Play Therapy in Rosedale, NY

Photo of Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Rosedale, NY
Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rosedale, NY 11422
Waitlist for new clients
With cultural sensitivity and compassion, we are client-centered and use eclectic interventions: Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Structured Family Recovery Counseling, Family Systems Therapy, (FST), Play Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy to achieve the best results.
These past two years have been difficult and everyone needs a safe place to talk about how they feel. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides that safe place. We are dedicated, licensed professions who want to help you get through these difficult times and adjust to the new normal. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides compassionate, professional counseling services from Therapists dedicated to helping you heal and grow. We are a grass roots practice with courteous staff and affordable pricing.
With cultural sensitivity and compassion, we are client-centered and use eclectic interventions: Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Structured Family Recovery Counseling, Family Systems Therapy, (FST), Play Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy to achieve the best results.
These past two years have been difficult and everyone needs a safe place to talk about how they feel. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides that safe place. We are dedicated, licensed professions who want to help you get through these difficult times and adjust to the new normal. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides compassionate, professional counseling services from Therapists dedicated to helping you heal and grow. We are a grass roots practice with courteous staff and affordable pricing.
(718) 790-4538 View (718) 790-4538
Photo of Autesh Therapy Services, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Autesh Therapy Services, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-R, LMT, CAMSII, CDVSI
Verified Verified
Rosedale, NY 11422
Welcome to Autesh Therapy Services, a burgeoning practice compelled to make a difference for humanity. Here you will find an accomplished goal driven clinician with a solid foundation in clinical therapy, group work, supervision, and a holistic approach to mental health and wellness for all.
Welcome to Autesh Therapy Services, a burgeoning practice compelled to make a difference for humanity. Here you will find an accomplished goal driven clinician with a solid foundation in clinical therapy, group work, supervision, and a holistic approach to mental health and wellness for all.
(646) 846-2817 View (646) 846-2817
Photo of Claudette K Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Claudette K Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Rosedale, NY 11422  (Online Only)
Sometimes the decision to speak with someone to get some clarity can cause us some stress. I believe that therapy is a great way of expressing oneself without feeling judged or criticized for his/her thoughts, feelings or behaviors. I believe that there are noble intent in every response; negative or positive. Given the opportunity to discuss and come up with interventions that will address the struggles will be our main focus.
Sometimes the decision to speak with someone to get some clarity can cause us some stress. I believe that therapy is a great way of expressing oneself without feeling judged or criticized for his/her thoughts, feelings or behaviors. I believe that there are noble intent in every response; negative or positive. Given the opportunity to discuss and come up with interventions that will address the struggles will be our main focus.
(516) 699-1705 View (516) 699-1705

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Scott Weisner, Psychologist in Rosedale, NY
Dr. Scott Weisner
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hewlett, NY 11557
I worked at a Children's Hospital treating childhood behavior problems, anger, depression, anxiety, & personality issues using play therapy, CBT, DBT, and parent training.
When you or someone you love is suffering, it can feel hopeless. Sadness, anxiety, and anger are our body’s signal that there is a problem that we need to deal with. Your problems may seem so overwhelming that you feel helpless. I believe in a better future for you, and can give you the tools and insight to help get you through this difficult time. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Is your child experiencing emotional or behavioral problems? Do you wonder if your child's mood swings or difficulty focusing are more extreme than other children?
I worked at a Children's Hospital treating childhood behavior problems, anger, depression, anxiety, & personality issues using play therapy, CBT, DBT, and parent training.
When you or someone you love is suffering, it can feel hopeless. Sadness, anxiety, and anger are our body’s signal that there is a problem that we need to deal with. Your problems may seem so overwhelming that you feel helpless. I believe in a better future for you, and can give you the tools and insight to help get you through this difficult time. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Is your child experiencing emotional or behavioral problems? Do you wonder if your child's mood swings or difficulty focusing are more extreme than other children?
(516) 346-5323 View (516) 346-5323
Hedy Rubel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
My passion is working with children and I believe the child-centered play therapy approach is an invaluable tool that helps children grow in the areas that they need to. I also believe that when working with children you have to include the entire family-system. Additionally, I work with tweens, teens, adolescents, and young adults utilizing a variety of approaches including CBT, Somatic, and Psychodynamic approaches.
My passion is working with children and I believe the child-centered play therapy approach is an invaluable tool that helps children grow in the areas that they need to. I also believe that when working with children you have to include the entire family-system. Additionally, I work with tweens, teens, adolescents, and young adults utilizing a variety of approaches including CBT, Somatic, and Psychodynamic approaches.
(516) 373-7653 View (516) 373-7653
Photo of Nina Reiss (Pnina Braun), Marriage & Family Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Nina Reiss (Pnina Braun)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
Your kids will express themselves through play and share their world with you more openly as they grow older while parents will be able connect, understand, and support their kids.
