Photo of Arktos Wellness Services Canada, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Arktos Wellness Services Canada
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
Our practice consists of Registered Social Workers and Registered Clinical Counsellors who have been trained in various theoretical frameworks, including EMDR, DBT, CBT, Play therapy, Solutions-Focused therapy, and Mindfulness therapies.
As Registered Social Workers and Registered Clinical Counsellors, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective mental health support. We offer a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're struggling with anxiety or depression or navigating life's transitions, our goal is to empower you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. We will work collaboratively to identify your strengths, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience so you can live a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Our practice consists of Registered Social Workers and Registered Clinical Counsellors who have been trained in various theoretical frameworks, including EMDR, DBT, CBT, Play therapy, Solutions-Focused therapy, and Mindfulness therapies.
As Registered Social Workers and Registered Clinical Counsellors, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective mental health support. We offer a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're struggling with anxiety or depression or navigating life's transitions, our goal is to empower you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. We will work collaboratively to identify your strengths, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience so you can live a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(249) 490-5992 View (249) 490-5992
Photo of Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
We also provide Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Sandtray, and Trauma-Focused Interventions.
The Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic is a specialized mental health and wellness clinic that emphasizes mind-body and brain-based healing approaches. We provide psychological and neurofeedback services for children, adolescents, and adults to promote enhanced awareness, self-regulation, psychological resilience, and healing. We emphasize the importance of providing an emotionally safe and compassionate environment for building trust and therapeutic rapport, while developing individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based practice.
We also provide Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Sandtray, and Trauma-Focused Interventions.
The Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic is a specialized mental health and wellness clinic that emphasizes mind-body and brain-based healing approaches. We provide psychological and neurofeedback services for children, adolescents, and adults to promote enhanced awareness, self-regulation, psychological resilience, and healing. We emphasize the importance of providing an emotionally safe and compassionate environment for building trust and therapeutic rapport, while developing individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based practice.
(613) 226-6767 View (613) 226-6767
Photo of Kaily Maddigan, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Kaily Maddigan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
My practice draws on evidence-based therapies such as Play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you concerned your child, teenager, or young adult seems to be experiencing ongoing worries? Do you notice them feeling down or struggling with their self-esteem? Are you worried about their ability to regulate their emotions? I offer bilingual services to children, teens and young adults, who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, grief and loss, have questions and considerations regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity and more.
My practice draws on evidence-based therapies such as Play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you concerned your child, teenager, or young adult seems to be experiencing ongoing worries? Do you notice them feeling down or struggling with their self-esteem? Are you worried about their ability to regulate their emotions? I offer bilingual services to children, teens and young adults, who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, grief and loss, have questions and considerations regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity and more.
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Photo of Veronica Valladares, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Veronica Valladares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I firmly believe every child and parent has an inherent desire to do well, and when they aren't, they just need a little help getting there. Together, we can achieve that. In my practice, I work alongside children, youth, and families to support them through life's challenges so they can develop the skills to thrive. While I bring my expertise as a psychotherapist, I recognize that each individual is ultimately the expert in their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a space where I can serve as a guide to help your child explore, reflect, and progress towards growth.
I firmly believe every child and parent has an inherent desire to do well, and when they aren't, they just need a little help getting there. Together, we can achieve that. In my practice, I work alongside children, youth, and families to support them through life's challenges so they can develop the skills to thrive. While I bring my expertise as a psychotherapist, I recognize that each individual is ultimately the expert in their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a space where I can serve as a guide to help your child explore, reflect, and progress towards growth.
(343) 338-5166 View (343) 338-5166
Photo of Kyana Dyaji, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Kyana Dyaji
Registered Psychotherapist, EdD, MSc, CAGS, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, worry excessively, overly stressed/tired, easily irritated, struggle with emotional regulation, experience relationship difficulties, struggle with ADHD symptoms, always feeling on edge, feel lost, have a hard time making meaningful connections, difficulty adjusting to situations, struggling with a significant loss, or poor self image? And want to release your fears & anxieties, develop effective coping skills, be able to feel like your past experiences don't feel as painful, experience a less stressful life, rediscover yourself, have a much happier life and improve your overall wellbeing.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, worry excessively, overly stressed/tired, easily irritated, struggle with emotional regulation, experience relationship difficulties, struggle with ADHD symptoms, always feeling on edge, feel lost, have a hard time making meaningful connections, difficulty adjusting to situations, struggling with a significant loss, or poor self image? And want to release your fears & anxieties, develop effective coping skills, be able to feel like your past experiences don't feel as painful, experience a less stressful life, rediscover yourself, have a much happier life and improve your overall wellbeing.
