Play Therapy in De Witt, NY

Photo of Jennifer Wainman-Sauda, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Jennifer Wainman-Sauda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The Family Center offers unique therapies that are proven effective such as: family play therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), hand in hand parenting, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), and child play therapy.
Welcome to The Family Center. We provide therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and children. We can help you work on any presenting problem such as anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or relationship conflict. We specialize in helping families who have children with ADHD, anxiety, behavioral, and Autism Spectrum Disorders including PDA (Pathological Demand Aviodance). We also provide couples and marital therapy and individual therapy. We believe in helping you live fully; happy with yourself, and connected with your partner, child, and family. We currently have 10 skilled licensed therapists on staff.
The Family Center offers unique therapies that are proven effective such as: family play therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), hand in hand parenting, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), and child play therapy.
Welcome to The Family Center. We provide therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and children. We can help you work on any presenting problem such as anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or relationship conflict. We specialize in helping families who have children with ADHD, anxiety, behavioral, and Autism Spectrum Disorders including PDA (Pathological Demand Aviodance). We also provide couples and marital therapy and individual therapy. We believe in helping you live fully; happy with yourself, and connected with your partner, child, and family. We currently have 10 skilled licensed therapists on staff.
(315) 496-1357 View (315) 496-1357
Photo of Carrie Corby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carrie Corby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Living our best life authentically with our values and principles is possible yet difficult at times. There are challenges in our own potential and sometimes we carry that into relationships we have with ourselves, parents, children, significant others, friends, teachers and/or coworkers. The therapeutic relationship is the foundation to personal growth. The focus in my practice is psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I work in developing a trusting, safe, supportive environment so you are able to develop strategies to improve your overall quality of life through various therapeutic modalities.
Living our best life authentically with our values and principles is possible yet difficult at times. There are challenges in our own potential and sometimes we carry that into relationships we have with ourselves, parents, children, significant others, friends, teachers and/or coworkers. The therapeutic relationship is the foundation to personal growth. The focus in my practice is psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I work in developing a trusting, safe, supportive environment so you are able to develop strategies to improve your overall quality of life through various therapeutic modalities.
(315) 302-1473 View (315) 302-1473

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bonnie Dekin, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Bonnie Dekin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also utilize Trauma Focused CBT, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and more.
Now accepting new clients! Welcome! Let's collaborate and discover new potential and new strategies for life. Whether you are having feelings of anxiety, sadness, fears and worries, couple or family relationship issues I am here to help. I have advanced training to help you and your partner heal and reconnect. In addition, I offer clinical Emotionally Focused Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I work from an integrative/systemic perspective while considering Attachment Theory as it relates to all aspects of being human. I consider your unique perspectives and culture as we work together to help you heal.
I also utilize Trauma Focused CBT, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and more.
Now accepting new clients! Welcome! Let's collaborate and discover new potential and new strategies for life. Whether you are having feelings of anxiety, sadness, fears and worries, couple or family relationship issues I am here to help. I have advanced training to help you and your partner heal and reconnect. In addition, I offer clinical Emotionally Focused Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I work from an integrative/systemic perspective while considering Attachment Theory as it relates to all aspects of being human. I consider your unique perspectives and culture as we work together to help you heal.
(315) 757-3580 View (315) 757-3580
Photo of Dotti Howe - Neurodiversity Play Therapy, Parenting & Psychosis, Counselor, LMHC-D, RPT™
Neurodiversity Play Therapy, Parenting & Psychosis
Counselor, LMHC-D, RPT™
Verified Verified
Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Expertise in Autism, ADHD, SM, HSP, PDA, ARFID, FASD, PANDAS, TBI, LGBTQIA+, psychosis, play therapy, EMDR, adoption, veterans, and addiction.
If you’ve found me, you know how difficult it can be to seek answers in the areas of understanding the differences in communication, ways of learning, and social preferences for both neurodiverse children and their parents. You are most likely exhausted and eager to learn more about science-based resources to help your child succeed, as you haven’t been afforded effective parent management techniques or learned about the neurobiology of attachment. Developing co-regulation techniques is essential for calming the nervous system. These techniques guide families and improve family function.
