Play Therapy Counselling in Grantham

Photo of Lead The Way Counselling , Counsellor in Grantham, England
Lead The Way Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Grantham NG31
I am an experienced NCPS accredited Counsellor Psychotherapist offering both short and long term therapy. I specialise in working with trauma and offer a confidential, non-judgemental, empathic safe space in which adults, children and young people can explore, express and acknowledge what's going on in their life both past and present. I have a relaxed, nurturing and laid back approach which helps in allowing my clients to feel relaxed and safe, and vital for working in depth on issues such as historical trauma, sexual, physical and psychological abuse which require a strong therapeutic connection and trust.
I am an experienced NCPS accredited Counsellor Psychotherapist offering both short and long term therapy. I specialise in working with trauma and offer a confidential, non-judgemental, empathic safe space in which adults, children and young people can explore, express and acknowledge what's going on in their life both past and present. I have a relaxed, nurturing and laid back approach which helps in allowing my clients to feel relaxed and safe, and vital for working in depth on issues such as historical trauma, sexual, physical and psychological abuse which require a strong therapeutic connection and trust.
01476 852956 View 01476 852956
Photo of Elizabeth Hicks Therapy, Counsellor in Grantham, England
Elizabeth Hicks Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Grantham NG33  (Online Only)
Navigating around life, work, family, relationships, sex and intimacy, most of us at some point will find ourselves in a situation where we might benefit from some extra support. I work with individuals, couples and families with both a relational and individual focus. I am qualified Psychosexual & Relationship therapist. Alongside my Private Practice, I have previously worked with Relate, the NHS, Hospices and a Sexual Assault Support Centre. I also work with sex addiction (including support for partners and families). I have an approachable, warm & empathic approach and clients feed back that they find this incredibly helpful.
Navigating around life, work, family, relationships, sex and intimacy, most of us at some point will find ourselves in a situation where we might benefit from some extra support. I work with individuals, couples and families with both a relational and individual focus. I am qualified Psychosexual & Relationship therapist. Alongside my Private Practice, I have previously worked with Relate, the NHS, Hospices and a Sexual Assault Support Centre. I also work with sex addiction (including support for partners and families). I have an approachable, warm & empathic approach and clients feed back that they find this incredibly helpful.
01522 440418 View 01522 440418

Online Therapists

Photo of Jane Susan Smith, Counsellor in Grantham, England
Jane Susan Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Colchester CO6
I use a range of play and creative materials which can help uncover, and explore emotions which helps in developing coping skills and communication.
Deciding to contact a counsellor can feel overwhelming but as a fully qualified counsellor and member of the BACP (British association for psychotherapy) I work to a professional standard and ethic, supporting you on every step of your journey. I work from my private practice which sits on the Essex and Suffolk border, nestled in the Colne valley offering comfortable confidential consulting rooms with discreet parking . My practice is based on person -centred values offering empathic in-depth support which allows you to explore your feelings, beliefs and emotions in a safe confidential space. Weekly, monthly or ad hoc sessions
I use a range of play and creative materials which can help uncover, and explore emotions which helps in developing coping skills and communication.
Deciding to contact a counsellor can feel overwhelming but as a fully qualified counsellor and member of the BACP (British association for psychotherapy) I work to a professional standard and ethic, supporting you on every step of your journey. I work from my private practice which sits on the Essex and Suffolk border, nestled in the Colne valley offering comfortable confidential consulting rooms with discreet parking . My practice is based on person -centred values offering empathic in-depth support which allows you to explore your feelings, beliefs and emotions in a safe confidential space. Weekly, monthly or ad hoc sessions
01206 489875 View 01206 489875
Photo of Amy Lyons, Psychologist in Grantham, 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 Penelope Stanley, Counsellor in Grantham, England
Penelope Stanley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Richmond TW9
For work with children and adolescents, I use Play therapy, creative tools and CBT.
Hello and welcome. Searching for a therapist via directory listings can be a daunting experience, especially at a time when you are struggling. My name is Penny and I work with Adults, Adolescents, Young children and Families. I am also a Supervisor of other therapists. I have a quiet, private therapy space in SW London and offer sessions online via Zoom if preferred. Whether you are an adult seeking help for yourself or a parent for your child, I offer a warm non-judgmental space in which to explore your current difficulties - relationship issues, anxiety, low-mood, loss, feeling stuck - all can be brought, heard, and explored.
