Play Therapy in Warren, NJ

Photo of Ellen Anello, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Anello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warren, NJ 07059
I use an integrative, individualized approach including elements of psychodynamic play and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
I'm a licensed clinical social worker who has been working with children and families for over 20 years. I've worked as a school social worker in a large district, with youth from pre-k through high school. I'm knowledgeable about educational, as well as social-emotional, barriers that can make it appear as if children are unmotivated, or not working to their potential. Using a strengths and solution focused perspective helps children and families work through obstacles preventing them from identifying their unique abilities and promise. I specialize in play therapy with children ages 6-10, but work with children of all ages.
I use an integrative, individualized approach including elements of psychodynamic play and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
I'm a licensed clinical social worker who has been working with children and families for over 20 years. I've worked as a school social worker in a large district, with youth from pre-k through high school. I'm knowledgeable about educational, as well as social-emotional, barriers that can make it appear as if children are unmotivated, or not working to their potential. Using a strengths and solution focused perspective helps children and families work through obstacles preventing them from identifying their unique abilities and promise. I specialize in play therapy with children ages 6-10, but work with children of all ages.
(848) 274-3189 View (848) 274-3189
Photo of Lori Schreuders-Meyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Schreuders-Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warren, NJ 07059
I have an eclectic, holistic, and attachment focused approach to treatment which is rooted in Psychodynamic theory and includes play therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, Expressive Arts, CBT, Mind, Body, and trauma informed interventions.
Whether I am working with a child or an adult, my primary goal is to help to create a safe space for them to identify, explore and manage the emotions and behaviors that are impeding their potential for living a healthier and happy life. I have extensive training and experience working with children and adults who have experienced trauma. Though often feeling depleted and unrecognized, I have seen, untapped, and helped to recover incredible strengths in my clients. Much of my work begins with identifying and supporting those strengths in an effort to overcome and heal from the issues that are creating challenges in their lives.
I have an eclectic, holistic, and attachment focused approach to treatment which is rooted in Psychodynamic theory and includes play therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, Expressive Arts, CBT, Mind, Body, and trauma informed interventions.
Whether I am working with a child or an adult, my primary goal is to help to create a safe space for them to identify, explore and manage the emotions and behaviors that are impeding their potential for living a healthier and happy life. I have extensive training and experience working with children and adults who have experienced trauma. Though often feeling depleted and unrecognized, I have seen, untapped, and helped to recover incredible strengths in my clients. Much of my work begins with identifying and supporting those strengths in an effort to overcome and heal from the issues that are creating challenges in their lives.
(908) 500-1544 View (908) 500-1544
Photo of Kayla Sheridan, LSW
Kayla Sheridan
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Kayla's specialties include working with older adults, as well as with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, chronic illness/chronic pain, grief, end of life issues, and challenges related to life transitions. Kayla also has experience providing care for individuals facing depression, body image issues, substance abuse/co-occurring disorders, and LGBTQ+ related challenges.
Kayla's specialties include working with older adults, as well as with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, chronic illness/chronic pain, grief, end of life issues, and challenges related to life transitions. Kayla also has experience providing care for individuals facing depression, body image issues, substance abuse/co-occurring disorders, and LGBTQ+ related challenges.
(732) 838-9811 View (732) 838-9811
Photo of Rachel Donnary, LAC, Counselor
Rachel Donnary
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of NJ. I hold a BA in Psychology, and received my Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Stockton University in 2023. During my master’s program, I worked with both adult and adolescent individuals facing substance use and co-occurring disorders. I then transitioned to a partial-hospitalization and intensive outpatient level of care, working with adolescents, before joining the Calm and Sense Therapy Team. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with life transitions, interpersonal relationships, anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of NJ. I hold a BA in Psychology, and received my Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Stockton University in 2023. During my master’s program, I worked with both adult and adolescent individuals facing substance use and co-occurring disorders. I then transitioned to a partial-hospitalization and intensive outpatient level of care, working with adolescents, before joining the Calm and Sense Therapy Team. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with life transitions, interpersonal relationships, anxiety and depression.
