Play Therapy Counselling in Mooroolbark, VIC

Photo of Doongalla Counselling, Counsellor in Mooroolbark, VIC
Doongalla Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Mooroolbark, VIC 3138
With a particular interest in trauma recovery, Kate prioritises a safe, confidential and empathic therapy space. It is in such an environment that a collaborative therapeutic relationship may be developed to facilitate client goals. These goals may consist of developing emotional regulation, recovering from childhood trauma, establishing communication skills, enhancing self-care practices or any other number of goals. Individuals may engage with short-term counselling or longer therapeutic work to address issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, self-esteem issues, relationship conflict and personal development.
With a particular interest in trauma recovery, Kate prioritises a safe, confidential and empathic therapy space. It is in such an environment that a collaborative therapeutic relationship may be developed to facilitate client goals. These goals may consist of developing emotional regulation, recovering from childhood trauma, establishing communication skills, enhancing self-care practices or any other number of goals. Individuals may engage with short-term counselling or longer therapeutic work to address issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, self-esteem issues, relationship conflict and personal development.
(03) 8777 0432 View (03) 8777 0432
Photo of Michelle Elizabeth Urquhart, Psychotherapist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Michelle Elizabeth Urquhart
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Mooroolbark, VIC 3138
As an Art therapist/Counsellor I work in relation to your needs and goals, in a safe non-judgemental space. During a session, I will check in with you to see if there is anything you would like to share or express. I will share a little about myself to help begin the therapeutic relationship. There is no need to be nervous or worry about being artistic as this is not necessary at all. I can help you work through issues with the healing power of this truly magical therapy. All you need is an open mind and a little curiosity, the sessions are totally driven by you, which means you can participate in the therapy at any stage.
As an Art therapist/Counsellor I work in relation to your needs and goals, in a safe non-judgemental space. During a session, I will check in with you to see if there is anything you would like to share or express. I will share a little about myself to help begin the therapeutic relationship. There is no need to be nervous or worry about being artistic as this is not necessary at all. I can help you work through issues with the healing power of this truly magical therapy. All you need is an open mind and a little curiosity, the sessions are totally driven by you, which means you can participate in the therapy at any stage.
(03) 8203 5028 View (03) 8203 5028

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rosemary Tainsh, Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Rosemary Tainsh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Boronia, VIC 3155
Rosemary uses a number of therapeutic frameworks to inform her practice, including but not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Rosemary is a warm, gentle and caring Psychologist.  Her approach is gentle yet purposeful, and uses an integrative approach to treatment.  Rosemary has a particular interest in perinatal mental health, parent and infant mental health, trauma, childhood anxiety, and parenting. Rosemary is also able to provide Autism, ADHD, Cognitive and Educational Assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. She is a fully registered Psychologist with AHPRA, a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists, and an Associate Member of the Australian Psychological Society.
Rosemary uses a number of therapeutic frameworks to inform her practice, including but not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Rosemary is a warm, gentle and caring Psychologist.  Her approach is gentle yet purposeful, and uses an integrative approach to treatment.  Rosemary has a particular interest in perinatal mental health, parent and infant mental health, trauma, childhood anxiety, and parenting. Rosemary is also able to provide Autism, ADHD, Cognitive and Educational Assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. She is a fully registered Psychologist with AHPRA, a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists, and an Associate Member of the Australian Psychological Society.
(03) 4421 6346 View (03) 4421 6346
Photo of Valerene Chin, Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Valerene Chin
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Eltham, VIC 3095
My practise is informed by: Psychodynamic and analytic psychotherapy, Transference-focused Psychotherapy (TFP), Dynamic Interpersonal Therapy (DIT), Mentalisation-based Therapy (MBT), Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT), Skills-based therapies (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Play-based therapy.
I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of settings, including AOD rehab, refuges, women’s organisations (focused on family violence), NDIS realm, and private practice. I work with a broad range of presentations across the lifespan, including personality disorders, complex trauma, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety, depression, chronic illnesses, addictions, autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia. I mainly practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, so the way clients relate to themselves, others and the world is often central in the therapy room. Having said this, I also tailor my approach to suit an individual's needs.
My practise is informed by: Psychodynamic and analytic psychotherapy, Transference-focused Psychotherapy (TFP), Dynamic Interpersonal Therapy (DIT), Mentalisation-based Therapy (MBT), Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT), Skills-based therapies (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Play-based therapy.
I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of settings, including AOD rehab, refuges, women’s organisations (focused on family violence), NDIS realm, and private practice. I work with a broad range of presentations across the lifespan, including personality disorders, complex trauma, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety, depression, chronic illnesses, addictions, autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia. I mainly practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, so the way clients relate to themselves, others and the world is often central in the therapy room. Having said this, I also tailor my approach to suit an individual's needs.
