Photo of Stuart Ralph, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Stuart Ralph
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Farnham GU9
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients from 4 years up to 25. I see a wide range of challenges including OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, school refusal, identity, mood, and peer problems. I have a special interest in OCD, having run a podcast for the last 7 years (5m downloads), and received the International OCD Foundation hero award in 2018. Childhood, adolescence and young adulthood can come with many challenges and difficulties, I offer a safe, empathic and compassionate approach to my clients, while providing evidence based solutions to their problems. I work in private practice, and as co-founder of The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.
I work with clients from 4 years up to 25. I see a wide range of challenges including OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, school refusal, identity, mood, and peer problems. I have a special interest in OCD, having run a podcast for the last 7 years (5m downloads), and received the International OCD Foundation hero award in 2018. Childhood, adolescence and young adulthood can come with many challenges and difficulties, I offer a safe, empathic and compassionate approach to my clients, while providing evidence based solutions to their problems. I work in private practice, and as co-founder of The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.
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Photo of The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy, Counsellor in Farnham, England
The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farnham GU9
Our therapists work online across the UK, we also work face to face with children and young people in Farnham (Surrey) & Herne Hill (London), and with adults in Manchester. Hello, we are the Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy. The founders BACP accredited therapists Jonny Say and Stuart Ralph founded the centre in 2023 to address the need for more affordable and effective therapy options in the UK. Having both suffered from OCD for long periods of time, they created the clinic to help others sooner. Our therapists cover a range of ages from 6 years old up.
Our therapists work online across the UK, we also work face to face with children and young people in Farnham (Surrey) & Herne Hill (London), and with adults in Manchester. Hello, we are the Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy. The founders BACP accredited therapists Jonny Say and Stuart Ralph founded the centre in 2023 to address the need for more affordable and effective therapy options in the UK. Having both suffered from OCD for long periods of time, they created the clinic to help others sooner. Our therapists cover a range of ages from 6 years old up.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Questa Psychological Services, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Questa Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsychD, AFBPSsS
Verified Verified
Farnborough GU14
Questa is a small, specialist practice; we provide a range of psychological services for children and adults, both clinical and educational. In addition to therapy, we are experts in Autism and ADHD assessment/diagnosis. We offer therapy and support for a range of emotional problems for children, teenagers and adults and are specialists in anxiety, depression and trauma, providing therapy to emergency services personnel. Do call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to support you. We can usually help, but if we can't, then we’ll do our very best to offer advice and signposting.
Questa is a small, specialist practice; we provide a range of psychological services for children and adults, both clinical and educational. In addition to therapy, we are experts in Autism and ADHD assessment/diagnosis. We offer therapy and support for a range of emotional problems for children, teenagers and adults and are specialists in anxiety, depression and trauma, providing therapy to emergency services personnel. Do call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to support you. We can usually help, but if we can't, then we’ll do our very best to offer advice and signposting.
023 8192 4877 View 023 8192 4877
Photo of Questa Psychological Services , Psychologist in Farnham, England
Questa Psychological Services
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, AFBPSsS
Verified Verified
Farnborough GU14
I'm Bandna and I'm the Clinical Director of Questa. We're a small, specialist practice offering gold standard psychological services for children, teenagers, adults and families across Hampshire and Surrey. Our clinicians and support team are here to help you through; whether you want an assessment/diagnosis for autism, ADHD, family support, psychological therapy or supportive psychological coaching (SPC) we can help - and if we can't we'll do our utmost to help you find someone who can. Call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to help you.
I'm Bandna and I'm the Clinical Director of Questa. We're a small, specialist practice offering gold standard psychological services for children, teenagers, adults and families across Hampshire and Surrey. Our clinicians and support team are here to help you through; whether you want an assessment/diagnosis for autism, ADHD, family support, psychological therapy or supportive psychological coaching (SPC) we can help - and if we can't we'll do our utmost to help you find someone who can. Call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to help you.
01252 412471 View 01252 412471
Photo of Ruchi Bakshi, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Ruchi Bakshi
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I am Dr Ruchi Bakshi a Clinical Psychologist. I work at Riverside Psychology Marlow in Buckinghamshire and remotely. I have over ten years experience working as a Clinical Psychologist in the public and private sector. I specialise in women’s health, emotional wellbeing and the perinatal period as well as child, parent and family work. I offer evidence based Psychological therapy working in an integrative and holistic way to support you in your health and emotional well-being.
