Photo of Dan Ceske, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Dan Ceske
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
In my online practice, I use video games like Minecraft as a tool for play therapy, allowing your child to express themselves without words.
Does your inner-critic scream when you make a mistake? Do people seem to like you more than you like yourself? Maybe you just feel lost, wanting things to be different even though you don't know exactly what that means. That’s okay. Life can be challenging, but challenging is not impossible. Sometimes, we just need some support. I would like to offer you my support in a space where you can feel free to be who you are, free from the pressure of who you're supposed to be, and free to discover what's important to you. Let's work together to identify the changes you want to make in life so you can work on making them.
In my online practice, I use video games like Minecraft as a tool for play therapy, allowing your child to express themselves without words.
Does your inner-critic scream when you make a mistake? Do people seem to like you more than you like yourself? Maybe you just feel lost, wanting things to be different even though you don't know exactly what that means. That’s okay. Life can be challenging, but challenging is not impossible. Sometimes, we just need some support. I would like to offer you my support in a space where you can feel free to be who you are, free from the pressure of who you're supposed to be, and free to discover what's important to you. Let's work together to identify the changes you want to make in life so you can work on making them.
(727) 947-1927 View (727) 947-1927
Photo of Mick D Rehrig, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mick D Rehrig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I provide play therapy and family support and coaching for transgender and non-binary folks.
Welcome! I believe in therapy that affirms, empowers, and supports people to recognize patterns, navigate changes, bolster personal growth and self-worth, and figure things out.Collaboration with the folks I work with is of utmost importance to me, guided by clinical theory and evidence-based therapeutic techniques that work for you.I utilize a strengths based, anti-racist, intersectional feminist approach. I work with clients navigating healthy masculinity, internalized oppression, gender dysphoria, addiction recovery, depression, sexuality, relationship stressors & boundaries, family of origin challenges, life transitions, & more.
I provide play therapy and family support and coaching for transgender and non-binary folks.
Welcome! I believe in therapy that affirms, empowers, and supports people to recognize patterns, navigate changes, bolster personal growth and self-worth, and figure things out.Collaboration with the folks I work with is of utmost importance to me, guided by clinical theory and evidence-based therapeutic techniques that work for you.I utilize a strengths based, anti-racist, intersectional feminist approach. I work with clients navigating healthy masculinity, internalized oppression, gender dysphoria, addiction recovery, depression, sexuality, relationship stressors & boundaries, family of origin challenges, life transitions, & more.
(678) 335-1270 View (678) 335-1270
Photo of Matthew Anthony Fahy, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Matthew Anthony Fahy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33714
By using play therapy, role play games, and gamification - therapy can become engaging! Play is a natural way to learn and it makes great therapy for everyone, children, teens, and adults.
Now accepting new clients (children, teens and adults). Everyone is different and the treatments are too. I specialize in finding what works best and keeping it interesting, so you want to keep making changes. I love using insightful and creative therapy approaches supported by research. Data always matters. You will have access to various treatment options such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and more. In short, I prefer to use treatments that are shown to be beneficial in scientific reviews. Join me during one of my therapeutic role play games groups.
By using play therapy, role play games, and gamification - therapy can become engaging! Play is a natural way to learn and it makes great therapy for everyone, children, teens, and adults.
Now accepting new clients (children, teens and adults). Everyone is different and the treatments are too. I specialize in finding what works best and keeping it interesting, so you want to keep making changes. I love using insightful and creative therapy approaches supported by research. Data always matters. You will have access to various treatment options such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and more. In short, I prefer to use treatments that are shown to be beneficial in scientific reviews. Join me during one of my therapeutic role play games groups.
(727) 202-5539 View (727) 202-5539
Photo of Dr. Thomas Grant Quinlan, PsyD, MA, CHT, Psychologist
Dr. Thomas Grant Quinlan
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701  (Online Only)
I am seeing clients via phone and or internet at this time! Call me at 727-906-6185.
I am seeing clients via phone and or internet at this time! Call me at 727-906-6185.