You want your life filled with passion, joy, and meaning in personal goals, career, and treasured relationships. You want to know that you matter and you are loved and accepted. You want to lift the weight of stress, frustration, hurt, and despair. For couples, you desire more excitement and a deeper connection. For parents, you want to know how to help your child through a struggle that you find overwhelming. You don’t have to feel powerless any more. You can take control of your life. Take the reins to steer your life on a new path to achieve your dreams, enhance your love life, & develop positive connections with others!
Your kids will express themselves through play and share their world with you more openly as they grow older while parents will be able connect, understand, and support their kids.
You want your life filled with passion, joy, and meaning in personal goals, career, and treasured relationships. You want to know that you matter and you are loved and accepted. You want to lift the weight of stress, frustration, hurt, and despair. For couples, you desire more excitement and a deeper connection. For parents, you want to know how to help your child through a struggle that you find overwhelming. You don’t have to feel powerless any more. You can take control of your life. Take the reins to steer your life on a new path to achieve your dreams, enhance your love life, & develop positive connections with others!
(516) 246-6055 View (516) 246-6055
Photo of Shragi Chafetz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Shragi Chafetz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, NY 11559
I am a licensed psychotherapist. After graduating with a Master's in Social Work from Long Island University, I went on to obtain post-graduate training at the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy and have also pursued training and consultation in Exposure Therapy, Trauma Treatment, and Play Therapy Modalities such as Sand Play Therapy and Art Therapy. With these experiences I utilize the latest research based treatment modalities to help my clients cope with and overcome issues related to anxiety, trauma, poor academic and social functioning, parenting and family conflict, and other child and adolescent struggles.
I am a licensed psychotherapist. After graduating with a Master's in Social Work from Long Island University, I went on to obtain post-graduate training at the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy and have also pursued training and consultation in Exposure Therapy, Trauma Treatment, and Play Therapy Modalities such as Sand Play Therapy and Art Therapy. With these experiences I utilize the latest research based treatment modalities to help my clients cope with and overcome issues related to anxiety, trauma, poor academic and social functioning, parenting and family conflict, and other child and adolescent struggles.
(516) 362-2595 View (516) 362-2595
Photo of Michal Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Michal Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
I am proficient in several evidence based modalities including, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Contextual Behavioral Trauma Therapy, TF-CBT, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Sand Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychotherapist who treats anxiety, depression, and trauma for children, adolescents, and adults. Each client is treated as the expert on his or herself and is given practical tools to cope with life's challenges. My goal is to create a collaborative plan to help work on personal as well as family-related challenges and obstacles. I view each client as trying their best to navigate the challenges that life often presents and I cater my therapeutic approach to each individual depending on their age and the nature of their goals. I believe we can tackle whatever issues might come your way, together.
I am proficient in several evidence based modalities including, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Contextual Behavioral Trauma Therapy, TF-CBT, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Sand Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychotherapist who treats anxiety, depression, and trauma for children, adolescents, and adults. Each client is treated as the expert on his or herself and is given practical tools to cope with life's challenges. My goal is to create a collaborative plan to help work on personal as well as family-related challenges and obstacles. I view each client as trying their best to navigate the challenges that life often presents and I cater my therapeutic approach to each individual depending on their age and the nature of their goals. I believe we can tackle whatever issues might come your way, together.
(516) 217-8539 View (516) 217-8539
Photo of Robert Grabowski At Nassau Psychology Pc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Robert Grabowski At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
He enjoys play therapy with children particularly while utilizing hand puppets.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Robert got his master’s degree in 1984 from NYU. Since that time, He has worked in a number of mental health related facilities including Child Guidance Clinics, Outpatient Mental Health Clinics, On Site School Based Programs and Rikers Island Prison. He has also served as a clinic director for a number of outpatient mental health programs. For over 17 years, He has worked at a clinic in the Rockaways primarily with gang members from the community and those returning from incarceration.
He enjoys play therapy with children particularly while utilizing hand puppets.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Robert got his master’s degree in 1984 from NYU. Since that time, He has worked in a number of mental health related facilities including Child Guidance Clinics, Outpatient Mental Health Clinics, On Site School Based Programs and Rikers Island Prison. He has also served as a clinic director for a number of outpatient mental health programs. For over 17 years, He has worked at a clinic in the Rockaways primarily with gang members from the community and those returning from incarceration.
(516) 758-4423 View (516) 758-4423
Photo of Mind Meets Movement Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Mind Meets Movement Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11581
These methods may include play therapy and learning the aspects and benefits of meditation and breathing exercises and the practice of gentle yoga poses.
