Play Therapy in Hazelwood, MO

Photo of Linda R Hamill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Linda R Hamill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, MO 63042
I have Post Masters Education in Counseling Children & in Play Therapy.
My counseling philosophy is person centered, holistic and existential. I believe that - Life is a process of moving towards wholeness.... Our brokenness is the basic human dlemma and each person's story is unique... It is because of this uniqueness that we all encounter different paths.... Empowering clients and helping them to move forward involves many paths also - from cogntive, behavioral, solution focused, humanistic, psychodynamic to marriage & family therapy ... and all are essential in meeting the client "where they are" and helping them to move forward.
I have Post Masters Education in Counseling Children & in Play Therapy.
My counseling philosophy is person centered, holistic and existential. I believe that - Life is a process of moving towards wholeness.... Our brokenness is the basic human dlemma and each person's story is unique... It is because of this uniqueness that we all encounter different paths.... Empowering clients and helping them to move forward involves many paths also - from cogntive, behavioral, solution focused, humanistic, psychodynamic to marriage & family therapy ... and all are essential in meeting the client "where they are" and helping them to move forward.
(314) 720-6158 View (314) 720-6158
Photo of PEMS Balance Madison Counseling and Life Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
PEMS Balance Madison Counseling and Life Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, RMT, NLPLC, ORDM
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, MO 63042  (Online Only)
PEMS provides holistic collaborative spiritual counseling, health coaching, and mental health coaching to clients using evidence-based practices that strengthen physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness creating holistic balance in their lives. I believe in positive self-awareness and that as a person thinks they become so I educate clients on the ancient science of "know thyself. " PEMS holistic approach uses meditation, affirmations, evidence-based practices, and energy healing tools and techniques. I work with the military population, individuals, groups, couples, children, adults and elderly on lifes transitions.
PEMS provides holistic collaborative spiritual counseling, health coaching, and mental health coaching to clients using evidence-based practices that strengthen physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness creating holistic balance in their lives. I believe in positive self-awareness and that as a person thinks they become so I educate clients on the ancient science of "know thyself. " PEMS holistic approach uses meditation, affirmations, evidence-based practices, and energy healing tools and techniques. I work with the military population, individuals, groups, couples, children, adults and elderly on lifes transitions.
(636) 249-2375 View (636) 249-2375
Photo of Ebony Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hazelwood, MO
Ebony Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hazelwood, MO 63042  (Online Only)
At Ebony Therapy we are dedicated to partnering with individuals in order to assist with navigating through life's challenges. We believe that you deserve a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore issues that prevent you from being at your best. We are committed to ending stigma surrounding mental health treatment and increase awareness within marginalized communities. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you towards achieving your goals. Jasma Morris LPC is accepting new clients. Ebony Hutchinson LCSW is not accepting new clients.
At Ebony Therapy we are dedicated to partnering with individuals in order to assist with navigating through life's challenges. We believe that you deserve a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore issues that prevent you from being at your best. We are committed to ending stigma surrounding mental health treatment and increase awareness within marginalized communities. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you towards achieving your goals. Jasma Morris LPC is accepting new clients. Ebony Hutchinson LCSW is not accepting new clients.
(314) 802-4789 View (314) 802-4789
Photo of Christian Williams in Hazelwood, MO
Christian Williams
PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hazelwood, MO 63042  (Online Only)
Today might have been a rough day for you. I’m sure scrolling through these profiles trying to find help might feel overwhelming. While there are no promises that I can make regarding the success of your therapeutic journey, I am here if you're looking for support, guidance, or just someone to shoulder the burden with you for awhile. Therapy consists of a variety of modalities and it's best to mix and match for each client to gain their best outcome! While I specialize in CBT, EMDR, and come highly trained in Perinatal Mood Disorders, I think you'll find that I am simply here to put all my tools to use for each client!
Today might have been a rough day for you. I’m sure scrolling through these profiles trying to find help might feel overwhelming. While there are no promises that I can make regarding the success of your therapeutic journey, I am here if you're looking for support, guidance, or just someone to shoulder the burden with you for awhile. Therapy consists of a variety of modalities and it's best to mix and match for each client to gain their best outcome! While I specialize in CBT, EMDR, and come highly trained in Perinatal Mood Disorders, I think you'll find that I am simply here to put all my tools to use for each client!
