Play Therapy in Tucson, AZ

Photo of Lori D Maestas, Counselor, LAC, NCC, MA
Lori D Maestas
Counselor, LAC, NCC, MA
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
I use CBT, DBT, person-centered therapy, art/ play therapy, and visual desensitization to build coping skills, emotional balance, and lasting change in a safe, supportive I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, including family, religious, and childhood trauma.
My ideal client is someone feeling overwhelmed by past trauma, anxiety, or life transitions. They may be stuck in unhealthy patterns, struggling with identity, or facing relationship or family challenges. Many want to better understand themselves, set healthier boundaries, and find emotional balance. I support children, teens, adults, and couples with compassion and curiosity. Whether you're navigating grief, parenting stress, or personal growth, I offer a safe space to heal, explore, and reconnect—with yourself and others.
I use CBT, DBT, person-centered therapy, art/ play therapy, and visual desensitization to build coping skills, emotional balance, and lasting change in a safe, supportive I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, including family, religious, and childhood trauma.
My ideal client is someone feeling overwhelmed by past trauma, anxiety, or life transitions. They may be stuck in unhealthy patterns, struggling with identity, or facing relationship or family challenges. Many want to better understand themselves, set healthier boundaries, and find emotional balance. I support children, teens, adults, and couples with compassion and curiosity. Whether you're navigating grief, parenting stress, or personal growth, I offer a safe space to heal, explore, and reconnect—with yourself and others.
(520) 636-8372 View (520) 636-8372
Photo of Virginia Pope, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Virginia Pope
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I also have my Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from Capella University.
My degree and additional training are specialized in working with relational systems (this could be any form of a relationship: romantic, familial, friendly). My specialty, passion, and experience, however, lies in working with couples. I also enjoy working with individual adults, teens, and children (in the context of family therapy).
I also have my Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from Capella University.
My degree and additional training are specialized in working with relational systems (this could be any form of a relationship: romantic, familial, friendly). My specialty, passion, and experience, however, lies in working with couples. I also enjoy working with individual adults, teens, and children (in the context of family therapy).
(520) 341-6293 View (520) 341-6293
Photo of Gretchen Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gretchen Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tucson, AZ 85719
My approach is person centered, open and trauma informed, and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, IFS/parts work, attachment work and play therapy.
Hope is an important starting place for therapy. Hope that life can feel different, that relationships can improve and that joy, contentment and peace are possible. I invite you to collaborate with me on getting to know more about your patterns, thoughts and feelings. People often reach out for therapy due to feeling stuck or overwhelmed. We can work together to identify goals and create a plan to help find relief. I work with a wide range of ages, including children and adults.
My approach is person centered, open and trauma informed, and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, IFS/parts work, attachment work and play therapy.
Hope is an important starting place for therapy. Hope that life can feel different, that relationships can improve and that joy, contentment and peace are possible. I invite you to collaborate with me on getting to know more about your patterns, thoughts and feelings. People often reach out for therapy due to feeling stuck or overwhelmed. We can work together to identify goals and create a plan to help find relief. I work with a wide range of ages, including children and adults.
(520) 397-3477 View (520) 397-3477
Photo of Robin Memel Fox, Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Robin Memel Fox
Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85715
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize relational, psychodynamic, body-centered/somatic psychotherapy, neuro-psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, dance/movement therapy & expressive arts.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
I utilize relational, psychodynamic, body-centered/somatic psychotherapy, neuro-psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, dance/movement therapy & expressive arts.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
(520) 332-6144 View (520) 332-6144
Photo of Camilla Bhagwan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Camilla Bhagwan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85711
Waitlist for new clients
Play is the language of children and is an important part of working with kids and families.
I take an attachment- based approach and I believe it’s important to sometimes consider our personal relationships while engaging in treatment. I have a person-centered approach and strive to collaborate with clients on developing goals that address their concerns. Therapy should be a non-judgmental place of compassion, empathy and empowerment.
