Play Therapy in Edmonton, AB
Dawn Israel-Compton
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G
Play therapy sessions use fun and engaging activities involving puppets, play- doh, games, art, figurines, books, DVD's, and LEGO that are specifically selected to aid in the therapeutic process.
I am committed to supporting you in reaching your goals and will work together with you. I hope that we will create a positive relationship with one another and I commit to listening to you, respecting you, and giving you the space you need to explore your thoughts and move towards discovering new skills and solutions. Change takes courage and first steps are the hardest but I believe that "happiness is an inside job" and I commit to taking this journey together.
Play therapy sessions use fun and engaging activities involving puppets, play- doh, games, art, figurines, books, DVD's, and LEGO that are specifically selected to aid in the therapeutic process.
I am committed to supporting you in reaching your goals and will work together with you. I hope that we will create a positive relationship with one another and I commit to listening to you, respecting you, and giving you the space you need to explore your thoughts and move towards discovering new skills and solutions. Change takes courage and first steps are the hardest but I believe that "happiness is an inside job" and I commit to taking this journey together.
Jocelyn Nand
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
I have received additional training in sand tray therapy, play therapy, art based therapy, child parent relationship therapy, trauma and suicide assessment/prevention.
It is my belief that therapy is both a dialogue and collaborative relationship between the therapist and their clients. I aim to establish a safe, trusting and encouraging environment for my clients. However, I also strive towards building resiliency, raising self awareness and connecting my clients to a greater sense of community. I enjoy working with clients from all age groups (children, adolescents and adults). I have been offering therapeutic services in the community for 6 years.
I have received additional training in sand tray therapy, play therapy, art based therapy, child parent relationship therapy, trauma and suicide assessment/prevention.
It is my belief that therapy is both a dialogue and collaborative relationship between the therapist and their clients. I aim to establish a safe, trusting and encouraging environment for my clients. However, I also strive towards building resiliency, raising self awareness and connecting my clients to a greater sense of community. I enjoy working with clients from all age groups (children, adolescents and adults). I have been offering therapeutic services in the community for 6 years.
Little Oaks Psychology
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5K
Our psychologists use several therapeutic methods, including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), play-based, and family therapies.
Clients of all ages find support and comfort with our positive, strengths-based, solution-focused approach. All our clinicians offer Free 20-minute phone consultations to see if our services are the right fit for you. Our intake clinician is happy to answer questions as well about all our services and help you find the right therapist for you. Clients looking for assessment, diagnosis, and treatment under one roof will find our collaborative and comprehensive process highly effective. Our clinicians are all motivated to help you or your family succeed and find peace along your journey, wherever you may find yourself.
Our psychologists use several therapeutic methods, including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), play-based, and family therapies.
Clients of all ages find support and comfort with our positive, strengths-based, solution-focused approach. All our clinicians offer Free 20-minute phone consultations to see if our services are the right fit for you. Our intake clinician is happy to answer questions as well about all our services and help you find the right therapist for you. Clients looking for assessment, diagnosis, and treatment under one roof will find our collaborative and comprehensive process highly effective. Our clinicians are all motivated to help you or your family succeed and find peace along your journey, wherever you may find yourself.
Justine Elliot
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a range of evidence-based approaches including Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT and Trauma Focused-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), The Grief Recovery Method (GRM), and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.
I value authenticity and enjoy bringing humor, generosity, and evidence-based practices to my clients. My therapeutic approach is integrative in which I use a variety of techniques and approaches to customize therapy to individual needs. I believe healing is achieved in relationships and strive to build supportive and safe connections with my clients. I enjoy working with individuals facing any life struggle at any age but I am particularly passionate about supporting children and parents impacted by traumatic loss.
I utilize a range of evidence-based approaches including Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT and Trauma Focused-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), The Grief Recovery Method (GRM), and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.
I value authenticity and enjoy bringing humor, generosity, and evidence-based practices to my clients. My therapeutic approach is integrative in which I use a variety of techniques and approaches to customize therapy to individual needs. I believe healing is achieved in relationships and strive to build supportive and safe connections with my clients. I enjoy working with individuals facing any life struggle at any age but I am particularly passionate about supporting children and parents impacted by traumatic loss.