(03) 8400 0503 View (03) 8400 0503
Photo of Metocha Play Therapy in Mooroolbark, VIC
Metocha Play Therapy
MA
Verified Verified
Vermont South, VIC 3133
Metocha Play Therapy is led by May Yeung, Associate Lecturer in Play Therapy and Clinical Supervisor, who has 9 years of experience providing one-to-one play therapy interventions for children, adolescents and adults with a range of emotional and behavioral problems such as attention deficit disorder, language disorders, autism, learning disabilities, family dysfunction, loss of a family member, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, self-harm or suicidal behavior, with an 18- 60 play therapy interventions with a 90% success rate. She is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin and English.
Metocha Play Therapy is led by May Yeung, Associate Lecturer in Play Therapy and Clinical Supervisor, who has 9 years of experience providing one-to-one play therapy interventions for children, adolescents and adults with a range of emotional and behavioral problems such as attention deficit disorder, language disorders, autism, learning disabilities, family dysfunction, loss of a family member, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, self-harm or suicidal behavior, with an 18- 60 play therapy interventions with a 90% success rate. She is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin and English.
(03) 7500 5930 View (03) 7500 5930
Photo of Eliza Phillips, Counsellor in Mooroolbark, VIC
Eliza Phillips
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olinda, VIC 3788
Eliza is a child and adolescent counsellor with additional qualifications in Art Therapy and Play Therapy. She is also a qualified and registered teacher. Eliza utilises different creative modalities to assist children and their families experiencing anxiety, school refusal, trauma, grief, depression, behavioural challenges etc. Eliza has experience working with clients with ASD, ADHD, PDA, learning delays/disabilities, OCD and sensory issues. Also available for adult Art Therapy.
Eliza is a child and adolescent counsellor with additional qualifications in Art Therapy and Play Therapy. She is also a qualified and registered teacher. Eliza utilises different creative modalities to assist children and their families experiencing anxiety, school refusal, trauma, grief, depression, behavioural challenges etc. Eliza has experience working with clients with ASD, ADHD, PDA, learning delays/disabilities, OCD and sensory issues. Also available for adult Art Therapy.
(03) 5907 1013 View (03) 5907 1013
Photo of Lauren Pennacchia, Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Lauren Pennacchia
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Warrandyte, VIC 3113
Waitlist for new clients
Lauren is a psychologist who works with children, adolescents and young adults. Lauren has extensive experience and has worked in hospital settings, a juvenile detention centre and private practice. She has a widespread of knowledge in diagnosis and treatment and aims to bring a warm, empathetic and collaborative approach to therapy. Lauren uses a range of therapeutic frameworks to tailor treatment to each individual. These frameworks include: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Client Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Lauren is a psychologist who works with children, adolescents and young adults. Lauren has extensive experience and has worked in hospital settings, a juvenile detention centre and private practice. She has a widespread of knowledge in diagnosis and treatment and aims to bring a warm, empathetic and collaborative approach to therapy. Lauren uses a range of therapeutic frameworks to tailor treatment to each individual. These frameworks include: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Client Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
(03) 8400 0027 View (03) 8400 0027
Photo of PAWS Psychology, Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
PAWS Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Eltham, VIC 3095
With young children, I incorporate play and therapy dogs as well as other modalities that are relevant which may include CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-education and a range of other therapies.
Children and young people needing support. Parenting guidance also offered. Assisting with developmental, behavioural or neurodivergence support or those who would benefit from coaching and mentoring support with life challenges that may result in issues including anxiety, low mood or motivational concerns. Adults with ADHD can be supported via telehealth and linked with workplace support with fully funded assistance so no gap fee. With young children, I incorporate play and therapy dogs as well as other modalities that are relevant which may include CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-education and a range of other therapies
With young children, I incorporate play and therapy dogs as well as other modalities that are relevant which may include CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-education and a range of other therapies.
Children and young people needing support. Parenting guidance also offered. Assisting with developmental, behavioural or neurodivergence support or those who would benefit from coaching and mentoring support with life challenges that may result in issues including anxiety, low mood or motivational concerns. Adults with ADHD can be supported via telehealth and linked with workplace support with fully funded assistance so no gap fee. With young children, I incorporate play and therapy dogs as well as other modalities that are relevant which may include CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-education and a range of other therapies
(03) 8400 0752 View (03) 8400 0752
Photo of Danielle Graber, Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Danielle Graber
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferntree Gully, VIC 3156
Waitlist for new clients
I like to focus my clinical work on helping my clients work out what’s preventing them from getting on with what they want to achieve in life, and supporting them as they overcome those obstacles. Whether they're dealing with a clinical diagnosis like depression or anxiety, unhealthy relationship patterns or severe situational stresses. I strongly believe that whatever a client wants to work on, a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in working towards positive change in any area of life and that's what I aim to provide.