Expertise in Autism, ADHD, SM, HSP, PDA, ARFID, FASD, PANDAS, TBI, LGBTQIA+, psychosis, play therapy, EMDR, adoption, veterans, and addiction.
If you’ve found me, you know how difficult it can be to seek answers in the areas of understanding the differences in communication, ways of learning, and social preferences for both neurodiverse children and their parents. You are most likely exhausted and eager to learn more about science-based resources to help your child succeed, as you haven’t been afforded effective parent management techniques or learned about the neurobiology of attachment. Developing co-regulation techniques is essential for calming the nervous system. These techniques guide families and improve family function.
(607) 235-2986 View (607) 235-2986
Photo of Sameerah Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Sameerah Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13201
It’s often said that play is the child’s work and it’s certainly the language they “speak” in therapy.
I work with individuals from all walks of life and all ages to assist them in creating the changes they want in their lives and relationships with themselves and others. I believe that each client is unique and deserves treatment that is based on love and kindness and honors that uniqueness.Our faith is the vehicle that can bring us closer to those changes and help us find meaning and fulfillment. Areas of particular focus in my practice include trauma, learning disabilities, parent-child issues, athletic performance problems, and navigating life transitions a longtime athlete and coach; I’m experienced in the challenges of athletes
It’s often said that play is the child’s work and it’s certainly the language they “speak” in therapy.
I work with individuals from all walks of life and all ages to assist them in creating the changes they want in their lives and relationships with themselves and others. I believe that each client is unique and deserves treatment that is based on love and kindness and honors that uniqueness.Our faith is the vehicle that can bring us closer to those changes and help us find meaning and fulfillment. Areas of particular focus in my practice include trauma, learning disabilities, parent-child issues, athletic performance problems, and navigating life transitions a longtime athlete and coach; I’m experienced in the challenges of athletes
(315) 776-7341 View (315) 776-7341
Photo of Kirsten Linnea Bonnell - Anahata Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, Counselor, LMHC
Anahata Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104
I practice "playful EMDR" which is trauma therapy and play therapy together for children.
I love working with adults who identify as neurodivergent and also have a trauma hx. they want to explore. I work with clients who are interested in processing relationship trauma and many other types of trauma. If talk therapy hasn't helped you fulfill your goals then my approaches might. I enjoy helping clients explore relationship patterns that don't serve them. I offer intensive therapy sessions for individual clients. Therapy intensives are helpful because clients can do a lot of processing in a short time. This is a great option for busy people or someone who has had a life disruption who wants to address it immediately.
I practice "playful EMDR" which is trauma therapy and play therapy together for children.
I love working with adults who identify as neurodivergent and also have a trauma hx. they want to explore. I work with clients who are interested in processing relationship trauma and many other types of trauma. If talk therapy hasn't helped you fulfill your goals then my approaches might. I enjoy helping clients explore relationship patterns that don't serve them. I offer intensive therapy sessions for individual clients. Therapy intensives are helpful because clients can do a lot of processing in a short time. This is a great option for busy people or someone who has had a life disruption who wants to address it immediately.
(315) 288-7087 View (315) 288-7087
Photo of Kathryn Mason, Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC
Kathryn Mason
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Manlius, NY 13104
I engage in children's natural play language to unpack and examine a child’s strong feelings with the goal of helping all children build on their strengths and develop resiliency .
My specialties include working with children who are experiencing stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns.
I engage in children's natural play language to unpack and examine a child’s strong feelings with the goal of helping all children build on their strengths and develop resiliency .
My specialties include working with children who are experiencing stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns.
(845) 506-8065 View (845) 506-8065
Photo of Evelyn Zevallos, Counselor, LMHC
Evelyn Zevallos
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m trained in Person Centered, Trauma Informed Care, Strengths Based, Narrative and Play Therapy.
As a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, I help individuals engage in some of life’s most difficult conversations. I strive to provide a welcoming space where we can work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I offer support to individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and adults. I provide therapy in English or Spanish.
