Play Therapy in Berwyn, IL

Photo of Anna Jimenez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwyn, IL
Anna Jimenez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
I practice trauma-informed therapeutic approaches using client-centered, CBT, Solution-focused, motivational interviewing, play therapy, art therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker. I am a strong believer that your mental health deserves the same treatment and commitment as your physical health. Before starting a counseling relationship, it is crucial to assess your therapist and ensure feeling comfortable with them. You must decide who you trust to be vulnerable in processing your emotions. Together we can explore your experience and find lifelong coping skills that will forever empower you.
I practice trauma-informed therapeutic approaches using client-centered, CBT, Solution-focused, motivational interviewing, play therapy, art therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker. I am a strong believer that your mental health deserves the same treatment and commitment as your physical health. Before starting a counseling relationship, it is crucial to assess your therapist and ensure feeling comfortable with them. You must decide who you trust to be vulnerable in processing your emotions. Together we can explore your experience and find lifelong coping skills that will forever empower you.
(773) 862-8547 View (773) 862-8547
Photo of Carolina Rada, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Carolina Rada
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
I am a registered play therapist and supervisor (RPT-S).
Therapy is an intimidating process. It requires you to face the struggles keeping you from reaching your full potential. Life is full of transitions. At each, we learn to adapt and adjust. However, these transitions can be difficult and can lead to debilitating symptoms like anxiety, depression, and anger, etc. Perhaps these are not happening to you, but you notice them in your child and are unsure of how to help. So, even though therapy can be intimidating, it can be the risk you need to take, to move forward towards the positive outcome you desire. If you are ready to take the next step, let me partner with you in this process.
I am a registered play therapist and supervisor (RPT-S).
Therapy is an intimidating process. It requires you to face the struggles keeping you from reaching your full potential. Life is full of transitions. At each, we learn to adapt and adjust. However, these transitions can be difficult and can lead to debilitating symptoms like anxiety, depression, and anger, etc. Perhaps these are not happening to you, but you notice them in your child and are unsure of how to help. So, even though therapy can be intimidating, it can be the risk you need to take, to move forward towards the positive outcome you desire. If you are ready to take the next step, let me partner with you in this process.
(708) 477-3374 View (708) 477-3374
Photo of Alexander Serrano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwyn, IL
Alexander Serrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS Ed, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
(312) 586-9395 View (312) 586-9395
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tenhers and fathers navigating prenatal/postpartum depression.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tenhers and fathers navigating prenatal/postpartum depression.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Dr. Yvette Medina, Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Dr. Yvette Medina
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Yvette Medina and I am a bicultural Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with a sense of humor and a love for helping people. I have 18 years experience working in the mental health field. I am so happy that you are taking the first step in taking care of yourself. I applaud you as you enter this journey. I understand that it is not always easy meeting with a stranger and sharing your fears and vulnerabilities, however, after a few minutes of introductions and exchanged pleasantries we will no longer be strangers. Allow me to help you onto your journey as you discover your inner self.
Welcome! My name is Yvette Medina and I am a bicultural Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with a sense of humor and a love for helping people. I have 18 years experience working in the mental health field. I am so happy that you are taking the first step in taking care of yourself. I applaud you as you enter this journey. I understand that it is not always easy meeting with a stranger and sharing your fears and vulnerabilities, however, after a few minutes of introductions and exchanged pleasantries we will no longer be strangers. Allow me to help you onto your journey as you discover your inner self.
(708) 766-9843 View (708) 766-9843
Photo of Carmen Ochoa-Galindo, Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Carmen Ochoa-Galindo
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
Life can be overwhelming, so many things coming at us from all different directions. You want support but don't want to be judged or criticized. You want to change or improve something about yourself but not sure what or where to start. This is where someone like me can step in and provide support and guidance in an empathic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and empowering way. My job is not to tell you what to do, but to collaborate with you. I strive to provide a safe space for you to feel comfortable to talk about anything and everything. We are all a work in progress.