Play is the language of children and is an important part of working with kids and families.
I take an attachment- based approach and I believe it’s important to sometimes consider our personal relationships while engaging in treatment. I have a person-centered approach and strive to collaborate with clients on developing goals that address their concerns. Therapy should be a non-judgmental place of compassion, empathy and empowerment.
(520) 655-8609 View (520) 655-8609
Photo of Vanessa Tarbill, Counselor, MA, LAC
Vanessa Tarbill
Counselor, MA, LAC
Tucson, AZ 85704
Games, play, and art are all woven into sessions since children speak the language of play and are generally more receptive to learning new skills while engaging in something enjoyable.
If your child or teen is struggling with their emotions, relationships, or behaviors, I can help. I can help your child or teen gain confidence, build self-esteem, change faulty thinking patterns, improve impulse control, and expand their emotional capacity. Children and teens face an incredible amount of stressors in their daily lives - school and social pressures, loneliness, cyber-bullying, the world of social media, substance use pressure, navigating relationships, learning to identify red flags, and trying to figure out what they stand for and how to be themselves in their world.
Games, play, and art are all woven into sessions since children speak the language of play and are generally more receptive to learning new skills while engaging in something enjoyable.
If your child or teen is struggling with their emotions, relationships, or behaviors, I can help. I can help your child or teen gain confidence, build self-esteem, change faulty thinking patterns, improve impulse control, and expand their emotional capacity. Children and teens face an incredible amount of stressors in their daily lives - school and social pressures, loneliness, cyber-bullying, the world of social media, substance use pressure, navigating relationships, learning to identify red flags, and trying to figure out what they stand for and how to be themselves in their world.
(520) 492-7997 View (520) 492-7997
Photo of Kyli Greenhalgh Skrill, Counselor
Kyli Greenhalgh Skrill
Counselor
4 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
I use art and play to guide clients through the therapy process.
I’m a Licensed Associate Counselor with a passion for working with children and adolescents. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Arizona and hold certifications in both mental health and school counseling. I strive to create a comfortable and engaging environment where young clients can safely explore their emotions and develop coping skills.
I use art and play to guide clients through the therapy process.
I’m a Licensed Associate Counselor with a passion for working with children and adolescents. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Arizona and hold certifications in both mental health and school counseling. I strive to create a comfortable and engaging environment where young clients can safely explore their emotions and develop coping skills.
(520) 487-3915 View (520) 487-3915
Photo of Kelli Gacic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kelli Gacic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tucson, AZ 85712
I incorporate Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Mindfulness through talk and/or play techniques and am a certified Sandtray therapist for those interested in healing in unique ways.
The clients I see are seeking a safe and non-judgmental space for questioning identity development and even identity reinvention across the lifetime. They are looking for support through challenges with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, learning new self-regulation techniques, and healing from trauma and/or addictions.
I incorporate Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Mindfulness through talk and/or play techniques and am a certified Sandtray therapist for those interested in healing in unique ways.
The clients I see are seeking a safe and non-judgmental space for questioning identity development and even identity reinvention across the lifetime. They are looking for support through challenges with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, learning new self-regulation techniques, and healing from trauma and/or addictions.
(520) 423-5600 x4183 View (520) 423-5600 x4183
Photo of Sherrill Koogler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Sherrill Koogler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Tucson, AZ 85716
During playtime with children, I provide a space where children can be in charge of their play, and learn and grow without realizing it.
Hi! Are you frustrated with your child’s behavior? Are you receiving phone calls from your child’s school? Is your child having difficulty regulating emotions and following directions? Parents often come to me at their wits’ end, looking for help with their child’s temper tantrums, mood swings, anxiety, or inability to focus. They want to resolve conflict with their child, help their child make friends, or assist them with getting back on track in school.
During playtime with children, I provide a space where children can be in charge of their play, and learn and grow without realizing it.