(343) 309-5931 View (343) 309-5931
Photo of Sarah Philbrick-Djerfi @ Psychotherapy for You in Ottawa, ON
Sarah Philbrick-Djerfi @ Psychotherapy for You
MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Victoria. I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over seven years experience providing support to individuals, couples, and families through challenging times. I have experienced a number of challenging situations and events in my own life that have helped to shape me into an empathic and caring professional. I understand that trauma can be experienced in many different ways and am committed to providing a safe, caring, non-judgmental space to support you
I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Victoria. I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over seven years experience providing support to individuals, couples, and families through challenging times. I have experienced a number of challenging situations and events in my own life that have helped to shape me into an empathic and caring professional. I understand that trauma can be experienced in many different ways and am committed to providing a safe, caring, non-judgmental space to support you
(249) 496-1934 View (249) 496-1934
Photo of Ottawa Centre for Resilience, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Ottawa Centre for Resilience
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S
We are currently accepting clients immediately with NO WAIT for psychotherapy (children, adolescents, adults, and families). You can book an intake here: aws-portal/owlpractice.ca/ocfr We are a mental health centre for childhood trauma & dissociation, attachment, adoption, and high-conflict families for Ottawa and surrounding areas. Our clinicians have advanced training in a variety of evidence-based trauma-informed approaches for treating children, youth, adults, and families, including psycho-biologically and somatic based approaches, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, SMART, Brainspotting, and Safe and Sound Protocol.
We are currently accepting clients immediately with NO WAIT for psychotherapy (children, adolescents, adults, and families). You can book an intake here: aws-portal/owlpractice.ca/ocfr We are a mental health centre for childhood trauma & dissociation, attachment, adoption, and high-conflict families for Ottawa and surrounding areas. Our clinicians have advanced training in a variety of evidence-based trauma-informed approaches for treating children, youth, adults, and families, including psycho-biologically and somatic based approaches, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, SMART, Brainspotting, and Safe and Sound Protocol.
(613) 714-0662 View (613) 714-0662
Photo of Expressive Arts Therapy Ottawa, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Expressive Arts Therapy Ottawa
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B
Now accepting new clients! Each of us has had relational experiences that have left us feeling discomfort, insecure or unhappy. I am here to walk with you through this journey of exploring yourself and depending the understanding of your patterns and response through an attachment/ relational therapy and expressive arts lens - both through talk therapy and creating art, or a combination of the two working within your comfort. I have many years experience working with anxiety and depression, as well as trauma/ stress responses. If you find yourself stuck and wanting to explore, please contact us and see if we’re the right fit for you
Now accepting new clients! Each of us has had relational experiences that have left us feeling discomfort, insecure or unhappy. I am here to walk with you through this journey of exploring yourself and depending the understanding of your patterns and response through an attachment/ relational therapy and expressive arts lens - both through talk therapy and creating art, or a combination of the two working within your comfort. I have many years experience working with anxiety and depression, as well as trauma/ stress responses. If you find yourself stuck and wanting to explore, please contact us and see if we’re the right fit for you
(343) 700-1860 View (343) 700-1860
Photo of Holistic Wellness Therapies, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Holistic Wellness Therapies
Psychologist, MA, MSW, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1C
We are a team of dedicated & experienced Social Workers and Psychologists. If you are feeling lost, confused, unlike yourself, or simply want to understand yourself - we've got you covered. As a parent, if you are having difficulties with understanding your Childs emotions or behaviours, our highly experienced social worker can support you on your parenting journey. Our therapists help a variety of concerns including grief, depression, anxiety, OCD, burnout, stress, life transitions, parenting, identity, spirituality and so much more. We also offer psychological assessments and psychoeducational assessments. We are here to support!
We are a team of dedicated & experienced Social Workers and Psychologists. If you are feeling lost, confused, unlike yourself, or simply want to understand yourself - we've got you covered. As a parent, if you are having difficulties with understanding your Childs emotions or behaviours, our highly experienced social worker can support you on your parenting journey. Our therapists help a variety of concerns including grief, depression, anxiety, OCD, burnout, stress, life transitions, parenting, identity, spirituality and so much more. We also offer psychological assessments and psychoeducational assessments. We are here to support!
