I have a passion for emotional healing that improves relationships and the overall quality of daily experiences for each individual, family, youth, children, women and elders mindfulness, specifically emphasises the value and the importance of them due to the vulnerability of life
(02) 8105 5834 View (02) 8105 5834
Photo of Skye Elizabeth Hudson - Skye E Hudson Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Skye E Hudson Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I also offer sand play, art and expressive therapies with a trauma informed lens.
My approach to therapy is to work collaboratively with you towards your chosen goals/direction, welcoming any and all parts with the aim of creating more self-compassion, connection and choicefullness.
I also offer sand play, art and expressive therapies with a trauma informed lens.
My approach to therapy is to work collaboratively with you towards your chosen goals/direction, welcoming any and all parts with the aim of creating more self-compassion, connection and choicefullness.
(02) 5604 8849 View (02) 5604 8849
Photo of Sara Benjamin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sara Benjamin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mascot, NSW 2020
By tailouring my approach to each developmental stage, whether through play therapy for kids, trust-building with teens and navigating, or practical solutions for adults—I empower individuals to navigate their challenges and achieve lasting personal growth at any stage of life.
My passion lies in helping people navigate life’s challenges, regardless of their age. Whether I’m working with a five-year-old struggling with separation anxiety, a teen dealing with self-esteem issues, or an adult coping with stress or trauma, or life transition I approach each person with empathy, understanding, and a tailored therapeutic approach that meets them where they are. With a strong foundation in developmental psychology, I’m able to adapt my methods to fit the unique needs of clients at different life stages.
By tailouring my approach to each developmental stage, whether through play therapy for kids, trust-building with teens and navigating, or practical solutions for adults—I empower individuals to navigate their challenges and achieve lasting personal growth at any stage of life.
My passion lies in helping people navigate life’s challenges, regardless of their age. Whether I’m working with a five-year-old struggling with separation anxiety, a teen dealing with self-esteem issues, or an adult coping with stress or trauma, or life transition I approach each person with empathy, understanding, and a tailored therapeutic approach that meets them where they are. With a strong foundation in developmental psychology, I’m able to adapt my methods to fit the unique needs of clients at different life stages.
0404 176 586 x61 View 0404 176 586 x61
Photo of Emma Donlevy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Emma Donlevy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a different approach to traditional talk therapy, integrating a range of evidence-based counselling modalities including DBT, sand play, art, CBT, solution focussed, mindfulness, and trauma-informed brain-based interventions.
I am a counsellor and psychotherapist with over with 20 year’s experience supporting people who have complex and diverse needs, in particular as a result of trauma. I offer a unique person-centered practice based on the needs of the person sitting in front of me. I have worked in depth with complex mental health issues including developmental and attachment-related trauma, complex trauma, and dual diagnosis. I understand the unique trauma and mental health needs that people with disability experience, being neuroaffirming and strengths based.
I have a different approach to traditional talk therapy, integrating a range of evidence-based counselling modalities including DBT, sand play, art, CBT, solution focussed, mindfulness, and trauma-informed brain-based interventions.
I am a counsellor and psychotherapist with over with 20 year’s experience supporting people who have complex and diverse needs, in particular as a result of trauma. I offer a unique person-centered practice based on the needs of the person sitting in front of me. I have worked in depth with complex mental health issues including developmental and attachment-related trauma, complex trauma, and dual diagnosis. I understand the unique trauma and mental health needs that people with disability experience, being neuroaffirming and strengths based.
(02) 4503 6114 View (02) 4503 6114
Photo of Kubra Aydogan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kubra Aydogan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with children, teens, and young adults, using a range of evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, Play Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
I am the founder of Leading Minds Psychology, an online telehealth practice. I'm passionate about working with both neurodivergent and neurotypical clients to explore and affirm their unique perspectives, values, and strengths in a safe space. I also offer neuroaffirming Autism and ADHD assessments. My foremost goal is to cultivate a warm and supportive environment where individuals feel safe and comfortable. I adapt my therapeutic approaches to align with individual goals and helping my clients to explore and grow in ways that are both authentic and meaningful. Fidgeting, stimming and movement are always welcome.
I work with children, teens, and young adults, using a range of evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, Play Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
I am the founder of Leading Minds Psychology, an online telehealth practice. I'm passionate about working with both neurodivergent and neurotypical clients to explore and affirm their unique perspectives, values, and strengths in a safe space. I also offer neuroaffirming Autism and ADHD assessments. My foremost goal is to cultivate a warm and supportive environment where individuals feel safe and comfortable. I adapt my therapeutic approaches to align with individual goals and helping my clients to explore and grow in ways that are both authentic and meaningful. Fidgeting, stimming and movement are always welcome.
(03) 7302 2668 View (03) 7302 2668
Photo of Patricia Bakri, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Patricia Bakri
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
These modalities include; CBT, Mindfulness therapy, play therapy etc.
I am a skilled and grounded counsellor of many years’ experience and registered as a clinical counsellor with PACFA, I have extensive experience with supporting children, young adolescents, and adults across a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety and mood disorders, depression, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, behavioural disorders, grief and loss and work/life stress.
These modalities include; CBT, Mindfulness therapy, play therapy etc.
I am a skilled and grounded counsellor of many years’ experience and registered as a clinical counsellor with PACFA, I have extensive experience with supporting children, young adolescents, and adults across a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety and mood disorders, depression, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, behavioural disorders, grief and loss and work/life stress.
(02) 7804 4691 View (02) 7804 4691
Photo of Lorelai Burns, Counsellor, PACFA
Lorelai Burns
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Bringelly, NSW 2556
I am person centred in my approach and will incorporate a range of interventions if relevant including play therapy, art therapy, sandtray therapy and walk and talk therapy.
