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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joy Cook, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ware, MA 01082
Not accepting new clients
I am a skilled clinician with nearly two decades of experience working with children, teens and adults. At the center of my work, is a focus on nurturing self-awareness, self-compassion and self-regulation, which I believe are gifts we all possess, regardless of age. I place a strong emphasis on meeting you where you’re at, letting therapy be a process that is on your terms. I invite you to engage in open communication by using curious inquiry and reflective listening. In doing so I offer you, and your loved ones if they’re involved, the time and space to safely explore beliefs and learned behavior that may no longer serve you.
I am a skilled clinician with nearly two decades of experience working with children, teens and adults. At the center of my work, is a focus on nurturing self-awareness, self-compassion and self-regulation, which I believe are gifts we all possess, regardless of age. I place a strong emphasis on meeting you where you’re at, letting therapy be a process that is on your terms. I invite you to engage in open communication by using curious inquiry and reflective listening. In doing so I offer you, and your loved ones if they’re involved, the time and space to safely explore beliefs and learned behavior that may no longer serve you.
(413) 287-8209 View (413) 287-8209

Online Therapists

Photo of Tova Kramer Searleman, LMHC, Counselor
Tova Kramer Searleman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
Play is a metaphorical language through which children can communicate needs and feelings.
Your child and I may be a good fit if they do not seem to “fit the mold” emotionally and/or behaviorally and you would like to support them with a therapy process. In sessions with me, children who are neurodiverse and/or experience anxiety, social skills challenges, trauma, and other needs will find a safe space to be themselves and explore ways to make changes at their own pace. I offer an emotionally supportive environment whether in- or outdoors which fosters deep therapeutic work. I even make sessions fun! Let’s work as a team to support your child on the journey from where they are to where they’d like to be. Email to Inquire.
Play is a metaphorical language through which children can communicate needs and feelings.
Your child and I may be a good fit if they do not seem to “fit the mold” emotionally and/or behaviorally and you would like to support them with a therapy process. In sessions with me, children who are neurodiverse and/or experience anxiety, social skills challenges, trauma, and other needs will find a safe space to be themselves and explore ways to make changes at their own pace. I offer an emotionally supportive environment whether in- or outdoors which fosters deep therapeutic work. I even make sessions fun! Let’s work as a team to support your child on the journey from where they are to where they’d like to be. Email to Inquire.
(351) 300-0194 View (351) 300-0194
Photo of Erin Rioux, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Rioux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, MA 01970
I have no availability at this time. I have been a clinical mental health therapist for over 15 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults with trauma, anxiety, depression, and major mental illness. I utilize evidenced-based practices specific to the presenting problem, ages, and stages of the client. These include but are not limited to EMDR, CBT/DBT, play therapy, family therapy, narrative therapy, progressive counting, client-focused, and strength based therapy. I am passionate about helping clients overcome challenges and difficulties so that they can reach their full potential.
I have no availability at this time. I have been a clinical mental health therapist for over 15 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults with trauma, anxiety, depression, and major mental illness. I utilize evidenced-based practices specific to the presenting problem, ages, and stages of the client. These include but are not limited to EMDR, CBT/DBT, play therapy, family therapy, narrative therapy, progressive counting, client-focused, and strength based therapy. I am passionate about helping clients overcome challenges and difficulties so that they can reach their full potential.
(781) 622-9424 View (781) 622-9424
Photo of Alyssa Goff, MA, CCLS, R-DMT
Alyssa Goff
MA, CCLS, R-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, MA 02019  (Online Only)
Our sessions may include mindfulness, movement, and arts-based interventions in addition to talk or play therapy for a multi-modal approach to treatment.
Welcome, I am grateful you are here. I specialize in working with young children, adolescents, and adults with OCD diagnoses and various other anxiety disorders. I also enjoy working with women who have experienced perinatal anxiety and mood disorders related to pregnancy and childbirth.
Our sessions may include mindfulness, movement, and arts-based interventions in addition to talk or play therapy for a multi-modal approach to treatment.