(343) 700-4399 View (343) 700-4399
Photo of Linnea Elizabeth McPhail, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Linnea Elizabeth McPhail
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, DVATI, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
You may be struggling to hold everything together. You may feel helpless, or that no one around you understands how you are feeling. You might be easily distracted. You feel hopeless & may lack the motivation to get through even the most basic of tasks. You might feel anxious, depressed, or just blah. You may be caring for a young human who is struggling in school or at home. They may be sensitive & have a big heart but struggle to cope with their big emotions. As an Art Therapist & Death Doula, I can help folks work with difficult emotions one may be experiencing, together in a space created with safety, kindness, & compassion.
You may be struggling to hold everything together. You may feel helpless, or that no one around you understands how you are feeling. You might be easily distracted. You feel hopeless & may lack the motivation to get through even the most basic of tasks. You might feel anxious, depressed, or just blah. You may be caring for a young human who is struggling in school or at home. They may be sensitive & have a big heart but struggle to cope with their big emotions. As an Art Therapist & Death Doula, I can help folks work with difficult emotions one may be experiencing, together in a space created with safety, kindness, & compassion.
(343) 308-0586 View (343) 308-0586
Photo of Gabriel Marin, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Gabriel Marin
Registered Social Worker, PhD, RSW, MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed and depressed, hating your job and fighting with a partner or a family that refuses to adopt your views? Do you struggle to be the person you want to be? I offer confidential counselling and I believe in a client-centred approach. I am specialized in the field of memory studies, being interested in how identity is shaped, what are the paths of mental care and how to come to terms with anger, grief and depression. I also welcome immigrants of all nationalities dealing with acculturation, including family crisis, social anxiety and job related stress.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed and depressed, hating your job and fighting with a partner or a family that refuses to adopt your views? Do you struggle to be the person you want to be? I offer confidential counselling and I believe in a client-centred approach. I am specialized in the field of memory studies, being interested in how identity is shaped, what are the paths of mental care and how to come to terms with anger, grief and depression. I also welcome immigrants of all nationalities dealing with acculturation, including family crisis, social anxiety and job related stress.
(613) 707-7723 View (613) 707-7723
Photo of Intersections Therapy Collective, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Intersections Therapy Collective
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
(343) 342-2410 View (343) 342-2410
Photo of Katarzyna (Kate) Iwuc, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Katarzyna (Kate) Iwuc
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V
Do you ever feel as though others are merely listening but not truly hearing you? Do you experience a sense of hopelessness and helplessness, feeling as though the world is closing in on you? Do you harbour beliefs that you are inherently worthless, perhaps even unworthy of any goodness that comes your way? If these sentiments resonate with you, I am here to offer assistance and support. I am a dedicated psychotherapist with a profound focus on guiding individuals through the complexities of mental health issues and life's "curveballs".
Do you ever feel as though others are merely listening but not truly hearing you? Do you experience a sense of hopelessness and helplessness, feeling as though the world is closing in on you? Do you harbour beliefs that you are inherently worthless, perhaps even unworthy of any goodness that comes your way? If these sentiments resonate with you, I am here to offer assistance and support. I am a dedicated psychotherapist with a profound focus on guiding individuals through the complexities of mental health issues and life's "curveballs".
(343) 338-3640 View (343) 338-3640
Photo of Nalini Iype, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Nalini Iype
Psychologist, CPsych, PsyD, MC:AT
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
It is my privilege to guide individuals as they unlock new ways of being, thinking, and experiencing themselves in the world. Whether you are dealing with a major life obstacle or healing an old wound, I look forward to working with you with compassion and warmth, and to honouring your personal strengths and needs. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from many different backgrounds.
It is my privilege to guide individuals as they unlock new ways of being, thinking, and experiencing themselves in the world. Whether you are dealing with a major life obstacle or healing an old wound, I look forward to working with you with compassion and warmth, and to honouring your personal strengths and needs. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from many different backgrounds.
(647) 360-0679 View (647) 360-0679
Photo of Renew Neurotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Renew Neurotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2E
Imagine feeling trapped in a whirlpool of anxiety, unable to pause and take a breath. Or envision a racing mind that won’t slow down enough to focus on the strategies that could help. Conventional therapies might have all the right answers, but the body refuses to cooperate. You know WHAT to do, but your body and brain won't listen! Whether it’s extreme anxiety, hypervigilance, or attention deficit problems, challenges often lie in a constant battle between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous systems that leave many people caught in an unproductive cycle.
Imagine feeling trapped in a whirlpool of anxiety, unable to pause and take a breath. Or envision a racing mind that won’t slow down enough to focus on the strategies that could help. Conventional therapies might have all the right answers, but the body refuses to cooperate. You know WHAT to do, but your body and brain won't listen! Whether it’s extreme anxiety, hypervigilance, or attention deficit problems, challenges often lie in a constant battle between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous systems that leave many people caught in an unproductive cycle.
