Play Therapy Counselling in Northwich

Photo of New Horizon Counselling, Counsellor in Northwich, England
New Horizon Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Northwich CW8
Hi, my name is Martin and I have been qualified as a person-centred counsellor since 2018. I put my clients goals and needs at the forefront of my practice. I'm non-judgemental and will work with my clients agenda and desired goals in mind. I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I specialise in bereavement, trauma, depression and anxiety. I also work with individuals, couples and families covering a broad range of other issues including family, marital and relationship guidance, coping skills, coaching and play therapy.
Hi, my name is Martin and I have been qualified as a person-centred counsellor since 2018. I put my clients goals and needs at the forefront of my practice. I'm non-judgemental and will work with my clients agenda and desired goals in mind. I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I specialise in bereavement, trauma, depression and anxiety. I also work with individuals, couples and families covering a broad range of other issues including family, marital and relationship guidance, coping skills, coaching and play therapy.
01606 533825 View 01606 533825
Photo of Achieve360 Ltd individual MBACP Children & Adults, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Achieve360 Ltd individual MBACP Children & Adults
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Northwich CW8
Hello, my name is Nicki, I have been a therapist since 2008 and a member of the BACP, I am very passionate about my work as a person centered counsellor and a Family Mentor. I want to see my clients empowered by gaining confidence, and to get to their desired goals. I offer a very warm welcome, non judgemental environment. For those who may feel uncomfortable just sitting and talking, you can draw, use play dough, paint during our sessions, I would happily bring my therapy dog in, Jax too!
Hello, my name is Nicki, I have been a therapist since 2008 and a member of the BACP, I am very passionate about my work as a person centered counsellor and a Family Mentor. I want to see my clients empowered by gaining confidence, and to get to their desired goals. I offer a very warm welcome, non judgemental environment. For those who may feel uncomfortable just sitting and talking, you can draw, use play dough, paint during our sessions, I would happily bring my therapy dog in, Jax too!
01643 802392 View 01643 802392

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sabrina Persiano, Psychotherapist in Northwich, England
Sabrina Persiano
Psychotherapist, MA, PTUK
Verified Verified
Sandbach CW11
I do this through a provision of therapeutic interventions and family support (play therapy, baby bonding, filial play coaching, DDP), in order to help children improve their emotional well-being and support them to reach their fullest potential.
It's not easy being a parent and it's not easy knowing that your child is going through a tough time. You might have noticed that their behaviour has become really difficult to handle and it is putting a strain on family life. Teachers might have noticed this in the classroom too. Sometimes, you might wonder if this is something you are going to have get used to. It doesn't have to be this way. I can help your child and your family have a well-deserved meaningful life, filled with happier memories.
I do this through a provision of therapeutic interventions and family support (play therapy, baby bonding, filial play coaching, DDP), in order to help children improve their emotional well-being and support them to reach their fullest potential.
It's not easy being a parent and it's not easy knowing that your child is going through a tough time. You might have noticed that their behaviour has become really difficult to handle and it is putting a strain on family life. Teachers might have noticed this in the classroom too. Sometimes, you might wonder if this is something you are going to have get used to. It doesn't have to be this way. I can help your child and your family have a well-deserved meaningful life, filled with happier memories.
01270 433151 View 01270 433151
Photo of Just Bee, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Just Bee
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience of working with children and young people as well as adults, presenting with a diverse range of issues and can incorporate play and art therapy techniques where appropriate in addition to traditional talking therapies.
Finding a counsellor can feel a daunting prospect, especially when feeling at your lowest ebb, navigating life's challenges, difficulties and the painful emotions these can bring. As an integrative therapist I will adapt my therapeutic approach to best suit your needs. I can offer you a safe space to explore these emotions and situations causing you most distress. In developing a trusting therapeutic relationship, we can explore what is impacting your wellbeing most, identify changes you wish to make and set realistic and achievable goals to work towards healing and growth, leaving you feeling empowered, stronger and more confident.
I have extensive experience of working with children and young people as well as adults, presenting with a diverse range of issues and can incorporate play and art therapy techniques where appropriate in addition to traditional talking therapies.
Finding a counsellor can feel a daunting prospect, especially when feeling at your lowest ebb, navigating life's challenges, difficulties and the painful emotions these can bring. As an integrative therapist I will adapt my therapeutic approach to best suit your needs. I can offer you a safe space to explore these emotions and situations causing you most distress. In developing a trusting therapeutic relationship, we can explore what is impacting your wellbeing most, identify changes you wish to make and set realistic and achievable goals to work towards healing and growth, leaving you feeling empowered, stronger and more confident.