Life can be overwhelming, so many things coming at us from all different directions. You want support but don't want to be judged or criticized. You want to change or improve something about yourself but not sure what or where to start. This is where someone like me can step in and provide support and guidance in an empathic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and empowering way. My job is not to tell you what to do, but to collaborate with you. I strive to provide a safe space for you to feel comfortable to talk about anything and everything. We are all a work in progress.
(708) 683-4365 View (708) 683-4365
Photo of Paula K Brown, Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Paula K Brown
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC, Mediato
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
We all find ourselves at times in our life that we require nurturance to help us through life's changes. Loss in our lives requires care and guidance by a professional. Loss may be defined in various ways, it may be death, divorce, depression, addictions, infidelity, anxiety, infertility just to name a few. I work to specifically assist individuals, couples, families and groups to alleviate emotional disorders, to understand conscious and unconscious motivation, to resolve emotional, relationship and attitudinal conflicts and to help modify behaviors that interfere with effective emotional, social adaptive, and intellectual functioning.
We all find ourselves at times in our life that we require nurturance to help us through life's changes. Loss in our lives requires care and guidance by a professional. Loss may be defined in various ways, it may be death, divorce, depression, addictions, infidelity, anxiety, infertility just to name a few. I work to specifically assist individuals, couples, families and groups to alleviate emotional disorders, to understand conscious and unconscious motivation, to resolve emotional, relationship and attitudinal conflicts and to help modify behaviors that interfere with effective emotional, social adaptive, and intellectual functioning.
(630) 733-1450 View (630) 733-1450
Photo of Anna Glass, Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Anna Glass
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is foremost in creating a safe space for clients to explore issues, identify patterns of relating, resolve conflicts, find meaning and seek answers. I believe strongly that this relationship coupled with each client's unique history, needs and strengths will help serve as a guide to treatment. I have nearly 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is foremost in creating a safe space for clients to explore issues, identify patterns of relating, resolve conflicts, find meaning and seek answers. I believe strongly that this relationship coupled with each client's unique history, needs and strengths will help serve as a guide to treatment. I have nearly 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families.
(773) 280-8435 View (773) 280-8435
Photo of Kate Giandonato & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwyn, IL
Kate Giandonato & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
Very rarely in our lives are we given the opportunity and the space to truly look at ourselves, where we have been, and the person we are looking to become. At Kate Giandonato & Associates, we create an environment where you can safely look at yourself, relationships, and potential barriers to achieving your goals. Our relationship-based training in Social Work + Child Development has given us the background to notice and work through the conflicting messages, thoughts and emotions present not only in the parent-child relationship, but in every relationship. We work with our clients to better understand and negotiate these most important relationships.
Very rarely in our lives are we given the opportunity and the space to truly look at ourselves, where we have been, and the person we are looking to become. At Kate Giandonato & Associates, we create an environment where you can safely look at yourself, relationships, and potential barriers to achieving your goals. Our relationship-based training in Social Work + Child Development has given us the background to notice and work through the conflicting messages, thoughts and emotions present not only in the parent-child relationship, but in every relationship. We work with our clients to better understand and negotiate these most important relationships.
(773) 888-4992 View (773) 888-4992
Photo of Shipra S Parikh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwyn, IL
Shipra S Parikh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
I welcome clients who see themselves aligned with values in my profile, especially those who seeking a better therapy experience grounded in emotional connection, social justice, and authenticity. Therapy has the potential to be incredibly healing, but also comes from a history of harm, having othered people on the basis of age, race, gender, sexuality, spirituality, and disability. I offer a trauma-responsive relationship through which we can explore narrative healing of your authentic self, commitments to anti-oppressive and anti-racist living, anti-adultist parenting support, and supportive community and relationship building.
I welcome clients who see themselves aligned with values in my profile, especially those who seeking a better therapy experience grounded in emotional connection, social justice, and authenticity. Therapy has the potential to be incredibly healing, but also comes from a history of harm, having othered people on the basis of age, race, gender, sexuality, spirituality, and disability. I offer a trauma-responsive relationship through which we can explore narrative healing of your authentic self, commitments to anti-oppressive and anti-racist living, anti-adultist parenting support, and supportive community and relationship building.