Has your son or daughter mood changed, are they angry, sad or distant or do they stay in their room for long periods of time? Or is your child hyper or have difficulty focusing? Does it make you fearful or frustrated? Do you feel as if you are at your wits end or a failure? Do you feel like teachers/ administrators don't understand, is your child labeled a bad child? You are not alone and are being brave in taking the first steps.
These methods may include play therapy and learning the aspects and benefits of meditation and breathing exercises and the practice of gentle yoga poses.
Has your son or daughter mood changed, are they angry, sad or distant or do they stay in their room for long periods of time? Or is your child hyper or have difficulty focusing? Does it make you fearful or frustrated? Do you feel as if you are at your wits end or a failure? Do you feel like teachers/ administrators don't understand, is your child labeled a bad child? You are not alone and are being brave in taking the first steps.
(516) 203-4202 View (516) 203-4202
Photo of Brittany Sternberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Brittany Sternberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hewlett, NY 11557  (Online Only)
I utilize play therapy, talk therapy, mindfulness, CBT & a strengths based approach in order to maximize growth and healing.
Hello, thank you for being here! I provide counseling services for children, preteens, and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, school related issues, relationships issues, stress management and adjusting to new situations. I also have experience working with diagnoses such as ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. On top of this, I have worked with children in a legal setting supporting them through divorces and custody issues. Life can feel extremely overwhelming for children but I am here to guide your child through any obstacle they may face.
I utilize play therapy, talk therapy, mindfulness, CBT & a strengths based approach in order to maximize growth and healing.
Hello, thank you for being here! I provide counseling services for children, preteens, and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, school related issues, relationships issues, stress management and adjusting to new situations. I also have experience working with diagnoses such as ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. On top of this, I have worked with children in a legal setting supporting them through divorces and custody issues. Life can feel extremely overwhelming for children but I am here to guide your child through any obstacle they may face.
(516) 460-9586 View (516) 460-9586
Leah Zaslowsky
Licensed Master Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
I am a licensed social worker and psychotherapist who treats anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I have training in Child Centered Play Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Perinatal/ Postpartum Mental Health. I am experienced in working with adolescents facing challenges, guiding them to effectively build their self-esteem. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in repairing relationships, setting healthy boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and working through challenges. My main focus as a therapist is creating an environment that is safe and effective in fostering healing.
I am a licensed social worker and psychotherapist who treats anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I have training in Child Centered Play Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Perinatal/ Postpartum Mental Health. I am experienced in working with adolescents facing challenges, guiding them to effectively build their self-esteem. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in repairing relationships, setting healthy boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and working through challenges. My main focus as a therapist is creating an environment that is safe and effective in fostering healing.
(516) 788-6975 View (516) 788-6975
Photo of Lisa Greenfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Lisa Greenfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodmere, NY 11598
I specialize in preschool aged girls to young woman struggling with a range of issues. I enjoy having an eclectic approach using play therapy, individual and family therapy as I cater to a plethora of disorders and life struggles.The secret to my success is my ability to create a safe, trusting, and collaborative environment in which every individual has a voice and an opportunity to grow. I have the confidence that via empathy, active listening and instilling hope and motivation for change a relationship will develop. My belief is that compassion, psychological understanding and behavioral intervention will promote healing.
I specialize in preschool aged girls to young woman struggling with a range of issues. I enjoy having an eclectic approach using play therapy, individual and family therapy as I cater to a plethora of disorders and life struggles.The secret to my success is my ability to create a safe, trusting, and collaborative environment in which every individual has a voice and an opportunity to grow. I have the confidence that via empathy, active listening and instilling hope and motivation for change a relationship will develop. My belief is that compassion, psychological understanding and behavioral intervention will promote healing.
(516) 477-0690 View (516) 477-0690
Photo of Sharise Wilson, Psychologist in Rosedale, NY
Sharise Wilson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581
For younger children, there is an emphasis on play & sensory therapies.
I am a Licensed Psychologist offering services that may meet your needs. If you are dealing with tough life problems, mental illness, grief, or temporary distress- individual therapy might be the way to go. We will work to enhance your self discovery and receive guidance and support in changing your life situation. My previous patients have spoken about increased clarity, better relationships & work, improved decision-making skills, and enhanced coping skills. Children who I have worked with have increased their understanding of changes in their families, have learned to use support networks, and have had greater use of healthy outlets.
For younger children, there is an emphasis on play & sensory therapies.
I am a Licensed Psychologist offering services that may meet your needs. If you are dealing with tough life problems, mental illness, grief, or temporary distress- individual therapy might be the way to go. We will work to enhance your self discovery and receive guidance and support in changing your life situation. My previous patients have spoken about increased clarity, better relationships & work, improved decision-making skills, and enhanced coping skills. Children who I have worked with have increased their understanding of changes in their families, have learned to use support networks, and have had greater use of healthy outlets.