For work with children and adolescents, I use Play therapy, creative tools and CBT.
Hello and welcome. Searching for a therapist via directory listings can be a daunting experience, especially at a time when you are struggling. My name is Penny and I work with Adults, Adolescents, Young children and Families. I am also a Supervisor of other therapists. I have a quiet, private therapy space in SW London and offer sessions online via Zoom if preferred. Whether you are an adult seeking help for yourself or a parent for your child, I offer a warm non-judgmental space in which to explore your current difficulties - relationship issues, anxiety, low-mood, loss, feeling stuck - all can be brought, heard, and explored.
01748 902063 View 01748 902063
Photo of Mel Paulson, Counsellor in Grantham, England
Mel Paulson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Derby DE22
To enrich the sessions, I use play and creative resources, if relevant, to allow exploration of experiences and emotions.
I understand that life can be difficult and there may be times when you could benefit from talking to an approachable counsellor. Collaboratively we can explore challenges or issues that you are facing and work towards empowerment for change. I specialise in neurodiversity (ASD/ADHD) and offer a therapeutic space for children, young people and adults to develop self-awareness and coping strategies. I am a qualified integrative counsellor who is committed to offering you a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space to allow you to explore your thoughts and feelings.
To enrich the sessions, I use play and creative resources, if relevant, to allow exploration of experiences and emotions.
I understand that life can be difficult and there may be times when you could benefit from talking to an approachable counsellor. Collaboratively we can explore challenges or issues that you are facing and work towards empowerment for change. I specialise in neurodiversity (ASD/ADHD) and offer a therapeutic space for children, young people and adults to develop self-awareness and coping strategies. I am a qualified integrative counsellor who is committed to offering you a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space to allow you to explore your thoughts and feelings.
01332 215292 View 01332 215292
Photo of Claire Rhodes, Psychotherapist in Grantham, England
Claire Rhodes
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B13
I offer young children therapeutically informed play therapy, to help them process their emotions and difficulties.
Hi, my name is Claire and I am a child and adult psychotherapist. Often people don't fully understand why they feel bad and this can lead to confusion and feeling ashamed. The feelings are experienced throughout the whole body and can be so overwhelming that they can lead to panic, depression, anxiety and challenging or self-destructive behaviours. I help clients understand how things are for them right now, validate their challenges and help them see their unique strengths, all within the context of an accepting and compassionate relationship. I use neuro-scientifically informed approaches to help heal
I offer young children therapeutically informed play therapy, to help them process their emotions and difficulties.
Hi, my name is Claire and I am a child and adult psychotherapist. Often people don't fully understand why they feel bad and this can lead to confusion and feeling ashamed. The feelings are experienced throughout the whole body and can be so overwhelming that they can lead to panic, depression, anxiety and challenging or self-destructive behaviours. I help clients understand how things are for them right now, validate their challenges and help them see their unique strengths, all within the context of an accepting and compassionate relationship. I use neuro-scientifically informed approaches to help heal
01905 975370 View 01905 975370
Photo of Duncan John Slater, Counsellor in Grantham, England
Duncan John Slater
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
I also offer talking therapy and play/art therapy.
I can help children and young adults make sense of their feelings, thoughts and behaviours and support them as they navigate relationships with friends and family, and deal with pressures at school and socially. You will be able to talk in a safe environment with clear boundaries.
I also offer talking therapy and play/art therapy.
I can help children and young adults make sense of their feelings, thoughts and behaviours and support them as they navigate relationships with friends and family, and deal with pressures at school and socially. You will be able to talk in a safe environment with clear boundaries.
01943 661903 View 01943 661903
Photo of Tracy Fiddler, Counsellor in Grantham, England
Tracy Fiddler
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Doncaster DN2
For example, talking therapy and/or creative based sessions (art, sand play, play therapy, etc).
Thank you for viewing my profile. This may be your first step in seeking counselling and the beginning of getting you on the road to better mental health. At times, it can help to talk to someone other than family or friends. You may wish to talk about and explore what is troubling you, such as anxiety, depression, anger, gender, low self-esteem, relationships, work/school, bereavement and loss, or other things that are causing you difficulties.
For example, talking therapy and/or creative based sessions (art, sand play, play therapy, etc).