(727) 800-3851 View (727) 800-3851
Photo of Michael Missory, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Michael Missory
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33716
Life can be challenging. Everyone has experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, etc., at some point in their lives. Those that struggle with these or other mental health symptoms are not "damaged" or need to be "fixed." Mental health problems cannot be cured, but they can be treated and overcome. At Gateway Psychological Services, the goal is to assist the client gain perspective and control of their lives through support and guidance. As a committed, experienced psychologist, your well-being and mental strength is my number one priority. I offer all my clients the attention and care they deserve.
Life can be challenging. Everyone has experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, etc., at some point in their lives. Those that struggle with these or other mental health symptoms are not "damaged" or need to be "fixed." Mental health problems cannot be cured, but they can be treated and overcome. At Gateway Psychological Services, the goal is to assist the client gain perspective and control of their lives through support and guidance. As a committed, experienced psychologist, your well-being and mental strength is my number one priority. I offer all my clients the attention and care they deserve.
(727) 240-3860 View (727) 240-3860
Photo of Ronald Bell - Florida Christian Counseling Services, LMHC, Counselor
Florida Christian Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705
Are you feeling discouraged, stuck, and hopeless in your life or marriage? Life's negative experiences are causing continued distress and preventing you from reaching your potential. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, anger issues, relationship challenges and major life changes? are your preteens or teens experiencing behavior problems in school, home setting, or continue to get in trouble with the law?
Are you feeling discouraged, stuck, and hopeless in your life or marriage? Life's negative experiences are causing continued distress and preventing you from reaching your potential. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, anger issues, relationship challenges and major life changes? are your preteens or teens experiencing behavior problems in school, home setting, or continue to get in trouble with the law?
(727) 800-1708 View (727) 800-1708
Photo of Adam Horwitz, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Adam Horwitz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713
I am currently accepting new clients with a wide variety of goals and circumstances. I aim to create a partnership to help unlock your potential, overcome challenges, strive for success, and manage difficult situations/negative life experiences. Every individual is extremely valuable, unique, and deserving of the support necessary to have a good quality of life, peace, and satisfaction. Frequently the biggest obstacles lie within, and my goal is to enable you to free yourself from problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you may strive for your ideal version of yourself.
I am currently accepting new clients with a wide variety of goals and circumstances. I aim to create a partnership to help unlock your potential, overcome challenges, strive for success, and manage difficult situations/negative life experiences. Every individual is extremely valuable, unique, and deserving of the support necessary to have a good quality of life, peace, and satisfaction. Frequently the biggest obstacles lie within, and my goal is to enable you to free yourself from problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you may strive for your ideal version of yourself.
(813) 567-8211 View (813) 567-8211
Photo of Chad Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chad Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33715  (Online Only)
I believe that life is always changing and sometimes those changes are not easy to go through. Change is the only certainty to life. I have been trained and credentialed as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, Certified Life Coach, and Certified Mindfulness-Informed Clinician. I am currently pursuing my Registered Expressive Art Therapist. I am here to guide you through the hard times, bad times, and good times.
I believe that life is always changing and sometimes those changes are not easy to go through. Change is the only certainty to life. I have been trained and credentialed as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, Certified Life Coach, and Certified Mindfulness-Informed Clinician. I am currently pursuing my Registered Expressive Art Therapist. I am here to guide you through the hard times, bad times, and good times.
(813) 694-8493 View (813) 694-8493
Photo of Logan Walters, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Logan Walters
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33703
With 16 years experience and a focus in helping families and youth with ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral/school challenges, ASD, etc, I understand the importance of individualizing therapy to best fit the unique needs of each client. We start with a free consultation by phone, where we discuss therapeutic goals and strategies we can utilize to improve you and or your family's life and happiness. I use a client-centered, strengths-based approach, where we work together to accomplish objectives. While therapy can be hard work, it can also provide a safe space to grow, have fun, relax, & learn to more thoroughly enjoy life.
With 16 years experience and a focus in helping families and youth with ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral/school challenges, ASD, etc, I understand the importance of individualizing therapy to best fit the unique needs of each client. We start with a free consultation by phone, where we discuss therapeutic goals and strategies we can utilize to improve you and or your family's life and happiness. I use a client-centered, strengths-based approach, where we work together to accomplish objectives. While therapy can be hard work, it can also provide a safe space to grow, have fun, relax, & learn to more thoroughly enjoy life.