(917) 473-9656 View (917) 473-9656
Photo of Alyse November, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Alyse November
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, CST
Verified Verified
Woodmere, NY 11598
I utilize a combination of evidence based modalities including EMDR, Brainspotting, Play therapy, CBT, Psychodynamic Therapy, to help my patients reach their goals and live happier, less stressful, more satisfying lives.
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
I utilize a combination of evidence based modalities including EMDR, Brainspotting, Play therapy, CBT, Psychodynamic Therapy, to help my patients reach their goals and live happier, less stressful, more satisfying lives.
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
(561) 264-1012 View (561) 264-1012
Photo of Tamica Parris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Tamica Parris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11434  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help is not always easy but it’s a sign of great strength. Congratulation on taking the first step to ensure your mental wellness. I will ensure this process is easy and non-intimidating. I am a supportive, client-centered therapist who offers a safe judgment free space where you can speak your truth and feel heard/understood. By exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviors we can work together to help you better cope and deal with life’s obstacles. All skills learned through therapy will help you make healthier decisions and achieve your goals. I will tailor our work together to fit your individual needs.
Reaching out for help is not always easy but it’s a sign of great strength. Congratulation on taking the first step to ensure your mental wellness. I will ensure this process is easy and non-intimidating. I am a supportive, client-centered therapist who offers a safe judgment free space where you can speak your truth and feel heard/understood. By exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviors we can work together to help you better cope and deal with life’s obstacles. All skills learned through therapy will help you make healthier decisions and achieve your goals. I will tailor our work together to fit your individual needs.
(516) 666-4253 View (516) 666-4253
Photo of Adara Shafe At Nassau Psychology Pc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Adara Shafe At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cedarhurst, NY 11516  (Online Only)
Adara Shafe received her master’s degree from Hunter College in 2021. Her focus is Clinical practice with individuals, groups and families. Adara has experience with children in foster care, families and adolescents. She has also worked with individuals with ADHD, mood disorder and adjustment disorder, and she has also worked with members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Adara Shafe received her master’s degree from Hunter College in 2021. Her focus is Clinical practice with individuals, groups and families. Adara has experience with children in foster care, families and adolescents. She has also worked with individuals with ADHD, mood disorder and adjustment disorder, and she has also worked with members of the LGBTQ+ community.
(518) 981-2646 View (518) 981-2646
Photo of Angie Mompoint, Counselor in Rosedale, NY
Angie Mompoint
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Jamaica, NY 11434  (Online Only)
Therapy offers a fresh perspective and time for you to work on one of the most important relationships in your life...the one with yourself. I understand the difficulty in taking the first step. There is no need to face some of life's challenges alone. My mission is to offer individuals, couples, and families, a safe place to explore all of life's possibilities. Using interpersonal, psychodynamic and cognitive interventions specifically to explore all aspects of the client and assist them in identifying solutions.
Therapy offers a fresh perspective and time for you to work on one of the most important relationships in your life...the one with yourself. I understand the difficulty in taking the first step. There is no need to face some of life's challenges alone. My mission is to offer individuals, couples, and families, a safe place to explore all of life's possibilities. Using interpersonal, psychodynamic and cognitive interventions specifically to explore all aspects of the client and assist them in identifying solutions.
(516) 271-3581 View (516) 271-3581
Photo of Rosemary Powell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Rosemary Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jamaica, NY 11434  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist that focuses on maturational challenges faced throughout the life span. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing challenges with adjusting to a new family or life dynamic. My approach considers the whole person. I believe the mind, body, and spirit are one unit. I will give you a safe space to, explore, process, heal and thrive.
I am a marriage and family therapist that focuses on maturational challenges faced throughout the life span. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing challenges with adjusting to a new family or life dynamic. My approach considers the whole person. I believe the mind, body, and spirit are one unit. I will give you a safe space to, explore, process, heal and thrive.
(631) 825-7825 View (631) 825-7825
Photo of Yosef Katz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rosedale, NY
Yosef Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hewlett, NY 11557
Do you find yourself constantly feeling sad, down, or filled with worries and thoughts you can't control? Are you feeling unsatisfied with your current lifstyle and want a more fulfilling future? Many people struggle with feelings and thoughts that are difficult to manage, which can lead to anxiety or depression, or have difficulty changing where they stand in life.
Do you find yourself constantly feeling sad, down, or filled with worries and thoughts you can't control? Are you feeling unsatisfied with your current lifstyle and want a more fulfilling future? Many people struggle with feelings and thoughts that are difficult to manage, which can lead to anxiety or depression, or have difficulty changing where they stand in life.
(929) 930-2691 View (929) 930-2691

See more therapy options for Rosedale


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.