Thank you for viewing my profile. This may be your first step in seeking counselling and the beginning of getting you on the road to better mental health. At times, it can help to talk to someone other than family or friends. You may wish to talk about and explore what is troubling you, such as anxiety, depression, anger, gender, low self-esteem, relationships, work/school, bereavement and loss, or other things that are causing you difficulties.
01302 430921 View 01302 430921
Photo of Olivia Rose Counselling and Therapy, Counsellor in Grantham, England
Olivia Rose Counselling and Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB2  (Online Only)
I also provide play therapy to children and young people.
Hello, welcome to my page and thank you for looking. My name is Rebecca Bullen. I am a fully qualified integrative Counsellor with over 13 years experience of working with Children, Young people and adults who have faced many different mental health difficulties. In our lifetime, we will all experience difficult and challenging times where we feel we need that extra support, and sometimes do not feel comfortable to share our feelings with those closest to us. It can often be difficult to share our thoughts and feelings with our loved ones and that's where I, as a therapist can help.
I also provide play therapy to children and young people.
Hello, welcome to my page and thank you for looking. My name is Rebecca Bullen. I am a fully qualified integrative Counsellor with over 13 years experience of working with Children, Young people and adults who have faced many different mental health difficulties. In our lifetime, we will all experience difficult and challenging times where we feel we need that extra support, and sometimes do not feel comfortable to share our feelings with those closest to us. It can often be difficult to share our thoughts and feelings with our loved ones and that's where I, as a therapist can help.
01254 786718 View 01254 786718
Photo of Approach Counselling & Coaching, Psychotherapist in Grantham, England
Approach Counselling & Coaching
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London E1
After completion of my MA in Transpersonal /Integrative Child, Adolescents and Family Therapy in 2018, I now also take on children and adolescents, using play and art therapy as well as sand tray therapy to help to resolve trauma, stress, anxiety, depression and self harm.
My main approach is to encourage you to explore your feelings and take responsibility for your thoughts and actions. As I work in a way that empowers the client, I always work with what you present. Bottled up feelings such as anger, anxiety, grief, jealousy, sadness, shame and pain can become very overwhelming.The opportunity to express them can make it much easier to understand yourself and others. As I acknowledge your feelings and respect you as a person in your own right, you gain self-respect and a sense of being valued. This leads to building trust between counsellor and client, which is an essential part of the process.
After completion of my MA in Transpersonal /Integrative Child, Adolescents and Family Therapy in 2018, I now also take on children and adolescents, using play and art therapy as well as sand tray therapy to help to resolve trauma, stress, anxiety, depression and self harm.
My main approach is to encourage you to explore your feelings and take responsibility for your thoughts and actions. As I work in a way that empowers the client, I always work with what you present. Bottled up feelings such as anger, anxiety, grief, jealousy, sadness, shame and pain can become very overwhelming.The opportunity to express them can make it much easier to understand yourself and others. As I acknowledge your feelings and respect you as a person in your own right, you gain self-respect and a sense of being valued. This leads to building trust between counsellor and client, which is an essential part of the process.
07904 554468 View 07904 554468
Photo of Dr Persa Maerz, Psychologist in Grantham, England
Dr Persa Maerz
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
York YO24
I also offer None-directive play therapy for children.
Hello, thanks for making the first step to a happier more positive you. I know it is one of the hardest things to do to open up and go through this journey, but we can take it step by step and you will get there. I have been a therapist for almost a decade and see people from all walks of life and different cultures. Whether it is for your child, teenager or yourself I love working with and get along well with each person regardless their age. I am an experienced CAMHS therapist and adult therapist. I have held Consultant, Lead and Supervisor Specialist roles In a number of services and clinics successfully.
I also offer None-directive play therapy for children.
Hello, thanks for making the first step to a happier more positive you. I know it is one of the hardest things to do to open up and go through this journey, but we can take it step by step and you will get there. I have been a therapist for almost a decade and see people from all walks of life and different cultures. Whether it is for your child, teenager or yourself I love working with and get along well with each person regardless their age. I am an experienced CAMHS therapist and adult therapist. I have held Consultant, Lead and Supervisor Specialist roles In a number of services and clinics successfully.
01904 803383 View 01904 803383
Photo of Zoe O’Connor (Play Therapist), Psychotherapist in Grantham, England
Zoe O’Connor (Play Therapist)
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Verified Verified
Bourne PE10
How does play therapy help? Play therapy helps children express themselves.
