Photo of Gabriella Zanne, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriella Zanne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mohegan Lake, NY 10547  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) offering services to children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, substance abuse disorders, domestic violence, sexual abuse/ assault, variety of mental health disorders and addressing everyday life challenges.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) offering services to children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, substance abuse disorders, domestic violence, sexual abuse/ assault, variety of mental health disorders and addressing everyday life challenges.
(631) 557-5973 View (631) 557-5973

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Eileen M Feliciano, PsyD, MSEd, Psychologist
Eileen M Feliciano
Psychologist, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520
I have expertise in engaging adolescents, transitioning young adults to college life, and treating young children in play therapy.
We are all much more simply human than otherwise (Harry Stack Sullivan). I believe that one finds mental health in meaningful, connected relationships with others-our parents, partners, children, friends, siblings, and therapists. I bring warmth, humor, and honesty into my therapeutic work, and act as a support and guide as you work to improve areas of your life that you are inspired to change. I focus on growth and reparation, not pathology. I have a broad range of experience with all ages and ranges of problems, and can offer comprehensive treatment to children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I have expertise in engaging adolescents, transitioning young adults to college life, and treating young children in play therapy.
We are all much more simply human than otherwise (Harry Stack Sullivan). I believe that one finds mental health in meaningful, connected relationships with others-our parents, partners, children, friends, siblings, and therapists. I bring warmth, humor, and honesty into my therapeutic work, and act as a support and guide as you work to improve areas of your life that you are inspired to change. I focus on growth and reparation, not pathology. I have a broad range of experience with all ages and ranges of problems, and can offer comprehensive treatment to children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(646) 490-9933 View (646) 490-9933
Photo of Carolyn Grosso, Psychologist
Carolyn Grosso
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Bedford Hills, NY 10507
I use a combination of talk, Cognitive-Behavioral, and play therapy, in order to build healthy, social skills.
My practice consists of children ages 3-18 who display emotional and/or behavioral symptoms. The majority of my patient population include children suffering from Anxiety (which can involve Separation Anxiety, Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Depression and other mood-related issues, low self-esteem, Attachment Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-Disorder and behavioral disturbances. Many of the children I work with come in to address socialization issues, either through 1:1 therapy or through my Social Skills Group for Kids. I specialize in diagnostic evaluations and treatment for pediatric populations.
I use a combination of talk, Cognitive-Behavioral, and play therapy, in order to build healthy, social skills.
My practice consists of children ages 3-18 who display emotional and/or behavioral symptoms. The majority of my patient population include children suffering from Anxiety (which can involve Separation Anxiety, Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Depression and other mood-related issues, low self-esteem, Attachment Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-Disorder and behavioral disturbances. Many of the children I work with come in to address socialization issues, either through 1:1 therapy or through my Social Skills Group for Kids. I specialize in diagnostic evaluations and treatment for pediatric populations.
(914) 721-0606 View (914) 721-0606
Photo of Jessi McKenna, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Jessi McKenna
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Katonah, NY 10536
Hi! I'm Jessi, a licensed psychotherapist in NY and CT. I focus on two different types of primary clients. 1) Young women in their 20s-30s focusing on self exploration, transitions, relationships, communication, anxiety and confidence. 2) Children and their parents with a focus on play therapy/techniques, anxiety and parent training. I believe all our actions are derived from previous life experiences and my goal is to support clients in understanding their actions, while learning tools for self growth in both life and parenting. I currently hold sessions both in person and virtually. My office is located in Westchester NY.
Hi! I'm Jessi, a licensed psychotherapist in NY and CT. I focus on two different types of primary clients. 1) Young women in their 20s-30s focusing on self exploration, transitions, relationships, communication, anxiety and confidence. 2) Children and their parents with a focus on play therapy/techniques, anxiety and parent training. I believe all our actions are derived from previous life experiences and my goal is to support clients in understanding their actions, while learning tools for self growth in both life and parenting. I currently hold sessions both in person and virtually. My office is located in Westchester NY.