(636) 306-3013 View (636) 306-3013

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michelle McCammond, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Michelle McCammond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
*Are Anxiety and Impulsivity causing your child to avoid or have behavioral problems at school? *Have you or your child's Depression or Anger interfered with family relationships? *Are you concerned with you or your child's lack of Coping Skills to deal with stress? *Are you feeling Hopeless to manage Mood Swings for you or your child? *Have you sought Answers from multiple professionals with no success? IT'S TIME TO TAKE YOUR POWER BACK!!! Approaches Used: Client Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,
*Are Anxiety and Impulsivity causing your child to avoid or have behavioral problems at school? *Have you or your child's Depression or Anger interfered with family relationships? *Are you concerned with you or your child's lack of Coping Skills to deal with stress? *Are you feeling Hopeless to manage Mood Swings for you or your child? *Have you sought Answers from multiple professionals with no success? IT'S TIME TO TAKE YOUR POWER BACK!!! Approaches Used: Client Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,
(314) 282-9614 View (314) 282-9614
Photo of Lee Bascom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hazelwood, MO
Lee Bascom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
As a clinical social worker/registered play therapist, I work with children ages 3-9 and their families. I primarily use Child Centered Play Therapy and I am also trained in Theraplay, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) and Trauma-Focused CBT. Click on "website" below my picture to see more about me.
As a clinical social worker/registered play therapist, I work with children ages 3-9 and their families. I primarily use Child Centered Play Therapy and I am also trained in Theraplay, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) and Trauma-Focused CBT. Click on "website" below my picture to see more about me.
(314) 649-5725 View (314) 649-5725
Photo of Tina Marie Dale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hazelwood, MO
Tina Marie Dale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Your relationship with yourself is reflected in interactions with family, friends, colleagues, professional life and your worldview. How do you seek, expect and provide attunement to yourself and important others? Often unrecognized inter-generational relational themes play a part in the manner of which one seeks connection. Attachment and relational patterns meant to gain closeness can mean one feels known & accepted or invisible & rejected. You can learn to listen to yourself with open-minded curiosity in order to identify your relational style, understanding how it supports or hinders you in life.
Your relationship with yourself is reflected in interactions with family, friends, colleagues, professional life and your worldview. How do you seek, expect and provide attunement to yourself and important others? Often unrecognized inter-generational relational themes play a part in the manner of which one seeks connection. Attachment and relational patterns meant to gain closeness can mean one feels known & accepted or invisible & rejected. You can learn to listen to yourself with open-minded curiosity in order to identify your relational style, understanding how it supports or hinders you in life.
(314) 287-5387 View (314) 287-5387
Photo of Molly H Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hazelwood, MO
Molly H Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Olivette, MO 63132
As a social worker for more than 25 years, I provide therapeutic and play therapy services to children and teens ages 10-20 who experience a broad range of issues. My approach is collaborative, designed to help people feel better and function more effectively.
As a social worker for more than 25 years, I provide therapeutic and play therapy services to children and teens ages 10-20 who experience a broad range of issues. My approach is collaborative, designed to help people feel better and function more effectively.
(314) 991-9058 x2 View (314) 991-9058 x2
Photo of Jennie Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Jennie Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
As a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor I have had specialized training in child development & understand the unique challenges children face.
Do you have concerns about your child's mental health or their behaviors? I can help! Are you unsure of where to start or how to help your child? I currently have immediate openings or space available in my 10 hour/week SPARK program (ages 5-10), virtual Safe & Sound Protocol (all ages) and in-person groups (pre-school, elementary, middle). I am also the founder of parenthub.net, which provides additional support for parents & caregivers.
As a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor I have had specialized training in child development & understand the unique challenges children face.
Do you have concerns about your child's mental health or their behaviors? I can help! Are you unsure of where to start or how to help your child? I currently have immediate openings or space available in my 10 hour/week SPARK program (ages 5-10), virtual Safe & Sound Protocol (all ages) and in-person groups (pre-school, elementary, middle). I am also the founder of parenthub.net, which provides additional support for parents & caregivers.
(636) 275-1383 View (636) 275-1383
Photo of Angie Casey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Angie Casey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
These therapies include: Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfullness, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Welcome! I offer counseling services for children and adolescents who are struggling with emotional regulation, anxious thoughts, peer relationships, depression, school related issues, and/or self-esteem in a compassionate and safe environment. Working with kiddos is my specialty and passion! I am a former teacher with a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education (birth-3rd grade) and now a counselor with a Masters in Counseling.
These therapies include: Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfullness, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Welcome! I offer counseling services for children and adolescents who are struggling with emotional regulation, anxious thoughts, peer relationships, depression, school related issues, and/or self-esteem in a compassionate and safe environment. Working with kiddos is my specialty and passion! I am a former teacher with a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education (birth-3rd grade) and now a counselor with a Masters in Counseling.
(314) 310-2995 View (314) 310-2995
The Art and Play Therapy Center
Counselor, LPC, , ATR, BC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Jane has extensive experience in working with children and families of all ages. She specializes in working with Autistic spectrum, ADHD, trauma and sensory interventions. She uses art and play therapy as well as sand tray and experiential play to address the difficulties of learning and growing.