Hello, I am Dr Ruchi Bakshi a Clinical Psychologist. I work at Riverside Psychology Marlow in Buckinghamshire and remotely. I have over ten years experience working as a Clinical Psychologist in the public and private sector. I specialise in women’s health, emotional wellbeing and the perinatal period as well as child, parent and family work. I offer evidence based Psychological therapy working in an integrative and holistic way to support you in your health and emotional well-being.
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Online Therapists

Photo of Lital Serby Bejerano, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Lital Serby Bejerano
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N3
I am an integrative counsellor/psychotherapist specialise in counselling children, adolescent and parents. I help children of all ages cope with their emotional distress through the use of play, art, creative therapy, mindfulness and CBT therapeutic techniques. I also offer guidance to parents and provide them with the necessary knowledge and tools needed to improve their relationship with their children and deal with their possible changes. My aim is to provide a sensitive and confidential space for you to be open and explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours so you can develop a better understanding of yourself and others.
I am an integrative counsellor/psychotherapist specialise in counselling children, adolescent and parents. I help children of all ages cope with their emotional distress through the use of play, art, creative therapy, mindfulness and CBT therapeutic techniques. I also offer guidance to parents and provide them with the necessary knowledge and tools needed to improve their relationship with their children and deal with their possible changes. My aim is to provide a sensitive and confidential space for you to be open and explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours so you can develop a better understanding of yourself and others.
020 4538 5292 View 020 4538 5292
Photo of Jo Harley, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Jo Harley
Psychotherapist, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
London SW11  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As an Arts therapist I work with a particular focus on the persons whole experience; body, mind, and spirit. The expressive arts are a gentle way for you to share your story in alternate ways, sometimes for the first time, expressing your thoughts and feelings using verbal and non-verbal communication. My approach incorporates art forms such as writing, image-making, role-play, and movement, with mindful awareness. By becoming more aware, we start to recognise that we have more choices. This process is a lot less directive than conventional talking therapies, and can offer a refreshing new way of exploring challenging issues.
As an Arts therapist I work with a particular focus on the persons whole experience; body, mind, and spirit. The expressive arts are a gentle way for you to share your story in alternate ways, sometimes for the first time, expressing your thoughts and feelings using verbal and non-verbal communication. My approach incorporates art forms such as writing, image-making, role-play, and movement, with mindful awareness. By becoming more aware, we start to recognise that we have more choices. This process is a lot less directive than conventional talking therapies, and can offer a refreshing new way of exploring challenging issues.
020 3974 2801 View 020 3974 2801
Photo of Marta Benko, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Marta Benko
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London NW3
Additionally trained in different therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, CFT, mindfulness, play and creative arts therapy, filial therapy, narrative approaches.
Supporting kids, YP, parents and adults with: mental health difficulties in the context of a physical illness (especially with endometriosis, asthma, CF, oncology, haematology, gastroenterology, dermatology, neurosurgery, and surgery), health anxiety, functional presentation/ medically unexplained symptom, relationship breakdown and divorce, children and young people, school avoidance/school anxiety, ex-pats and 3rd country children, mood difficulties (anxiety, panic attacks, fear and phobias, low mood) , stress , OCD, body repetitive behaviours (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting) , sleep, non-underweight eating disorders.
Additionally trained in different therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, CFT, mindfulness, play and creative arts therapy, filial therapy, narrative approaches.
Supporting kids, YP, parents and adults with: mental health difficulties in the context of a physical illness (especially with endometriosis, asthma, CF, oncology, haematology, gastroenterology, dermatology, neurosurgery, and surgery), health anxiety, functional presentation/ medically unexplained symptom, relationship breakdown and divorce, children and young people, school avoidance/school anxiety, ex-pats and 3rd country children, mood difficulties (anxiety, panic attacks, fear and phobias, low mood) , stress , OCD, body repetitive behaviours (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting) , sleep, non-underweight eating disorders.
020 8016 3516 View 020 8016 3516
Photo of Circle Psychology Partners Ltd, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Circle Psychology Partners Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE21
My team at Circle Psychology Partners is made up of highly skilled Doctors of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Counsellors, CBT Therapists, Psychotherapists and Play Therapists.
I am Dr Christine Langhoff, Clinical Psychologist and the director of Clinical Psychology Partners. I have worked as a psychologist since 2008. I manage a team of more than 30 therapists (clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists, CBT therapists) who offer therapy for children, adolescents, families, adults and couples in Southeast London and Sutton. We offer therapy incl. CBT, CFT, EMDR and ACT therapy for Depression (incl. Postnatal), Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Stress, Bereavement, Bereavement and More.
My team at Circle Psychology Partners is made up of highly skilled Doctors of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Counsellors, CBT Therapists, Psychotherapists and Play Therapists.