0151 453 0170 View 0151 453 0170
Photo of Jacqui Roberts, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Jacqui Roberts
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Frodsham WA6
Most people experience anxiety or depression at some point in their lives and need to cope with pain and confusion. You may feel stuck and unmotivated or need to work through a traumatic experience from your past so you can move on with your life. You might also experience work related stress or be dealing with relationship difficulties. Self-development may also be the reason for seeking therapy. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore and make sense of your difficulties in a safe, non-judgmental environment, to develop your self-understanding and improve your relationships.
Most people experience anxiety or depression at some point in their lives and need to cope with pain and confusion. You may feel stuck and unmotivated or need to work through a traumatic experience from your past so you can move on with your life. You might also experience work related stress or be dealing with relationship difficulties. Self-development may also be the reason for seeking therapy. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore and make sense of your difficulties in a safe, non-judgmental environment, to develop your self-understanding and improve your relationships.
01745 775765 View 01745 775765
Photo of Dr Julija Jain, Psychologist in Northwich, England
Dr Julija Jain
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Share your problems, Challenge them, Learn new ways of coping and experience Change with my psychological services. I have over 10 years of training and practice in the most effective therapies aimed at helping people with complex and less complex mental health needs. As a highly skilled Chartered Counselling Psychologist, I can help you feel empowered and gain control of yourself and your responses to challenging situations. Book yourself for an initial psychological assessment session which will help us to have a better understanding of your issues and what specific approach is needed to resolve these issues: www.drjulijajain.com
Share your problems, Challenge them, Learn new ways of coping and experience Change with my psychological services. I have over 10 years of training and practice in the most effective therapies aimed at helping people with complex and less complex mental health needs. As a highly skilled Chartered Counselling Psychologist, I can help you feel empowered and gain control of yourself and your responses to challenging situations. Book yourself for an initial psychological assessment session which will help us to have a better understanding of your issues and what specific approach is needed to resolve these issues: www.drjulijajain.com
01707 246828 View 01707 246828
Photo of Sallyann Meadowcroft, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Sallyann Meadowcroft
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lymm WA13
Welcome I’m Sally, life is a roller coaster, we ride the highs and struggle with the painful lows. I understand taking the step to seek help and share your experiences is hard and scary, it takes courage, so trust is paramount within the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, supportive, non judgmental and empathetic environment, taking your direction to walk along side you. Time is precious, our own needs are usually low on our list. Focusing on ourselves and investing in our well-being enables growth and clarity. Self love is core in all of our relationships. Finding our own inner happiness and taking power back, creates peace
Welcome I’m Sally, life is a roller coaster, we ride the highs and struggle with the painful lows. I understand taking the step to seek help and share your experiences is hard and scary, it takes courage, so trust is paramount within the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, supportive, non judgmental and empathetic environment, taking your direction to walk along side you. Time is precious, our own needs are usually low on our list. Focusing on ourselves and investing in our well-being enables growth and clarity. Self love is core in all of our relationships. Finding our own inner happiness and taking power back, creates peace
01925 986804 View 01925 986804
Photo of Vanessa Louise Parry, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Vanessa Louise Parry
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lymm WA13
I am an integrative counsellor, which means I use a combination of approaches tailored to the needs of my clients such as person centred, and CBT to examine current thoughts and feelings, as well as psychodynamic exploration of the past to help reach an understanding of the issues being faced. Each client is unique, and I welcome their thoughts about the direction in which they would like their therapy sessions to take. I am an approved therapist for Anxiety UK and am experienced in working with clients struggling with anxiety and depression. This can range from mild stress and low mood to a feeling of being completely debilitated
I am an integrative counsellor, which means I use a combination of approaches tailored to the needs of my clients such as person centred, and CBT to examine current thoughts and feelings, as well as psychodynamic exploration of the past to help reach an understanding of the issues being faced. Each client is unique, and I welcome their thoughts about the direction in which they would like their therapy sessions to take. I am an approved therapist for Anxiety UK and am experienced in working with clients struggling with anxiety and depression. This can range from mild stress and low mood to a feeling of being completely debilitated
01925 597742 View 01925 597742
Photo of Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tiverton CW6
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
01884 219224 View 01884 219224
Photo of Alison Paul, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Alison Paul
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Knutsford WA16
Hi. My name is Alison. I am an adult and children and young person's counsellor. During our counselling sessions I will provide you with a non-judgemental and empathic space where we can work together to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I will offer empathy and be there as a listening ear to help you open up and discuss any issues and worries you wish to talk about. We will work at a suitable pace for you to help to understand and talk through the underlying reasons you may be feeling stuck or struggling in life. We’ll explore the past and present to help you to heal and become more self aware so you can move forward.
