Play Therapy in Marietta, GA

Photo of Shari Ponder, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv, LAPC
Shari Ponder
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv, LAPC
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Do you feel like the weight of the world is too much to bear sometimes? Are you secretly struggling with stress, anxiety & depression? Maybe you're ok but your kids are struggling. I bet you're expected to have it all together but it's okay to admit that you're tired of the constant battle. What you're yearning for is balance, inner peace & the promise of feeling a bit better today than yesterday. I am Shari Ponder & you are not alone. Let's put an end to the grip of loneliness you carry & work together to rediscover joy & hope. It's time to throw in the towel & pick up the tools for your journey to healing, wholeness & well-being.
Do you feel like the weight of the world is too much to bear sometimes? Are you secretly struggling with stress, anxiety & depression? Maybe you're ok but your kids are struggling. I bet you're expected to have it all together but it's okay to admit that you're tired of the constant battle. What you're yearning for is balance, inner peace & the promise of feeling a bit better today than yesterday. I am Shari Ponder & you are not alone. Let's put an end to the grip of loneliness you carry & work together to rediscover joy & hope. It's time to throw in the towel & pick up the tools for your journey to healing, wholeness & well-being.
(678) 831-6238 View (678) 831-6238
Photo of Allie Collins, Counselor, MS
Allie Collins
Counselor, MS
Marietta, GA 30060
I am currently training to become a Registered Play Therapist, and value utilizing play therapy techniques to support children in regulating emotions.
It's not easy to seek support! My goal is to assist in providing you with skills to create change in your life and improve overall well-being. I aim to provide a safe space for clients to explore specific challenges they may be facing in order to foster positive growth and change. I view the therapeutic process as a collaborative relationship, and believe every client deserves to feel accepted and supported. I'm passionate about working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults, and providing care from a neurodivergent affirming lens. I specialize in working with individuals diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
I am currently training to become a Registered Play Therapist, and value utilizing play therapy techniques to support children in regulating emotions.
It's not easy to seek support! My goal is to assist in providing you with skills to create change in your life and improve overall well-being. I aim to provide a safe space for clients to explore specific challenges they may be facing in order to foster positive growth and change. I view the therapeutic process as a collaborative relationship, and believe every client deserves to feel accepted and supported. I'm passionate about working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults, and providing care from a neurodivergent affirming lens. I specialize in working with individuals diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
(470) 778-4669 View (470) 778-4669
Photo of Julia Young, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, RPT, NCC, CCLS
Julia Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, RPT, NCC, CCLS
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I am a LPC in GA, an LMHC in FL, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS), with specialized trauma training in EMDR therapy.
Taking the step to begin therapy is courageous, and I want you to feel supported from the very start. My goal is to create a space where you or child, feel safe, understood, and empowered to grow. With both an M.A. and M.S., I bring a strong educational background paired with years of experience helping children, parents, and women navigate life's challenges
I am a LPC in GA, an LMHC in FL, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS), with specialized trauma training in EMDR therapy.
Taking the step to begin therapy is courageous, and I want you to feel supported from the very start. My goal is to create a space where you or child, feel safe, understood, and empowered to grow. With both an M.A. and M.S., I bring a strong educational background paired with years of experience helping children, parents, and women navigate life's challenges
(470) 516-2638 View (470) 516-2638
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Ebinger - Attento Counseling Practice, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Attento Counseling Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marietta, GA 30067
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
(404) 383-6944 View (404) 383-6944
Photo of Mary Anna Sharp, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Mary Anna Sharp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
We are thrilled that you are here! Taking the first step on your counseling journey can be challenging - and brave! Mary Anna specializes in working with teens and adults who tend to feel anxious, sad, pressured to be "productive", and struggle with motivation. Her clients may be struggling with emotional highs and lows that tend to impact their daily life, and battle perfectionism, imposter syndrome, or even creative blocks. Mary Anna works with individuals who may struggle with managing anxiety, stress, or self-doubt, truly understanding the challenges of both creative and emotional minds!
We are thrilled that you are here! Taking the first step on your counseling journey can be challenging - and brave! Mary Anna specializes in working with teens and adults who tend to feel anxious, sad, pressured to be "productive", and struggle with motivation. Her clients may be struggling with emotional highs and lows that tend to impact their daily life, and battle perfectionism, imposter syndrome, or even creative blocks. Mary Anna works with individuals who may struggle with managing anxiety, stress, or self-doubt, truly understanding the challenges of both creative and emotional minds!
(470) 748-4360 View (470) 748-4360
Photo of Angela Fowler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Angela Fowler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
My philosophy is strength-based, whether working with a child who is struggling emotionally and may benefit from play therapy or an adult who prefers to work collaboratively through a cognitive-behavioral approach or a trauma focused approach.