Laverne MacKenzie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
When it is difficult for children and youth to talk, I use play-therapy (sand-tray) to help them to process difficult, confusing, and traumatic experiences.
I work with you to help you navigate and move forward to better mental health. I provide individual therapy with children, youth, along with their parent(s)/caregiver(s), and with adults. I am a trauma-based therapist, certified in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for children and youth. For adults, I provide Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure Therapy to address PTSD symptoms. I am an approved Medavie Blue Cross provider for RCMP, Veterans Affairs, and Canadian Armed Forces.
When it is difficult for children and youth to talk, I use play-therapy (sand-tray) to help them to process difficult, confusing, and traumatic experiences.
I work with you to help you navigate and move forward to better mental health. I provide individual therapy with children, youth, along with their parent(s)/caregiver(s), and with adults. I am a trauma-based therapist, certified in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for children and youth. For adults, I provide Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure Therapy to address PTSD symptoms. I am an approved Medavie Blue Cross provider for RCMP, Veterans Affairs, and Canadian Armed Forces.
One Tree Psychological and Therapeutic Services
Psychologist, MSc, MCFC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5L
I am registered psychologist. My Master's degree is in couples and family counselling and I have completed adjunct training in Play Therapy, Sand Play Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I have experience working with clients of all ages from 3 years old and up as well as families and couples. I can accommodate those who are considering online counselling. I also have a team of Therapeutic Support Counsellors who can work with you and your family in a unique way to support coping, wellbeing, and trauma symptoms. Look for more information on our website https://onetreepsychological.ca
I am registered psychologist. My Master's degree is in couples and family counselling and I have completed adjunct training in Play Therapy, Sand Play Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I have experience working with clients of all ages from 3 years old and up as well as families and couples. I can accommodate those who are considering online counselling. I also have a team of Therapeutic Support Counsellors who can work with you and your family in a unique way to support coping, wellbeing, and trauma symptoms. Look for more information on our website https://onetreepsychological.ca
Lauren Pitchforth
MA, CYC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
I utilize therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), exposure therapy, narrative therapy, and play therapy, tailoring my approach to each individual.
Hello, I'm Lauren Pitchforth, and I'm deeply passionate about helping adolescents and their families navigate through the many of challenges life can throw our way. With a master's degree in Child and Youth Care, I've dedicated over seven years of my career to supporting young people and their families in hospital and mental health school settings.
I utilize therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), exposure therapy, narrative therapy, and play therapy, tailoring my approach to each individual.
Hello, I'm Lauren Pitchforth, and I'm deeply passionate about helping adolescents and their families navigate through the many of challenges life can throw our way. With a master's degree in Child and Youth Care, I've dedicated over seven years of my career to supporting young people and their families in hospital and mental health school settings.
Nicole Donovan
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
I offer an integrative approach to counseling which includes art therapy, attachment-based therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness, narrative therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and somatic interventions.
Are you noticing that it's harder to get out of bed in the morning? or that your children are struggling to cope? I'm here to help you. I work to support children, youth, and adults with unique and diverse needs. I have a passion for working with children/youth dealing with stress, anxiety, mood disorders, bullying, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and trauma.
I offer an integrative approach to counseling which includes art therapy, attachment-based therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness, narrative therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and somatic interventions.
Are you noticing that it's harder to get out of bed in the morning? or that your children are struggling to cope? I'm here to help you. I work to support children, youth, and adults with unique and diverse needs. I have a passion for working with children/youth dealing with stress, anxiety, mood disorders, bullying, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and trauma.
Bibi Khadija Khurshed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5E (Online Only)
For younger clients, I incorporate creative techniques such as art and play therapy.
As a mental health therapist, I am committed to providing client-centred care and support to individuals of all ages. My practice is firmly rooted in a strength-based approach, focusing on your unique abilities, and fostering a compassionate, non-judgmental environment. With a diverse background in non-profit organizations, healthcare, and school settings, I've had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients. I have clinical experience supporting children, youth, families, and adults with complex mental health concerns (including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment disorders, and relational challenges).
For younger clients, I incorporate creative techniques such as art and play therapy.