I am Dr Christine Langhoff, Clinical Psychologist and the director of Clinical Psychology Partners. I have worked as a psychologist since 2008. I manage a team of more than 30 therapists (clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists, CBT therapists) who offer therapy for children, adolescents, families, adults and couples in Southeast London and Sutton. We offer therapy incl. CBT, CFT, EMDR and ACT therapy for Depression (incl. Postnatal), Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Stress, Bereavement, Bereavement and More.
020 3823 6543 View 020 3823 6543
Photo of Lara Danielle Therapy, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Lara Danielle Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London SW6  (Online Only)
I utilize various approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play, Strength-based, Psychodynamic and/or Expressive Arts Therapy.
I work with children from aged five, adolescents and adult females. I am compassionate and warm. I specialize in difficulties, including trauma, self-esteem, attachment, divorce, aggression, social anxiety, generalized anxiety and body concerns. I have worked extensively with young children and adolescents, both as a child therapist and in previous careers. I have worked at non-profit and for profit organizations, including a national adolescent treatment centre for mental health and substance use, foster homes and a domestic violence organization. I approach the therapeutic relationship with genuineness, curiosity, and warmth.
I utilize various approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play, Strength-based, Psychodynamic and/or Expressive Arts Therapy.
I work with children from aged five, adolescents and adult females. I am compassionate and warm. I specialize in difficulties, including trauma, self-esteem, attachment, divorce, aggression, social anxiety, generalized anxiety and body concerns. I have worked extensively with young children and adolescents, both as a child therapist and in previous careers. I have worked at non-profit and for profit organizations, including a national adolescent treatment centre for mental health and substance use, foster homes and a domestic violence organization. I approach the therapeutic relationship with genuineness, curiosity, and warmth.
01748 900772 View 01748 900772
Photo of Springboard Psychology, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Springboard Psychology
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ringwood BH24
When working with children and young people I sensitively adapt my approach, drawing on a young person’s strengths and interests and offering drawing/ play-based therapeutic work if appropriate.
Hi my name is Caroline and I have extensive experience of providing psychological support to children, teens and adults. I offer a safe space for you to to work through struggles, explore alternative perspectives and achieve a sense of self-awareness and emotional wellbeing. I can help you if you are experiencing a wide range of emotions or you are going through a tough time in your life. I am also able to offer adults career coaching including individual profiling.
When working with children and young people I sensitively adapt my approach, drawing on a young person’s strengths and interests and offering drawing/ play-based therapeutic work if appropriate.
Hi my name is Caroline and I have extensive experience of providing psychological support to children, teens and adults. I offer a safe space for you to to work through struggles, explore alternative perspectives and achieve a sense of self-awareness and emotional wellbeing. I can help you if you are experiencing a wide range of emotions or you are going through a tough time in your life. I am also able to offer adults career coaching including individual profiling.
01209 705212 View 01209 705212
Photo of Amy Lyons, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Amy Lyons
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N2
I also play netball every week where I engage in my competitive side! It’s also really important to me to spend time with my friends and loved ones.
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
I also play netball every week where I engage in my competitive side! It’s also really important to me to spend time with my friends and loved ones.
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
020 3870 2957 View 020 3870 2957
Photo of Dr Ilan Ben-Zion, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Dr Ilan Ben-Zion
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
I love to play and watch a variety of sports, and employ many of the skills I help others develop whilst watching my frustrating team, Arsenal, play football.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
I love to play and watch a variety of sports, and employ many of the skills I help others develop whilst watching my frustrating team, Arsenal, play football.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
020 3974 2820 View 020 3974 2820
Photo of Sunnycove Counselling and Supervision Services, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Sunnycove Counselling and Supervision Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Weston-super-Mare BS24
For children and young people I offer sand tray, play dough, Lego, games, painting and drawing, or a space that's quiet and reflective.
Hi my name is Paulette and I have been a therapist for over twenty years. I work with adults, children 5+ and young people. I have worked in various organisations, charities, secondary schools and colleges. If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, addiction, relationship problems, work based problems, family dysfunction, stress, anger, etc. I offer a confidential and safe space where you would be heard and not judged. Together we will work on the problems, identify what needs to done and ensure you have the right skills for the future. A healthy positive future is possible.
For children and young people I offer sand tray, play dough, Lego, games, painting and drawing, or a space that's quiet and reflective.
Hi my name is Paulette and I have been a therapist for over twenty years. I work with adults, children 5+ and young people. I have worked in various organisations, charities, secondary schools and colleges. If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, addiction, relationship problems, work based problems, family dysfunction, stress, anger, etc. I offer a confidential and safe space where you would be heard and not judged. Together we will work on the problems, identify what needs to done and ensure you have the right skills for the future. A healthy positive future is possible.