I like to focus my clinical work on helping my clients work out what’s preventing them from getting on with what they want to achieve in life, and supporting them as they overcome those obstacles. Whether they're dealing with a clinical diagnosis like depression or anxiety, unhealthy relationship patterns or severe situational stresses. I strongly believe that whatever a client wants to work on, a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in working towards positive change in any area of life and that's what I aim to provide.
(03) 9068 5907 View (03) 9068 5907
Photo of Tend Mental Health - Jessica Laird, Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Tend Mental Health - Jessica Laird
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Heathmont, VIC 3135
Tend Mental Health provides psychological therapy & assessment for individuals across the lifespan. We cultivate pathways towards a strong sense of self, healthy relationships & wellness. Specialising in supporting individuals & families through trauma, exposure to violence or sexual exploitation. Offering evidence-based care alongside a creative and flexible approach.
Tend Mental Health provides psychological therapy & assessment for individuals across the lifespan. We cultivate pathways towards a strong sense of self, healthy relationships & wellness. Specialising in supporting individuals & families through trauma, exposure to violence or sexual exploitation. Offering evidence-based care alongside a creative and flexible approach.
(03) 8771 4340 View (03) 8771 4340
Photo of Kat Aycardo, Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Kat Aycardo
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mitcham, VIC 3132
Kat has been passionate about supporting adults and children with neurodiversity since 2007. She has specialized in assessment and intervention for individuals with ASD, ADHD, Specific Learning Disability, Intellectual Disability, giftedness, and developmental differences. She is a warm and collaborative clinician with an evidence based and neurodiverse affirming approach to supporting children, adolescents, and adults to reach their individual goals.
Kat has been passionate about supporting adults and children with neurodiversity since 2007. She has specialized in assessment and intervention for individuals with ASD, ADHD, Specific Learning Disability, Intellectual Disability, giftedness, and developmental differences. She is a warm and collaborative clinician with an evidence based and neurodiverse affirming approach to supporting children, adolescents, and adults to reach their individual goals.
(03) 8203 5767 View (03) 8203 5767
Photo of Carvin L Winans, Counsellor in Mooroolbark, VIC
Carvin L Winans
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Croydon, VIC 3136
People across the lifespan that suffer from anxiety, ADHD, ASD, wanting to improve in social skills and master emotional regulation.
People across the lifespan that suffer from anxiety, ADHD, ASD, wanting to improve in social skills and master emotional regulation.
(03) 8203 5414 View (03) 8203 5414
Photo of Bayside Counselling and Consultation Pty Ltd, Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Bayside Counselling and Consultation Pty Ltd
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Burwood East, VIC 3151
Our team includes Psychologists, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Counsellors and Provisional Psychologists experience in the provision of work-based mediation, critical incident debriefing, trauma-focused therapy, the effects of substance abuse in the workplace, anger management and increasing work attendance and satisfaction. Private counselling is also available in our three practice locations (Seaford, Glen Waverley and Cranbourne).
Our team includes Psychologists, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Counsellors and Provisional Psychologists experience in the provision of work-based mediation, critical incident debriefing, trauma-focused therapy, the effects of substance abuse in the workplace, anger management and increasing work attendance and satisfaction. Private counselling is also available in our three practice locations (Seaford, Glen Waverley and Cranbourne).
(03) 5907 5890 View (03) 5907 5890
Photo of Stonewater Art Therapy, Psychotherapist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Stonewater Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferntree Gully, VIC 3156
Hi, I'm Samuel and I'm an Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
Hi, I'm Samuel and I'm an Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
(03) 8203 5271 View (03) 8203 5271
Photo of Yarra Counselling, Counsellor in Mooroolbark, VIC
Yarra Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Research, VIC 3095
Are you or someone you care about struggling? Depressive symptoms, persistent feelings of emptiness, anxiety, overwhelm, intrusive thoughts? Or perhaps you are worried about your child’s mental health and development. Life doesn’t come with a manual, and it definitely doesn’t always go to plan, but counselling can help you to overcome issues and upsetting events to live a life of optimism, resilience and meaning.
Are you or someone you care about struggling? Depressive symptoms, persistent feelings of emptiness, anxiety, overwhelm, intrusive thoughts? Or perhaps you are worried about your child’s mental health and development. Life doesn’t come with a manual, and it definitely doesn’t always go to plan, but counselling can help you to overcome issues and upsetting events to live a life of optimism, resilience and meaning.