Jane has extensive experience in working with children and families of all ages. She specializes in working with Autistic spectrum, ADHD, trauma and sensory interventions. She uses art and play therapy as well as sand tray and experiential play to address the difficulties of learning and growing.
(314) 916-4797 View (314) 916-4797
Photo of Emily Balestra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Emily Balestra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, MEd, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
As a therapist I believe the answers we seek are within ourselves and it takes courage to find them. I want to support and guide people on their journeys to find answers and help them lead more fulfilling lives. I counsel children, adolescents, adults, and families. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Person-Centered techniques when working with clients. I am also certified in play therapy and use play as one method, when working with children, to communicate, explore, and express feelings.
As a therapist I believe the answers we seek are within ourselves and it takes courage to find them. I want to support and guide people on their journeys to find answers and help them lead more fulfilling lives. I counsel children, adolescents, adults, and families. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Person-Centered techniques when working with clients. I am also certified in play therapy and use play as one method, when working with children, to communicate, explore, and express feelings.
(314) 310-0856 View (314) 310-0856
Photo of Karen R Moist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Karen R Moist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
While play therapy provides an opportunity for healing even when the child cannot put words to their discomfort, the play room is set up to be comfortable for the child that needs to play, as well as the teen that prefers to talk.
In my practice I work with families and children who have experienced trauma and are having attachment difficulties. Many children I see have pre-verbal trauma from parental stress during pregnancy, adoption, neglect, or abuse. Some of the children I see are experiencing traumatic stress due to gender fluidity or gender dysphoria. Because trauma is the result of feeling helpless in a situation, many of the families I see have never thought of their child's behavior as a symptom of a life trauma. This shift in perspective is often the beginning of the healing process.
While play therapy provides an opportunity for healing even when the child cannot put words to their discomfort, the play room is set up to be comfortable for the child that needs to play, as well as the teen that prefers to talk.
In my practice I work with families and children who have experienced trauma and are having attachment difficulties. Many children I see have pre-verbal trauma from parental stress during pregnancy, adoption, neglect, or abuse. Some of the children I see are experiencing traumatic stress due to gender fluidity or gender dysphoria. Because trauma is the result of feeling helpless in a situation, many of the families I see have never thought of their child's behavior as a symptom of a life trauma. This shift in perspective is often the beginning of the healing process.
(314) 310-0413 View (314) 310-0413
Photo of Sarah Merritt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hazelwood, MO
Sarah Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
I utilize a strengths based, person centered approach for each client and family, with a focus on play-bas.
I believe everyone, especially children and adolescents, deserve a safe space to process and explore their feelings and life challenges that come their way. It is my goal to provide a safe space for children and their families to explore and process whatever experiences or challenges they might be facing, as well as assist in their growth as they work to better understand themselves, explore their emotions, and build coping strategies.
I utilize a strengths based, person centered approach for each client and family, with a focus on play-bas.
I believe everyone, especially children and adolescents, deserve a safe space to process and explore their feelings and life challenges that come their way. It is my goal to provide a safe space for children and their families to explore and process whatever experiences or challenges they might be facing, as well as assist in their growth as they work to better understand themselves, explore their emotions, and build coping strategies.
(314) 756-0530 View (314) 756-0530
Photo of Gina Nicole Holstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Gina Nicole Holstein
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
I use a hands on approach with the power of choice in your session through cognitive behavioral therapy and non directive play therapy and expressive arts therapies.
Do you feel or does your child or teen feel overwhelmed, anxious, less confident, not understood or sad and just need someone to talk to. We want gravitate to others who get it and have a desire to feel relief when we have all the feelings. We have goals in life to be more capable, courageous, feel connection and feel like we matter. What if you could have those goals, what would that mean to you or your child? What if we could work together to work through your feelings and goals and in turn produce positive behavior change?
I use a hands on approach with the power of choice in your session through cognitive behavioral therapy and non directive play therapy and expressive arts therapies.
Do you feel or does your child or teen feel overwhelmed, anxious, less confident, not understood or sad and just need someone to talk to. We want gravitate to others who get it and have a desire to feel relief when we have all the feelings. We have goals in life to be more capable, courageous, feel connection and feel like we matter. What if you could have those goals, what would that mean to you or your child? What if we could work together to work through your feelings and goals and in turn produce positive behavior change?
(314) 329-4326 View (314) 329-4326
Photo of Kira Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hazelwood, MO
Kira Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
I am a Registered Play Therapist.
Seeking counseling is the hardest but most rewarding step a person can take. It is ok to not be ok & ask for help. We all need help now & then. Thank you for visiting my page! I hope that we can work together to meet your needs. I have a passion for working with children, youth and families. I would be honored to be a part of your continued success.