Hi. My name is Alison. I am an adult and children and young person's counsellor. During our counselling sessions I will provide you with a non-judgemental and empathic space where we can work together to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I will offer empathy and be there as a listening ear to help you open up and discuss any issues and worries you wish to talk about. We will work at a suitable pace for you to help to understand and talk through the underlying reasons you may be feeling stuck or struggling in life. We’ll explore the past and present to help you to heal and become more self aware so you can move forward.
0161 524 1823 View 0161 524 1823
Photo of JVP Wellbeing and Training, Counsellor in Northwich, England
JVP Wellbeing and Training
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Runcorn WA7
Are you ready to change how you feel? Are you experiencing overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, depression and loneliness? I am an experienced qualified counsellor and college lecturer in counselling. I work integratively allowing us to explore a number of approaches including Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Personal Construct Theory and Transactional Analysis. I offer a non judgemental safe place allowing us to work together to make the changes in your life that you so desire
Are you ready to change how you feel? Are you experiencing overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, depression and loneliness? I am an experienced qualified counsellor and college lecturer in counselling. I work integratively allowing us to explore a number of approaches including Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Personal Construct Theory and Transactional Analysis. I offer a non judgemental safe place allowing us to work together to make the changes in your life that you so desire
07889 095188 View 07889 095188

Online Therapists

Photo of Margaret Wilson - Child and Adolescent Counsellor, Psychotherapist in Northwich, England
Margaret Wilson - Child and Adolescent Counsellor
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrogate HG2
As a full member of the UKCP & MBACP I have undergone years of in-depth specialist training to understand the complexity of the young brain, developmental stages but to also offer a variety of individual therapeutic approaches, including play, creative and talking.
I am an experienced Child, Young Person and Parent Psychotherapist based in Harrogate. There are times when we all struggle emotionally. For children and young people it can often be difficult to understand their own emotions or be able to express their thoughts. Sometimes this leads to overwhelming and confusing feelings, with behaviours that seems stuck, possibly resulting in low self-esteem and struggles with relationships. Counselling and creative therapy provides a safe and supportive space to explore emotions, feelings, develop an understanding of our thoughts whilst building communication skills and emotional resilience.
As a full member of the UKCP & MBACP I have undergone years of in-depth specialist training to understand the complexity of the young brain, developmental stages but to also offer a variety of individual therapeutic approaches, including play, creative and talking.
I am an experienced Child, Young Person and Parent Psychotherapist based in Harrogate. There are times when we all struggle emotionally. For children and young people it can often be difficult to understand their own emotions or be able to express their thoughts. Sometimes this leads to overwhelming and confusing feelings, with behaviours that seems stuck, possibly resulting in low self-esteem and struggles with relationships. Counselling and creative therapy provides a safe and supportive space to explore emotions, feelings, develop an understanding of our thoughts whilst building communication skills and emotional resilience.
01423 449146 View 01423 449146
Photo of Sara Caswell, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Sara Caswell
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrogate HG3
Counselling could involve talk therapy, play or something creative – whatever the young person feels comfortable with and helps them work through their difficulties.
Dedicated and highly focused professional with a degree in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Counselling from the renowned Northern Guild with excellent educational credentials and experience in providing therapy services to special needs children and improving the mental health and wellbeing of children. Possess knowledge in behavioral monitoring, psychological testing, research methods, rehabilitation techniques, and psychometrics. Strong communication skills, able to build relationships and manage competing demands result in the achievement of challenging goals. Analytical planner adept at identifying and isolating therapy challenges.
Counselling could involve talk therapy, play or something creative – whatever the young person feels comfortable with and helps them work through their difficulties.
Dedicated and highly focused professional with a degree in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Counselling from the renowned Northern Guild with excellent educational credentials and experience in providing therapy services to special needs children and improving the mental health and wellbeing of children. Possess knowledge in behavioral monitoring, psychological testing, research methods, rehabilitation techniques, and psychometrics. Strong communication skills, able to build relationships and manage competing demands result in the achievement of challenging goals. Analytical planner adept at identifying and isolating therapy challenges.
01347 668101 View 01347 668101
Photo of The AoC Trust / The Arts of Change Trust, Counsellor in Northwich, England
The AoC Trust / The Arts of Change Trust
Counsellor, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
Dudley DY1
We offer a wide range of modalities including art therapy, integrative counselling, play therapy, psychotherapy, person-centred, gestalt, CBT, art therapy and more.
Creative Arts Therapies & Traditional Talking Therapies. At The AoC Trust we really want to support families needing emotional help; couples trying to save their relationship or an individual looking for professional counselling/therapy in order to work through and heal psychological or social difficulties. If you cannot travel to us we can support you via telephone or video call. We are based in Central Dudley just a few minutes from the town centre and local bus station where we have our own lovely therapeutic rooms and training spaces and provide a fantastic team of registered and qualified therapeutic clinicians.