(312) 970-0777 View (312) 970-0777
Photo of Jiselle Roman, Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Jiselle Roman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
Welcome to a safe haven for self-discovery and growth! As a bilingual licensed counselor, I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through their social and emotional journeys. With over a decade of dedicated experience and a Master of Education in Counseling from Saint Xavier University, I specialize in empowering clients to align with their aspirations and find clarity amidst life's challenges. My commitment lies in creating a nurturing environment for children, adolescents, and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Welcome to a safe haven for self-discovery and growth! As a bilingual licensed counselor, I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through their social and emotional journeys. With over a decade of dedicated experience and a Master of Education in Counseling from Saint Xavier University, I specialize in empowering clients to align with their aspirations and find clarity amidst life's challenges. My commitment lies in creating a nurturing environment for children, adolescents, and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds.
(773) 627-7914 View (773) 627-7914
Photo of Dr. Sara Shotsberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwyn, IL
Dr. Sara Shotsberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, QIDP, MSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
I provide a judgement free place to find your way & figure it out. Commitment to my clients begins with a belief in the ability of individuals to advocate for themselves & choose their own path. You decide how you want to live your life. Our instincts, emotions & feelings are a gift; they are the natural barometer for navigating our lives. Often we misinterpret or fear those emotions & fall into a holding pattern as to how to move forward. We all get stuck. Let me help you move forward. I have extensive experience working with children (ages 3-17), families and adults.
I provide a judgement free place to find your way & figure it out. Commitment to my clients begins with a belief in the ability of individuals to advocate for themselves & choose their own path. You decide how you want to live your life. Our instincts, emotions & feelings are a gift; they are the natural barometer for navigating our lives. Often we misinterpret or fear those emotions & fall into a holding pattern as to how to move forward. We all get stuck. Let me help you move forward. I have extensive experience working with children (ages 3-17), families and adults.
(312) 313-3396 View (312) 313-3396
Photo of Ken Chen, Psychologist in Berwyn, IL
Ken Chen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am a bilingual (Mandarin) Clinical Psychologist. My style is warm, practical and straightforward. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, autism, substance-related disorder, ADHD and trauma. I have worked extensively with culturally diverse school-aged children (5-18), and I also enjoy working with and providing support and coaching for the parents/caregivers. I use a collaborative approach with clients of all ages to help develop treatment goals that are observable and developmentally appropriate.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am a bilingual (Mandarin) Clinical Psychologist. My style is warm, practical and straightforward. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, autism, substance-related disorder, ADHD and trauma. I have worked extensively with culturally diverse school-aged children (5-18), and I also enjoy working with and providing support and coaching for the parents/caregivers. I use a collaborative approach with clients of all ages to help develop treatment goals that are observable and developmentally appropriate.
(708) 401-6925 View (708) 401-6925
Photo of Vanessa Morales Lopez, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Vanessa Morales Lopez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
I believe that you can create the change and happiness that you want. I believe in creating a safe and healing space where you are able to explore what is brining you to therapy. I have extensive experience working with trauma survivors; and believe therapy is a space where you are able to decide how you want to be supported and when. More importantly, I am excited to serve you, as you create the changes in your life. Piece by piece, building the life that you deserve and want.
I believe that you can create the change and happiness that you want. I believe in creating a safe and healing space where you are able to explore what is brining you to therapy. I have extensive experience working with trauma survivors; and believe therapy is a space where you are able to decide how you want to be supported and when. More importantly, I am excited to serve you, as you create the changes in your life. Piece by piece, building the life that you deserve and want.
(331) 207-9286 View (331) 207-9286
Photo of Joanli Counseling and Consulting PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwyn, IL
Joanli Counseling and Consulting PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
My desire as a bilingual licensed clinical social worker is to help individuals to find solutions. relief; balance, strength, and insight in their own ability to cope with life’s problems. I tailor my therapy in order to meet the needs of my patients incorporating Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Throughout my extensive career, I have personally incorporated effective listening skills which I personally have observed to be meaningful in developing a strong client-provider relationship.