There is nothing more isolating than feeling alone and stuck. I know this feeling well and I know that the best way forward is to seek support from others at these times. I work with clients of all ages who struggle with a range of issues. Our initial sessions will be focused on building the relationship and building trust to ensure you feel safe to share your story at your own pace. Together, we will collaborate to work on a plan that you find manageable and that can be altered that will aim to assist improvement of symptoms that have lead to you to seeking therapy.
I am person centred in my approach and will incorporate a range of interventions if relevant including play therapy, art therapy, sandtray therapy and walk and talk therapy.
There is nothing more isolating than feeling alone and stuck. I know this feeling well and I know that the best way forward is to seek support from others at these times. I work with clients of all ages who struggle with a range of issues. Our initial sessions will be focused on building the relationship and building trust to ensure you feel safe to share your story at your own pace. Together, we will collaborate to work on a plan that you find manageable and that can be altered that will aim to assist improvement of symptoms that have lead to you to seeking therapy.
(02) 4601 5907 View (02) 4601 5907
Photo of Dr Maya Flexer, Psychotherapist, PsychD
Dr Maya Flexer
Psychotherapist, PsychD
Verified Verified
Double Bay, NSW 2028
The psychoanalytic approach involves meaning making and exploration, sometimes using play and art.
Maya works with children and young people aged 0-25, and their families, to help with: Low mood and depression, anxiety and stress, self-esteem, identity and personal development, grief and bereavement, divorce and family conflict, friendships and relationships, transitions, difficulties in learning and distractibility, neurodevelopmental difficulties, autism, trauma, developmental difficulties (eg. feeding, toileting and boundaries), behavioural problems, anger issues, sleeping difficulties, separation anxiety and attachment difficulties, OCD, eating disorders, phobias, impulsivity and addiction.
The psychoanalytic approach involves meaning making and exploration, sometimes using play and art.
Maya works with children and young people aged 0-25, and their families, to help with: Low mood and depression, anxiety and stress, self-esteem, identity and personal development, grief and bereavement, divorce and family conflict, friendships and relationships, transitions, difficulties in learning and distractibility, neurodevelopmental difficulties, autism, trauma, developmental difficulties (eg. feeding, toileting and boundaries), behavioural problems, anger issues, sleeping difficulties, separation anxiety and attachment difficulties, OCD, eating disorders, phobias, impulsivity and addiction.
0459 416 726 View 0459 416 726
Photo of Carley Petkovski, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Carley Petkovski
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Pymble, NSW 2073
I have worked in both Public and Private settings and am particularly interested in working systemically, drawing from strength based therapies such as CBT, Narrative and Solution Focused approaches as well as Mindfulness and Play Therapy techniques.
If you are feeling down or overwhelmed, finding it hard to adjust to new things, struggling with big emotions or maintaining relationships, talking to someone can really help. With over 20 years experience I provide counselling services to Adults, Children, Adolescents and Families focusing on clients strengths across a broad range of presentations. These includes Mental health Disorders, Adjustment issues, Social skills, Emotion dysregulation including anger, ADHD, Trauma and Grief and loss, to name a few.
I have worked in both Public and Private settings and am particularly interested in working systemically, drawing from strength based therapies such as CBT, Narrative and Solution Focused approaches as well as Mindfulness and Play Therapy techniques.
If you are feeling down or overwhelmed, finding it hard to adjust to new things, struggling with big emotions or maintaining relationships, talking to someone can really help. With over 20 years experience I provide counselling services to Adults, Children, Adolescents and Families focusing on clients strengths across a broad range of presentations. These includes Mental health Disorders, Adjustment issues, Social skills, Emotion dysregulation including anger, ADHD, Trauma and Grief and loss, to name a few.
(02) 8403 1207 View (02) 8403 1207
Photo of Rebecca Rymer - Tranquil Minds Counselling Services, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Tranquil Minds Counselling Services
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tranquil Minds is a compassionate space dedicated to nurturing the well-being of children through child centred play-based therapy.
Everyone has different needs. There is no ongoing commitment, book one session or book ongoing sessions as needed. I use many different modalities including Person-Centred, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Play-based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-based Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Therapy.
Tranquil Minds is a compassionate space dedicated to nurturing the well-being of children through child centred play-based therapy.
Everyone has different needs. There is no ongoing commitment, book one session or book ongoing sessions as needed. I use many different modalities including Person-Centred, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Play-based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-based Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Therapy.
(02) 5301 6084 View (02) 5301 6084
Photo of Irene O'Neill, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Irene O'Neill
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have a particular interest in working with children and young people and enjoy using creative approaches such as art and play in therapy.
I am an ACA registered counsellor and the co-director of Wattlebird Therapy based in Elderslie. I have experience working with a range of clients with a particular focus on children and young people, as well as the LGBTIQA+ community, NDIS support, and people accessing support under the Victims Support scheme. Some of the concerns I have supported my clients through include emotional regulation issues, low self-esteem and confidence, social skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, and anger management.
I have a particular interest in working with children and young people and enjoy using creative approaches such as art and play in therapy.
I am an ACA registered counsellor and the co-director of Wattlebird Therapy based in Elderslie. I have experience working with a range of clients with a particular focus on children and young people, as well as the LGBTIQA+ community, NDIS support, and people accessing support under the Victims Support scheme. Some of the concerns I have supported my clients through include emotional regulation issues, low self-esteem and confidence, social skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, and anger management.
(02) 4214 8009 View (02) 4214 8009
Play Therapy Counsellors

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural 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 behaviour 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 behaviour.