Hi! Are you frustrated with your child’s behavior? Are you receiving phone calls from your child’s school? Is your child having difficulty regulating emotions and following directions? Parents often come to me at their wits’ end, looking for help with their child’s temper tantrums, mood swings, anxiety, or inability to focus. They want to resolve conflict with their child, help their child make friends, or assist them with getting back on track in school.
(520) 462-8867 View (520) 462-8867
Photo of George Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
George Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85711
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus therapy, and play therapy techniques.
As a former professional athlete, I know what it takes to overcome adversity. I incorporate my experience in sports and counseling to help work towards your goals. Together, we set goals for improved mental well-being, healthier relationships, increased self-confidence, and better coping skills. I'm passionate about instilling personal growth, healing from traumas, enhancing self-awareness, and finding life satisfaction. Whether seeking clarity, relief, resilience, communication improvement, or healthier behaviors, I'm committed to helping clients reach their fullest potential and promoting well-being.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus therapy, and play therapy techniques.
As a former professional athlete, I know what it takes to overcome adversity. I incorporate my experience in sports and counseling to help work towards your goals. Together, we set goals for improved mental well-being, healthier relationships, increased self-confidence, and better coping skills. I'm passionate about instilling personal growth, healing from traumas, enhancing self-awareness, and finding life satisfaction. Whether seeking clarity, relief, resilience, communication improvement, or healthier behaviors, I'm committed to helping clients reach their fullest potential and promoting well-being.
(520) 263-9019 View (520) 263-9019
Photo of Amy Cormode, Counselor, LAC
Amy Cormode
Counselor, LAC
Tucson, AZ 85716
I offer therapy sessions in-person in play spaces meant to encourage exploration and curiosity.
Hi. I’m Amy! You can also think of me as your family’s “holder of hope.” I see the best in everyone and believe in the power of connection to heal. I am passionate about helping children and families understand themselves and each other more deeply… from the inside out. I will come alongside you and your child and nurture the essence of each individual. In a collaborative manner, we will identify and clear obstacles in your way, so that both you and your child feel happier in the world and capable of handling the stresses you face.
I offer therapy sessions in-person in play spaces meant to encourage exploration and curiosity.
Hi. I’m Amy! You can also think of me as your family’s “holder of hope.” I see the best in everyone and believe in the power of connection to heal. I am passionate about helping children and families understand themselves and each other more deeply… from the inside out. I will come alongside you and your child and nurture the essence of each individual. In a collaborative manner, we will identify and clear obstacles in your way, so that both you and your child feel happier in the world and capable of handling the stresses you face.
(520) 412-7194 View (520) 412-7194
Photo of Victoria Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Victoria Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Tucson, AZ 85715
I have a background in experiential, cognitive and play therapies, but I am invested in always learning more.
My ideal client is someone who has experienced trauma and is seeking a safe, supportive environment to heal. This client may be navigating the complexities of sexual health after abuse, struggling with identity, or struggling to manage healthy relationships . They are motivated to discover what they truly want out of their life and find relief from the struggles they face. My agency is only accepting trauma clients at this time.
I have a background in experiential, cognitive and play therapies, but I am invested in always learning more.
My ideal client is someone who has experienced trauma and is seeking a safe, supportive environment to heal. This client may be navigating the complexities of sexual health after abuse, struggling with identity, or struggling to manage healthy relationships . They are motivated to discover what they truly want out of their life and find relief from the struggles they face. My agency is only accepting trauma clients at this time.