My desire as a bilingual licensed clinical social worker is to help individuals to find solutions. relief; balance, strength, and insight in their own ability to cope with life’s problems. I tailor my therapy in order to meet the needs of my patients incorporating Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Throughout my extensive career, I have personally incorporated effective listening skills which I personally have observed to be meaningful in developing a strong client-provider relationship.
(708) 554-4886 View (708) 554-4886
Photo of Jaida McDowell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Jaida McDowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
Therapy is an incredible honor of journeying alongside clients as they work towards healing and empowerment in their everyday lives. I partner with my clients in a compassionate manner where they can feel heard, valued, and encouraged to create meaningful change. I believe all clients have a unique and complex story to tell and that all can benefit from taking time to focus on their emotional/mental well-being. I am committed to helping clients learn about themselves in new ways so as to be able to tap into their own unique abilities to overcome life’s obstacles and stressors.
Therapy is an incredible honor of journeying alongside clients as they work towards healing and empowerment in their everyday lives. I partner with my clients in a compassionate manner where they can feel heard, valued, and encouraged to create meaningful change. I believe all clients have a unique and complex story to tell and that all can benefit from taking time to focus on their emotional/mental well-being. I am committed to helping clients learn about themselves in new ways so as to be able to tap into their own unique abilities to overcome life’s obstacles and stressors.
(708) 578-5679 View (708) 578-5679
Photo of Daisy De La Torre, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Berwyn, IL
Daisy De La Torre
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
My goal is to provide you the space to heal and the opportunity to journey into the parts of yourself that you love, judge, the parts that you only somewhat know, the places you avoid, or the places you do not know at all. Together, we will learn about your resilience, pain, and possibilities. The process of growth takes sitting through our discomforts and using them as opportunities to heal our invisible wounds. Once we can increase our self-awareness, we can respond in the best ways we know how. Whether you are an individual, couple, or family, I provide the space for healing and growing - individually and relationally.
My goal is to provide you the space to heal and the opportunity to journey into the parts of yourself that you love, judge, the parts that you only somewhat know, the places you avoid, or the places you do not know at all. Together, we will learn about your resilience, pain, and possibilities. The process of growth takes sitting through our discomforts and using them as opportunities to heal our invisible wounds. Once we can increase our self-awareness, we can respond in the best ways we know how. Whether you are an individual, couple, or family, I provide the space for healing and growing - individually and relationally.
(708) 634-5282 View (708) 634-5282
Photo of Mindful Behavior, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Mindful Behavior
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
My name is Elisa Lee, LCPC and I provide counseling services for individuals, families and couples. I connect clients with psychiatry services via Telehealth within 48 hours. I work diligently to match clients in order to stabilize and manage their mental health needs. I also counsel and utilize CBT and reality therapy. I also integrate Mindfulness in therapy to enhance awareness of one's self. When working with minors, I incoorporate the family unit. Please give me a call to inquire further about our services and I can best help you with your psychological needs.
My name is Elisa Lee, LCPC and I provide counseling services for individuals, families and couples. I connect clients with psychiatry services via Telehealth within 48 hours. I work diligently to match clients in order to stabilize and manage their mental health needs. I also counsel and utilize CBT and reality therapy. I also integrate Mindfulness in therapy to enhance awareness of one's self. When working with minors, I incoorporate the family unit. Please give me a call to inquire further about our services and I can best help you with your psychological needs.
(773) 825-6535 View (773) 825-6535

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tianna A Hammond, Counselor in Berwyn, IL
Tianna A Hammond
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, MHCA, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304
Waitlist for new clients
Therapeutic techniques used includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Mental Wellness is important. With over 7 years of experience, I have worked with individuals and families in a variety of community, tele-health, and hospital settings. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University in Chicago, IL . My hopes are to assist you and your family in making changes for the better. The population I work in range from ages 6 to 60.
Therapeutic techniques used includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Mental Wellness is important. With over 7 years of experience, I have worked with individuals and families in a variety of community, tele-health, and hospital settings. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University in Chicago, IL . My hopes are to assist you and your family in making changes for the better. The population I work in range from ages 6 to 60.
(708) 726-0539 View (708) 726-0539
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.