Hello, I’m Zoe. I am a play and creative arts therapist based in Bourne and I see children from 3 to 16. Do you know a child with big emotions? Are these emotions hard to manage? Play therapy can help children process their emotions and make sense of their worlds. I also offer parenting support. I know how hard parenting can be and I’m passionate about offering a holistic service. I am an advocate of therapeutic parenting, playful parenting and attachment play. I like to work with parents to help support the therapeutic process and provide ways to foster co-operation, connection and play.
How does play therapy help? Play therapy helps children express themselves.
Hello, I’m Zoe. I am a play and creative arts therapist based in Bourne and I see children from 3 to 16. Do you know a child with big emotions? Are these emotions hard to manage? Play therapy can help children process their emotions and make sense of their worlds. I also offer parenting support. I know how hard parenting can be and I’m passionate about offering a holistic service. I am an advocate of therapeutic parenting, playful parenting and attachment play. I like to work with parents to help support the therapeutic process and provide ways to foster co-operation, connection and play.
01733 942001 View 01733 942001
Photo of Sinead M Jones, Psychotherapist in Grantham, England
Sinead M Jones
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Twickenham TW2
As well as offering free space to talk, I draw on a wide range of creative interventions such as sand tray, art, music, drama and play.
I am specifically trained, at Masters level, to work therapeutically with children, young people, and families as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I am also a qualified teacher with experience of working with children who have been diagnosed, and or who identify as neurodiverse. In addition to my private practice, I work as a school counsellor and I volunteer in a Youth Counselling Service. My therapeutic approach is integrative, meaning I use the ideas and strategies from a range of therapeutic models, matching the best approach suited specifically to your or your child’s needs.
As well as offering free space to talk, I draw on a wide range of creative interventions such as sand tray, art, music, drama and play.
I am specifically trained, at Masters level, to work therapeutically with children, young people, and families as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I am also a qualified teacher with experience of working with children who have been diagnosed, and or who identify as neurodiverse. In addition to my private practice, I work as a school counsellor and I volunteer in a Youth Counselling Service. My therapeutic approach is integrative, meaning I use the ideas and strategies from a range of therapeutic models, matching the best approach suited specifically to your or your child’s needs.
020 3857 8062 View 020 3857 8062
Photo of Cheryl Warren, Psychotherapist in Grantham, England
Cheryl Warren
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
I qualified as an Art Psychotherapist in 2009 and since then have worked in the community delivering art therapy in schools, eating disorder units, palliative care and in the Young Adult Service. For the last 5 years I have mainly worked with children and young people as well as their families and run a private practice alongside. My training was essentially psychodynamic but since qualifying I have completed further training covering family systems, narcissistic and domestic abuse, addictions, codependency, and play therapy.
I qualified as an Art Psychotherapist in 2009 and since then have worked in the community delivering art therapy in schools, eating disorder units, palliative care and in the Young Adult Service. For the last 5 years I have mainly worked with children and young people as well as their families and run a private practice alongside. My training was essentially psychodynamic but since qualifying I have completed further training covering family systems, narcissistic and domestic abuse, addictions, codependency, and play therapy.
01223 658779 View 01223 658779
Photo of Alison Play Therapy in Grantham, England
Alison Play Therapy
MA
Verified Verified
Borehamwood WD6
My name is Alison and I have 13 years experience of working with vulnerable children and their families. I provide Play Therapy for children, which allows them to use toys and creative materials to safely play out and express, explore and make sense of their thoughts, feelings and painful life experiences and cope better with the future. I'm a registered member of the British Association of Play Therapy and DBS checked. I cover the areas of Hertfordshire, North London, and surrounding areas. Please view my website for more information and testimonials; www.alisonplaytherapy.com
My name is Alison and I have 13 years experience of working with vulnerable children and their families. I provide Play Therapy for children, which allows them to use toys and creative materials to safely play out and express, explore and make sense of their thoughts, feelings and painful life experiences and cope better with the future. I'm a registered member of the British Association of Play Therapy and DBS checked. I cover the areas of Hertfordshire, North London, and surrounding areas. Please view my website for more information and testimonials; www.alisonplaytherapy.com
020 4538 6745 View 020 4538 6745
Photo of Our Space Play & Family Therapies in Grantham, England
Our Space Play & Family Therapies
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester WR1
I am passionate about working with young people and their families. I am an integrative play and EMDR therapist working with clients from 3 years of age and up. I am also qualified to deliver Child Parent Relationship Therapy and have completed training in Sand Tray as well as being an Autplay practitioner. I have lots of experience in working with children, young people and their families SEND and/or with additional needs. I have experience of working with complex trauma, attachment, bereavement and loss.
