Play Therapy in Portland, OR
When working with children, I utilize play therapy to help kids express themselves via their natural language of play.
My clients often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They seek a path to clarity and balance. They need a compassionate space to explore their emotions and uncover the root causes of their distress. Their goal is to gain self-awareness, develop healthier coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. They want to transform their lives and find lasting fulfillment. Together, we can work towards understanding their inner world and making meaningful, positive changes.
When working with children, I utilize play therapy to help kids express themselves via their natural language of play.
My clients often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They seek a path to clarity and balance. They need a compassionate space to explore their emotions and uncover the root causes of their distress. Their goal is to gain self-awareness, develop healthier coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. They want to transform their lives and find lasting fulfillment. Together, we can work towards understanding their inner world and making meaningful, positive changes.
MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
MindTree offers individual therapy for adults, child/teen therapy, family therapy, play therapy, trauma psychotherapy, marriage & couples counseling, gender affirming care, Grief & Loss.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
MindTree offers individual therapy for adults, child/teen therapy, family therapy, play therapy, trauma psychotherapy, marriage & couples counseling, gender affirming care, Grief & Loss.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
Beau Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I have training and experience in non-directive play therapy, sand tray therapy and multiple methods of talk therapy.
Kids and teens face a challenging and confusing world where terrible things can happen. Sometimes kids need a safe place and a safe person, outside the family, to help them heal, grow and move forward with confidence. Most kids don’t like to sit still and talk about their feelings; they want to be understood and valued while having fun. We’ll keep this in mind as we work together to combine research-based and developmentally appropriate methods like play therapy, sand tray therapy, wilderness therapy and talk therapy to create a personal and intentional counseling process that is engaging, fun and healing.
I have training and experience in non-directive play therapy, sand tray therapy and multiple methods of talk therapy.
Kids and teens face a challenging and confusing world where terrible things can happen. Sometimes kids need a safe place and a safe person, outside the family, to help them heal, grow and move forward with confidence. Most kids don’t like to sit still and talk about their feelings; they want to be understood and valued while having fun. We’ll keep this in mind as we work together to combine research-based and developmentally appropriate methods like play therapy, sand tray therapy, wilderness therapy and talk therapy to create a personal and intentional counseling process that is engaging, fun and healing.
I have training in Attachment Theory, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Art and Play therapy, and Mindfulness.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of individual and family work. When working with children, I believe in the power of play, art, and connection to build relationships and skill-build along with process challenging life events. I support families with increasing communication, building compassion and connection while honoring families’ inherent strengths and background. During individual therapy with adults, our work will be geared towards finding balance in navigating the unknown and building coping tools. In all aspects of my work I am committed to working from an anti-oppressive and affirming lens.
I have training in Attachment Theory, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Art and Play therapy, and Mindfulness.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of individual and family work. When working with children, I believe in the power of play, art, and connection to build relationships and skill-build along with process challenging life events. I support families with increasing communication, building compassion and connection while honoring families’ inherent strengths and background. During individual therapy with adults, our work will be geared towards finding balance in navigating the unknown and building coping tools. In all aspects of my work I am committed to working from an anti-oppressive and affirming lens.
In our play therapy sessions, you will be an integral part of the process.
I work with children who are struggling with big feelings and big behaviors. Maybe your child has experienced a loss, a change in family structure or maybe you're not sure what is at the root of your child's struggles. Together, we will work closely to understand the needs that lie beneath your child's behavior.
In our play therapy sessions, you will be an integral part of the process.
I work with children who are struggling with big feelings and big behaviors. Maybe your child has experienced a loss, a change in family structure or maybe you're not sure what is at the root of your child's struggles. Together, we will work closely to understand the needs that lie beneath your child's behavior.
I have an integrative approach to my personal practice that includes yoga, meditation/mindfulness, child centered play therapy, expressive arts, Synergetic Play therapy, CBT, and various trauma modalities across the lifespan.
NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING SUPERVISION CLIENTS------------All therapists and social workers have moments in this field where we need someone to debrief an experience with. Sometimes we just need someone to hold space for our experiences and bare witness to the challenges and heartbreak this profession often brings. No matter what stage you are at in your career, just starting out or 15 years in, a good supervisor can feel like a lifeline. I specialize in offering supervision to CSWAs, LPC-I and licensed professionals seeking supervision in the state of Oregon.