As a mental health therapist, I am committed to providing client-centred care and support to individuals of all ages. My practice is firmly rooted in a strength-based approach, focusing on your unique abilities, and fostering a compassionate, non-judgmental environment. With a diverse background in non-profit organizations, healthcare, and school settings, I've had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients. I have clinical experience supporting children, youth, families, and adults with complex mental health concerns (including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment disorders, and relational challenges).
Barbara Garside
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BEd, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Some approaches that I often draw from include humanistic theories, EMDR, CBT, attachment-based, strength-based, solution-focused, and play therapy (yes, even adults can play if they want!).
“Life is tough” - reading that phrase might really resonate with you, but it might also seem like the understatement of the year because in fact, life feels impossible and unbearable. Or maybe, you feel that the word “tough” is too strong and life is actually going ok, but there are some rough spots you could use help with. No matter where you are in life, what’s happening, or how challenging you may find it, you deserve to be supported through it and reaching out is a great step. Remember, you are never “too broken” to be helped and your problems are never “too small” to be worth asking for help.
Some approaches that I often draw from include humanistic theories, EMDR, CBT, attachment-based, strength-based, solution-focused, and play therapy (yes, even adults can play if they want!).
“Life is tough” - reading that phrase might really resonate with you, but it might also seem like the understatement of the year because in fact, life feels impossible and unbearable. Or maybe, you feel that the word “tough” is too strong and life is actually going ok, but there are some rough spots you could use help with. No matter where you are in life, what’s happening, or how challenging you may find it, you deserve to be supported through it and reaching out is a great step. Remember, you are never “too broken” to be helped and your problems are never “too small” to be worth asking for help.
Family Counselling Centres (Beaumont & Edmonton)
PhD, MS, MC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Family Counselling Centres' therapeutic team offers several specialized treatments including but not limited to: EMDR; Play Therapy; Animal-Assisted Therapy; Equine Assisted Counselling; Couples Counselling; Family Therapy; Addictions Counselling; Group Therapy; Art Therapy; Speech Pathology; Occupational Therapy; Psychological, Psycho-Educational, Forensic, and Parenting Assessments.
At Family Counselling Centres we recognize that therapy cannot be a one size fits all approach. Every individual is unique in how they respond to therapy. Accordingly, we utilize play therapy, animal assisted (horse and dog) therapy, EMDR, art therapy, filial therapy, sand play therapy, and traditional psychotherapy to provide clients with comprehensive care. We treat children, teens, adults, and families using both traditional and non-traditional therapies. We believe that people can live up to their full potential if a nurturing environment is available-- this is why we put such a strong focus on the family.
Family Counselling Centres' therapeutic team offers several specialized treatments including but not limited to: EMDR; Play Therapy; Animal-Assisted Therapy; Equine Assisted Counselling; Couples Counselling; Family Therapy; Addictions Counselling; Group Therapy; Art Therapy; Speech Pathology; Occupational Therapy; Psychological, Psycho-Educational, Forensic, and Parenting Assessments.
At Family Counselling Centres we recognize that therapy cannot be a one size fits all approach. Every individual is unique in how they respond to therapy. Accordingly, we utilize play therapy, animal assisted (horse and dog) therapy, EMDR, art therapy, filial therapy, sand play therapy, and traditional psychotherapy to provide clients with comprehensive care. We treat children, teens, adults, and families using both traditional and non-traditional therapies. We believe that people can live up to their full potential if a nurturing environment is available-- this is why we put such a strong focus on the family.
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Wence Leung
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5K
I am a Registered Psychologist and a Registered Play Therapist with over 10 years of education and clinical experience in clinical, school, and community settings. I offer counselling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families in both English and Cantonese. When I work with children, I firmly believe that family is one of the most important factors in their development. By supporting both you and your child, it will help address your child's needs. My areas of specialty include play therapy, parenting, anxiety, depression, bullying and parental separation.
I am a Registered Psychologist and a Registered Play Therapist with over 10 years of education and clinical experience in clinical, school, and community settings. I offer counselling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families in both English and Cantonese. When I work with children, I firmly believe that family is one of the most important factors in their development. By supporting both you and your child, it will help address your child's needs. My areas of specialty include play therapy, parenting, anxiety, depression, bullying and parental separation.
