Play Therapy in Willow Spring, NC

Photo of Suzanna Marie Nagy, MA, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanna Marie Nagy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willow Spring, NC 27592
I work with individual adult/child clients and couples who are facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, loss, trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and challenges at work or in relationships. I have counseled adults, couples, and groups in community-based and school-based mental health, as well as private practice. I have also conducted in-depth research on trauma, hopelessness, empathy, attachment, and intimacy. Above all, I believe that my clients, not I, hold the key to their growth and that emotional pain and anxiety, when given respect and non-judgmental attention, can often provide some of the best opportunities for learning.
I work with individual adult/child clients and couples who are facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, loss, trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and challenges at work or in relationships. I have counseled adults, couples, and groups in community-based and school-based mental health, as well as private practice. I have also conducted in-depth research on trauma, hopelessness, empathy, attachment, and intimacy. Above all, I believe that my clients, not I, hold the key to their growth and that emotional pain and anxiety, when given respect and non-judgmental attention, can often provide some of the best opportunities for learning.
(919) 373-6795 View (919) 373-6795
Photo of Robert Reinhardt - Serenity Springs Counseling and Wellness, LCMHCS, MEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Serenity Springs Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Willow Spring, NC 27592
Waitlist for new clients
Are you, a family member, or your relationship struggling? Need some help getting things on track? Our group of therapists works with couples, individuals, and families of all ages and backgrounds. Our diverse group of clinicians can help you tackle almost any challenge thrown your way. We work with clients to foster their strengths and achieve their goals and are dedicated to helping you reach your healthiest potential.
Are you, a family member, or your relationship struggling? Need some help getting things on track? Our group of therapists works with couples, individuals, and families of all ages and backgrounds. Our diverse group of clinicians can help you tackle almost any challenge thrown your way. We work with clients to foster their strengths and achieve their goals and are dedicated to helping you reach your healthiest potential.
(919) 926-0135 View (919) 926-0135
Photo of Laura F Baker, MAEd, MA, LCMHCA
Laura F Baker
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MAEd, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Willow Spring, NC 27592
As a retired elementary teacher with 30 years of experience, Laura combines her expertise in working with children and families with counseling skills. Drawing from her roles as a mother, daughter, and teacher, she recognizes the vital role of support and connection in mental and emotional well-being. Laura is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing space for clients to explore their personal journey and build upon their strengths. Her clinical interests include addressing anxiety, depression, school adjustments, bariatric surgery, body image, and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
As a retired elementary teacher with 30 years of experience, Laura combines her expertise in working with children and families with counseling skills. Drawing from her roles as a mother, daughter, and teacher, she recognizes the vital role of support and connection in mental and emotional well-being. Laura is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing space for clients to explore their personal journey and build upon their strengths. Her clinical interests include addressing anxiety, depression, school adjustments, bariatric surgery, body image, and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
(910) 240-4599 View (910) 240-4599
Photo of Danielle Dercola, MA, LCMHCA
Danielle Dercola
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Willow Spring, NC 27592
I am a firm believer in the effectiveness of therapy and how healing the therapeutic process is. I have always been interested in working with children, adolescents, and adults as I understand how challenging each stage of life can be. I enjoy utilizing many different therapeutic modalities that best meet my client’s needs and goals. I am constantly learning new approaches to grow in my ability to help a wide diversity of clients.
I am a firm believer in the effectiveness of therapy and how healing the therapeutic process is. I have always been interested in working with children, adolescents, and adults as I understand how challenging each stage of life can be. I enjoy utilizing many different therapeutic modalities that best meet my client’s needs and goals. I am constantly learning new approaches to grow in my ability to help a wide diversity of clients.
(919) 276-4390 View (919) 276-4390
Photo of Jennifer Conrad, MS, LCMHCA
Jennifer Conrad
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willow Spring, NC 27592
WELCOME! Are you looking for a therapist who is excited about working with Kids and Teens? My passion is working with children and adolescents with and without disabilities (mild to moderate) who have difficulties with Emotional Regulation, Depression, Grief, Anxiety related symptoms, managing ADHD, and Parental Separation/ Divorce.