I am passionate about working with young people and their families. I am an integrative play and EMDR therapist working with clients from 3 years of age and up. I am also qualified to deliver Child Parent Relationship Therapy and have completed training in Sand Tray as well as being an Autplay practitioner. I have lots of experience in working with children, young people and their families SEND and/or with additional needs. I have experience of working with complex trauma, attachment, bereavement and loss.
01905 975361 View 01905 975361
Photo of Samantha Hurlock, Counsellor in Grantham, England
Samantha Hurlock
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harrow HA3
I also have experience with Drama, Arts and Play Therapy tools,.
Reasons for coming to Therapy are unique to each person. You may have hopes and desires to be a better version of yourself, a willingness to change, to face the difficulties that may obstruct your personal growth. Life’s challenges may leave you anxious, stressed or depressed, feeling stuck, unable to move forward, alone with unwanted thoughts and feelings. Patterns in your life can keep you in a cycle of inner conflict and, at times, relationship conflicts, not knowing why. Talking to someone is a great way to start. Please don’t choose to fight this alone; it’s time to give yourself the time and space to explore.
I also have experience with Drama, Arts and Play Therapy tools,.
Reasons for coming to Therapy are unique to each person. You may have hopes and desires to be a better version of yourself, a willingness to change, to face the difficulties that may obstruct your personal growth. Life’s challenges may leave you anxious, stressed or depressed, feeling stuck, unable to move forward, alone with unwanted thoughts and feelings. Patterns in your life can keep you in a cycle of inner conflict and, at times, relationship conflicts, not knowing why. Talking to someone is a great way to start. Please don’t choose to fight this alone; it’s time to give yourself the time and space to explore.
020 8059 2503 View 020 8059 2503
Photo of Laura Keay, Psychotherapist in Grantham, England
Laura Keay
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG2
Therapy with very young children is all in the metaphor and play and I work from a beautiful setting in Harrogate where we can 'get messy', play games, work in the sand or 'just talk'.
We all need support at one time or another and the fact that you are reading this tells me that you are curious about reaching out for that support, either for yourself or a loved one. This can be a very worrying time, and one that needs to be dealt with gently and with great consideration. I am lucky enough to be a highly qualified therapist and work with children, young people and adults. I've worked with clients from 4 - 100. Physical and emotional change can happen at any age and that is the focus of my work. I work face-to face from Harrogate and also online with clients aged 12 and upwards.
Therapy with very young children is all in the metaphor and play and I work from a beautiful setting in Harrogate where we can 'get messy', play games, work in the sand or 'just talk'.
We all need support at one time or another and the fact that you are reading this tells me that you are curious about reaching out for that support, either for yourself or a loved one. This can be a very worrying time, and one that needs to be dealt with gently and with great consideration. I am lucky enough to be a highly qualified therapist and work with children, young people and adults. I've worked with clients from 4 - 100. Physical and emotional change can happen at any age and that is the focus of my work. I work face-to face from Harrogate and also online with clients aged 12 and upwards.
01924 975489 View 01924 975489
Photo of Letitia Daniel in Grantham, England
Letitia Daniel
MA
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
My creative expressive tools give the opportunity for clients to use play, stories, character work, metaphors, writing and sensory play in order to explore and express themselves.
No matter what you wish to explore I offer an open and confidential service that provides my clients with the utmost safety, professionalism and care. As I work from a creative expressive model I use creative techniques to allow my clients to be distanced from experiences or memories they may find difficulty accessing but know they want to explore. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, this is your therapy I am the facilitator who will offer you a safe space, guidance and support.
My creative expressive tools give the opportunity for clients to use play, stories, character work, metaphors, writing and sensory play in order to explore and express themselves.
No matter what you wish to explore I offer an open and confidential service that provides my clients with the utmost safety, professionalism and care. As I work from a creative expressive model I use creative techniques to allow my clients to be distanced from experiences or memories they may find difficulty accessing but know they want to explore. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, this is your therapy I am the facilitator who will offer you a safe space, guidance and support.
0116 478 2909 View 0116 478 2909

See more therapy options for Grantham

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.