Photo of H Alan Campbell, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
H Alan Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28299  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with five years of experience. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, men’s issues, adult relationship issues, child-parent relationship issues, trauma, and ADHD. I am also an experienced School-Based Mental Health Therapist. I utilize a range of modalities tied to a person-centered approach, including cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with five years of experience. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, men’s issues, adult relationship issues, child-parent relationship issues, trauma, and ADHD. I am also an experienced School-Based Mental Health Therapist. I utilize a range of modalities tied to a person-centered approach, including cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy.
(704) 327-3715 View (704) 327-3715
Photo of undefined - Walker Behavioral Healthcare, LLC, MEd, LCMHCA, LPCA, Counselor
Walker Behavioral Healthcare, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques.
As individuals with lives in constant flux, it can seem strange and feel scary to ask for assistance from other. Despite that fear, when we take that step and seek assistance in life, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities and opportunities for growth and change. As a Counselor, I find personal growth can flow both ways during therapy. learn more about others and our respective worlds that empowers us to push past barriers that we thought were impossible to breach. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
I focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques.
As individuals with lives in constant flux, it can seem strange and feel scary to ask for assistance from other. Despite that fear, when we take that step and seek assistance in life, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities and opportunities for growth and change. As a Counselor, I find personal growth can flow both ways during therapy. learn more about others and our respective worlds that empowers us to push past barriers that we thought were impossible to breach. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
(980) 351-7572 View (980) 351-7572
Photo of Joe Walker, JD, LCMHCA, MA, Counselor
Joe Walker
Counselor, JD, LCMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
With kids, I utilize play therapy to address social, emotional, behavioral, or relational issues.
I have a passion for helping kids, teens, young adults, and parents. A former lawyer, business executive, and educator, I blend unique life experiences with a compassionate approach to therapy. With six kids of my own, I empathize with young people and parents alike. On a personal level, one of my greatest passions is travel. Having explored over 30 different countries, I realize the importance of cultural diversity and how it enriches our understanding of the world. My experiences shape my counseling practice as I strive to connect with clients from all walks of life. I also enjoy coaching youth sports, coffee, and a good book.
With kids, I utilize play therapy to address social, emotional, behavioral, or relational issues.
I have a passion for helping kids, teens, young adults, and parents. A former lawyer, business executive, and educator, I blend unique life experiences with a compassionate approach to therapy. With six kids of my own, I empathize with young people and parents alike. On a personal level, one of my greatest passions is travel. Having explored over 30 different countries, I realize the importance of cultural diversity and how it enriches our understanding of the world. My experiences shape my counseling practice as I strive to connect with clients from all walks of life. I also enjoy coaching youth sports, coffee, and a good book.
(704) 741-9355 View (704) 741-9355
Photo of Dan O'Sullivan, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Dan O'Sullivan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Since children learn and grow best through play, play therapy can help them express their feelings, work through tough experiences, and find new self-confidence.
It’s not easy being a kid. You’re learning and growing—and the world isn’t always patient if you need to do so a little differently, or when “big feelings” get in the way. Not that being a teen or adult is easier. You might struggle under the weight of seemingly impossible expectations and stresses. Or you find yourself experiencing hurt in your relationships. Maybe you wish your child could handle their emotions better and really start to blossom. Or maybe, as a teen or adult, you want to find peace with yourself and healthy connection with others.
Since children learn and grow best through play, play therapy can help them express their feelings, work through tough experiences, and find new self-confidence.
It’s not easy being a kid. You’re learning and growing—and the world isn’t always patient if you need to do so a little differently, or when “big feelings” get in the way. Not that being a teen or adult is easier. You might struggle under the weight of seemingly impossible expectations and stresses. Or you find yourself experiencing hurt in your relationships. Maybe you wish your child could handle their emotions better and really start to blossom. Or maybe, as a teen or adult, you want to find peace with yourself and healthy connection with others.
(704) 538-4272 View (704) 538-4272
Photo of undefined - GPS Counseling, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
GPS Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
Through the person centered approach I provide Individual Therapy, LGBTQ Counseling, Couples Counseling, Play Therapy, Child Parent Relationship Training and Family Therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Greg St. Martin. I provide counseling to children, adolescents, adults and families. My theoretical approach is Person Centered. Person-Centered Therapy utilizes the approach that each person is unique, valued, and worthy of unconditional acceptance. I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Play Therapy at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2017. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina (LCMHC, 13814) and a National Certified Counselor.
