Photo of Karl R Custer, Licensed Master Social Worker in 10022, NY
Karl R Custer
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
I come from a life in the performing arts, and I come ready to play.
You deserve to start from a place of acceptance and nonjudgement. No matter what. You have a big change coming soon, don't you? You don't feel ready for it, do you? New semester, new job, new responsibilities, new relationship? Maybe you need an accountability partner or cheerleader for that first push. Maybe you need palpable, written goals in the short-term and long-term in reaching some significant change that's just for you. As long as you're willing to challenge the phrase, "I can't imagine," we're going to get along just fine.
I come from a life in the performing arts, and I come ready to play.
You deserve to start from a place of acceptance and nonjudgement. No matter what. You have a big change coming soon, don't you? You don't feel ready for it, do you? New semester, new job, new responsibilities, new relationship? Maybe you need an accountability partner or cheerleader for that first push. Maybe you need palpable, written goals in the short-term and long-term in reaching some significant change that's just for you. As long as you're willing to challenge the phrase, "I can't imagine," we're going to get along just fine.
(347) 508-7925 x1411 View (347) 508-7925 x1411
Photo of Yi Zhou, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10022, NY
Yi Zhou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
(646) 751-0647 View (646) 751-0647
Photo of Iris Vivian Goldman, Creative Arts Therapist in 10022, NY
Iris Vivian Goldman
Creative Arts Therapist, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
One of my specialties is working with children and adolescents (and their parents), using insight oriented psychotherapy, as well as art and drama therapy, (and play therapy with younger children) to identify, understand, and resolve problems, alleviate depression, and lead to happier kids and more loving families with better communication.
Perhaps you sense that you could feel happier and more gratified in life. I believe that those seeking therapy want and deserve more. I am a Psychoanalytically trained Psychotherapist. You and I will collaborate to understand you, connect you to your deep feelings, and free you from repeating self-defeating behavior and unhealthy relationships, so that you can achieve the goals and happiness you desire. I have success working with depression, anxiety, trauma, self esteem, anger, relationship issues, career issues. I worked at Bellevue Hospital, in Psychiatry, and at ICP, prior to opening my private practice.
One of my specialties is working with children and adolescents (and their parents), using insight oriented psychotherapy, as well as art and drama therapy, (and play therapy with younger children) to identify, understand, and resolve problems, alleviate depression, and lead to happier kids and more loving families with better communication.
Perhaps you sense that you could feel happier and more gratified in life. I believe that those seeking therapy want and deserve more. I am a Psychoanalytically trained Psychotherapist. You and I will collaborate to understand you, connect you to your deep feelings, and free you from repeating self-defeating behavior and unhealthy relationships, so that you can achieve the goals and happiness you desire. I have success working with depression, anxiety, trauma, self esteem, anger, relationship issues, career issues. I worked at Bellevue Hospital, in Psychiatry, and at ICP, prior to opening my private practice.
(646) 759-1592 View (646) 759-1592
Photo of Irina R Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10022, NY
Irina R Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Together, supported by my access to expressive and non-verbal modes such as movement, art, and play in addition to the traditional "talking cure," we address your concerns in order to shake up the old narrative and create new choices and new possibilities for change.
I don't believe in diagnostic labeling; yet we don't waste time reinventing the wheel. The personal issues you want to confront and resolve in therapy and the unique ways in which you are stuck call upon my creativity, long, varied professional experience of theories and methods--from Freud to object relations to body work--and life experience of other cultures and modalities to find new ways for you to healthily move forward.
Together, supported by my access to expressive and non-verbal modes such as movement, art, and play in addition to the traditional "talking cure," we address your concerns in order to shake up the old narrative and create new choices and new possibilities for change.
I don't believe in diagnostic labeling; yet we don't waste time reinventing the wheel. The personal issues you want to confront and resolve in therapy and the unique ways in which you are stuck call upon my creativity, long, varied professional experience of theories and methods--from Freud to object relations to body work--and life experience of other cultures and modalities to find new ways for you to healthily move forward.
(718) 569-8268 View (718) 569-8268
Photo of Ayanna Obando, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10022, NY
Ayanna Obando
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Ayanna incorporates methods from various interventions including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, play therapy and narrative approaches to treatment.
Ayanna is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who works with individuals looking to overcome the effects of adversity and trauma. She treats a range of trauma and stressor-related disorders including developmental and complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and issues related to adjustment and life transitions. Ayanna also provides support to individuals struggling with depression and anxiety. She helps her clients to navigate interpersonal/relationship challenges, family conflict, parenting, self-esteem, and personal growth.
Ayanna incorporates methods from various interventions including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, play therapy and narrative approaches to treatment.