(613) 707-7415 View (613) 707-7415
Photo of Attached Kids - Katie Montague, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Attached Kids - Katie Montague
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1M
Waitlist for new clients
Is your child experiencing frequent worries, difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school, or difficulty making friends? Are you hoping your child will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? I support children to develop new coping strategies to manage childhood anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, low self-esteem, big life changes, aggressive behaviour, and other common concerns children face.
Is your child experiencing frequent worries, difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school, or difficulty making friends? Are you hoping your child will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? I support children to develop new coping strategies to manage childhood anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, low self-esteem, big life changes, aggressive behaviour, and other common concerns children face.
(343) 305-5390 View (343) 305-5390
Photo of JMN Counselling, Therapy & Coaching, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
JMN Counselling, Therapy & Coaching
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K
Mes services sont aussi offerts en Français. Are you dealing with a situation that is impacting your physical, emotional, mental or spiritual well being ? If that is the case, you are at the right place. It takes courage to acknowledge the need for support, and you have already made an important first step. I have experience working with individuals from different backgrounds, cultures and ages who are dealing with issues such as anxiety, stress, burnout, life transition, loss, organization, motivation, self esteem, conflicts, identity, communication, etc. I can work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Mes services sont aussi offerts en Français. Are you dealing with a situation that is impacting your physical, emotional, mental or spiritual well being ? If that is the case, you are at the right place. It takes courage to acknowledge the need for support, and you have already made an important first step. I have experience working with individuals from different backgrounds, cultures and ages who are dealing with issues such as anxiety, stress, burnout, life transition, loss, organization, motivation, self esteem, conflicts, identity, communication, etc. I can work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(343) 430-0394 View (343) 430-0394
Photo of Aimée Kazadi Ouoguep, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Aimée Kazadi Ouoguep
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
I believe in the inner strength of every human being to become the main actor of his improvement and healing. My job is to help you uncover your potentials for your growth and unleash your inner capacities to make the transformational changes you are yearning for. After meeting with you, we will work together hand to hand in a co-creative collaboration and assess how best to meet your need as individual, couple, or family.
I believe in the inner strength of every human being to become the main actor of his improvement and healing. My job is to help you uncover your potentials for your growth and unleash your inner capacities to make the transformational changes you are yearning for. After meeting with you, we will work together hand to hand in a co-creative collaboration and assess how best to meet your need as individual, couple, or family.
(343) 309-9513 View (343) 309-9513
Photo of Camille Champagne, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Camille Champagne
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
Is your child struggling with mental health after the Covid-19 pandemic? Is your teenager struggling with social anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, school avoidance, difficulty managing their own emotions, OCD, feeling overwhelmed or lacking self-confidence? I can help support your family navigate through these challenges and difficulties. I can provide a warm, non-judgemental and relaxed space for your child to talk about how they are feeling. I have experience working with Autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, Tourette's, Learning Disabilities and giftedness.
Is your child struggling with mental health after the Covid-19 pandemic? Is your teenager struggling with social anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, school avoidance, difficulty managing their own emotions, OCD, feeling overwhelmed or lacking self-confidence? I can help support your family navigate through these challenges and difficulties. I can provide a warm, non-judgemental and relaxed space for your child to talk about how they are feeling. I have experience working with Autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, Tourette's, Learning Disabilities and giftedness.
(343) 342-0188 View (343) 342-0188
Photo of Massimo Roberto Di Domenico, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Massimo Roberto Di Domenico
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Life can be full of stress, with some days being more overwhelming than others. It can be difficult to look inwards and realize that the skills and behaviours we have been using to cope with stress are not as effective as they used to be. Through this inward reflection, you have recognized that something needs to change and I congratulate you on doing so. This recognition can come with uncertainty about how to develop different ways to overcome the challenges that life presents us. Together we will navigate difficulties with negative emotions, disruptive behaviours, or family conflict and work towards making a positive change!
Life can be full of stress, with some days being more overwhelming than others. It can be difficult to look inwards and realize that the skills and behaviours we have been using to cope with stress are not as effective as they used to be. Through this inward reflection, you have recognized that something needs to change and I congratulate you on doing so. This recognition can come with uncertainty about how to develop different ways to overcome the challenges that life presents us. Together we will navigate difficulties with negative emotions, disruptive behaviours, or family conflict and work towards making a positive change!
(819) 412-6618 View (819) 412-6618

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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.