01934 311516 View 01934 311516
Photo of Jo Allen, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Jo Allen
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London EC2A  (Online Only)
Hello, are you struggling with relationships, wanting to explore the dynamics in your family or how you have managed a difficult life transition or change in your life? I would hope to support you to explore these changes and how you have coped and support you to implement changes to support new understandings and improve your wellbeing. I am collaborative in my approach and balance supportive therapeutic conversations with suggestions for action depending on the clients needs.
Hello, are you struggling with relationships, wanting to explore the dynamics in your family or how you have managed a difficult life transition or change in your life? I would hope to support you to explore these changes and how you have coped and support you to implement changes to support new understandings and improve your wellbeing. I am collaborative in my approach and balance supportive therapeutic conversations with suggestions for action depending on the clients needs.
020 4524 5560 View 020 4524 5560
Photo of Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service , Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cirencester GL7
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service is a dedicated provider of support for adults and children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism or ADHD. Our friendly experienced team of therapists, mentors and psychologists, use adapted approaches and specialist tools, to help people overcome their challenges.
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service is a dedicated provider of support for adults and children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism or ADHD. Our friendly experienced team of therapists, mentors and psychologists, use adapted approaches and specialist tools, to help people overcome their challenges.
01285 842652 View 01285 842652
Photo of Dr Stewart Blake, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Dr Stewart Blake
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Hastings TN34
I am a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society and have a doctorate in Psychotherapeutic and Counselling Psychology from the University of Surrey. Prior to this qualification I was awarded a Bachelor of Science (First Class Honours) degree in Psychology with Clinical Psychology from the University of Kent. I have a wide range of experience working within a number of Community Mental Health Teams and Psychological Services Departments for the Kent and Medway NHS Foundation Trust. These roles involved working with a broad spectrum of psychological distress ranging from mild to severe and enduring.
I am a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society and have a doctorate in Psychotherapeutic and Counselling Psychology from the University of Surrey. Prior to this qualification I was awarded a Bachelor of Science (First Class Honours) degree in Psychology with Clinical Psychology from the University of Kent. I have a wide range of experience working within a number of Community Mental Health Teams and Psychological Services Departments for the Kent and Medway NHS Foundation Trust. These roles involved working with a broad spectrum of psychological distress ranging from mild to severe and enduring.
01424 236851 View 01424 236851
Photo of Katy Bradbury, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Katy Bradbury
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harlow CM20
I provide therapy for individuals, couples or family groups. I am experienced at dealing with a range of client issues and can work with several models of counselling to suit your specific needs. I have particular experience in working with anxiety, depression, addiction, childhood abuse, trauma and relationship issues. I am happy to help you to deal with anything you are going through and have worked with a wide variety of clients.
I provide therapy for individuals, couples or family groups. I am experienced at dealing with a range of client issues and can work with several models of counselling to suit your specific needs. I have particular experience in working with anxiety, depression, addiction, childhood abuse, trauma and relationship issues. I am happy to help you to deal with anything you are going through and have worked with a wide variety of clients.
01279 598046 View 01279 598046
Photo of Karin Ball, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Karin Ball
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saffron Walden CB11
If you and/or your child are finding things challenging at the moment for whatever reason I am devoted in supporting you in a holistic way. I specialise in working with children, adolescents and parents/caregivers offering a range of services.
If you and/or your child are finding things challenging at the moment for whatever reason I am devoted in supporting you in a holistic way. I specialise in working with children, adolescents and parents/caregivers offering a range of services.
01799 619445 View 01799 619445
Photo of Deborah Susan Gray, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Deborah Susan Gray
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
West Malling ME19
Life can be hard and doesn't always go the way we would like. I offer a range of times to suit your needs. Where together we can explore what you are experiencing and work towards, creating a meaningful life. I am currently conducting masters research, of my final year in transpersonal psychology, so any spiritual counselling that is required we can work together. I offer a place to get away from everything and talk while feeling safe without judgement. This can be a place to process what has gone on and learn how the world is perceived uniquely by you.
Life can be hard and doesn't always go the way we would like. I offer a range of times to suit your needs. Where together we can explore what you are experiencing and work towards, creating a meaningful life. I am currently conducting masters research, of my final year in transpersonal psychology, so any spiritual counselling that is required we can work together. I offer a place to get away from everything and talk while feeling safe without judgement. This can be a place to process what has gone on and learn how the world is perceived uniquely by you.
01260 541352 View 01260 541352

See more therapy options for Farnham

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.