Welcome, I am grateful you are here. I specialize in working with young children, adolescents, and adults with OCD diagnoses and various other anxiety disorders. I also enjoy working with women who have experienced perinatal anxiety and mood disorders related to pregnancy and childbirth.
(508) 619-1485 View (508) 619-1485
Photo of Shireen Idriss, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shireen Idriss
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
I can work with the modality best for you and I offer talk and play therapy as well as parent consultations.
I work with all ages with a specialization in children, adolescents and families. I support individuals and families as they navigate daily stressors, symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as past trauma. I acknowledge the importance of a therapeutic alliance as a foundation for the healing journey. I offer a nonjudgmental, warm, caring, and empowering environment. Believing that each client is the expert of themselves, I will work collaboratively with you and/or your child to meet your needs and goals.
I can work with the modality best for you and I offer talk and play therapy as well as parent consultations.
I work with all ages with a specialization in children, adolescents and families. I support individuals and families as they navigate daily stressors, symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as past trauma. I acknowledge the importance of a therapeutic alliance as a foundation for the healing journey. I offer a nonjudgmental, warm, caring, and empowering environment. Believing that each client is the expert of themselves, I will work collaboratively with you and/or your child to meet your needs and goals.
(339) 329-7073 View (339) 329-7073
Photo of Carrie Pekor Jasper, MSEd, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Pekor Jasper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in divorce-related adjustment, play therapy, mediation, forensic child and family mental health, grief and loss, high conflict divorce, trauma, children with special needs, supervised visitation, and reunification therapy.
Separation and divorce often present families with significant challenges. I provide specialized therapeutic services which can help children and parents to navigate these transitions.
I have specialized training in divorce-related adjustment, play therapy, mediation, forensic child and family mental health, grief and loss, high conflict divorce, trauma, children with special needs, supervised visitation, and reunification therapy.
Separation and divorce often present families with significant challenges. I provide specialized therapeutic services which can help children and parents to navigate these transitions.
(617) 764-9504 View (617) 764-9504
Photo of Sarah K Abel, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah K Abel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
My approach is based on the needs of the individual and can include psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques and play therapy.
Life is hard when there is too much unhappiness, worry, anger or frustration. I have been psychotherapist since 1994 and have a deep respect for the process of growth and change that individuals and families can accomplish. I treat children, adolescents and adults who are stuck in patterns that keep them from feeling happy, peaceful and healthy.
My approach is based on the needs of the individual and can include psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques and play therapy.
Life is hard when there is too much unhappiness, worry, anger or frustration. I have been psychotherapist since 1994 and have a deep respect for the process of growth and change that individuals and families can accomplish. I treat children, adolescents and adults who are stuck in patterns that keep them from feeling happy, peaceful and healthy.
(413) 650-6248 View (413) 650-6248
Photo of Sarah Wintman, RPT, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Wintman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RPT, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609
Waitlist for new clients
“I don’t want to talk about it!” “You wouldn't understand!”...sound familiar? Sometimes your children don’t understand what may be happening either, and communicating that can feel impossible. As a Registered Play Therapist, I help children, teens, and adults ages 3-25 explore, understand, and gain confidence around who they are, how they feel, and what they think. I am a hearing therapist fluent in ASL and also specialize in working with deaf youth using play. Play therapy utilizes a variety of interventions, including playing with toys and miniatures or using more expressive art and movement.
“I don’t want to talk about it!” “You wouldn't understand!”...sound familiar? Sometimes your children don’t understand what may be happening either, and communicating that can feel impossible. As a Registered Play Therapist, I help children, teens, and adults ages 3-25 explore, understand, and gain confidence around who they are, how they feel, and what they think. I am a hearing therapist fluent in ASL and also specialize in working with deaf youth using play. Play therapy utilizes a variety of interventions, including playing with toys and miniatures or using more expressive art and movement.
(508) 374-9035 View (508) 374-9035
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Johnson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Elizabeth Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to providing maternal mental health services, I provide child play therapy for young and school age children.