Through the person centered approach I provide Individual Therapy, LGBTQ Counseling, Couples Counseling, Play Therapy, Child Parent Relationship Training and Family Therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Greg St. Martin. I provide counseling to children, adolescents, adults and families. My theoretical approach is Person Centered. Person-Centered Therapy utilizes the approach that each person is unique, valued, and worthy of unconditional acceptance. I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Play Therapy at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2017. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina (LCMHC, 13814) and a National Certified Counselor.
(704) 837-1638 View (704) 837-1638
Photo of Derek West, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Derek West
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
I have also worked extensively with kids and teenagers utilizing play to help them process their emotions.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Going to a counselor can be intimidating or nerve wracking. Will they accept me? What if I don't know what exactly I want to talk about in therapy? Or do I really want to open up about some of these things? All of these feelings are really normal when beginning counseling and I've had experience working with kids, teenagers, young adults, and adults to begin the journey of processing whatever they would like to work on in therapy.
I have also worked extensively with kids and teenagers utilizing play to help them process their emotions.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Going to a counselor can be intimidating or nerve wracking. Will they accept me? What if I don't know what exactly I want to talk about in therapy? Or do I really want to open up about some of these things? All of these feelings are really normal when beginning counseling and I've had experience working with kids, teenagers, young adults, and adults to begin the journey of processing whatever they would like to work on in therapy.
(828) 330-9606 View (828) 330-9606
Photo of Clay Parker, LPC, LCAS, NCC, MS
Clay Parker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCAS, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28215
I use an integrative therapeutic approach, including CBT, Person Centered, and Adlerian based play therapy to address the concerns, worries, or hurts that you or your loved one may be experiencing.
My name is Clay Parker. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate , National Certified Counselor with a long history of working in the mental health field in various capacities. I have experience with adults, children, couple and family therapy. In my work, the focus often times involves exploring healthier ways to address any concerns that are creating challenges. I like to be creative with the counseling techniques that I employ in order to help people address their problems in a non-threatening and fun way.
I use an integrative therapeutic approach, including CBT, Person Centered, and Adlerian based play therapy to address the concerns, worries, or hurts that you or your loved one may be experiencing.
My name is Clay Parker. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate , National Certified Counselor with a long history of working in the mental health field in various capacities. I have experience with adults, children, couple and family therapy. In my work, the focus often times involves exploring healthier ways to address any concerns that are creating challenges. I like to be creative with the counseling techniques that I employ in order to help people address their problems in a non-threatening and fun way.
(704) 385-4441 View (704) 385-4441
Photo of Michael Clark-Borenstein, MA, LCMHC
Michael Clark-Borenstein
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Everyone faces difficulties throughout life, sometimes it can be tough to go through those tough times alone. I am here to give support. I want to be able to provide a space where you can feel comfortable and safe. My passion is helping those with anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and other life stressors. During the process we will go outside the office for a walk or to play games or use interactive activities inside. My certified service dog can also assist me to help make sessions more comfortable. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and have experience working with children, adolescents, adults.
Everyone faces difficulties throughout life, sometimes it can be tough to go through those tough times alone. I am here to give support. I want to be able to provide a space where you can feel comfortable and safe. My passion is helping those with anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and other life stressors. During the process we will go outside the office for a walk or to play games or use interactive activities inside. My certified service dog can also assist me to help make sessions more comfortable. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and have experience working with children, adolescents, adults.
(704) 769-9980 View (704) 769-9980
Photo of Yuri Sklad, MA, LMFT, RPT, CSOTP, CSAT-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yuri Sklad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT, CSOTP, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Play Therapist.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, compulsive behavior, wish to overcome the consequences of traumatic experiences, or feel stuck in your life journey, I invite you to contact me. As a therapist, I strive to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for individuals to gain greater self-awareness and self-regulation. In our work together, we will hold space for difficult emotions, identify patterns that have helped you in the past and may not be serving you now, and develop new skills so that you are able to gently move toward living a more fulfilling life aligned with your values.
I am a Registered Play Therapist.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, compulsive behavior, wish to overcome the consequences of traumatic experiences, or feel stuck in your life journey, I invite you to contact me. As a therapist, I strive to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for individuals to gain greater self-awareness and self-regulation. In our work together, we will hold space for difficult emotions, identify patterns that have helped you in the past and may not be serving you now, and develop new skills so that you are able to gently move toward living a more fulfilling life aligned with your values.
(984) 464-6110 View (984) 464-6110
Photo of Ian Murray, MEd, LCMHC
Ian Murray
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28287
Parenting adolescents is challenging. As your teen gets older, they may show signs of struggling in some or many areas of their lives. You may notice personality changes, or they no longer have the same interests or no longer seem motivated. You’ve read books, tried different strategies and tried to communicate with your teen, but there has not been sustained change. You know that your teen has potential, but how do you help them find it? Looking for outside help, can be a scary step, with many questions. Will someone be able to connect with my teen, am I able to trust that person/will my teen be able to?