(520) 380-4295 View (520) 380-4295
Photo of Sari Emami, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , RPT
Sari Emami
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , RPT
Tucson, AZ 85704
With younger children, I use directive and non-directive Play Therapy techniques and Sand Tray Therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I am a licensed therapist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotion regulation issues, social or peer-related difficulties, gender or identity issues, and challenges with school and/or family relationships. I also enjoy supporting clients through the significant life transitions associated with adolescence and young adulthood. I strive to create a safe space for my clients that includes collaboration, reflective curiosity, and opportunities for growth, and creativity,
With younger children, I use directive and non-directive Play Therapy techniques and Sand Tray Therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I am a licensed therapist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotion regulation issues, social or peer-related difficulties, gender or identity issues, and challenges with school and/or family relationships. I also enjoy supporting clients through the significant life transitions associated with adolescence and young adulthood. I strive to create a safe space for my clients that includes collaboration, reflective curiosity, and opportunities for growth, and creativity,
(520) 487-3802 View (520) 487-3802
Photo of Marissa Bell, Counselor, MS, LAC
Marissa Bell
Counselor, MS, LAC
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
Waitlist for new clients
My treatment modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, play/sand tray therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian/biblical counseling.
Welcome! I’m Marissa and I have a genuine passion and dedication for supporting individuals on their unique paths to well-being. I am experienced and find passion working with children, teens, and adults on a wide variety of issues including anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, stress/anger management, navigating major life transitions/adjustment disorders, PTSD, childhood behavioral issues, racial and religious trauma, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and grief and loss.
My treatment modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, play/sand tray therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian/biblical counseling.
Welcome! I’m Marissa and I have a genuine passion and dedication for supporting individuals on their unique paths to well-being. I am experienced and find passion working with children, teens, and adults on a wide variety of issues including anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, stress/anger management, navigating major life transitions/adjustment disorders, PTSD, childhood behavioral issues, racial and religious trauma, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and grief and loss.
(520) 412-5668 View (520) 412-5668
Photo of Monica Arriaga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Monica Arriaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tucson, AZ 85716
Play is a huge part of my work with children.
Hi, I’m Monica! I enjoy working with children and adolescents who are facing emotional and/or behavioral challenges. I love to partner with those who are experiencing challenges around neurodiviersity, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem, peer related issues, and trauma who struggle to identify and express their feelings. We work together to increase self-awareness, self-esteem, emotional regulation, positive coping skills and healthy and positive relationships. Together, we work to foster growth, healing, and authentic self-expression through a tailored, compassionate approach.
Play is a huge part of my work with children.
Hi, I’m Monica! I enjoy working with children and adolescents who are facing emotional and/or behavioral challenges. I love to partner with those who are experiencing challenges around neurodiviersity, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem, peer related issues, and trauma who struggle to identify and express their feelings. We work together to increase self-awareness, self-esteem, emotional regulation, positive coping skills and healthy and positive relationships. Together, we work to foster growth, healing, and authentic self-expression through a tailored, compassionate approach.
(520) 335-9241 View (520) 335-9241
Photo of Kerri Dominguez, Counselor, LAC, CCTS-I
Kerri Dominguez
Counselor, LAC, CCTS-I
Tucson, AZ 85715
Mindfulness, self regulation, understanding the brain/body connection, and play are all used in my practice to achieve healing.
I love riding along in the journey with clients as they fulfill their wish of becoming the person that they desire to be. I believe we are adapted to our experiences and that we can identify and utilize the strengths that have been developed in us because of those experiences. Whether the need is to manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, or to heal from trauma; my clients find in themselves their resiliency and the tools they need to continue to forge their path to achieving their ideal self.
Mindfulness, self regulation, understanding the brain/body connection, and play are all used in my practice to achieve healing.
I love riding along in the journey with clients as they fulfill their wish of becoming the person that they desire to be. I believe we are adapted to our experiences and that we can identify and utilize the strengths that have been developed in us because of those experiences. Whether the need is to manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, or to heal from trauma; my clients find in themselves their resiliency and the tools they need to continue to forge their path to achieving their ideal self.
(520) 858-0446 View (520) 858-0446
Photo of Karen Michelle Morse, Counselor, MA, LPC
Karen Michelle Morse
Counselor, MA, LPC
Tucson, AZ 85711
My treatment approaches include both verbal and nonverbal therapies: Art, Sand Tray, Play, and CBT.