WELCOME! Are you looking for a therapist who is excited about working with Kids and Teens? My passion is working with children and adolescents with and without disabilities (mild to moderate) who have difficulties with Emotional Regulation, Depression, Grief, Anxiety related symptoms, managing ADHD, and Parental Separation/ Divorce.
(984) 315-7468 View (984) 315-7468

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Riley - Willow Creek Counseling Assoc, PLLC, MSW, LCSWA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Willow Creek Counseling Assoc, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Our child and family counseling practice is here for you, offering play therapy, marriage counseling, and counseling for individuals of all ages.
We offer compassionate care across all ages, from preschool through adulthood. Our clients find a warm, supportive environment here, ideal for undertaking the challenging emotional work they face. Utilizing evidence-based treatments including Play Therapy, CBT, DBT, and marriage counseling, we also prioritize trauma-informed care to ensure sensitive and effective therapy. Our counselors specialize in various areas such as perinatal mood disorders, trauma recovery, chronic pain/illness management, and grief counseling, providing tailored support to meet diverse needs with empathy and expertise.
Our child and family counseling practice is here for you, offering play therapy, marriage counseling, and counseling for individuals of all ages.
We offer compassionate care across all ages, from preschool through adulthood. Our clients find a warm, supportive environment here, ideal for undertaking the challenging emotional work they face. Utilizing evidence-based treatments including Play Therapy, CBT, DBT, and marriage counseling, we also prioritize trauma-informed care to ensure sensitive and effective therapy. Our counselors specialize in various areas such as perinatal mood disorders, trauma recovery, chronic pain/illness management, and grief counseling, providing tailored support to meet diverse needs with empathy and expertise.
(919) 351-8043 View (919) 351-8043
Photo of Jason Robert Cole, MA, LCMHC, CAMS-II, Counselor
Jason Robert Cole
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
At Reframe Counselings Services, PLLC we have knowledgeable and caring therapists who specialize in individual counseling, couples therapy, family counseling, parenting skills/strategies, play therapy.
Jason Cole is a mental health counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults using a variety of theoretical perspectives in individual, group, couples and family therapy sessions. His area of expertise is in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with a diverse range of needs and difficulties in traditional talk therapy. Jason enjoys working with clients to create and meet life goals through times of difficulty or uncertainty, and has worked extensively in the areas of life changes, anger management, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral issues, and depression.
At Reframe Counselings Services, PLLC we have knowledgeable and caring therapists who specialize in individual counseling, couples therapy, family counseling, parenting skills/strategies, play therapy.
Jason Cole is a mental health counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults using a variety of theoretical perspectives in individual, group, couples and family therapy sessions. His area of expertise is in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with a diverse range of needs and difficulties in traditional talk therapy. Jason enjoys working with clients to create and meet life goals through times of difficulty or uncertainty, and has worked extensively in the areas of life changes, anger management, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral issues, and depression.
(919) 289-8053 View (919) 289-8053
Photo of Andrea Bueno-Acosta, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Andrea Bueno-Acosta
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
This is exactly the work I love to do! Through the language of play, I work with children struggling to cope with worries, anger, life changes, and adverse experiences.
Your child has been having a hard time with “big feelings” and “big behaviors”. You have spent hours searching to find ways to help your young child have less intense meltdowns and tantrums, or to help your grade schooler better handle transitions or unexpected change, or to help your tween worry less about “adult things” and things they can’t control. It has been extremely difficult seeing your child struggle and you really wish you could just make it all stop, but you’re out of ideas. I know that the process of finding a counselor for your child can be exhausting and intimidating, but you don’t have to walk this journey alone .
This is exactly the work I love to do! Through the language of play, I work with children struggling to cope with worries, anger, life changes, and adverse experiences.
Your child has been having a hard time with “big feelings” and “big behaviors”. You have spent hours searching to find ways to help your young child have less intense meltdowns and tantrums, or to help your grade schooler better handle transitions or unexpected change, or to help your tween worry less about “adult things” and things they can’t control. It has been extremely difficult seeing your child struggle and you really wish you could just make it all stop, but you’re out of ideas. I know that the process of finding a counselor for your child can be exhausting and intimidating, but you don’t have to walk this journey alone .
(919) 689-4603 View (919) 689-4603
Photo of Liliana Flores, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liliana Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
I also incorporate other treatment modalities to fit the needs of my clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and EMDR Therapy.