(646) 759-2605 View (646) 759-2605
Photo of Vanessa C Andrews, MA, CCLS, ATR-BC, LCAT, RPT, Art Therapist
Vanessa C Andrews
Art Therapist, MA, CCLS, ATR-BC, LCAT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ossining, NY 10562
Please use email for new client inquiries, accepting clients between the hours of 8a-2p only). Children express themselves most naturally through play and art, especially when words are difficult and fail to capture the emotions they may be experiencing. Creative play and art therapy interventions to help children explore therapy in a fun, safe and natural environment. Individual sessions allow children to become comfortable in therapy while exploring the power of play and the creative process.
Please use email for new client inquiries, accepting clients between the hours of 8a-2p only). Children express themselves most naturally through play and art, especially when words are difficult and fail to capture the emotions they may be experiencing. Creative play and art therapy interventions to help children explore therapy in a fun, safe and natural environment. Individual sessions allow children to become comfortable in therapy while exploring the power of play and the creative process.
(518) 520-3373 View (518) 520-3373
Photo of undefined - Mindfully Mental Health Counseling LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Mindfully Mental Health Counseling LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Katonah, NY 10536  (Online Only)
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) & mindfulness, and I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults, adolescents & families, as well as Play Therapy and behavioral strategies for children (ages 3+).
Discover yourself and work towards your goals. Gain self-acceptance while striving for change. Transform your ability to cope with multiple life stressors and build a life worth living. I can help you with issues such as difficult life changes, stress management, mood instability, social and relationship issues, behavioral and school issues, trauma, and other every day struggles. I offer a collaborative approach that is tailored to your needs, emphasizing your strengths and finding tangible solutions to help you feel more fulfilled. I am dedicated to providing a non-judgmental and safe environment to promote growth and healing.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) & mindfulness, and I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults, adolescents & families, as well as Play Therapy and behavioral strategies for children (ages 3+).
Discover yourself and work towards your goals. Gain self-acceptance while striving for change. Transform your ability to cope with multiple life stressors and build a life worth living. I can help you with issues such as difficult life changes, stress management, mood instability, social and relationship issues, behavioral and school issues, trauma, and other every day struggles. I offer a collaborative approach that is tailored to your needs, emphasizing your strengths and finding tangible solutions to help you feel more fulfilled. I am dedicated to providing a non-judgmental and safe environment to promote growth and healing.
(845) 460-1024 View (845) 460-1024
Photo of Marnie Jessica Cohen, LCSWR, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marnie Jessica Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
The style used in my practice is a mix of Natural Creativity and Play Therapy based on a Psychodynamic approach.
I work with young children ages 2-16 and their families using Creative Play Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy. The areas in which I have worked extensively with children have been Anxiety, Performance Anixiety, Depression, Attention Deficit, Transitional Difficulties, Social Skills, Divorce, Loss, Separation, Anger Managerment and Learning challenges. I conduct individual, family, parent guidance/coparenting and group psychotherapy. I run Divorce, Loss and Social Skills groups for children ages 6-10. I conduct assessments/reports for Family Courts, schools-- CSE, CPSE and a child's readiness for Kindergarten as part of my practice.
The style used in my practice is a mix of Natural Creativity and Play Therapy based on a Psychodynamic approach.
I work with young children ages 2-16 and their families using Creative Play Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy. The areas in which I have worked extensively with children have been Anxiety, Performance Anixiety, Depression, Attention Deficit, Transitional Difficulties, Social Skills, Divorce, Loss, Separation, Anger Managerment and Learning challenges. I conduct individual, family, parent guidance/coparenting and group psychotherapy. I run Divorce, Loss and Social Skills groups for children ages 6-10. I conduct assessments/reports for Family Courts, schools-- CSE, CPSE and a child's readiness for Kindergarten as part of my practice.
(914) 888-2031 View (914) 888-2031
Photo of Tatyana Krychkina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tatyana Krychkina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Tatyana, an EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy trained therapist with over 16 years of experience in the mental health and child welfare fields working with children, adults, and families. I have experience in Structural Family Therapy, Multi-Systemic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy.