I’m trained in Person Centered, Trauma Informed Care, Strengths Based, Narrative and Play Therapy.
As a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, I help individuals engage in some of life’s most difficult conversations. I strive to provide a welcoming space where we can work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I offer support to individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and adults. I provide therapy in English or Spanish.
(315) 924-7479 View (315) 924-7479
Photo of Lisa M Clancy-Bruce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCPT, CRM
Lisa M Clancy-Bruce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCPT, CRM
Verified Verified
Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Most emotional instability is caused from past trauma, loss and/or multi-systemic patterns/themes which continue to play out in our lives.
My mission is to help guide, support and inspire individuals to have a better understanding and trust of oneself. To coach and teach ways to self-regulate emotions and learn new ways of thinking that inspire clients to make changes in their lives that last. Change is evolutionary, each individual changes at their own pace.
Most emotional instability is caused from past trauma, loss and/or multi-systemic patterns/themes which continue to play out in our lives.
My mission is to help guide, support and inspire individuals to have a better understanding and trust of oneself. To coach and teach ways to self-regulate emotions and learn new ways of thinking that inspire clients to make changes in their lives that last. Change is evolutionary, each individual changes at their own pace.
(315) 842-4663 View (315) 842-4663
Photo of Toni L Vadala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, FDC
Toni L Vadala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, FDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
They can include goals, treatment planning, talk therapy, learning coping and communication, modeling, role play as needed, and other strategies as deemed appropriate.
People choose therapy because they are ready for something different than what they feel they are getting without it in their lives. They may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, stress, may have suffered from traumatic experiences, or have a history of abuse, neglect; have feelings of isolation, loneliness, or feel anger inside without a grasp on why, or maybe they do but want to get it out. There are times when clients feel like there is nothing left for them. That's when it is time to reach out. I'm here to listen and provide support, to help them find what they need, with healthier methods.
They can include goals, treatment planning, talk therapy, learning coping and communication, modeling, role play as needed, and other strategies as deemed appropriate.
People choose therapy because they are ready for something different than what they feel they are getting without it in their lives. They may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, stress, may have suffered from traumatic experiences, or have a history of abuse, neglect; have feelings of isolation, loneliness, or feel anger inside without a grasp on why, or maybe they do but want to get it out. There are times when clients feel like there is nothing left for them. That's when it is time to reach out. I'm here to listen and provide support, to help them find what they need, with healthier methods.
(680) 205-9976 View (680) 205-9976
Photo of Karrie Damm - Family Matters of CNY, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Family Matters of CNY
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Syracuse, NY 13212
Family Matters of CNY specializes in treating families experiencing a high conflict divorce and is also a training site for Master’s level Marriage and Family Therapists. Our trauma-informed therapists work with all ages and family compositions and can incorporate a variety of approaches, including play therapy. Our practice welcomes individuals and families from all backgrounds and experiences, including gender-expansive and LGBTQIA+. We currently have openings for private pay clients at a reduced rate with new professionals.
Family Matters of CNY specializes in treating families experiencing a high conflict divorce and is also a training site for Master’s level Marriage and Family Therapists. Our trauma-informed therapists work with all ages and family compositions and can incorporate a variety of approaches, including play therapy. Our practice welcomes individuals and families from all backgrounds and experiences, including gender-expansive and LGBTQIA+. We currently have openings for private pay clients at a reduced rate with new professionals.
(680) 206-2912 View (680) 206-2912
Photo of Jennifer Wainman-Sauda - The Family Center, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
The Family Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Baldwinsville, NY 13027
The Family Center offers unique therapies such as play therapy, Internal Family Systems approach (IFS), EFT, and physical counseling.
Hello. Our office is located on RT 31 in Baldwinsville across from the State Police Department. We have 12 providers and we are accepting new clients. All of our providers have different expertise and populations they work with. We see adults, children, couples and families. Please feel free to email us through our website or call our office directly 315-720-1118. We believe in helping you live fully; happy with yourself, and connected with your partner, child, and family.
The Family Center offers unique therapies such as play therapy, Internal Family Systems approach (IFS), EFT, and physical counseling.