(848) 283-5755 View (848) 283-5755
Photo of Corrine Jones, LSW
Corrine Jones
LSW
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Board Certified Autism Technician (BCAT) in the state of New Jersey. I received both my Bachelors and Masters degrees from the Rutgers School of Social Work, and graduated in 2020. During my undergraduate and graduate programs, I worked with individuals facing mental health and co-occurring disorders at the partial-hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels of care. I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and older adults who struggle with life transitions, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Board Certified Autism Technician (BCAT) in the state of New Jersey. I received both my Bachelors and Masters degrees from the Rutgers School of Social Work, and graduated in 2020. During my undergraduate and graduate programs, I worked with individuals facing mental health and co-occurring disorders at the partial-hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels of care. I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and older adults who struggle with life transitions, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and relationship issues.
(848) 216-0966 View (848) 216-0966
Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
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Photo of Allison Layman, LAC, Counselor
Allison Layman
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Allison has experience working with childre, adolescents and adults who struggle with life transitions, anxiety, drepression, oppositional behavior and substance use. Her approach is client-centered by int3egrating evidence-based modalities of therapy including Person-Centerd Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Allison has experience working with childre, adolescents and adults who struggle with life transitions, anxiety, drepression, oppositional behavior and substance use. Her approach is client-centered by int3egrating evidence-based modalities of therapy including Person-Centerd Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(908) 224-5437 View (908) 224-5437
Photo of Karyn Gasser, LSW
Karyn Gasser
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Karyn provides services to adults, teens and children and assists clients facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem issues, PTSD, complex trauma, and various mood disorders. She utilizes a holistic, client –centered, strengths based approach, leaning on cognitive behavior modalities, evidence-based therapy, and mindfulness. Karyn is very passionate about the intersection of mind/body and how practices grounded in somatics can help clients navigate their lives with self-compassion.
Karyn provides services to adults, teens and children and assists clients facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem issues, PTSD, complex trauma, and various mood disorders. She utilizes a holistic, client –centered, strengths based approach, leaning on cognitive behavior modalities, evidence-based therapy, and mindfulness. Karyn is very passionate about the intersection of mind/body and how practices grounded in somatics can help clients navigate their lives with self-compassion.
(732) 858-0166 View (732) 858-0166
Photo of Rev. Carrie May Price-Knospe, MA, Lic, Clinic, Pastor, Counsel, Pastoral Counselor
Rev. Carrie May Price-Knospe
Pastoral Counselor, MA, Lic, Clinic, Pastor, Counsel
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warren, NJ 07059
If you are searching for a counselor who will help you heal and be free from anxiety , depression , addictions or a strong faith based counselor to help you navigate through your current situation with wisdom and tools , I am the one for you . I have been counseling since 2009 in an array of different venues from trauma centered therapy to addiction homes for men and women . Our counsel is effective and unique because we use inner healing , therapy and intense spiritual freedom work . I am the counselor you will get results for you, your Marraige and family will be changed for generations.
If you are searching for a counselor who will help you heal and be free from anxiety , depression , addictions or a strong faith based counselor to help you navigate through your current situation with wisdom and tools , I am the one for you . I have been counseling since 2009 in an array of different venues from trauma centered therapy to addiction homes for men and women . Our counsel is effective and unique because we use inner healing , therapy and intense spiritual freedom work . I am the counselor you will get results for you, your Marraige and family will be changed for generations.
(908) 325-5169 View (908) 325-5169
Photo of Pamela Babik, ACT, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Babik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACT, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Break old patterns, heal from the past, and move forward with better, healthier relationships with yourself and others. Using evidence-based practice, you'll develop resilience, find your focus and free yourself from old beliefs and expectations and make conscious, positive decisions to move you closer to a life with more ease, self-awareness, acceptance and growth.
Break old patterns, heal from the past, and move forward with better, healthier relationships with yourself and others. Using evidence-based practice, you'll develop resilience, find your focus and free yourself from old beliefs and expectations and make conscious, positive decisions to move you closer to a life with more ease, self-awareness, acceptance and growth.
(908) 388-9538 View (908) 388-9538
Photo of Rebecca Rogers, LSW
Rebecca Rogers
LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warren, NJ 07059
Accepting New Clients! Finding the right therapist is crucial for successful treatment. Having worked in a variety of clinical settings, including pediatric medical care, intensive in-home therapy, and outpatient psychotherapy, I have experience in providing extensive mental health treatment to preteens, adolescences, and young adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, obsessive fears, and difficulty adjusting to life transitions. I also specialize in the treatment of repetitive worries, difficult peer relationships, and negative thought patterns. I serve individuals ages 9 to 30.