Hello! I’m Tatyana, an EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy trained therapist with over 16 years of experience in the mental health and child welfare fields working with children, adults, and families. I have experience in Structural Family Therapy, Multi-Systemic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy.
(845) 470-4920 View (845) 470-4920
Photo of Barbara Tholfsen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Tholfsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520
Some play with toys to create stories and characters.
You might come for therapy because you've stopped wanting anything and can barely drag yourself out of bed; You might be so worked up about something you can't concentrate or sleep at night; Maybe you don't know what you want or don't want to want what you want. Maybe you cling to relationships that go badly. Maybe you place obstacles in your own way. Maybe you know what you want but are unable to pursue it. Maybe you feel guilty or worry that something terrible will happen. Psychotherapy and/or psychoanalysis can help. For more go to my website: http://www.btholfsenlcsw.com/
Some play with toys to create stories and characters.
You might come for therapy because you've stopped wanting anything and can barely drag yourself out of bed; You might be so worked up about something you can't concentrate or sleep at night; Maybe you don't know what you want or don't want to want what you want. Maybe you cling to relationships that go badly. Maybe you place obstacles in your own way. Maybe you know what you want but are unable to pursue it. Maybe you feel guilty or worry that something terrible will happen. Psychotherapy and/or psychoanalysis can help. For more go to my website: http://www.btholfsenlcsw.com/
(914) 712-8263 View (914) 712-8263
Photo of Tarren Pagones, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Tarren Pagones
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahopac, NY 10541
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to support children, adolescents, young adults and parents who are facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, school conflict (including avoidance), and peer conflict. I am a licensed art therapist who utilizes a combination of psychotherapy, art therapy and/or play therapy to meet my clients needs. I am trained in Attachment Regulation and Competency, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, and Circle of Security. I am here to help foster difficult conversations, be reflective, build self-worth, create or enhance coping skills and improve daily living.
I am here to support children, adolescents, young adults and parents who are facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, school conflict (including avoidance), and peer conflict. I am a licensed art therapist who utilizes a combination of psychotherapy, art therapy and/or play therapy to meet my clients needs. I am trained in Attachment Regulation and Competency, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, and Circle of Security. I am here to help foster difficult conversations, be reflective, build self-worth, create or enhance coping skills and improve daily living.
(845) 516-8232 View (845) 516-8232
Photo of Jenny Kaplan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
Besides talk therapy, I weave in mindfulness, deep breathing, trauma-informed yoga, play, and nature-based approaches, including walking sessions in the woods.
I'm glad you've found yourself here. Acknowledging that you need support right now is a tough but necessary first step. Life and relationships can be complex and I find that it is often helpful have a neutral person to offer a listening ear, guidance, and to facilitate a process of gaining more insight about who you are and what you need. My role would be to help you work towards your goals, which may include building self-compassion, identifying and regulating uncomfortable emotions, processing old traumas, changing negative thoughts and patterns, overcoming challenges, strengthening relationships, implementing new coping skills.
Besides talk therapy, I weave in mindfulness, deep breathing, trauma-informed yoga, play, and nature-based approaches, including walking sessions in the woods.
I'm glad you've found yourself here. Acknowledging that you need support right now is a tough but necessary first step. Life and relationships can be complex and I find that it is often helpful have a neutral person to offer a listening ear, guidance, and to facilitate a process of gaining more insight about who you are and what you need. My role would be to help you work towards your goals, which may include building self-compassion, identifying and regulating uncomfortable emotions, processing old traumas, changing negative thoughts and patterns, overcoming challenges, strengthening relationships, implementing new coping skills.