Ayanna is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who works with individuals looking to overcome the effects of adversity and trauma. She treats a range of trauma and stressor-related disorders including developmental and complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and issues related to adjustment and life transitions. Ayanna also provides support to individuals struggling with depression and anxiety. She helps her clients to navigate interpersonal/relationship challenges, family conflict, parenting, self-esteem, and personal growth.
(646) 681-7768 View (646) 681-7768
Photo of Chris Ann Farhood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10022, NY
Chris Ann Farhood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
I work with adults, couples, adolescents, play therapy with children 4+, involving the parent(s).
Are you feeling stuck in an emotional quandary? Not sure how to take the next step? Are you stressed at work or in your relationship, or because you don't have a relationship? Do you experience parenting/child issues? I use an active interpersonal approach to identify and resolve behavior that inhibits change and growth. I work collaboratively and interactively which allows one to find their voice and formulate a plan for change. I view my role as helping one access their ability to be self-determined. As an artist I am interested in, and value, creativity in everyone.
I work with adults, couples, adolescents, play therapy with children 4+, involving the parent(s).
Are you feeling stuck in an emotional quandary? Not sure how to take the next step? Are you stressed at work or in your relationship, or because you don't have a relationship? Do you experience parenting/child issues? I use an active interpersonal approach to identify and resolve behavior that inhibits change and growth. I work collaboratively and interactively which allows one to find their voice and formulate a plan for change. I view my role as helping one access their ability to be self-determined. As an artist I am interested in, and value, creativity in everyone.
(646) 600-9016 View (646) 600-9016
Photo of Eugenia Cherkasskaya, Psychologist in 10022, NY
Eugenia Cherkasskaya
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
I have training and experience in psychodynamic psychotherapy, trauma-focused modalities, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, couples therapy, and child play therapy.
Starting psychotherapy can be an exciting and anxiety-provoking process as you take active steps to make changes in your life and relationships. I approach psychotherapy as a collaboration and work in an integrative way, tailoring interventions to individual needs. I believe that therapy's aim is not only to make improvements but also to manage disappointments. To this end, we can simultaneously engage in meaningful explorations while developing important coping skills, including mindfulness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. I offer individual, couples, and family psychotherapy to adults, children, and adolescents, and work with different family and relationship configurations.
I have training and experience in psychodynamic psychotherapy, trauma-focused modalities, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, couples therapy, and child play therapy.
Starting psychotherapy can be an exciting and anxiety-provoking process as you take active steps to make changes in your life and relationships. I approach psychotherapy as a collaboration and work in an integrative way, tailoring interventions to individual needs. I believe that therapy's aim is not only to make improvements but also to manage disappointments. To this end, we can simultaneously engage in meaningful explorations while developing important coping skills, including mindfulness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. I offer individual, couples, and family psychotherapy to adults, children, and adolescents, and work with different family and relationship configurations.
(646) 846-2763 View (646) 846-2763
Photo of Sharon Chung, Art Therapist in 10022, NY
Sharon Chung
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
There is no art experience required! I tap into all forms of optional creativity including art making, crafts, play, and movement to encourage self-expression and enhance verbal discussion in therapy.
My client-centered approach is rooted in Art Therapy and Evidence-Based modalities. I specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults, ages 4-40, feel more confident and connected. My work is centered around the belief that people are fully deserving of respect, dignity, and a space where they can deeply feel heard. I facilitate a safe environment where feelings and experiences can be validated, and people can establish a sense of security and self-worth. I partner with children (and parents) to help them navigate their identity and sense of belonging in this world!
There is no art experience required! I tap into all forms of optional creativity including art making, crafts, play, and movement to encourage self-expression and enhance verbal discussion in therapy.
My client-centered approach is rooted in Art Therapy and Evidence-Based modalities. I specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults, ages 4-40, feel more confident and connected. My work is centered around the belief that people are fully deserving of respect, dignity, and a space where they can deeply feel heard. I facilitate a safe environment where feelings and experiences can be validated, and people can establish a sense of security and self-worth. I partner with children (and parents) to help them navigate their identity and sense of belonging in this world!
(929) 325-1291 View (929) 325-1291
Photo of Mia Rosenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10022, NY
Mia Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
In order to create a safe space for her clients, Mia takes the time to fully understand how all of the environments in her clients' lives can play a role in the therapeutic process.
Mia Rosenberg, LCSW specializes in supporting children, teens and young professionals who experience anxiety, depression, difficulty in relationships, low self-esteem, behavioral concerns, and social skills. Through several years of clinical experience, Mia understands that a strong therapeutic relationship is grounded in trust and understanding. She helps her clients to recognize and develop healthy coping skills to create a more fulfilling life. When working together, Mia prioritizes creating a safe and a supported environment so that her clients can become empowered to make the changes they are looking for.