I am a bilingual clinician and accepting new patients in our new Fuquay Varina office! II have always been passionate about helping people understand themselves more, identify issues that aren't working, and find self-empowerment to create a life they love. I recognize the importance of one's background, history, and present struggles; therefore, the work between myself and my clients will always be a collaborative effort tailored to your needs as you grow.
I also incorporate other treatment modalities to fit the needs of my clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and EMDR Therapy.
I am a bilingual clinician and accepting new patients in our new Fuquay Varina office! II have always been passionate about helping people understand themselves more, identify issues that aren't working, and find self-empowerment to create a life they love. I recognize the importance of one's background, history, and present struggles; therefore, the work between myself and my clients will always be a collaborative effort tailored to your needs as you grow.
(919) 251-5516 View (919) 251-5516
Photo of Rachel Hewitt, MSW, LCSW-A
Rachel Hewitt
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Angier, NC 27501
My therapeutic approach incorporates a deep understanding of developmental psychology when working with children and adolescents, ensuring that interventions are developmentally appropriate and often include play therapy techniques to facilitate healing and growth.
I provide support to individuals, children & families facing various challenges, including life transitions, stressful family dynamics, divorce, chronic illness, as well as, emotional struggles such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss. A personalized approach is used, combining various evidence based methods to fit each client’s unique needs. My approach also integrates body based somatic techniques and expressive art therapies to address these concerns holistically. I also provide Christian counseling based on Biblical values based on client preferences.
My therapeutic approach incorporates a deep understanding of developmental psychology when working with children and adolescents, ensuring that interventions are developmentally appropriate and often include play therapy techniques to facilitate healing and growth.
I provide support to individuals, children & families facing various challenges, including life transitions, stressful family dynamics, divorce, chronic illness, as well as, emotional struggles such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss. A personalized approach is used, combining various evidence based methods to fit each client’s unique needs. My approach also integrates body based somatic techniques and expressive art therapies to address these concerns holistically. I also provide Christian counseling based on Biblical values based on client preferences.
(984) 223-9982 View (984) 223-9982
Photo of Victoria Butler - Heritage Counseling and Wellness PLLC, MEd, LCMHC, Counselor
Heritage Counseling and Wellness PLLC
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Angier, NC 27501
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, my goal is to provide a safe, client-centered environment for my clients to explore their feelings and patterns of thinking while setting and working toward their personal goals. I utilize evidenced-based practices including CBT. I also love to incorporate play and art therapy techniques in my practice with children and adolescents. I am also passionate about teaching clients about brain-based techniques founded on neuroscience to help them better understand how to manage stress. Christian counseling upon request. Populations served: Children and adults ages 2 and up, Adolescents, Parents, and Women.
As a therapist, my goal is to provide a safe, client-centered environment for my clients to explore their feelings and patterns of thinking while setting and working toward their personal goals. I utilize evidenced-based practices including CBT. I also love to incorporate play and art therapy techniques in my practice with children and adolescents. I am also passionate about teaching clients about brain-based techniques founded on neuroscience to help them better understand how to manage stress. Christian counseling upon request. Populations served: Children and adults ages 2 and up, Adolescents, Parents, and Women.
(919) 364-5383 View (919) 364-5383
Photo of Sookia Staggers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sookia Staggers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Are you looking for a supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and behavior patterns without fear of judgment? As a therapist, I recognize that the decision to enter therapy is often not an easy choice. My goal is to create a supportive, confidential, and safe environment where goals and solutions can be explored. My approach is warm and professional. I believe in building on your existing strengths and helping you to develop new strengths as well.
Are you looking for a supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and behavior patterns without fear of judgment? As a therapist, I recognize that the decision to enter therapy is often not an easy choice. My goal is to create a supportive, confidential, and safe environment where goals and solutions can be explored. My approach is warm and professional. I believe in building on your existing strengths and helping you to develop new strengths as well.
(919) 439-1394 View (919) 439-1394
Photo of Courtney Pestovich, MS, LCHMCA, CRC
Courtney Pestovich
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCHMCA, CRC
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Hello and welcome to my profile! I'm thrilled to share my journey and expertise with you. My professional passion is centered around providing comprehensive support for individuals who are neurodiverse, especially those with autism and ADHD, along with co-occurring conditions. This includes clients who are questioning if they are neurodiverse or have been recently diagnosed. Additionally, I am deeply committed to assisting individuals who have navigated trauma or are dealing with complex PTSD. My practice spans across preteens, teens, and adults and I believe in providing a tailored approach at every stage of life.