My passion and dedication to the work is evident upon our first meeting. My positive energy stems from the belief that change is possible and I come to restore hope. I provide an open, compassionate and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their past and present lives. Collaboratively, we work together, at your pace, to obtain the goals that you identify. I believe that parenting is a journey that we undertake without a map and, at times, along the way, we all get lost. And, together, we can create a new path that feels good to you.
In addition to providing maternal mental health services, I provide child play therapy for young and school age children.
My passion and dedication to the work is evident upon our first meeting. My positive energy stems from the belief that change is possible and I come to restore hope. I provide an open, compassionate and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their past and present lives. Collaboratively, we work together, at your pace, to obtain the goals that you identify. I believe that parenting is a journey that we undertake without a map and, at times, along the way, we all get lost. And, together, we can create a new path that feels good to you.
(617) 340-7138 View (617) 340-7138
Photo of Ann Wheeler, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I have a background in play therapy, movement-based therapy, and early childhood consultation.
Are you a parent of a child who is struggling? Do you feel like you have to do it all? You don’t have to do this alone. Humans develop in relationship to others, and we heal that way too. My focus is on childrens’ relationships with their caregivers - from processing challenging life events to managing hard feelings. The children I work with may be struggling with worry about friendships and family relationships, challenges with big emotions, doubts about their worth or appearance, academic difficulties, or navigating grief and loss. I support children in navigating these and many other challenging realities of growing up.
I have a background in play therapy, movement-based therapy, and early childhood consultation.
Are you a parent of a child who is struggling? Do you feel like you have to do it all? You don’t have to do this alone. Humans develop in relationship to others, and we heal that way too. My focus is on childrens’ relationships with their caregivers - from processing challenging life events to managing hard feelings. The children I work with may be struggling with worry about friendships and family relationships, challenges with big emotions, doubts about their worth or appearance, academic difficulties, or navigating grief and loss. I support children in navigating these and many other challenging realities of growing up.
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Photo of Amanda L Rauf, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda L Rauf
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Instructor at Harvard Medical School specializing in child and family therapy. I have several years of clinical experience working with children and families from culturally-diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, and within the community. Among my areas of expertise are early childhood and behavioral difficulties, parent training, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I also specialize in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Instructor at Harvard Medical School specializing in child and family therapy. I have several years of clinical experience working with children and families from culturally-diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, and within the community. Among my areas of expertise are early childhood and behavioral difficulties, parent training, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I also specialize in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy.
(857) 763-4120 View (857) 763-4120
Photo of Linda Lee Small, LICSW, RegPlay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Lee Small
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RegPlay
Verified Verified
Sutton, MA 01590
I have utilized Child-Centered Play Therapy with clients as young a 2.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am a Registered Play Therapist. I utilize an eclectic combination of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnosis, EMDR, Play and/or art. My theoretical belief is aligned with Adlerian concepts believing that the client has skills and abilities that can help them to overcome whatever may be challenging them. Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Social Skills, ASD (high functioning), PTSD, ADHD, Conduct Disorders are some of the diagnoses with which I have helped clients.
I have utilized Child-Centered Play Therapy with clients as young a 2.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am a Registered Play Therapist. I utilize an eclectic combination of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnosis, EMDR, Play and/or art. My theoretical belief is aligned with Adlerian concepts believing that the client has skills and abilities that can help them to overcome whatever may be challenging them. Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Social Skills, ASD (high functioning), PTSD, ADHD, Conduct Disorders are some of the diagnoses with which I have helped clients.
(508) 916-2659 View (508) 916-2659
Photo of Sam Crowley, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Crowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
I take a person-centered approach with all clients and utilize play therapy for children 4-12 years old.
I am deeply dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and young adults. My practice prioritizes children and adolescents because in my experience, there aren't enough spaces where they can show up as they are and be wholly accepted and supported. I believe our society as a whole would greatly benefit from deep and holistic investment in the growth and development of children and adolescents. I also enjoy working with young adults, including college students, especially first generation students having been one myself.
I take a person-centered approach with all clients and utilize play therapy for children 4-12 years old.