Hello. Our office is located on RT 31 in Baldwinsville across from the State Police Department. We have 12 providers and we are accepting new clients. All of our providers have different expertise and populations they work with. We see adults, children, couples and families. Please feel free to email us through our website or call our office directly 315-720-1118. We believe in helping you live fully; happy with yourself, and connected with your partner, child, and family.
(315) 903-5581 View (315) 903-5581
Photo of Shelley L Musci - Serenity Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serenity Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Play therapy offered.
Life can be tricky sometimes leaving us feeling stuck, alone, and confused. Taking the first step toward change can seem overwhelming and scary. I appreciate the strength it takes to even consider the possibility of making a change. I provide counseling support to individuals with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. As a therapist, I offer a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment with an individualized approach to each client to promote personal growth. I encourage recognition and development of inner strengths and self-compassion to facilitate the process of change as well as resolve challenging issues.
Play therapy offered.
Life can be tricky sometimes leaving us feeling stuck, alone, and confused. Taking the first step toward change can seem overwhelming and scary. I appreciate the strength it takes to even consider the possibility of making a change. I provide counseling support to individuals with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. As a therapist, I offer a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment with an individualized approach to each client to promote personal growth. I encourage recognition and development of inner strengths and self-compassion to facilitate the process of change as well as resolve challenging issues.
(607) 208-9007 View (607) 208-9007
Photo of Tyler Hill, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFT
Tyler Hill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Manlius, NY 13104
The treatment types I tend to utilize are EFT, CBT, IFS, Narrative, and Play Therapy.
Accepting new clients! Are you struggling to connect with your partner or family member? Does life constantly present challenges to you? Let me help. I enjoy working with people to make sense of and untangle these difficulties. Issues can stem from various places, but I believe our emotions, trauma, and our relationships can affect our lives more than anything. While these things can be scary and complicated, it’s important to explore these aspects of our lives, while also finding our own sense of change. I work with couples, families and individuals of all ages.
The treatment types I tend to utilize are EFT, CBT, IFS, Narrative, and Play Therapy.
Accepting new clients! Are you struggling to connect with your partner or family member? Does life constantly present challenges to you? Let me help. I enjoy working with people to make sense of and untangle these difficulties. Issues can stem from various places, but I believe our emotions, trauma, and our relationships can affect our lives more than anything. While these things can be scary and complicated, it’s important to explore these aspects of our lives, while also finding our own sense of change. I work with couples, families and individuals of all ages.
(315) 618-2721 View (315) 618-2721
Photo of Kayla Weaver, LP-MFT
Kayla Weaver
LP-MFT
Verified Verified
Marcellus, NY 13108
I use play therapy, narrative, experiential, EMDR and IFS-informed approaches to meet each client’s unique needs.
Life feels heavy sometimes – and when it does, you deserve a space to set it down. You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re a parent worried about your child, someone navigating identity, or an adult carrying the weight of past experiences, therapy can offer relief and connection. I provide a space where you or your child can feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow, heal, and move forward at a pace that feels right for you.
I use play therapy, narrative, experiential, EMDR and IFS-informed approaches to meet each client’s unique needs.
Life feels heavy sometimes – and when it does, you deserve a space to set it down. You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re a parent worried about your child, someone navigating identity, or an adult carrying the weight of past experiences, therapy can offer relief and connection. I provide a space where you or your child can feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow, heal, and move forward at a pace that feels right for you.
(315) 306-3694 View (315) 306-3694
Photo of Angela Cole, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Angela Cole
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baldwinsville, NY 13027
I also like to utilize expressive arts and play therapy within all sessions because art, music, play, and the outdoors are all great opportunities to find peace and understanding.
I enjoy working with people of all ages. My passion is with children and teens. I believe people want to be heard and understood; sometimes life doesn't allow that. I love offering the space for people to feel comfortable and safe while working on themselves and entrusting me with their thoughts and feelings. Therapy can be a hard scary first step to finding yourself and I hope to help you along that journey. As your therapist, together, we can create a therapeutic process that fits just for you.