Accepting New Clients! Finding the right therapist is crucial for successful treatment. Having worked in a variety of clinical settings, including pediatric medical care, intensive in-home therapy, and outpatient psychotherapy, I have experience in providing extensive mental health treatment to preteens, adolescences, and young adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, obsessive fears, and difficulty adjusting to life transitions. I also specialize in the treatment of repetitive worries, difficult peer relationships, and negative thought patterns. I serve individuals ages 9 to 30.
(973) 447-9526 View (973) 447-9526
Photo of Janie L Feldman, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Janie L Feldman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
In these stressful times, feelings of anxiety and isolation can be overwhelming. I am here to support you. I can help you cope with all your stress, whether you feel depressed, anxious, disconnected ... or just feel like you are stuck where you are. Together we can explore strategies to help you manage your feelings, what's getting in your way, and uncover ways you can begin to move forward. We can develop a treatment plan with goals that are both meaningful and achievable. Then I can help you understand where you are, decide where you want to be, and very importantly, how to get there. Call me for a consultation to get going!
In these stressful times, feelings of anxiety and isolation can be overwhelming. I am here to support you. I can help you cope with all your stress, whether you feel depressed, anxious, disconnected ... or just feel like you are stuck where you are. Together we can explore strategies to help you manage your feelings, what's getting in your way, and uncover ways you can begin to move forward. We can develop a treatment plan with goals that are both meaningful and achievable. Then I can help you understand where you are, decide where you want to be, and very importantly, how to get there. Call me for a consultation to get going!
(848) 257-9848 View (848) 257-9848

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tammy Dorff, PsyD, Psychologist
Tammy Dorff
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
I have specialized training and experience in play therapy, parenting, working with LGBTQ clients and their families, EMDR, crisis intervention, and feminist therapy.
I have a diverse practice in which I work with adults, children, adolescents and couples who are struggling with a variety of different issues. These include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, relationship problems, school and behavioral issues, parenting challenges, ADHD, low self-esteem, stress, sexual orientation and gender identity concerns, struggles with spirituality, self-injurious behavior, adoption, dealing with medical problems, grief and loss, trauma, and coping with divorce and its aftermath. My ideal client is one who wants help and is feeling ready to do the work necessary to improve and enrich his or her life.
I have specialized training and experience in play therapy, parenting, working with LGBTQ clients and their families, EMDR, crisis intervention, and feminist therapy.
I have a diverse practice in which I work with adults, children, adolescents and couples who are struggling with a variety of different issues. These include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, relationship problems, school and behavioral issues, parenting challenges, ADHD, low self-esteem, stress, sexual orientation and gender identity concerns, struggles with spirituality, self-injurious behavior, adoption, dealing with medical problems, grief and loss, trauma, and coping with divorce and its aftermath. My ideal client is one who wants help and is feeling ready to do the work necessary to improve and enrich his or her life.
(732) 201-2138 View (732) 201-2138
Photo of Iris Aybar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris Aybar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
In my approach I incorporate interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) along with the use of creative approaches stemming from expressive play & art therapies.
As we face life’s challenges, we may also be facing the opportunity to find growth & meaning through our most difficult experiences. I am here to provide you with warmth, respect, & kindness as you face these difficult moments. I will aim to work alongside you, supporting you through the process of recognizing your strengths, uncovering & learning new skills, & problem solving ways to effectively cope with whatever difficulties you may be facing.
In my approach I incorporate interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) along with the use of creative approaches stemming from expressive play & art therapies.
As we face life’s challenges, we may also be facing the opportunity to find growth & meaning through our most difficult experiences. I am here to provide you with warmth, respect, & kindness as you face these difficult moments. I will aim to work alongside you, supporting you through the process of recognizing your strengths, uncovering & learning new skills, & problem solving ways to effectively cope with whatever difficulties you may be facing.
(908) 263-1011 View (908) 263-1011
Photo of Laura DeMarzo, EdD, Psychologist
Laura DeMarzo
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
For over 30 years CPS works hard at getting you and your family the results you need. Specialties include EMDR, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorders, anxieties, depression, and trauma and addiction. We work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Iwe offer a solution oriented motivvating approach with an emphasis on skill building through Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT, DBT). We help develop effective strategies to cope with stress, build self_esteem and improve relationships. We offer Group therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, Play and Sand Therapy, Hypnotherapy and mediation/divorce coaching.