Samantha Gruber
Psychologist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
Hi there and welcome! I am a Registered Psychologist offering services in person in Edmonton and virtually across Alberta. I have experience working with young children (2+), adolescents, teens, and adults. I utilize a fully equipped Play Therapy room at Reframed Psychological (north Edmonton), and Sagacious Counselling (south Edmonton). I believe therapy is a collaborative process and I look forward to working with you, to meet your goals.
Hi there and welcome! I am a Registered Psychologist offering services in person in Edmonton and virtually across Alberta. I have experience working with young children (2+), adolescents, teens, and adults. I utilize a fully equipped Play Therapy room at Reframed Psychological (north Edmonton), and Sagacious Counselling (south Edmonton). I believe therapy is a collaborative process and I look forward to working with you, to meet your goals.
Jennifer Stinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW, CHT, CPT, SEP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
I support children with Play Therapy, EMDR, and parent consultations.
My approach is rooted in the belief that people are fundamentally good, and doing the best they can with what they have. I am a respectful, supportive and collaborative therapist. Within the context of a safe and caring relationship, I use best practice to explore your difficulties and provide support and tools in session so you can move forward in the most fulfilling way. With guidance to experience the changes you seek, previously patterned responses become rewired. Painful experiences that may be keeping you stuck can be healed. Taking this step can allow you to heal so you can live and enjoy your life to the fullest.
I support children with Play Therapy, EMDR, and parent consultations.
My approach is rooted in the belief that people are fundamentally good, and doing the best they can with what they have. I am a respectful, supportive and collaborative therapist. Within the context of a safe and caring relationship, I use best practice to explore your difficulties and provide support and tools in session so you can move forward in the most fulfilling way. With guidance to experience the changes you seek, previously patterned responses become rewired. Painful experiences that may be keeping you stuck can be healed. Taking this step can allow you to heal so you can live and enjoy your life to the fullest.
Amy Paris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6W (Online Only)
My practice includes the provision of individual, couples and family therapy with a noted passion in working with children through play (and yes, this can be done virtually).
I am a Registered Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work with a Clinical specialization. I’m originally from a small town in New Brunswick and completed my studies in several Provinces across Canada. I also resided abroad for over a year and gained further experience in the field. I bring knowledge from multiple settings in the field with significant experience from children and families who have experienced child abuse or navigated through the Child and Family Services system, adoption and post adoption supports.
My practice includes the provision of individual, couples and family therapy with a noted passion in working with children through play (and yes, this can be done virtually).
I am a Registered Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work with a Clinical specialization. I’m originally from a small town in New Brunswick and completed my studies in several Provinces across Canada. I also resided abroad for over a year and gained further experience in the field. I bring knowledge from multiple settings in the field with significant experience from children and families who have experienced child abuse or navigated through the Child and Family Services system, adoption and post adoption supports.
Kelly-Dawn Aulenbach
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
Seeing the change in a client’s life is powerful, and I love being able to play a role in it. When you feel the burden and pressures of life weighing you down, it can be so easy to resort to being hard on yourself. Have you ever wondered what might be possible if the energy you spend in being self-critical could be directed somewhere else? Perhaps you notice you are struggling with a relationship that leaves you feeling stuck. Together, we can build a preferred way of being as we will explore attachment styles, trauma and other aspects of life that may be causing you distress. You matter and your life is worth living.
Seeing the change in a client’s life is powerful, and I love being able to play a role in it. When you feel the burden and pressures of life weighing you down, it can be so easy to resort to being hard on yourself. Have you ever wondered what might be possible if the energy you spend in being self-critical could be directed somewhere else? Perhaps you notice you are struggling with a relationship that leaves you feeling stuck. Together, we can build a preferred way of being as we will explore attachment styles, trauma and other aspects of life that may be causing you distress. You matter and your life is worth living.
Kenneth A Guye
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
Kenneth’s strengths-based approach is informed by a variety of modalities including Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, Play Therapy with children, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Kenneth has worked with families and individuals across the lifespan in a variety of settings for over a decade. These include Child and Family Services, Correctional Services, post-secondary education, the health care system, legal aid, the Alberta public education system, and several other social services organizations. He has a proven track record working with individuals and families experiencing multidimensional and complex challenges relating to trauma/PTSD, depression, family conflict, anxiety, behavioral problems, mental health conditions, emotional dysregulation, and addictions.