I am a Registered Play Therapist.
Seeking counseling is the hardest but most rewarding step a person can take. It is ok to not be ok & ask for help. We all need help now & then. Thank you for visiting my page! I hope that we can work together to meet your needs. I have a passion for working with children, youth and families. I would be honored to be a part of your continued success.
(314) 312-1518 View (314) 312-1518
Photo of Kelly Elizabeth Bristol - Child Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Kelly Elizabeth Bristol - Child Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Building trust allows me to offer support in a non-judgmental, compassionate, play-based approach.
Therapy is for everyone. Being a kid is a hard job and being a parent isn't easy either. It can be lonely, isolating and overwhelming when you or your child is struggling. We aren't meant to struggle alone. My passion is helping kids, adolescents, and their families learn how to navigate big feelings, stress and overwhelm. I have dedicated my career to supporting children and parents in their journey toward social and emotional well-being. Do you need help understanding the IEP, 504, or gifted process at school? During my 15 years as a school counselor I helped many families walk through these steps.
Building trust allows me to offer support in a non-judgmental, compassionate, play-based approach.
Therapy is for everyone. Being a kid is a hard job and being a parent isn't easy either. It can be lonely, isolating and overwhelming when you or your child is struggling. We aren't meant to struggle alone. My passion is helping kids, adolescents, and their families learn how to navigate big feelings, stress and overwhelm. I have dedicated my career to supporting children and parents in their journey toward social and emotional well-being. Do you need help understanding the IEP, 504, or gifted process at school? During my 15 years as a school counselor I helped many families walk through these steps.
(636) 429-4299 View (636) 429-4299
Photo of Austin E Wilmot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hazelwood, MO
Austin E Wilmot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
With children, I provide a variety of mediums for play and expression, facilitating many avenues of access to a child's inner world.
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
With children, I provide a variety of mediums for play and expression, facilitating many avenues of access to a child's inner world.
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
(314) 907-3197 View (314) 907-3197
Photo of Molly Meyerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hazelwood, MO
Molly Meyerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, Play therapy, and Strengths perspective.
I am passionate and dedicated to providing mental health services to my community. My goal as a therapist is to provide a nonjudgemental space to encourage healing, growth, and vulnerability. I provide individual therapy to children, teens, and adults who may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships issues, life transitions, among many other challenges. Your goals for therapy are a priority to me. I believe in a collaborative approach while working with clients to ensure we are working to create a life that feels valuable to you.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, Play therapy, and Strengths perspective.
I am passionate and dedicated to providing mental health services to my community. My goal as a therapist is to provide a nonjudgemental space to encourage healing, growth, and vulnerability. I provide individual therapy to children, teens, and adults who may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships issues, life transitions, among many other challenges. Your goals for therapy are a priority to me. I believe in a collaborative approach while working with clients to ensure we are working to create a life that feels valuable to you.
(314) 207-3773 View (314) 207-3773
Photo of Tanya L Crews, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hazelwood, MO
Tanya L Crews
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
I USE A PLAY THERAPY APPROACH WITH CHILDREN WITH A STATE OF THE ART PLAYROOM.
HAVING BEEN A TEACHER, COACH, AND A POLICE OFFICER GIVES ME A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE INTO CLIENT ISSUES. I LOOK AT LIFE AS A BALANCING ACT AND TRY TO HELP CLIENTS ACHIEVE THAT HEALTHY BALANCE WITH LIFE-SKILLS THEY CAN CONTINUE TO USE ONCE OUR TIME TOGETHER IS COMPLETE. I HAVE 30+ YEARS OF COUNSELING EXPERIENCE AND LOVE MY WORK. I WORK HARD AND PLAY HARD AND TRY TO MOTIVATE CLIENTS TO DO THE SAME SO THEY CAN ACHIEVE THEIR LIFE GOALS.
I USE A PLAY THERAPY APPROACH WITH CHILDREN WITH A STATE OF THE ART PLAYROOM.
HAVING BEEN A TEACHER, COACH, AND A POLICE OFFICER GIVES ME A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE INTO CLIENT ISSUES. I LOOK AT LIFE AS A BALANCING ACT AND TRY TO HELP CLIENTS ACHIEVE THAT HEALTHY BALANCE WITH LIFE-SKILLS THEY CAN CONTINUE TO USE ONCE OUR TIME TOGETHER IS COMPLETE. I HAVE 30+ YEARS OF COUNSELING EXPERIENCE AND LOVE MY WORK. I WORK HARD AND PLAY HARD AND TRY TO MOTIVATE CLIENTS TO DO THE SAME SO THEY CAN ACHIEVE THEIR LIFE GOALS.
(636) 487-5376 View (636) 487-5376

See more therapy options for Hazelwood

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.