I have an integrative approach to my personal practice that includes yoga, meditation/mindfulness, child centered play therapy, expressive arts, Synergetic Play therapy, CBT, and various trauma modalities across the lifespan.
NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING SUPERVISION CLIENTS------------All therapists and social workers have moments in this field where we need someone to debrief an experience with. Sometimes we just need someone to hold space for our experiences and bare witness to the challenges and heartbreak this profession often brings. No matter what stage you are at in your career, just starting out or 15 years in, a good supervisor can feel like a lifeline. I specialize in offering supervision to CSWAs, LPC-I and licensed professionals seeking supervision in the state of Oregon.
Alison Newey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
I am a queer integrative client-centered art therapist, trained in play therapy and anchored in mindfulness-based and neurobiologically-informed theory.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
I am a queer integrative client-centered art therapist, trained in play therapy and anchored in mindfulness-based and neurobiologically-informed theory.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
My primary modalities in therapy include Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), play therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, Trauma Focused/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT + CBT), behavioral therapy, family therapy and art therapy.
I work with children (0-18) and families who are trying to navigate the unexpected and hard to discuss challenges that life throws at you. My treatment approach focuses on helping children better understand their experiences, current circumstances, and what is to come while also nurturing their attachment relationship(s) to their caregiver(s). Through this relational process we will work together collaboratively to identify areas for growth and gain tools necessary for success. My specialties include working with families impacted by intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), chronic illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief.
My primary modalities in therapy include Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), play therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, Trauma Focused/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT + CBT), behavioral therapy, family therapy and art therapy.
I work with children (0-18) and families who are trying to navigate the unexpected and hard to discuss challenges that life throws at you. My treatment approach focuses on helping children better understand their experiences, current circumstances, and what is to come while also nurturing their attachment relationship(s) to their caregiver(s). Through this relational process we will work together collaboratively to identify areas for growth and gain tools necessary for success. My specialties include working with families impacted by intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), chronic illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief.
Priscilla Klockner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy to assist children and families from birth through the teen who struggle with issues related to behavior problems, academic problems, developmental delays, ASD and attachment.
I utilize Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy to assist children and families from birth through the teen who struggle with issues related to behavior problems, academic problems, developmental delays, ASD and attachment.
Jeanne V Bjorklund
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-CA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Some of my specialties include adults recovering from childhood abuse/neglect, understanding and resolving loss and grief, strengthening couples and marriage preparation, and child-centered play therapy.
Most folks can handle the ups and downs of life unless their closest relationships are in trouble. That's what brings people to me. With over two decades as facilitator of personal and relational growth in individuals, couples and families, I am psycho-dynamic (seek to 'peel back the layers') with individuals, helping them to become free from the emotional baggage of childhood. I offer a systems-oriention with couples and families along with some Gottman tools and Prepare and Enrich. I developed a therapeutic program for a children's home in CA and served as their therapist and staff trainer for 5 years.
Some of my specialties include adults recovering from childhood abuse/neglect, understanding and resolving loss and grief, strengthening couples and marriage preparation, and child-centered play therapy.
Most folks can handle the ups and downs of life unless their closest relationships are in trouble. That's what brings people to me. With over two decades as facilitator of personal and relational growth in individuals, couples and families, I am psycho-dynamic (seek to 'peel back the layers') with individuals, helping them to become free from the emotional baggage of childhood. I offer a systems-oriention with couples and families along with some Gottman tools and Prepare and Enrich. I developed a therapeutic program for a children's home in CA and served as their therapist and staff trainer for 5 years.
She draws from a variety of theories to support the individual goals of each client, including Interpersonal Neurobiology, Child Centered Play Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Gestalt Therapy, and Attachment Theory.
Sage believes that healing begins in relationship. She hopes to provide a welcoming therapeutic space based on compassion, acceptance, and client autonomy. Sage trusts in the innate wisdom of the children, families, and adults she works with and seeks a collaborative approach as clients move through life's ever-shifting circumstances. She recognizes that healing is different for each individual and that the healing is informed by our cultures, social systems, and environments. Sage works to incorporate these perspectives into the therapeutic space and honors the identities and experiences of the clients she collaborates with.