“My goal is to work together to create positive change by offering a safe and warm environment for clients to learn, heal, and grow.” Whether searching for a counselor for yourself or your child, I enjoy working with clients of all ages and considers it a privilege to journey beside each client as they experience life transitions, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, school related issues or learning differences, or traumatic experiences.
My philosophy is strength-based, whether working with a child who is struggling emotionally and may benefit from play therapy or an adult who prefers to work collaboratively through a cognitive-behavioral approach or a trauma focused approach.
“My goal is to work together to create positive change by offering a safe and warm environment for clients to learn, heal, and grow.” Whether searching for a counselor for yourself or your child, I enjoy working with clients of all ages and considers it a privilege to journey beside each client as they experience life transitions, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, school related issues or learning differences, or traumatic experiences.
(470) 541-1287 View (470) 541-1287
Photo of Breanna Klein, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, NCC
Breanna Klein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, NCC
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I have a passion for helping children and teens work towards wellness, inner peace and fulfill their life goals. I work to teach them emotional awareness and regulation, develop healthy coping strategies, build frustration tolerance and promote problem solving skills. Additionally, I treat college aged individuals and young adults. My experience with the LGBTQ+ community, supporting college students with adjusting it to their new environment and expectations and assisting with Executive Functioning issues and transitioning into their next phase of life has been extremely rewarding!
I have a passion for helping children and teens work towards wellness, inner peace and fulfill their life goals. I work to teach them emotional awareness and regulation, develop healthy coping strategies, build frustration tolerance and promote problem solving skills. Additionally, I treat college aged individuals and young adults. My experience with the LGBTQ+ community, supporting college students with adjusting it to their new environment and expectations and assisting with Executive Functioning issues and transitioning into their next phase of life has been extremely rewarding!
(470) 348-2451 View (470) 348-2451
Photo of Anna LeRoy, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Anna LeRoy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
I am currently working toward becoming a Registered Play Therapist, and I enjoy using play therapy techniques to help children express themselves, build skills, and thrive.
I love helping children, teens, and adults find hope and healing through life’s challenges. My approach is collaborative and compassionate — I meet you where you are and walk alongside you as we work toward your goals. In addition to working with kids and families, I also work with individual adults who want support through stress, anxiety, life transitions, or simply learning new ways to grow. My goal is to create a safe, encouraging space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to take the next step forward.
I am currently working toward becoming a Registered Play Therapist, and I enjoy using play therapy techniques to help children express themselves, build skills, and thrive.
I love helping children, teens, and adults find hope and healing through life’s challenges. My approach is collaborative and compassionate — I meet you where you are and walk alongside you as we work toward your goals. In addition to working with kids and families, I also work with individual adults who want support through stress, anxiety, life transitions, or simply learning new ways to grow. My goal is to create a safe, encouraging space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to take the next step forward.
(678) 894-7278 View (678) 894-7278
Photo of Angie Fowler, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, RPT
Angie Fowler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, RPT
Marietta, GA 30064
My philosophy is strength-based, whether working with a child who is struggling emotionally and may benefit from play therapy or an adult who prefers to work collaboratively through a cognitive-behavioral approach or a trauma focused approach.
My goal is to work together to create positive change by offering a safe and warm environment for clients to learn, heal, and grow.” Whether searching for a counselor for yourself or your child, I enjoy working with clients of all ages and considers it a privilege to journey beside each client as they experience life transitions, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, school related issues or learning differences, or traumatic experiences.
My philosophy is strength-based, whether working with a child who is struggling emotionally and may benefit from play therapy or an adult who prefers to work collaboratively through a cognitive-behavioral approach or a trauma focused approach.
My goal is to work together to create positive change by offering a safe and warm environment for clients to learn, heal, and grow.” Whether searching for a counselor for yourself or your child, I enjoy working with clients of all ages and considers it a privilege to journey beside each client as they experience life transitions, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, school related issues or learning differences, or traumatic experiences.
(470) 517-2062 View (470) 517-2062
Photo of Cate McCollum, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC
Cate McCollum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Waitlist for new clients
My passion is working with Kids (9-12), teenage girls (13+), young adults and adult women (18+) facing challenges such as anxiety, relationship issues, life changes, friendship struggles, depression, self-esteem, perfectionistic tendencies, and sports performance. The clients I support are high-achieving, motivated, and goal-driven individuals who are often silently struggling on the inside. My goal is to assist clients in understanding how their unique life experiences and relationships have shaped them into who they are today while developing the skills and mindsets necessary to reach their full potential.
My passion is working with Kids (9-12), teenage girls (13+), young adults and adult women (18+) facing challenges such as anxiety, relationship issues, life changes, friendship struggles, depression, self-esteem, perfectionistic tendencies, and sports performance. The clients I support are high-achieving, motivated, and goal-driven individuals who are often silently struggling on the inside. My goal is to assist clients in understanding how their unique life experiences and relationships have shaped them into who they are today while developing the skills and mindsets necessary to reach their full potential.