Parenting adolescents is challenging. As your teen gets older, they may show signs of struggling in some or many areas of their lives. You may notice personality changes, or they no longer have the same interests or no longer seem motivated. You’ve read books, tried different strategies and tried to communicate with your teen, but there has not been sustained change. You know that your teen has potential, but how do you help them find it? Looking for outside help, can be a scary step, with many questions. Will someone be able to connect with my teen, am I able to trust that person/will my teen be able to?
(720) 619-8331 View (720) 619-8331
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, LPC, LMHC
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
PhD, NCC, LCMHC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208
With 13 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 25 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 13 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 25 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(980) 351-4591 View (980) 351-4591
Photo of Jeffery D Rosenbaum, PhD, Psychologist
Jeffery D Rosenbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28287
Children, adolescents, and families are the focus of my practice. Developing and strengthening the parent-child relationship is especially important with young children. Helping children learn to feel more capable and independent is important for school age children. Developing autonomy and learning to make good choices is critical for adolescents. By creating achievable goals together and working in a safe and supportive environment, we are able to create positive experiences for both children and parents.
Children, adolescents, and families are the focus of my practice. Developing and strengthening the parent-child relationship is especially important with young children. Helping children learn to feel more capable and independent is important for school age children. Developing autonomy and learning to make good choices is critical for adolescents. By creating achievable goals together and working in a safe and supportive environment, we are able to create positive experiences for both children and parents.
(704) 286-9594 View (704) 286-9594
Photo of Noah Granade @ Rooted Therapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Noah Granade @ Rooted Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I believe that deep, integrated healing is possible for every person that steps into my office. Sometimes we need an outside perspective and designated space to focus on our healing. I hope to hold this space for my clients and would be honored to support you in your journey. Whether you are exploring aspects of your identity, seeking support in healing from personal, intergenerational, or communal trauma, in recovery from disordered eating patterns, exploring neuro-divergence, or needing a non-judgmental space that promotes personal fulfillment and growth, I am here to support your process.
I believe that deep, integrated healing is possible for every person that steps into my office. Sometimes we need an outside perspective and designated space to focus on our healing. I hope to hold this space for my clients and would be honored to support you in your journey. Whether you are exploring aspects of your identity, seeking support in healing from personal, intergenerational, or communal trauma, in recovery from disordered eating patterns, exploring neuro-divergence, or needing a non-judgmental space that promotes personal fulfillment and growth, I am here to support your process.
(704) 327-6362 View (704) 327-6362
Photo of undefined - Surviving The Battle, PLLC, LCMHCS, TFCBT, EDMR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Surviving The Battle, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, TFCBT, EDMR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28212
Hope all is well, Thank You for visiting our page and thank you for the opportunity of allowing us to possibly assist you, a referral, your child or your loved one with their mental health needs. In my own words "I am a Mentor by Nature and a Therapist by profession. Through my work experiences and education, I realized there is a significant difference between mentoring & counseling. So I decided to create a clinical platform to better assist our community with their mental health needs". In addition, I also provide Clinical Supervision. Please visit us at www.survivingthebattle.com for additional information.
Hope all is well, Thank You for visiting our page and thank you for the opportunity of allowing us to possibly assist you, a referral, your child or your loved one with their mental health needs. In my own words "I am a Mentor by Nature and a Therapist by profession. Through my work experiences and education, I realized there is a significant difference between mentoring & counseling. So I decided to create a clinical platform to better assist our community with their mental health needs". In addition, I also provide Clinical Supervision. Please visit us at www.survivingthebattle.com for additional information.
(980) 201-4829 View (980) 201-4829
Photo of Ed Tilley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ed Tilley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who was trained at Columbia University, New York City, and the Postgraduate Center for Mental Health, New York City. I have worked in a variety of settings in New York City and here in North Carolina. I view therapy as a way of working on relationships or issues that are causing distress or problems in one's life. I use a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I am a Humanist in terms of my philosophy. I see life as a journey. Therapy can make that journey more fulfilling.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who was trained at Columbia University, New York City, and the Postgraduate Center for Mental Health, New York City. I have worked in a variety of settings in New York City and here in North Carolina. I view therapy as a way of working on relationships or issues that are causing distress or problems in one's life. I use a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I am a Humanist in terms of my philosophy. I see life as a journey. Therapy can make that journey more fulfilling.