Hello and welcome to my profile! I'm thrilled to share my journey and expertise with you. My professional passion is centered around providing comprehensive support for individuals who are neurodiverse, especially those with autism and ADHD, along with co-occurring conditions. This includes clients who are questioning if they are neurodiverse or have been recently diagnosed. Additionally, I am deeply committed to assisting individuals who have navigated trauma or are dealing with complex PTSD. My practice spans across preteens, teens, and adults and I believe in providing a tailored approach at every stage of life.
(919) 729-5123 View (919) 729-5123
Photo of Linda B Evans, MA, NCC, LCMHC, CSOTS
Linda B Evans
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Are you feeling sad more days than not? Loosing interest in activities that used to be fun? Need to talk? LifeBridge is here to listen! With over thirteen years of experience working with individuals/families, I have helped children, adolescents and adults move from where they are to where they want to be. Working collaborative with my clients, I start where you are, use what you have and allow you to do what you can to develop a treatment plan to meet your individual needs. I utilize a person-centered, eclectic approach that includes cognitive behavior, solution focused, family systems therapies and motivational interviewing.
Are you feeling sad more days than not? Loosing interest in activities that used to be fun? Need to talk? LifeBridge is here to listen! With over thirteen years of experience working with individuals/families, I have helped children, adolescents and adults move from where they are to where they want to be. Working collaborative with my clients, I start where you are, use what you have and allow you to do what you can to develop a treatment plan to meet your individual needs. I utilize a person-centered, eclectic approach that includes cognitive behavior, solution focused, family systems therapies and motivational interviewing.
(919) 887-9120 View (919) 887-9120
Photo of Shere Carinci, MSc
Shere Carinci
MSc
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
Are you an empath and even a intuitive who is looking to align with your personal power and potential? Are you a spiritual seeker wanting to live in your Divine self-expression, within this human experience? Are you looking to clean up your energy and vibration to be in alignment with your gifts? Are you ready to break the habit of being yourself, the personality that you have outgrown, but need the support of creating lasting transformation? Then I invite you to schedule a FREE 15-20 minute coaching call to see if we are a good fit, and if you are ready to jump in schedule a 90 minute session NOW
Are you an empath and even a intuitive who is looking to align with your personal power and potential? Are you a spiritual seeker wanting to live in your Divine self-expression, within this human experience? Are you looking to clean up your energy and vibration to be in alignment with your gifts? Are you ready to break the habit of being yourself, the personality that you have outgrown, but need the support of creating lasting transformation? Then I invite you to schedule a FREE 15-20 minute coaching call to see if we are a good fit, and if you are ready to jump in schedule a 90 minute session NOW
(984) 205-9431 View (984) 205-9431
Photo of Meredith Jones, LCSW, APHSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, APHSW-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It’s easy to overthink or become overwhelmed reading descriptions of therapists. Trust your gut and schedule a free consultation to guide you. I'm Meredith Jones and I have over a decade of clinical experience helping others with anxiety, relationship issues, substance use, trauma and grief. Unexpected changes or uncertainty around career, home life, or health can be isolating and create feelings of instability. If you need help connecting to your motivation for change, want to look at patterns no longer serving you well, desire to strengthen your coping skills or need help stilling your mind to live in the moment I've got you.
It’s easy to overthink or become overwhelmed reading descriptions of therapists. Trust your gut and schedule a free consultation to guide you. I'm Meredith Jones and I have over a decade of clinical experience helping others with anxiety, relationship issues, substance use, trauma and grief. Unexpected changes or uncertainty around career, home life, or health can be isolating and create feelings of instability. If you need help connecting to your motivation for change, want to look at patterns no longer serving you well, desire to strengthen your coping skills or need help stilling your mind to live in the moment I've got you.