(727) 496-6275 View (727) 496-6275

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert Lindsey Arnold, EdD, MA, BCPC, CACP, LMHC, Counselor
Robert Lindsey Arnold
Counselor, EdD, MA, BCPC, CACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Largo, FL 33778
These may include, but are not limited to: Coaching Strategies,Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Educational Techniques, the use of Expressive Arts, Social Skills Training, Group Work and Play Therapy.
I focus on helping children, teens and adults heal through loss and change and maximize their potential with a focus on grief and bereavement, traumatic loss, stress management, ADHD, academic performance, behavior management strategies, Social Skills Training, anger management, substance abuse and bullying. My goal is to support total health and wellness in the patients I serve.
These may include, but are not limited to: Coaching Strategies,Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Educational Techniques, the use of Expressive Arts, Social Skills Training, Group Work and Play Therapy.
I focus on helping children, teens and adults heal through loss and change and maximize their potential with a focus on grief and bereavement, traumatic loss, stress management, ADHD, academic performance, behavior management strategies, Social Skills Training, anger management, substance abuse and bullying. My goal is to support total health and wellness in the patients I serve.
(727) 287-5492 View (727) 287-5492

Online Therapists

Photo of Nicholas Hercules - Hercules Health Alliance, LMHC, CAP, Counselor
Hercules Health Alliance
Counselor, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, FL 33576
I offer in person services for children, so that we can do activities together during therapy such as playing with dogs, play therapy through games, arts and crafts, and activities such as going for walks and playing basketball.
My name is Nicholas Hercules, and I offer a solution-focused approach to therapy. Within the first 3 sessions you can expect to have a detailed list of measurable treatment goals, so every week you can review and know where you are making progress. I have 15 years of experience in the field of therapy. I am a Licensed counselor in the state of Florida, and a Certified Addictions Professional. I am certified to administer Moral Reconation Therapy. I also use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered, and motivational interviewing. I have been happily married for 11 years, and am a proud father of 2 sons.
I offer in person services for children, so that we can do activities together during therapy such as playing with dogs, play therapy through games, arts and crafts, and activities such as going for walks and playing basketball.
My name is Nicholas Hercules, and I offer a solution-focused approach to therapy. Within the first 3 sessions you can expect to have a detailed list of measurable treatment goals, so every week you can review and know where you are making progress. I have 15 years of experience in the field of therapy. I am a Licensed counselor in the state of Florida, and a Certified Addictions Professional. I am certified to administer Moral Reconation Therapy. I also use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered, and motivational interviewing. I have been happily married for 11 years, and am a proud father of 2 sons.
(352) 290-7923 View (352) 290-7923
Photo of Gabriel Oliver, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabriel Oliver
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
He finds human connection and your personal experience to be very influential pieces in recovery, and as such, they play a big role in steering the healing journey.
Gabriel Oliver is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with 3 years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience helping people find their healing through individual, group, family, and couples counseling. Gabriel is passionate about helping people move from "hurt to whole" and walking alongside clients as they reach for their goals. While prepared to work with any population, Gabriel often specializes in trauma/complex trauma/abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavior modification, stress management, coping skills, and attachment issues.
He finds human connection and your personal experience to be very influential pieces in recovery, and as such, they play a big role in steering the healing journey.
Gabriel Oliver is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with 3 years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience helping people find their healing through individual, group, family, and couples counseling. Gabriel is passionate about helping people move from "hurt to whole" and walking alongside clients as they reach for their goals. While prepared to work with any population, Gabriel often specializes in trauma/complex trauma/abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavior modification, stress management, coping skills, and attachment issues.
(407) 584-4197 View (407) 584-4197
Photo of Ernie Reilly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ernie Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
Dr. Reilly is a Licensed Therapist, Child Therapist, Play Therapist, Adolescent Counselor, Adult Counselor, Family Therapist, Co-parent Counselor, Parent Coach, Sports Therapist, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, Parent Coordinator, Life Coach, & Marriage & Couple's Counselor. For over 20 years he has put his extensive clinical expertise & warm friendly approach towards treating: Children, adults, couples, & families. In addition to having a thriving private practice, Dr. Reilly has taught graduate school at UCF, presents locally and nationally on mental health, has supervised treatment programs for Arnold Palmer Hospital & has won the Central Florida Victim Services Award for mental health treatment. .