I am deeply dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and young adults. My practice prioritizes children and adolescents because in my experience, there aren't enough spaces where they can show up as they are and be wholly accepted and supported. I believe our society as a whole would greatly benefit from deep and holistic investment in the growth and development of children and adolescents. I also enjoy working with young adults, including college students, especially first generation students having been one myself.
(413) 343-6783 View (413) 343-6783
Photo of Ariel E Katz, LICSW, MSc Ed, RPT, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ariel E Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSc Ed, RPT, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stockbridge, MA 01262
I am also a registered play therapist.
Have you noticed patterns in your life you'd like to change? Negative moods? Unexplained pain? Often these are signs of unresolved trauma. Therapy can help us understand and integrate the meaning enabling us to make changes to our behavior so that we are more successful in our personal and professional lives. I work with adults, children from as young as 2 yrs old, and families. My work is strength based, empowering people to meet personal goals, improve relationships and develop a more comfortable, meaningful life. I attend to the mind body connection. My approach is solution focused and playful.
I am also a registered play therapist.
Have you noticed patterns in your life you'd like to change? Negative moods? Unexplained pain? Often these are signs of unresolved trauma. Therapy can help us understand and integrate the meaning enabling us to make changes to our behavior so that we are more successful in our personal and professional lives. I work with adults, children from as young as 2 yrs old, and families. My work is strength based, empowering people to meet personal goals, improve relationships and develop a more comfortable, meaningful life. I attend to the mind body connection. My approach is solution focused and playful.
(413) 359-6793 View (413) 359-6793
Photo of Alexandra Mrvos, MA, LMHC, TITC-CT, Counselor
Alexandra Mrvos
Counselor, MA, LMHC, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913
Utilizing a trauma-informed, eclectic approach, including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy, I have helped children, teenagers, adults, and families understand their mental illness, challenge their thoughts, and cope with stressors.
Daytime Availability ONLY. At Mighty Minds Mental Health, I strive to provide a safe, accepting, and warm environment for my clients. I help children & teenagers struggling with behavioral and emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and complex trauma to live a more fulfilled and balanced life. I also work with adults and parents who experience mental illness and trauma-related disorders work through their symptoms to cope with and develop compassion and care for themselves. It gives me the greatest joy to be able to build rapport with clients, supporting them in realizing their full potential.
Utilizing a trauma-informed, eclectic approach, including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy, I have helped children, teenagers, adults, and families understand their mental illness, challenge their thoughts, and cope with stressors.
Daytime Availability ONLY. At Mighty Minds Mental Health, I strive to provide a safe, accepting, and warm environment for my clients. I help children & teenagers struggling with behavioral and emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and complex trauma to live a more fulfilled and balanced life. I also work with adults and parents who experience mental illness and trauma-related disorders work through their symptoms to cope with and develop compassion and care for themselves. It gives me the greatest joy to be able to build rapport with clients, supporting them in realizing their full potential.
(978) 295-7034 View (978) 295-7034
Photo of Coralanne Hocking, LCSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Coralanne Hocking
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
I work from an eclectic approach using techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Music or Art Therapy.
First, let's acknowledge the effort it took for you to begin searching for a therapist. Beginning this work can be overwhelming, but I'm here to ease the burden. My name's Coralanne, I'm a queer Thai American who works with kids as young as 3, teens, young adults, and families. Whether you (or your child) have symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, PTSD, or are struggling with grief or life's transitions, I'm here to support you. Together, we'll explore your life and identity with curiosity and compassion. We'll discover coping skills that work for you, practice new mindsets or simply reflect as we embark on this journey.
I work from an eclectic approach using techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Music or Art Therapy.
First, let's acknowledge the effort it took for you to begin searching for a therapist. Beginning this work can be overwhelming, but I'm here to ease the burden. My name's Coralanne, I'm a queer Thai American who works with kids as young as 3, teens, young adults, and families. Whether you (or your child) have symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, PTSD, or are struggling with grief or life's transitions, I'm here to support you. Together, we'll explore your life and identity with curiosity and compassion. We'll discover coping skills that work for you, practice new mindsets or simply reflect as we embark on this journey.