(678) 719-4201 View (678) 719-4201
Photo of Keir Brady, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Keir Brady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Marietta, GA 30062
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life better and your relationships more fulfilling. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life better and your relationships more fulfilling. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
(404) 341-4163 View (404) 341-4163
Photo of Terrance Eric Putter, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Terrance Eric Putter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Marietta, GA 30064
I am a highly motivated professional who enjoys working with people in supportive environments. I’ve always been passionate about children in care and helping others, and practiced psychotherapy in England before coming to the US. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychotherapy, with specializations in behavior analysis, person-centered and humanistic approaches. I also work with children who are diagnosed with autism and am a Registered Behavioral Technician.
I am a highly motivated professional who enjoys working with people in supportive environments. I’ve always been passionate about children in care and helping others, and practiced psychotherapy in England before coming to the US. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychotherapy, with specializations in behavior analysis, person-centered and humanistic approaches. I also work with children who are diagnosed with autism and am a Registered Behavioral Technician.
(770) 762-4832 View (770) 762-4832
Photo of Megan Arnold, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Megan Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CPCS, NCC
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I build connection with my clients through play, expressive arts, & talk therapy, depending on their age and interests.
I enjoy working with individuals in various stages of life ranging from small children to adults. I am passionate about supporting children, teens, and their caregivers! As a parent, I understand the challenges that come with raising children and the emotions that arise through parenting. I help my clients feel safe and connected in order to teach them skills such as emotional regulation, healthy coping skills, communication, and parenting that best fit their child.
I build connection with my clients through play, expressive arts, & talk therapy, depending on their age and interests.
I enjoy working with individuals in various stages of life ranging from small children to adults. I am passionate about supporting children, teens, and their caregivers! As a parent, I understand the challenges that come with raising children and the emotions that arise through parenting. I help my clients feel safe and connected in order to teach them skills such as emotional regulation, healthy coping skills, communication, and parenting that best fit their child.
(770) 230-4245 View (770) 230-4245
Photo of Karen Elizabeth Demski, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Karen Elizabeth Demski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Online Only
I am passionate about the important role animals play in our lives.
Hey you! Yes you! Out there scrolling through this website looking for a therapist and feeling overwhelmed by the choice. I am an autistic, fat, queer and chronically ill therapist who loves to help other similar individuals. I find I fit best with other ND clients. Most of my clients are queer, trans, ADHD, autistic and/or Audhd and OCD. I utilize talk therapy (psychotherapy and psychodynamic) so being able to verbally process would be highly beneficial. I speak sarcasm fluently but memes are still a second language I am tourist fluent in. . If I haven't mentioned something please ask- I'm always up for learning.
I am passionate about the important role animals play in our lives.
Hey you! Yes you! Out there scrolling through this website looking for a therapist and feeling overwhelmed by the choice. I am an autistic, fat, queer and chronically ill therapist who loves to help other similar individuals. I find I fit best with other ND clients. Most of my clients are queer, trans, ADHD, autistic and/or Audhd and OCD. I utilize talk therapy (psychotherapy and psychodynamic) so being able to verbally process would be highly beneficial. I speak sarcasm fluently but memes are still a second language I am tourist fluent in. . If I haven't mentioned something please ask- I'm always up for learning.
(678) 820-4839 View (678) 820-4839
Photo of Marina Delaine-Siegel, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Marina Delaine-Siegel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30066
Hello and welcome! Finding a therapist that you connect with can be a daunting task, so let me tell you a little about myself. I am a fully Licensed Professional Counselor that likes to create a space where my clients feel safe and empowered. I also love to serve underserved populations who may not initially see the value of therapy, but who suddenly have someone they can be vulnerable with while exploring and growing themself through talking, art, or other diverse therapeutic needs. So congrats on taking the first step and I can't wait to meet you!
Hello and welcome! Finding a therapist that you connect with can be a daunting task, so let me tell you a little about myself. I am a fully Licensed Professional Counselor that likes to create a space where my clients feel safe and empowered. I also love to serve underserved populations who may not initially see the value of therapy, but who suddenly have someone they can be vulnerable with while exploring and growing themself through talking, art, or other diverse therapeutic needs. So congrats on taking the first step and I can't wait to meet you!
(678) 928-4654 x7 View (678) 928-4654 x7
Photo of Taylor Dye, Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Taylor Dye
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
My name is Taylor, an Associate Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I grew up in a small town in south GA & received my Bachelors Degree from Georgia Southern University. I made Atlanta my home 6 years ago when I began my Masters program at Mercer University. In order to meet the needs of my client’s unique & diverse lifestyles, I use a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy approach. I specialize in individual & family therapy with ages 12-65 dealing with anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, family conflict, low self-esteem, body dysmorphia, emotional regulation, communication skills, & more.