(03) 8400 0702 View (03) 8400 0702
Photo of Susmita Anis, Counsellor in Mooroolbark, VIC
Susmita Anis
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Vermont South, VIC 3133
I am a strength-based, person-centred counsellor who facilitates individuals’ wellbeing through a holistic approach by liaising with external stakeholders as needed. I am also experienced in responding to critical incidents that pose risk to any individual. I enjoy working with culturally diverse individuals from different ethnical backgrounds regardless of their age or sex. I am very enthusiastic about making valuable contributions to the community to enable individuals confident enough to live more potential and happier lives.
I am a strength-based, person-centred counsellor who facilitates individuals’ wellbeing through a holistic approach by liaising with external stakeholders as needed. I am also experienced in responding to critical incidents that pose risk to any individual. I enjoy working with culturally diverse individuals from different ethnical backgrounds regardless of their age or sex. I am very enthusiastic about making valuable contributions to the community to enable individuals confident enough to live more potential and happier lives.
(03) 7500 5596 View (03) 7500 5596
Photo of Karen Merry, Counsellor in Mooroolbark, VIC
Karen Merry
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Croydon, VIC 3136
I help families and students who are experiencing school stress due to unmet needs in the school environment for those who are neurodivergent or have experienced trauma. Using evidence based therapies such as: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Experiencing, Mindful Self Compassion and Mindful Based Stress Reduction. Working as a neurodivergent affirming, trauma informed counsellor, I have a National Worker Screening check to work with NDIS participants with plan management, self management and combination plans. WWC, can work with Children +5YO
I help families and students who are experiencing school stress due to unmet needs in the school environment for those who are neurodivergent or have experienced trauma. Using evidence based therapies such as: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Experiencing, Mindful Self Compassion and Mindful Based Stress Reduction. Working as a neurodivergent affirming, trauma informed counsellor, I have a National Worker Screening check to work with NDIS participants with plan management, self management and combination plans. WWC, can work with Children +5YO
(03) 8797 2203 View (03) 8797 2203
Photo of Forward Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Forward Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Rowville, VIC 3178
Esther is a well respected counsellor and is currently supporting clients in different stages of their lives. Esther is well-known in providing counselling in areas such as Mental health issues, Relationship (Couple, individual or family), Pregnancy, Grief and loss, Substance abuse and addiction counselling. She is passionate about people creating a healthy relationship, people’s well-being & supporting them to feel empowered within themselves. Esther has over 15 years of experience in Schools, Government, and Community settings including private practice. Esther has strong interpersonal, communication and problem solving skills
Esther is a well respected counsellor and is currently supporting clients in different stages of their lives. Esther is well-known in providing counselling in areas such as Mental health issues, Relationship (Couple, individual or family), Pregnancy, Grief and loss, Substance abuse and addiction counselling. She is passionate about people creating a healthy relationship, people’s well-being & supporting them to feel empowered within themselves. Esther has over 15 years of experience in Schools, Government, and Community settings including private practice. Esther has strong interpersonal, communication and problem solving skills
(03) 7500 5602 View (03) 7500 5602
Photo of Lisa Palmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Lisa Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monbulk, VIC 3793
Lisa Palmer is a therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) who provides a gentle and supportive approach to counselling. Lisa provides counselling to children, adolescents and adults who may be experiencing a range of difficulties including; depression, anxiety, stress, parent-child relationship difficulties, grief and loss, workplace issues, post natal depression, PTSD and complex trauma.
Lisa Palmer is a therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) who provides a gentle and supportive approach to counselling. Lisa provides counselling to children, adolescents and adults who may be experiencing a range of difficulties including; depression, anxiety, stress, parent-child relationship difficulties, grief and loss, workplace issues, post natal depression, PTSD and complex trauma.
(02) 4504 0327 View (02) 4504 0327
Photo of Melbourne Children's Psychology Clinic Ivanhoe , Psychologist in Mooroolbark, VIC
Melbourne Children's Psychology Clinic Ivanhoe
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Eltham, VIC 3095
We are a group of psychologists that have expertise in infant, child and adolescent psychology across a wide range of presenting concerns. Our clinic is geared towards making children and young people feel safe and comfortable. We work with clients ranging from 0 to 25 years of age (and their families). Most of our psychologists also work in other public settings which helps to keep us up to date with the latest approaches. We have both female and male clinicians. You can read more about our practitioners individual areas of interests and expertise on our website.
We are a group of psychologists that have expertise in infant, child and adolescent psychology across a wide range of presenting concerns. Our clinic is geared towards making children and young people feel safe and comfortable. We work with clients ranging from 0 to 25 years of age (and their families). Most of our psychologists also work in other public settings which helps to keep us up to date with the latest approaches. We have both female and male clinicians. You can read more about our practitioners individual areas of interests and expertise on our website.
(03) 9517 6272 View (03) 9517 6272

See more therapy options for Mooroolbark

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.