Dr. Reilly is a Licensed Therapist, Child Therapist, Play Therapist, Adolescent Counselor, Adult Counselor, Family Therapist, Co-parent Counselor, Parent Coach, Sports Therapist, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, Parent Coordinator, Life Coach, & Marriage & Couple's Counselor. For over 20 years he has put his extensive clinical expertise & warm friendly approach towards treating: Children, adults, couples, & families. In addition to having a thriving private practice, Dr. Reilly has taught graduate school at UCF, presents locally and nationally on mental health, has supervised treatment programs for Arnold Palmer Hospital & has won the Central Florida Victim Services Award for mental health treatment. .
(407) 258-1846 View (407) 258-1846
Photo of Joel Asencio, MA
Joel Asencio
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Wesley Chapel, FL 33543
I bring a diverse blend of evidenced-based practices in my therapeutic approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Internal Family Systems, Play Therapy, Christian Counseling.
If you've ever found yourself wrestling with overwhelming anxiety, difficulty connecting, navigating complex life transitions, or facing spiritual struggles, rest assured, you're moving in the right direction with seeking support. My primary aim is to be your companion on this journey of self-discovery and fulfillment, assisting you in uncovering the profound meaning and purpose that resides within your life.
I bring a diverse blend of evidenced-based practices in my therapeutic approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Internal Family Systems, Play Therapy, Christian Counseling.
If you've ever found yourself wrestling with overwhelming anxiety, difficulty connecting, navigating complex life transitions, or facing spiritual struggles, rest assured, you're moving in the right direction with seeking support. My primary aim is to be your companion on this journey of self-discovery and fulfillment, assisting you in uncovering the profound meaning and purpose that resides within your life.
(813) 710-5627 View (813) 710-5627
Photo of Akiva Garellek, LMHC, Counselor
Akiva Garellek
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481
“We are never more fully alive, more completely ourselves or more deeply engrossed in anything than when we are playing”. -Charles Schaefer. Play is vital for children to express themselves and learn about their surroundings and general environment. In addition to exploration, it is essential for their development. Allowing the space for them to play freely generates the possibility of understanding their world and their motivation. Instead of the traditional format of communication, we often learn more about a child's thoughts, feelings, motivations, and struggles by watching them play.
“We are never more fully alive, more completely ourselves or more deeply engrossed in anything than when we are playing”. -Charles Schaefer. Play is vital for children to express themselves and learn about their surroundings and general environment. In addition to exploration, it is essential for their development. Allowing the space for them to play freely generates the possibility of understanding their world and their motivation. Instead of the traditional format of communication, we often learn more about a child's thoughts, feelings, motivations, and struggles by watching them play.
(305) 770-6345 View (305) 770-6345
Photo of Andrew Pisko - The Child and Family Institute, MA, LMHC, ART , ITDS, CLTP, Counselor
The Child and Family Institute
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ART , ITDS, CLTP
Verified Verified
New Port Richey, FL 34655
My training includes multiple certifications in Trauma Based Therapy, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavior and ABA.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I have been working in the counseling field for over 7 years and have been working with children and Adults since 2003 . I have Devoted my career to ongoing training and learning new and progressive techniques that work. I have expertise in children and teens but work with Adults as well. I have excellent references available. My expertise includes Trauma and Depression, Anxiety and PTSD. I also have extensive experience working with the Adult community I offer Telehealth as well as in person office visits. I offer a free initial consultation to see if we are a good fit
My training includes multiple certifications in Trauma Based Therapy, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavior and ABA.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I have been working in the counseling field for over 7 years and have been working with children and Adults since 2003 . I have Devoted my career to ongoing training and learning new and progressive techniques that work. I have expertise in children and teens but work with Adults as well. I have excellent references available. My expertise includes Trauma and Depression, Anxiety and PTSD. I also have extensive experience working with the Adult community I offer Telehealth as well as in person office visits. I offer a free initial consultation to see if we are a good fit
(813) 213-0849 View (813) 213-0849
Photo of Kevin Carson Barker, MS, LMHC, Super, Counselor
Kevin Carson Barker
Counselor, MS, LMHC, Super
Verified Verified
Clermont, FL 34711
Through "special play time" children will be able to express and process the feelings that they are having daily, in a natural and constructive way.