(845) 251-4058 View (845) 251-4058
Photo of Debbie November, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie November
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
Are you or a family member struggling with feelings of anxiety or sadness? Having issues with relationships? Just feel like making some changes in your life ? Whatever your issues are , if you need someone to listen to you (without judging) and help you navigate through some of life's difficult journeys, please reach out. I will stand with you in the mess and together we will work on putting some order into whatever chaos you feel. The first step is the hardest! Send me an email or pick up the phone and give me a call. Let's see if we can figure things out together.
Are you or a family member struggling with feelings of anxiety or sadness? Having issues with relationships? Just feel like making some changes in your life ? Whatever your issues are , if you need someone to listen to you (without judging) and help you navigate through some of life's difficult journeys, please reach out. I will stand with you in the mess and together we will work on putting some order into whatever chaos you feel. The first step is the hardest! Send me an email or pick up the phone and give me a call. Let's see if we can figure things out together.
(914) 344-2064 View (914) 344-2064
Photo of Dr. Almeida - Arch Psychological, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Almeida - Arch Psychological
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
Welcome! You are in the right place. You may have heard about Arch Psychological from your trusted physician, school staff or a friend. We are so glad that you found us! We are a small, locally owned and operated therapy group serving our community for over 20 years. We look forward to connecting with you and we know that you will feel the difference in our responsiveness and follow-through.
Welcome! You are in the right place. You may have heard about Arch Psychological from your trusted physician, school staff or a friend. We are so glad that you found us! We are a small, locally owned and operated therapy group serving our community for over 20 years. We look forward to connecting with you and we know that you will feel the difference in our responsiveness and follow-through.
(845) 459-0851 View (845) 459-0851
Photo of Alana Millings, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alana Millings
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, teens, and families. I work with children and teens individually, often incorporating family sessions to help facilitate growth and change. My goal is to strengthen an individual's confidence while enhancing the family bond. I enjoy my work, and I am dedicated to approaching each person with sincerity, respect and honesty, sharing practical rather than theoretical solutions. I intuitively and compassionately support people to find freedom from limiting beliefs, perceptions, and behavior patterns, in order to discover their natural, balanced state of being.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, teens, and families. I work with children and teens individually, often incorporating family sessions to help facilitate growth and change. My goal is to strengthen an individual's confidence while enhancing the family bond. I enjoy my work, and I am dedicated to approaching each person with sincerity, respect and honesty, sharing practical rather than theoretical solutions. I intuitively and compassionately support people to find freedom from limiting beliefs, perceptions, and behavior patterns, in order to discover their natural, balanced state of being.
(347) 848-1480 View (347) 848-1480
Photo of Lauren Jukofsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Jukofsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baldwin Place, NY 10505  (Online Only)
Most of us encounter life challenges that can become unmanageable, its important to know that you are not alone. Congratulations on taking your first step towards emotional empowerment! This step is usually one of the hardest as it means that you have been thinking about making changes, probably for quite some time, and are finally ready. It takes a lot of courage to do that! It helps to know that you have a trusted and objective professional who has worked in clinical settings with individuals in crisis, chronic health illnesses, hematology/oncology, adolescent medicine, mental health, medical and bereavement.
Most of us encounter life challenges that can become unmanageable, its important to know that you are not alone. Congratulations on taking your first step towards emotional empowerment! This step is usually one of the hardest as it means that you have been thinking about making changes, probably for quite some time, and are finally ready. It takes a lot of courage to do that! It helps to know that you have a trusted and objective professional who has worked in clinical settings with individuals in crisis, chronic health illnesses, hematology/oncology, adolescent medicine, mental health, medical and bereavement.
(516) 604-5190 View (516) 604-5190
Lisa Pelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mount Kisco, NY 10549  (Online Only)
Finding a good match between yourself and a treatment provider is an important, and sometimes anxiety producing part of this process. I am very willing to help you find the right strategy for your needs, work closely at defining goals together and continuing to assess your needs and personal goals throughout the course of our work together.
Finding a good match between yourself and a treatment provider is an important, and sometimes anxiety producing part of this process. I am very willing to help you find the right strategy for your needs, work closely at defining goals together and continuing to assess your needs and personal goals throughout the course of our work together.