In order to create a safe space for her clients, Mia takes the time to fully understand how all of the environments in her clients' lives can play a role in the therapeutic process.
Mia Rosenberg, LCSW specializes in supporting children, teens and young professionals who experience anxiety, depression, difficulty in relationships, low self-esteem, behavioral concerns, and social skills. Through several years of clinical experience, Mia understands that a strong therapeutic relationship is grounded in trust and understanding. She helps her clients to recognize and develop healthy coping skills to create a more fulfilling life. When working together, Mia prioritizes creating a safe and a supported environment so that her clients can become empowered to make the changes they are looking for.
(646) 494-4878 View (646) 494-4878
Photo of Courtney Carey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10022, NY
Courtney Carey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? As a senior therapist at Greenwich Psychology Group, I enjoy working with children and adolescents that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral or family issues. You can talk to me about anything; nothing will surprise me. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? As a senior therapist at Greenwich Psychology Group, I enjoy working with children and adolescents that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral or family issues. You can talk to me about anything; nothing will surprise me. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
(475) 325-2997 View (475) 325-2997
Photo of Sarah Bench, Psychologist in 10022, NY
Sarah Bench
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, young adults, and their parents, with an expertise in interpersonal, psychodynamic psychotherapy. I worked as a school psychologist in independent schools for over 10 years, supporting students with both social and academic challenges. The students I work with typically struggle with anxiety and depression, learning and attention difficulties, and relationships. When working with young adults, I see people who, perhaps like you, feel stuck as they try to carve out a career path, and seek out and maintain intimate relationships.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, young adults, and their parents, with an expertise in interpersonal, psychodynamic psychotherapy. I worked as a school psychologist in independent schools for over 10 years, supporting students with both social and academic challenges. The students I work with typically struggle with anxiety and depression, learning and attention difficulties, and relationships. When working with young adults, I see people who, perhaps like you, feel stuck as they try to carve out a career path, and seek out and maintain intimate relationships.
(917) 809-7928 View (917) 809-7928
Photo of Chandler French, Creative Arts Therapist in 10022, NY
Chandler French
Creative Arts Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
I work with high-functioning children and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, OCD, and social anxiety. I have specialized training in dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and expressive art therapy to effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior, and enhance interpersonal effectiveness skills. I provide time-limited, goal-directed treatment to help you work through their challenges and learn to become your own therapists. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
I work with high-functioning children and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, OCD, and social anxiety. I have specialized training in dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and expressive art therapy to effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior, and enhance interpersonal effectiveness skills. I provide time-limited, goal-directed treatment to help you work through their challenges and learn to become your own therapists. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
(646) 437-8535 View (646) 437-8535
Photo of Sage Williamson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 10022, NY
Sage Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
What if you had all the tools necessary to connect with and love your partner more deeply? What if you could learn how to reignite your love and create a meaningful life with your partner? With over a decade of experience in couples and family therapy, I am here to support you in rebuilding your life of love and trust. Most people are not naturally "good" at sharing their love, but it is a skill that can be learned. Relationships require dedication and practice. No matter what you are going through we will find a way to make your relationship what you know it could be. I understand what it's like to be vulnerable.
What if you had all the tools necessary to connect with and love your partner more deeply? What if you could learn how to reignite your love and create a meaningful life with your partner? With over a decade of experience in couples and family therapy, I am here to support you in rebuilding your life of love and trust. Most people are not naturally "good" at sharing their love, but it is a skill that can be learned. Relationships require dedication and practice. No matter what you are going through we will find a way to make your relationship what you know it could be. I understand what it's like to be vulnerable.
(347) 338-6842 View (347) 338-6842
Photo of Daniel Joseph Franco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10022, NY
Daniel Joseph Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Have you ever considered whether your child could benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to answer concerns you may have. You can speak to me about anything; nothing you say will surprise or shock me. I can assist your child navigate through struggles as well as helping them become their own therapist. I work successfully with adolescents who struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, relationship problems, trauma, academic, and addiction issues.
Have you ever considered whether your child could benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to answer concerns you may have. You can speak to me about anything; nothing you say will surprise or shock me. I can assist your child navigate through struggles as well as helping them become their own therapist. I work successfully with adolescents who struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, relationship problems, trauma, academic, and addiction issues.