(919) 887-9352 View (919) 887-9352
Photo of Regina Brinkley Brown, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regina Brinkley Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
You know what it feels like to sit at your kitchen table or on your front or back porch with a close friend or family member & talk the hours away? Some conversations bring laughter. Some bring tears. Some bring clarity. Therapy can take those conversations to the next level. You can expect therapy with me to be very relaxed. Put your feet up! Bring in your lunch! Check your phone! Tell me about your dog! Show me pictures! You tell me what is working and not working for you in therapy & I'll adjust. We'll move at your pace towards goals you set.
You know what it feels like to sit at your kitchen table or on your front or back porch with a close friend or family member & talk the hours away? Some conversations bring laughter. Some bring tears. Some bring clarity. Therapy can take those conversations to the next level. You can expect therapy with me to be very relaxed. Put your feet up! Bring in your lunch! Check your phone! Tell me about your dog! Show me pictures! You tell me what is working and not working for you in therapy & I'll adjust. We'll move at your pace towards goals you set.
(919) 355-9647 View (919) 355-9647
Photo of Sarah DeNome - DeNome Alliances Counseling Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DeNome Alliances Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Choosing a therapist can be an intimidating and overwhelming process. Finding a comfortable fit for you and/or your loved one is an important factor in the therapeutic process. Thus, we offer a free consultation to help relieve any anxieties, answer any questions, and allow you to find out if the therapist on our team would be the right fit for your needs and preferences. We view our role as a guide to assist, empower, and equip you with the skills (tools) utilizing your own strengths, finding strengths that may be hidden, and teaching ways to develop new skills to assist in overcoming life's challenges.
Choosing a therapist can be an intimidating and overwhelming process. Finding a comfortable fit for you and/or your loved one is an important factor in the therapeutic process. Thus, we offer a free consultation to help relieve any anxieties, answer any questions, and allow you to find out if the therapist on our team would be the right fit for your needs and preferences. We view our role as a guide to assist, empower, and equip you with the skills (tools) utilizing your own strengths, finding strengths that may be hidden, and teaching ways to develop new skills to assist in overcoming life's challenges.
(984) 230-9024 View (984) 230-9024
Photo of Florence (Lore) Bright Owen, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Florence (Lore) Bright Owen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Everyone needs someone to talk to. Someone who will listen and encourage, without judgment or condition. Someone who will not give advice, but will collaborate with them in finding the best path on their journey to finding some peace and contentment in a not-so-peaceful world. If you are a child, tween, teen, or adult and this sounds like, you, we could be a great fit. I provide a very realistic, yet compassionate experience for individuals (and families) who experience symptoms relating to anxiety/depression, self-esteem/bullying, Bipolar, ADHD, High-Functioning ASD, Women's Issues, Dom. Violence, Grief, Anger, and Trauma.
Everyone needs someone to talk to. Someone who will listen and encourage, without judgment or condition. Someone who will not give advice, but will collaborate with them in finding the best path on their journey to finding some peace and contentment in a not-so-peaceful world. If you are a child, tween, teen, or adult and this sounds like, you, we could be a great fit. I provide a very realistic, yet compassionate experience for individuals (and families) who experience symptoms relating to anxiety/depression, self-esteem/bullying, Bipolar, ADHD, High-Functioning ASD, Women's Issues, Dom. Violence, Grief, Anger, and Trauma.
(919) 443-6808 View (919) 443-6808
Photo of Allie Hartman, LCMHC
Allie Hartman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Do you feel that you are often wondering what to do to feel better? Are you finding yourself in the middle of a transition and not sure where turn? Or are you are feeling anxious or down? Does it seem that you have tried everything, and it is just not working right now. You may have tried to navigate this alone, but you are not sure what else to do. It may be scary to ask for help. You may have a limited amount of time or resources. Take the first step, complete the New Client Request in the following link: intakeq.com/new/8tzfkq. We will get back to you within 24 hours.
Do you feel that you are often wondering what to do to feel better? Are you finding yourself in the middle of a transition and not sure where turn? Or are you are feeling anxious or down? Does it seem that you have tried everything, and it is just not working right now. You may have tried to navigate this alone, but you are not sure what else to do. It may be scary to ask for help. You may have a limited amount of time or resources. Take the first step, complete the New Client Request in the following link: intakeq.com/new/8tzfkq. We will get back to you within 24 hours.
(984) 205-2193 View (984) 205-2193

See more therapy options for Willow Spring

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.