(914) 902-8636 View (914) 902-8636
Photo of Heather Anne Zuckerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Anne Zuckerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garrison, NY 10524
Transitions are difficult and overwhelming at any age. You feel stuck, and unable to think clearly. Many days you are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood swings, and irritability. Past traumas and the heavy weight of life are being triggered and getting in the way of your best self. Picture what it would look like to have a more positive, and stress-free life where you can move forward. I work with children and adults through issues that are causing anger, mood swings and problems with friends and relationships.
Transitions are difficult and overwhelming at any age. You feel stuck, and unable to think clearly. Many days you are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood swings, and irritability. Past traumas and the heavy weight of life are being triggered and getting in the way of your best self. Picture what it would look like to have a more positive, and stress-free life where you can move forward. I work with children and adults through issues that are causing anger, mood swings and problems with friends and relationships.
(914) 598-9093 View (914) 598-9093
Photo of Debbie Marks Kahn, MS, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist
Debbie Marks Kahn
Art Therapist, MS, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Granite Springs, NY 10527
Whether you are struggling to find meaning in your life after dealing with the loss of a loved one, failing health, life changes or one of your parents, spouse or yourself has Alzheimer's or another dementing illness I am here to help you. Your first step is a phone call away. I will travel to your home. My clients are not necessarily "artists" and there is no need to be afraid of using art materials. Art therapy uses art materials to help you or your loved one in ways that words alone cannot. It is about the process, not the product!
Whether you are struggling to find meaning in your life after dealing with the loss of a loved one, failing health, life changes or one of your parents, spouse or yourself has Alzheimer's or another dementing illness I am here to help you. Your first step is a phone call away. I will travel to your home. My clients are not necessarily "artists" and there is no need to be afraid of using art materials. Art therapy uses art materials to help you or your loved one in ways that words alone cannot. It is about the process, not the product!
(914) 338-8942 View (914) 338-8942
Photo of undefined - Westchester Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Westchester Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling stressed out or anxious lately? Perhaps you are feeling depressed or having trouble with relationships. Maybe you just want to feel more fulfilled in life. You might be worried about your adolescent. Maybe you've been told by your child's school that his/her behavior is out of control or that he/she seems depressed. Perhaps they are being bullied, cutting themselves or suffering from low self-esteem. My name is Alison Varianides and I am the Founder of Westchester Psychotherapy- a Private Group Practice specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults.
Have you been feeling stressed out or anxious lately? Perhaps you are feeling depressed or having trouble with relationships. Maybe you just want to feel more fulfilled in life. You might be worried about your adolescent. Maybe you've been told by your child's school that his/her behavior is out of control or that he/she seems depressed. Perhaps they are being bullied, cutting themselves or suffering from low self-esteem. My name is Alison Varianides and I am the Founder of Westchester Psychotherapy- a Private Group Practice specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults.
(914) 806-7376 View (914) 806-7376
Photo of Elena Garcia-Davranova, LMSW, MSEd
Elena Garcia-Davranova
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
Mahopac, NY 10541
Mrs. Garcia-Davranova works with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds throughout the life span, including children, pre-teens, adolescents and young adults. She works with people struggling with a variety of presenting concerns, including trauma, grief and loss, familial conflict, parenting, attachment and separation, anxiety and depression, school and behavioral challenges, gender and identity exploration as well as major life transitions. She has over ten years of experience as an early childhood educator and holds certification in crisis intervention counseling.
Mrs. Garcia-Davranova works with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds throughout the life span, including children, pre-teens, adolescents and young adults. She works with people struggling with a variety of presenting concerns, including trauma, grief and loss, familial conflict, parenting, attachment and separation, anxiety and depression, school and behavioral challenges, gender and identity exploration as well as major life transitions. She has over ten years of experience as an early childhood educator and holds certification in crisis intervention counseling.
(332) 248-1317 View (332) 248-1317

See more therapy options for Mohegan Lake

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.