(508) 348-7405 x900 View (508) 348-7405 x900
Photo of Courtney Jorud - Greater Springfield Counseling, PC , Counselor
Greater Springfield Counseling, PC
Counselor
Verified Verified
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Though, I utilize a variety of strategies, such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, Person-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, and more.
Individuals who seek help are incredibly courageous, and I am grateful to be a small piece of their journey along the way. My approach uses various modalities that are both, structured, and unstructured, depending on the needs of those I'm serving. Everyone deserves to have an opportunity to feel relief, joy, grounding, and security. This looks different for all, and I'm happy to adapt as needed while supporting in reaching the ultimate goals outlined. I offer the most experience with individuals who have experienced trauma and abuse, anxiety, depression, bipolar symptoms, relationship issues, ADHD, and addiction.
Though, I utilize a variety of strategies, such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, Person-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, and more.
Individuals who seek help are incredibly courageous, and I am grateful to be a small piece of their journey along the way. My approach uses various modalities that are both, structured, and unstructured, depending on the needs of those I'm serving. Everyone deserves to have an opportunity to feel relief, joy, grounding, and security. This looks different for all, and I'm happy to adapt as needed while supporting in reaching the ultimate goals outlined. I offer the most experience with individuals who have experienced trauma and abuse, anxiety, depression, bipolar symptoms, relationship issues, ADHD, and addiction.
(413) 384-5538 x139 View (413) 384-5538 x139
Photo of Lanajean McCloy, PsyD, Psychologist
Lanajean McCloy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459
I provide multiple modalities including but not limited to play therapy, creative arts therapy, and narrative therapy.
I am a compassionate, warm, and collaborative psychotherapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I work with individuals and families who struggle with a variety of difficulties. My areas of clinical interest include, but are not limited to: working with at-risk youth; those who have experienced trauma; adults managing difficult relationships; those who want to gain more clarity and awareness of their own challenges; and clients experiencing anxiety, depression, identity development issues, sexual orientation exploration, relationship challenges, self-esteem difficulties, and behavioral problems.
I provide multiple modalities including but not limited to play therapy, creative arts therapy, and narrative therapy.
I am a compassionate, warm, and collaborative psychotherapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I work with individuals and families who struggle with a variety of difficulties. My areas of clinical interest include, but are not limited to: working with at-risk youth; those who have experienced trauma; adults managing difficult relationships; those who want to gain more clarity and awareness of their own challenges; and clients experiencing anxiety, depression, identity development issues, sexual orientation exploration, relationship challenges, self-esteem difficulties, and behavioral problems.
(857) 267-9004 View (857) 267-9004
Photo of Anna Docurral, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Docurral
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02130  (Online Only)
I utilize a wide variety of techniques including trauma informed care, play therapy, CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy.
My clients are typically between ages 3-19 years old and present with a wide variety of strengths and opportunities for further growth. My passion is working with young children, latency age youth, adolescents, and their families who have experienced trauma. I firmly believe that children and families are resilient and have the power to heal and recreate narratives that reflect their inner strength.
I utilize a wide variety of techniques including trauma informed care, play therapy, CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy.
My clients are typically between ages 3-19 years old and present with a wide variety of strengths and opportunities for further growth. My passion is working with young children, latency age youth, adolescents, and their families who have experienced trauma. I firmly believe that children and families are resilient and have the power to heal and recreate narratives that reflect their inner strength.
(617) 855-0382 View (617) 855-0382
Photo of Heather Dinneen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Dinneen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ashley Falls, MA 01222
I work with children, teens and adults using a variety of therapeutic techniques including Play Therapy, TF-CBT, CBT, and Collaborative Problem Solving.
Hi! My name is Heather and I am a Licensed Social Worker from Massachusetts.
I work with children, teens and adults using a variety of therapeutic techniques including Play Therapy, TF-CBT, CBT, and Collaborative Problem Solving.
Hi! My name is Heather and I am a Licensed Social Worker from Massachusetts.
(413) 881-6343 View (413) 881-6343
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.