My name is Taylor, an Associate Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I grew up in a small town in south GA & received my Bachelors Degree from Georgia Southern University. I made Atlanta my home 6 years ago when I began my Masters program at Mercer University. In order to meet the needs of my client’s unique & diverse lifestyles, I use a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy approach. I specialize in individual & family therapy with ages 12-65 dealing with anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, family conflict, low self-esteem, body dysmorphia, emotional regulation, communication skills, & more.
(404) 948-5241 x1 View (404) 948-5241 x1
Photo of Renee Caverly-Gillett, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Renee Caverly-Gillett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Are you feeling frustrated & lost with everything that is going on in the world? Do you want to move forward and feel stuck? I believe every person should be able to live life to the fullest! However, negative life events, trauma, relationships and we, ourselves often get in the way of our happiness, peace and reaching our goals. I have been able to help people "get their lives back." I assist teens and adults with trauma, anxiety, addiction, relational issues, problems with family communication, and more. I want to offer hope, assistance, and empowerment as a result of working together to achieve these goals (EMDR therapist).
Are you feeling frustrated & lost with everything that is going on in the world? Do you want to move forward and feel stuck? I believe every person should be able to live life to the fullest! However, negative life events, trauma, relationships and we, ourselves often get in the way of our happiness, peace and reaching our goals. I have been able to help people "get their lives back." I assist teens and adults with trauma, anxiety, addiction, relational issues, problems with family communication, and more. I want to offer hope, assistance, and empowerment as a result of working together to achieve these goals (EMDR therapist).
(706) 432-2848 View (706) 432-2848
Photo of Bethany Verbrugge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bethany Verbrugge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30066
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and also use Sand Tray, Play Therapy and TraumaPlay, IFS, mindfulness and attachment focused strategies to empower and equip clients in their healing journey.
Going through trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder can feel very lonely and isolating. It’s common to believe no one truly understands what you're going through. I have worked with many people who have experienced tragedies and painful chapters in their lives, and perhaps you can relate to some of those overwhelming feelings. I'm here to tell you: you don't have to go through this alone. Whether you’re seeking a place to heal, explore painful memories, or receive support, there is strength in reaching out. I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and also use Sand Tray, Play Therapy and TraumaPlay, IFS, mindfulness and attachment focused strategies to empower and equip clients in their healing journey.
Going through trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder can feel very lonely and isolating. It’s common to believe no one truly understands what you're going through. I have worked with many people who have experienced tragedies and painful chapters in their lives, and perhaps you can relate to some of those overwhelming feelings. I'm here to tell you: you don't have to go through this alone. Whether you’re seeking a place to heal, explore painful memories, or receive support, there is strength in reaching out. I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.
(678) 326-4370 View (678) 326-4370
Photo of Amanda Desjardin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda Desjardin
Pre-Licensed Professional
Online Only
There is no ideal client—I aim to meet you where you are. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, challenges in daily life, patterns that feel hard to break, communication struggles, or transitions that feel overwhelming. Your needs may include feeling heard, gaining clarity, building emotional awareness, and developing healthier ways of coping and connecting. Your goals may be to feel more balanced, understood, confident, and aligned with the life you want to create.
There is no ideal client—I aim to meet you where you are. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, challenges in daily life, patterns that feel hard to break, communication struggles, or transitions that feel overwhelming. Your needs may include feeling heard, gaining clarity, building emotional awareness, and developing healthier ways of coping and connecting. Your goals may be to feel more balanced, understood, confident, and aligned with the life you want to create.
(678) 626-5186 x705 View (678) 626-5186 x705
Photo of Bryon McDonald - Marietta Roswell Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marietta Roswell Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marietta, GA 30062
Feeling stressed, anxious, or wanting more of your life? We offer face to face & online sessions. MRC is a counseling office with male & female therapists offering individual, family & marriage therapy as well as support groups. We help individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, addictions to name a few & people looking into improving life situations & relationships. This includes marriage counseling, co-parenting, grief counseling, career counseling... Our philosophy is a client-centered approach with customized sessions based on your specific goals. Individual rates: $125 to $140. Family rates: $140 to $170.
Feeling stressed, anxious, or wanting more of your life? We offer face to face & online sessions. MRC is a counseling office with male & female therapists offering individual, family & marriage therapy as well as support groups. We help individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, addictions to name a few & people looking into improving life situations & relationships. This includes marriage counseling, co-parenting, grief counseling, career counseling... Our philosophy is a client-centered approach with customized sessions based on your specific goals. Individual rates: $125 to $140. Family rates: $140 to $170.
(404) 800-7078 View (404) 800-7078

See more therapy options for Marietta

Play Therapy Therapists
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.