For over 30 years CPS works hard at getting you and your family the results you need. Specialties include EMDR, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorders, anxieties, depression, and trauma and addiction. We work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Iwe offer a solution oriented motivvating approach with an emphasis on skill building through Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT, DBT). We help develop effective strategies to cope with stress, build self_esteem and improve relationships. We offer Group therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, Play and Sand Therapy, Hypnotherapy and mediation/divorce coaching.
(908) 768-4651 View (908) 768-4651
Photo of Laurence J Horowitz, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurence J Horowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Watchung, NJ 07069
I see children, adolescents, and emerging young adults. Clients I see face challenges including but not limited to anxiety, bedwetting, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, or difficulties in social relationships. I provide a safe and supportive space where my clients and their parents can express themselves, find acceptance, and work toward success. Through the therapeutic process, we develop coping strategies for improving communication skills, fostering self-acceptance, achieving overall emotional well-being, and an overall more cohesive family system. For children, I specialize in child-centered play therapy, utilizing a
I see children, adolescents, and emerging young adults. Clients I see face challenges including but not limited to anxiety, bedwetting, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, or difficulties in social relationships. I provide a safe and supportive space where my clients and their parents can express themselves, find acceptance, and work toward success. Through the therapeutic process, we develop coping strategies for improving communication skills, fostering self-acceptance, achieving overall emotional well-being, and an overall more cohesive family system. For children, I specialize in child-centered play therapy, utilizing a
(201) 597-0565 View (201) 597-0565
Photo of Cara Tilghman, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cara Tilghman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
With play therapy I have been able to help many families better understand their children's needs and nurture their development.
I have been working with adults, teenagers, young children, and families as a whole for many years, using a positive strengths-based approach. I specialize in a number of evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for adults and teenagers, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand play Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and general behavioral modification for younger children and adolescents. I am committed to helping people of all ages with a range of challenges such as sells-harm, suicidal ideation, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, school refusal, trauma, attachment/adjustment difficulties, oppositional behaviors, and general family conflict.
With play therapy I have been able to help many families better understand their children's needs and nurture their development.
I have been working with adults, teenagers, young children, and families as a whole for many years, using a positive strengths-based approach. I specialize in a number of evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for adults and teenagers, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand play Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and general behavioral modification for younger children and adolescents. I am committed to helping people of all ages with a range of challenges such as sells-harm, suicidal ideation, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, school refusal, trauma, attachment/adjustment difficulties, oppositional behaviors, and general family conflict.
(908) 652-7013 View (908) 652-7013
Photo of Carolyn Flynn, MA, LPC, CD, IMH-E, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Flynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CD, IMH-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raritan, NJ 08869
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
The most difficult times of our lives present the greatest opportunities to become our full, authentic selves. I work with both children and adults offering a warm, accepting, and safe space to grow and change. My philosophy is that every person is doing the best they can with what they have in the moment. My clients come to be to be fully seen, accepted, and understood. This allows them to see themselves in a new way and come into alignment with their best selves.
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
The most difficult times of our lives present the greatest opportunities to become our full, authentic selves. I work with both children and adults offering a warm, accepting, and safe space to grow and change. My philosophy is that every person is doing the best they can with what they have in the moment. My clients come to be to be fully seen, accepted, and understood. This allows them to see themselves in a new way and come into alignment with their best selves.
(908) 836-7545 View (908) 836-7545
Photo of Geraldine V. Oades-Sese, PhD, Psychologist
Geraldine V. Oades-Sese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior management, and stress reduction/mindfulness.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit.
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior management, and stress reduction/mindfulness.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit.
(732) 993-7262 View (732) 993-7262
Photo of Lisa Morra, LCSW-S, RPT, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Morra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
During these uncertain times, feelings of worry, sadness, anger and loneliness are more common, but you are not alone and do not need to face these feelings in isolation. My goal is to support you as we work together in a safe, non-judgmental environment where you will find compassion, understanding and resolution. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist I have 20+ years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults specializing in anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, parent/child attachment, grief/loss, family issues, child play therapy and parent training for adoption/foster care.
During these uncertain times, feelings of worry, sadness, anger and loneliness are more common, but you are not alone and do not need to face these feelings in isolation. My goal is to support you as we work together in a safe, non-judgmental environment where you will find compassion, understanding and resolution. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist I have 20+ years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults specializing in anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, parent/child attachment, grief/loss, family issues, child play therapy and parent training for adoption/foster care.
(908) 650-8251 View (908) 650-8251
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.