(910) 853-6083 View (910) 853-6083
Photo of undefined - Life Adjustment Solutions, MA, LMFT, HCSVS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Life Adjustment Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, HCSVS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Welcome, I am Joseph R. Carlton, Owner and Therapist of Life Adjustment Solution. I specialize in therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. Families are the cornerstone for preserving the stability of mental health in today's high intensity society. Individuals, couples, and families are the foundation of building close emotional relationships across generations, ethnicity, racial and religious backgrounds. Each factor is greatly considered in Life Adjustment Solution mission statement. I am dedicated to changing our society one case at a time. Each case will be considered as important as the next. My clients will receive the therapeutic care that best fits their needs.
Welcome, I am Joseph R. Carlton, Owner and Therapist of Life Adjustment Solution. I specialize in therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. Families are the cornerstone for preserving the stability of mental health in today's high intensity society. Individuals, couples, and families are the foundation of building close emotional relationships across generations, ethnicity, racial and religious backgrounds. Each factor is greatly considered in Life Adjustment Solution mission statement. I am dedicated to changing our society one case at a time. Each case will be considered as important as the next. My clients will receive the therapeutic care that best fits their needs.
(704) 727-4897 View (704) 727-4897
Photo of undefined - Psychological Services of Charlotte, PhD, Psychologist
Psychological Services of Charlotte
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
PSC strives to promote individual and family growth through a variety of therapeutic processes in a confidential and caring manner. We believe the collaboration between clients and therapist is paramount to successful achievement of therapeutic goals. Our hope is the partnership will foster growth in your journey towards wellness.
PSC strives to promote individual and family growth through a variety of therapeutic processes in a confidential and caring manner. We believe the collaboration between clients and therapist is paramount to successful achievement of therapeutic goals. Our hope is the partnership will foster growth in your journey towards wellness.
(704) 445-5255 View (704) 445-5255
Photo of Markel Limbacker, MEd, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Markel Limbacker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Life sometimes tends to get in the way of a person's happiness. Sometimes a person may feel overwhelmed that they do not have anyone to talk to. Family members are not a resource that a client may want to utilize in their moment of distress. I want my clients to feel that they have a resource and someone to help them through the different avenues of life. I want my clients too know they are not alone, and they have someone to help them navigate through their struggles. I have worked with families of different backgrounds and have met them where they are in life. I'm here to help you develop and learn new options.
Life sometimes tends to get in the way of a person's happiness. Sometimes a person may feel overwhelmed that they do not have anyone to talk to. Family members are not a resource that a client may want to utilize in their moment of distress. I want my clients to feel that they have a resource and someone to help them through the different avenues of life. I want my clients too know they are not alone, and they have someone to help them navigate through their struggles. I have worked with families of different backgrounds and have met them where they are in life. I'm here to help you develop and learn new options.
(704) 908-6341 View (704) 908-6341
Affinity Clinical Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
I am an experienced therapist with years of experience in psychotherapy and counseling to children, teens and adults. My services include assessment using motivational interviewing, clinical testing and outcome measure survey to help you measure your progress. I strive to help you get result within a short time by ensuring that I understand your problems and your needs. I use solution focus and cognitive behavior therapy techniques to explore concrete issues, and to guide you in resolving them. I provide a therapeutic environment that is confidential, and where individual can communicate openly and honestly about their feelings.
I am an experienced therapist with years of experience in psychotherapy and counseling to children, teens and adults. My services include assessment using motivational interviewing, clinical testing and outcome measure survey to help you measure your progress. I strive to help you get result within a short time by ensuring that I understand your problems and your needs. I use solution focus and cognitive behavior therapy techniques to explore concrete issues, and to guide you in resolving them. I provide a therapeutic environment that is confidential, and where individual can communicate openly and honestly about their feelings.
(704) 286-8750 View (704) 286-8750
Photo of Sidney Nuzzi, LCMHCA
Sidney Nuzzi
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
It is not easy to ask for help. It can be especially hard when it comes to your mental health needs. Maybe you’re feeling lost and overwhelmed in this ever-changing world. Maybe you’re feeling like a burden to your friends and family. You don’t know what to do anymore, where to go, or who to turn to. You just need to know someone hears you. You just need to know someone is there for you. Through searching online for a therapist, you have already taken a huge step forward.
It is not easy to ask for help. It can be especially hard when it comes to your mental health needs. Maybe you’re feeling lost and overwhelmed in this ever-changing world. Maybe you’re feeling like a burden to your friends and family. You don’t know what to do anymore, where to go, or who to turn to. You just need to know someone hears you. You just need to know someone is there for you. Through searching online for a therapist, you have already taken a huge step forward.
(980) 203-3555 View (980) 203-3555
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.