Kenneth’s strengths-based approach is informed by a variety of modalities including Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, Play Therapy with children, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Kenneth has worked with families and individuals across the lifespan in a variety of settings for over a decade. These include Child and Family Services, Correctional Services, post-secondary education, the health care system, legal aid, the Alberta public education system, and several other social services organizations. He has a proven track record working with individuals and families experiencing multidimensional and complex challenges relating to trauma/PTSD, depression, family conflict, anxiety, behavioral problems, mental health conditions, emotional dysregulation, and addictions.
Honour Health - Erin Newman
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6B
I also use EMDR and expressive art to treat the impact of trauma, and I am trained in play therapy, sand tray, art therapy for children.
I am a Registered Psychologist, founder, and Clinical Director of Honour Health, a client centered, collaborative, trauma-informed, and holistic clinic. I believe it is a privilege to work alongside of you as you embark on your healing journey, and that my role is to help you find your inner resiliency, tools. and strength to work through struggles and achieve wellness by offering support, validation, strategies, and a new perspective. I work from a holistic and trauma informed approach that looks through the lens of attachment theory. My way of viewing wellness and healing tends to be spiritual, artful, and somatic.
I also use EMDR and expressive art to treat the impact of trauma, and I am trained in play therapy, sand tray, art therapy for children.
I am a Registered Psychologist, founder, and Clinical Director of Honour Health, a client centered, collaborative, trauma-informed, and holistic clinic. I believe it is a privilege to work alongside of you as you embark on your healing journey, and that my role is to help you find your inner resiliency, tools. and strength to work through struggles and achieve wellness by offering support, validation, strategies, and a new perspective. I work from a holistic and trauma informed approach that looks through the lens of attachment theory. My way of viewing wellness and healing tends to be spiritual, artful, and somatic.
Cristina Orobio
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5T
When working with children, I incorporate aspects of Play Therapy, Sandtray and Art Therapy.
Hello! My name is Cristina. I am passionate about supporting individuals (ages 5 and up) in navigating and in taking actionable steps to better their mental health. I specialize in trauma and PTSD that stem from early life experiences, or due to acute trauma from present day. I also specialize in anxiety and stress that arise from difficulties in relationships and life situations. I also work with those affected by neurodevelopmental challenges including Autism Spectrum and ADHD. Furthermore, I enjoy supporting parents in all stages, whether it relates to perinatal mental health or because of situations concerning their children.
When working with children, I incorporate aspects of Play Therapy, Sandtray and Art Therapy.
Hello! My name is Cristina. I am passionate about supporting individuals (ages 5 and up) in navigating and in taking actionable steps to better their mental health. I specialize in trauma and PTSD that stem from early life experiences, or due to acute trauma from present day. I also specialize in anxiety and stress that arise from difficulties in relationships and life situations. I also work with those affected by neurodevelopmental challenges including Autism Spectrum and ADHD. Furthermore, I enjoy supporting parents in all stages, whether it relates to perinatal mental health or because of situations concerning their children.
Anusha Lalani
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
I take a client-centred approach to therapy, which also integrates play therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, somatic therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness, Theraplay, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and family systems.
I'm a Registered Provisional Psychologist, and I have experience and a special interest in working with preschool and school-aged children (ages 4-18). I believe that children learn self-regulation, problem-solving skills, and resiliency as they experience safe and secure attachments. I have received additional training/certification in Therapeutic Play Skills, Circle of Security Parenting, Introductory Theraplay & MIM, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Compassionate Inquiry– Dr. Gabor Mate, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), & Somatic experiencing skills (PESI).
I take a client-centred approach to therapy, which also integrates play therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, somatic therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness, Theraplay, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and family systems.
I'm a Registered Provisional Psychologist, and I have experience and a special interest in working with preschool and school-aged children (ages 4-18). I believe that children learn self-regulation, problem-solving skills, and resiliency as they experience safe and secure attachments. I have received additional training/certification in Therapeutic Play Skills, Circle of Security Parenting, Introductory Theraplay & MIM, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Compassionate Inquiry– Dr. Gabor Mate, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), & Somatic experiencing skills (PESI).
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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.