(929) 481-3364 View (929) 481-3364
Photo of Laura Athey-Lloyd, Psychologist in 10022, NY
Laura Athey-Lloyd
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
If you’ve come here, you’re likely searching for a space for your thoughts and feelings beyond what your friends, family, or partner can provide. You are looking for not only a listener and confidant, but also someone who can reflect back and help you clarify what is on your mind. In a warm, validating, and confidential space, you will gain insight into your patterns- both those that serve you well and those you wish you could change- and test out different ways of understanding and relating. Our practice includes therapists specializing in CBT, psychodynamic, internal family systems (IFS) and contemplative methods.
If you’ve come here, you’re likely searching for a space for your thoughts and feelings beyond what your friends, family, or partner can provide. You are looking for not only a listener and confidant, but also someone who can reflect back and help you clarify what is on your mind. In a warm, validating, and confidential space, you will gain insight into your patterns- both those that serve you well and those you wish you could change- and test out different ways of understanding and relating. Our practice includes therapists specializing in CBT, psychodynamic, internal family systems (IFS) and contemplative methods.
(347) 759-0199 View (347) 759-0199
Photo of Daniel DiTieri, Marriage & Family Therapist in 10022, NY
Daniel DiTieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Have you wondered if your child or teen would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. As a senior therapist at GreenwichPsychology Group, I enjoy working with children and adolescents that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral or family issues. You can talk to me about anything; nothing will surprise me. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Children often feel better early on in treatment.
Have you wondered if your child or teen would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. As a senior therapist at GreenwichPsychology Group, I enjoy working with children and adolescents that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral or family issues. You can talk to me about anything; nothing will surprise me. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Children often feel better early on in treatment.
(332) 262-6829 View (332) 262-6829
Photo of Katerina Tsernou in 10022, NY
Katerina Tsernou
MA, CH
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
I help people who are suffering from depression, chronic disease and PTSD restore health, manage stress and overcome limiting beliefs so they can feel empowered and vibrant again. When one’s authentic self is blocked, mental health issues can form and grow into depression, addiction, anxiety, phobias etc. Hypnosis, somatics and art therapy are some of the powerful modalities I use to help bring balance and union between the conscious and unconscious mind. Through Hypnosomatics we cultivate wellness in the entire personality, that helps people see their true self, rather than who they present to the world.
I help people who are suffering from depression, chronic disease and PTSD restore health, manage stress and overcome limiting beliefs so they can feel empowered and vibrant again. When one’s authentic self is blocked, mental health issues can form and grow into depression, addiction, anxiety, phobias etc. Hypnosis, somatics and art therapy are some of the powerful modalities I use to help bring balance and union between the conscious and unconscious mind. Through Hypnosomatics we cultivate wellness in the entire personality, that helps people see their true self, rather than who they present to the world.
(646) 328-6435 View (646) 328-6435
Photo of Chandler French, Creative Arts Therapist in 10022, NY
Chandler French
Creative Arts Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
I work with high-functioning children and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, OCD, and social anxiety. I have specialized training in dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and expressive art therapy to effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior, and enhance interpersonal effectiveness skills. I provide time-limited, goal-directed treatment to help you work through their challenges and learn to become your own therapists. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
I work with high-functioning children and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, OCD, and social anxiety. I have specialized training in dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and expressive art therapy to effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior, and enhance interpersonal effectiveness skills. I provide time-limited, goal-directed treatment to help you work through their challenges and learn to become your own therapists. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
(646) 956-2883 View (646) 956-2883
Photo of Joanna Clayton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 10022, NY
Joanna Clayton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? Our Practice offers a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents who may be struggling with school issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral and family issues, and autism spectrum disorders. You can talk to me about anything. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? Our Practice offers a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents who may be struggling with school issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral and family issues, and autism spectrum disorders. You can talk to me about anything. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
(646) 798-5715 View (646) 798-5715
Photo of Tanya Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10022, NY
Tanya Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MDR, MPH
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Does it feel like there’s more potential to your life, but something always seems to hold you back? Perhaps you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or past trauma. Many people struggle with making meaningful connections, navigating relationships, and searching for purpose. My role as a therapist is to help you remove the roadblocks that keep you from living your fullest life. I support people from all backgrounds, including women, survivors of abuse, college students, the Jewish community, couples, and more. No matter what you’ve been through in the past, you deserve a healthy, happy, and meaningful life moving forward.
Does it feel like there’s more potential to your life, but something always seems to hold you back? Perhaps you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or past trauma. Many people struggle with making meaningful connections, navigating relationships, and searching for purpose. My role as a therapist is to help you remove the roadblocks that keep you from living your fullest life. I support people from all backgrounds, including women, survivors of abuse, college students, the Jewish community, couples, and more. No matter what you’ve been through in the past, you deserve a healthy, happy, and meaningful life moving forward.
(929) 930-6038 View (929) 930-6038
Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral 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 behavior 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 behavior.