Therapy is a process that brings about profound changes and personal growth and I am often amazed at the courage and motivation my clients display. I am honored to be a part of this process with you. I have been a practicing therapist in Tucson for 26 years. I enjoy working with a variety of age groups from teens to adults and provide individual and family therapy. Areas of treatment include Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Grief, Life Transitions, Codependency, work/career challenges and Parent education. Focus areas include trauma recovery, somatic touch, self-regulation skills and resilience.
My treatment approaches include both verbal and nonverbal therapies: Art, Sand Tray, Play, and CBT.
Therapy is a process that brings about profound changes and personal growth and I am often amazed at the courage and motivation my clients display. I am honored to be a part of this process with you. I have been a practicing therapist in Tucson for 26 years. I enjoy working with a variety of age groups from teens to adults and provide individual and family therapy. Areas of treatment include Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Grief, Life Transitions, Codependency, work/career challenges and Parent education. Focus areas include trauma recovery, somatic touch, self-regulation skills and resilience.
(520) 441-8399 View (520) 441-8399
Photo of Bethany Riley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bethany Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tucson, AZ 85716
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, self-esteem, and more, using CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, play therapy, and other evidence-based methods tailored to your needs.
My ideal patient is someone open to learning, growth, and gaining deeper insight into themselves, their strengths, and tools for enhancing their life. Whether navigating self-esteem challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, my goal is to support lasting change and greater life satisfaction—whatever that looks like for them—both during and beyond therapy.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, self-esteem, and more, using CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, play therapy, and other evidence-based methods tailored to your needs.
My ideal patient is someone open to learning, growth, and gaining deeper insight into themselves, their strengths, and tools for enhancing their life. Whether navigating self-esteem challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, my goal is to support lasting change and greater life satisfaction—whatever that looks like for them—both during and beyond therapy.
(520) 416-4344 View (520) 416-4344
Photo of Jessica Perkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jessica Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide a therapeutic client-centered approach to assisting my clients work towards their goals. I utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing), Solution Focused, Family Systems, Structural Family Therapy, Art therapy techniques, Play therapy. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care and utilize approach in my practice. I have history of working with children, youth and families. I am honored to have worked alongside my clients as they have traveled down their own personal roads towards wellness.
I provide a therapeutic client-centered approach to assisting my clients work towards their goals. I utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing), Solution Focused, Family Systems, Structural Family Therapy, Art therapy techniques, Play therapy. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care and utilize approach in my practice. I have history of working with children, youth and families. I am honored to have worked alongside my clients as they have traveled down their own personal roads towards wellness.
(520) 214-7434 View (520) 214-7434
Photo of Kristen Kaveloh, Counselor, MA, LAC
Kristen Kaveloh
Counselor, MA, LAC
Tucson, AZ 85704
Talk therapy & play therapy.
If you're looking for compassion focused counseling in a safe, accepting, and professional space, let's get to know each other. Are you an individual with anxiety or depression, perfectionistic tendencies, or a harsh inner critic? Are you seeking counseling for your teenager who is stressed, struggling to fit in, or being bullied? Are you parenting a child who is hyperactive, neurodivergent, or just generally quirky? I enjoy working with these populations because I understand them. My goal is for you to feel deeply seen and understood so you feel supported and validated in your struggle. We can overcome things together!
Talk therapy & play therapy.
If you're looking for compassion focused counseling in a safe, accepting, and professional space, let's get to know each other. Are you an individual with anxiety or depression, perfectionistic tendencies, or a harsh inner critic? Are you seeking counseling for your teenager who is stressed, struggling to fit in, or being bullied? Are you parenting a child who is hyperactive, neurodivergent, or just generally quirky? I enjoy working with these populations because I understand them. My goal is for you to feel deeply seen and understood so you feel supported and validated in your struggle. We can overcome things together!
(520) 438-4397 View (520) 438-4397

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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.