Freedom, Compassion, and Hope lies within every individual and can be gained through a healthy therapeutic relationship. Finding Freedom from everyday struggles in a Compassionate atmosphere is where Hope can be found. If you desire to find these in your life you owe it to yourself to come and work with me. Let's work on a plan that suits who you are and addresses your specific needs. Collaboration is key to unlocking your full potential. Lets start this journey of self discovery and healing today.
Through "special play time" children will be able to express and process the feelings that they are having daily, in a natural and constructive way.
Freedom, Compassion, and Hope lies within every individual and can be gained through a healthy therapeutic relationship. Finding Freedom from everyday struggles in a Compassionate atmosphere is where Hope can be found. If you desire to find these in your life you owe it to yourself to come and work with me. Let's work on a plan that suits who you are and addresses your specific needs. Collaboration is key to unlocking your full potential. Lets start this journey of self discovery and healing today.
(352) 614-0059 View (352) 614-0059
Photo of Jacquelyn Flood - Emora Health, LCSW, LPC, LMHC, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emora Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMHC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33603  (Online Only)
We work with children and teens across a span of conditions, from ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger management, bullying, gender identity, grief and loss, and much more across a range of conditions, experiences, and symptoms. Learn more or reach out at www.emorahealth.com.
We work with children and teens across a span of conditions, from ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger management, bullying, gender identity, grief and loss, and much more across a range of conditions, experiences, and symptoms. Learn more or reach out at www.emorahealth.com.
(813) 710-6762 View (813) 710-6762
Photo of Jeffrey Harris, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Jeffrey Harris
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32822
Are you or someone you know going through a difficult time? Maybe you are struggling with depression, anxiety, family or relationship issues. Whatever issues you are struggling with, I can help. As a licensed counselor, I am known for being understanding, supportive, and caring. I understand how difficult it is and how lonely it can feel to face both internal and external life setbacks and personal tragedies. I know firsthand what it is like to face imposing and seemingly impossible struggles. I have over 15 years of diverse experience serving youth and families as a counselor in the education sector.
Are you or someone you know going through a difficult time? Maybe you are struggling with depression, anxiety, family or relationship issues. Whatever issues you are struggling with, I can help. As a licensed counselor, I am known for being understanding, supportive, and caring. I understand how difficult it is and how lonely it can feel to face both internal and external life setbacks and personal tragedies. I know firsthand what it is like to face imposing and seemingly impossible struggles. I have over 15 years of diverse experience serving youth and families as a counselor in the education sector.
(321) 324-6141 View (321) 324-6141
Photo of Lee Schlanger, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, MCAP, Counselor
Lee Schlanger
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, MCAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231  (Online Only)
Lee Schlanger is a Florida State Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently living Sarasota, FL by way of New York City, NY. Lee has a passion for animals and doing anything outdoors, and is an avid sports fan. Lee has been working as a Mental Health Counselor since of 2016. Lee specializes in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety and depression as well as specializes in working with clients who have undergone grief, loss, and traumatic events, as well as substance abuse recovery, and more. Lee is also a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Provider and specializes in Telehealth sessions and is Certified EMDR and Trauma.
Lee Schlanger is a Florida State Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently living Sarasota, FL by way of New York City, NY. Lee has a passion for animals and doing anything outdoors, and is an avid sports fan. Lee has been working as a Mental Health Counselor since of 2016. Lee specializes in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety and depression as well as specializes in working with clients who have undergone grief, loss, and traumatic events, as well as substance abuse recovery, and more. Lee is also a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Provider and specializes in Telehealth sessions and is Certified EMDR and Trauma.
(941) 214-6132 View (941) 214-6132

See more therapy options for Saint Petersburg

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.