We offer a wide range of modalities including art therapy, integrative counselling, play therapy, psychotherapy, person-centred, gestalt, CBT, art therapy and more.
Creative Arts Therapies & Traditional Talking Therapies. At The AoC Trust we really want to support families needing emotional help; couples trying to save their relationship or an individual looking for professional counselling/therapy in order to work through and heal psychological or social difficulties. If you cannot travel to us we can support you via telephone or video call. We are based in Central Dudley just a few minutes from the town centre and local bus station where we have our own lovely therapeutic rooms and training spaces and provide a fantastic team of registered and qualified therapeutic clinicians.
01384 319264 View 01384 319264
Photo of Lighthouse Therapy Hub, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Lighthouse Therapy Hub
Counsellor, PTUK Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS27
I am a qualified Play therapist, with a passion for supporting children and young people to become the best version of themselves. I am based in Leeds, West Yorkshire and I travel to schools within and around the local area approximately 1hour from Leeds. Play is a child’s natural way of experimenting and is an integral part of childhood development across physical and cognitive domains. Within a session children can express what they are struggling to verbalise . www.lhplaytherapy.co.uk Play supports children and they can discover and practise different ways of understanding and coping with difficult feelings, leading to healthier
I am a qualified Play therapist, with a passion for supporting children and young people to become the best version of themselves. I am based in Leeds, West Yorkshire and I travel to schools within and around the local area approximately 1hour from Leeds. Play is a child’s natural way of experimenting and is an integral part of childhood development across physical and cognitive domains. Within a session children can express what they are struggling to verbalise . www.lhplaytherapy.co.uk Play supports children and they can discover and practise different ways of understanding and coping with difficult feelings, leading to healthier
0113 519 0195 View 0113 519 0195
Photo of Tracy Fiddler, Counsellor in Northwich, 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 Claire Christine Wheeler, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Claire Christine Wheeler
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Darwen BB3
I offer a friendly listening ear to clients needing help with difficulties such as anxiety and depression, low self esteem, relationships and neurodiversity. My specialism is children however I do work with adults also. I have worked therapeutically with children using person centred therapy and play therapy and have experience within education. I can help children with attachment disorders, trauma, low self esteem and confidence, anxiety and friendship or family issues. I will help you explore what is happening and how you wish to move forward, I will not judge you but will accept you as you are and work with you at your pace.
I offer a friendly listening ear to clients needing help with difficulties such as anxiety and depression, low self esteem, relationships and neurodiversity. My specialism is children however I do work with adults also. I have worked therapeutically with children using person centred therapy and play therapy and have experience within education. I can help children with attachment disorders, trauma, low self esteem and confidence, anxiety and friendship or family issues. I will help you explore what is happening and how you wish to move forward, I will not judge you but will accept you as you are and work with you at your pace.
01254 786437 View 01254 786437
Photo of Mensah Wellbeing in Northwich, England
Mensah Wellbeing
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton NN5
Play Therapy, Talking Therapy, Somatic Therapies.
Welcome to Mensah Wellbeing, a mental health and well-being hub dedicated to supporting neurodivergent adults and children, as well as those facing anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and related disorders. Founded on the principles of compassion, expertise, and inclusivity, our mission is to provide exceptional assessments and therapeutic interventions that empower individuals and families on their journey toward mental health and well-being.
Play Therapy, Talking Therapy, Somatic Therapies.
Welcome to Mensah Wellbeing, a mental health and well-being hub dedicated to supporting neurodivergent adults and children, as well as those facing anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and related disorders. Founded on the principles of compassion, expertise, and inclusivity, our mission is to provide exceptional assessments and therapeutic interventions that empower individuals and families on their journey toward mental health and well-being.
01604 279629 View 01604 279629
Photo of Laura Turba, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Laura Turba
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Thornton-Cleveleys FY5  (Online Only)
If you have been feeling overwhelmed tired and withdrawn from your daily life and in need of someone to listen to you. To understand you without feeling judged or being told what you should or shouldn't do, then person-centred therapy can work with you to understand these thoughts and feelings. You choose what it is you want to work on and we work at a pace that is right for you and where you are at in life. If you're a parent and are feeling your child has been through a tough time recently or they have been acting different I work with them using play materials to provide a safe and trusting setting.
If you have been feeling overwhelmed tired and withdrawn from your daily life and in need of someone to listen to you. To understand you without feeling judged or being told what you should or shouldn't do, then person-centred therapy can work with you to understand these thoughts and feelings. You choose what it is you want to work on and we work at a pace that is right for you and where you are at in life. If you're a parent and are feeling your child has been through a tough time recently or they have been acting different I work with them using play materials to provide a safe and trusting setting.
01253 335825 View 01253 335825
Photo of Mel Paulson, Counsellor in Northwich, 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

See more therapy options for Northwich


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.