I also like to utilize expressive arts and play therapy within all sessions because art, music, play, and the outdoors are all great opportunities to find peace and understanding.
I enjoy working with people of all ages. My passion is with children and teens. I believe people want to be heard and understood; sometimes life doesn't allow that. I love offering the space for people to feel comfortable and safe while working on themselves and entrusting me with their thoughts and feelings. Therapy can be a hard scary first step to finding yourself and I hope to help you along that journey. As your therapist, together, we can create a therapeutic process that fits just for you.
(315) 375-7403 View (315) 375-7403
Photo of Tina J Iacovissi, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCPT
Tina J Iacovissi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057
I specialize in working with children and adolescents, using techniques like play therapy to connect with younger clients.
Are you or a loved one feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burdened by past events? As a dedicated marriage and family therapist, I’m here to guide you through the challenges that affect your mental health and well-being. I provide a compassionate, safe space where individuals, couples, and families can heal and grow.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents, using techniques like play therapy to connect with younger clients.
Are you or a loved one feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burdened by past events? As a dedicated marriage and family therapist, I’m here to guide you through the challenges that affect your mental health and well-being. I provide a compassionate, safe space where individuals, couples, and families can heal and grow.
(315) 306-3797 View (315) 306-3797
Photo of Lindsay Burgmeier, Licensed Mental Health Counselor , LMHC
Lindsay Burgmeier
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057
I am trained in Child Centered Play Therapy Techniques and I believe that “Toys are children’s words and play is their language” (Gary L.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about helping others reach their full potential. I work with people of all ages and help guide them towards the path of healing. In my work with all clients, I do not rush the process. I believe that everyone has value and strengths that they bring to the table.
I am trained in Child Centered Play Therapy Techniques and I believe that “Toys are children’s words and play is their language” (Gary L.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about helping others reach their full potential. I work with people of all ages and help guide them towards the path of healing. In my work with all clients, I do not rush the process. I believe that everyone has value and strengths that they bring to the table.
(315) 918-7624 View (315) 918-7624
Photo of Julia Massay-Donato, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Julia Massay-Donato
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been trained extensively in Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Emotion Focused Treatment, Parenting needs as well Child Play Therapy.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been practicing for over 10 years with individuals, couples, and parents. I specialize in issues around anxiety, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem, trauma, women and families. I have most experience working with young adults and couples and always work to initially create trust and comfort, so clients can gain strength in their vulnerability. I feel strongly that all individuals deserve to feel and experience their best selves, no matter what has happened in their lives. We have one life, and I want everyone to feel like they can enjoy theirs.
I have been trained extensively in Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Emotion Focused Treatment, Parenting needs as well Child Play Therapy.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been practicing for over 10 years with individuals, couples, and parents. I specialize in issues around anxiety, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem, trauma, women and families. I have most experience working with young adults and couples and always work to initially create trust and comfort, so clients can gain strength in their vulnerability. I feel strongly that all individuals deserve to feel and experience their best selves, no matter what has happened in their lives. We have one life, and I want everyone to feel like they can enjoy theirs.
(315) 825-6257 View (315) 825-6257
Photo of Jahleh Mohammadi - Sanctuary Mental Health Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor, LMHC, RPT, CCPT
Sanctuary Mental Health Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, RPT, CCPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13206
Our clinicians have been classically trained in many of the greats (IFS, CBT, DBT, play therapy, etc.
In our work with children, we speak to them and treat them with the same respect that we do adults. Along with your goals for your child, ours will be helping them add more "shock absorbers" for life. We typically take an indirect and playful approach and tailor it to the child's needs within both their own family system and their world outside of that.
Our clinicians have been classically trained in many of the greats (IFS, CBT, DBT, play therapy, etc.
In our work with children, we speak to them and treat them with the same respect that we do adults. Along with your goals for your child, ours will be helping them add more "shock absorbers" for life. We typically take an indirect and playful approach and tailor it to the child's needs within both their own family system and their world outside of that.
(315) 277-6703 View (315) 277-6703

See more therapy options for De Witt

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.