She draws from a variety of theories to support the individual goals of each client, including Interpersonal Neurobiology, Child Centered Play Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Gestalt Therapy, and Attachment Theory.
Sage believes that healing begins in relationship. She hopes to provide a welcoming therapeutic space based on compassion, acceptance, and client autonomy. Sage trusts in the innate wisdom of the children, families, and adults she works with and seeks a collaborative approach as clients move through life's ever-shifting circumstances. She recognizes that healing is different for each individual and that the healing is informed by our cultures, social systems, and environments. Sage works to incorporate these perspectives into the therapeutic space and honors the identities and experiences of the clients she collaborates with.
15 Second Videos
Andrew Conner
Steph Bayne
Jordan Nickel-Dubin
Sofia Jasani
Ascent Counseling
Brianna Newman
Michelle Tennant
Sprout Therapy PDX
Family Roots Therapy
Janelle Stuvland
Sedona Karlin
Nahomie Guillaume
Jordanne Moore
Katheryn Cordova Jimenez
Danesh Oleshko
Jillian M Brown
Grow Your Own Way Therapy-EMDR provider
Central Oregon Family Therapy
AIM Christian Counseling
Michael Langlois
Tracy Gilmore
Elizabeth A. Hadley
Skylar T Tharp
Michael Zavala
True Colors Counseling, LLC
Vibhuti -Vee Pandey
BrightSpire Health
Tsz Yin Szeto-McNatt
Caroline Kinsley
Jenna Johnson
Nancy Anne Pearson
Susan Shimokaji
Jocelyn K Durant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Hello! I am a Play Therapist and Grief Counselor for children, tweens, adolescents and young adults. I have 20+ years of experience fostering individuals' self-expression, empowering growth and development, strengthening family dynamics, transforming traumatic events through play and other forms of creative expression, and compassionately addressing complex issues. I believe that with compassion and connection, individuals -from childhood to adulthood - can heal and grow, and find a renewed excitement in living.
Hello! I am a Play Therapist and Grief Counselor for children, tweens, adolescents and young adults. I have 20+ years of experience fostering individuals' self-expression, empowering growth and development, strengthening family dynamics, transforming traumatic events through play and other forms of creative expression, and compassionately addressing complex issues. I believe that with compassion and connection, individuals -from childhood to adulthood - can heal and grow, and find a renewed excitement in living.
Elizabeth Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Have you been through a difficult experience? I specialize in emotional and relational disorders arising from trauma, sexual abuse, attachment disruptions, and less-than-optimal early childhood experiences. These types of experiences can create life-long distress and difficulty with relationships. Finding the right therapist is an important first step in healing from trauma. My orientation integrates modern neuroscience with relational psychotherapy. In addition to traditional methods, I utilize expressive approaches such as sandtray, play therapy, psychodrama, movement, and art therapy in my practice. I will tailor your sessions to meet your unique needs and ways of expressing yourself.
Have you been through a difficult experience? I specialize in emotional and relational disorders arising from trauma, sexual abuse, attachment disruptions, and less-than-optimal early childhood experiences. These types of experiences can create life-long distress and difficulty with relationships. Finding the right therapist is an important first step in healing from trauma. My orientation integrates modern neuroscience with relational psychotherapy. In addition to traditional methods, I utilize expressive approaches such as sandtray, play therapy, psychodrama, movement, and art therapy in my practice. I will tailor your sessions to meet your unique needs and ways of expressing yourself.
Steph Bayne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
I am interested in healing through relationship and the use of imagination and play.
I respect the complexity of human nature and human needs and strive to guide adults, children, and families through difficult issues by tailoring treatment plans to address individuals’ needs. I recognize and respect cultural differences and support the growth of children to enhance their emotional awareness which I believe results in healthier, safer communities. I employ an eclectic approach to therapy with a strong reliance on attachment theory. My primary modalities in therapy are play therapy and a form of drama therapy in which embodiment, playfulness, and relationship are key features.
I am interested in healing through relationship and the use of imagination and play.
I respect the complexity of human nature and human needs and strive to guide adults, children, and families through difficult issues by tailoring treatment plans to address individuals’ needs. I recognize and respect cultural differences and support the growth of children to enhance their emotional awareness which I believe results in healthier, safer communities. I employ an eclectic approach to therapy with a strong reliance on attachment theory. My primary modalities in therapy are play therapy and a form of drama therapy in which embodiment, playfulness, and relationship are key features.
I was a children’s theatre teacher for 13 years and know the way to work through tough stuff is play - the language kids speak best.
Welcome! I specialize in working with little people with big feelings. I work from my heart, with a person-centered creative approach. I am dedicated to crafting a collaborative alliance that contributes to the growth of each child. I often use the creative arts of drama, art, storytelling, and movement to enhance the psychotherapeutic process. I believe your child has the ability to thrive and I want to support them in their journey of self-discovery and growth. I strive to meet each child where they are, using play, embodiment, and storytelling to connect in ways that go beyond talking - an important way to help honor their lives.
I was a children’s theatre teacher for 13 years and know the way to work through tough stuff is play - the language kids speak best.
Welcome! I specialize in working with little people with big feelings. I work from my heart, with a person-centered creative approach. I am dedicated to crafting a collaborative alliance that contributes to the growth of each child. I often use the creative arts of drama, art, storytelling, and movement to enhance the psychotherapeutic process. I believe your child has the ability to thrive and I want to support them in their journey of self-discovery and growth. I strive to meet each child where they are, using play, embodiment, and storytelling to connect in ways that go beyond talking - an important way to help honor their lives.
Jess Brunelle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223 (Online Only)
I have 15 +years experience using various modalities including trauma-informed CBT, DBT, Somatic Experiencing, psycho education, and trauma-informed Play and Expressive Arts Therapy.
Are you not feeling seen or heard? Have you been coping the best that you can with depression, anxiety or trauma symptoms, but life is still a struggle? Let me help you on your journey to recovery. There are so many ways to help unique, individual people with their challenges. Each person has different needs and I treat each client with respect, dignity and autonomy. Collaboratively, we can create therapy goals and demystify the process together.
I have 15 +years experience using various modalities including trauma-informed CBT, DBT, Somatic Experiencing, psycho education, and trauma-informed Play and Expressive Arts Therapy.
Are you not feeling seen or heard? Have you been coping the best that you can with depression, anxiety or trauma symptoms, but life is still a struggle? Let me help you on your journey to recovery. There are so many ways to help unique, individual people with their challenges. Each person has different needs and I treat each client with respect, dignity and autonomy. Collaboratively, we can create therapy goals and demystify the process together.
Harini Sukumaran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I use Mindfulness based stress reduction, ACT and guided meditation to help women accomplish their goals & primarily play therapy, art therapy, CBT, yoga with children.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Offering online therapy & in- office visits. Your child's anxiety and depression may have increased with isolation from friends, adjustment to online schooling, and disruption in schedule. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver who is frustrated with your child/teen's behavior at home? May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them and need a holistic approach. You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
I use Mindfulness based stress reduction, ACT and guided meditation to help women accomplish their goals & primarily play therapy, art therapy, CBT, yoga with children.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Offering online therapy & in- office visits. Your child's anxiety and depression may have increased with isolation from friends, adjustment to online schooling, and disruption in schedule. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver who is frustrated with your child/teen's behavior at home? May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them and need a holistic approach. You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
Emily Anne Weidlich
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward.
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward.
Carrie Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Waitlist for new clients
I offer play therapy, PCIT therapy, and I provide information about infant bonding and development.
If you have wondered why your infant or child: does not bond or connect with you, has behavior problems, does not respect you, seems angry or withdrawn, has temper tantrums often, has excessive or no energy, is vindictive, is not connected with the family, or you ask yourself am I a good parent? Then please seek my support. As a young adult, do you feel: anxious, often worried, rejected, withdrawn, sad, depressed, or discriminated against? If so, please seek my support. Please come Talk With Love!
I offer play therapy, PCIT therapy, and I provide information about infant bonding and development.
If you have wondered why your infant or child: does not bond or connect with you, has behavior problems, does not respect you, seems angry or withdrawn, has temper tantrums often, has excessive or no energy, is vindictive, is not connected with the family, or you ask yourself am I a good parent? Then please seek my support. As a young adult, do you feel: anxious, often worried, rejected, withdrawn, sad, depressed, or discriminated against? If so, please seek my support. Please come Talk With Love!
Avery Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Depending on your needs and preferences, I may use Emotion-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Motivation Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and/or Family Systems, as well as mindfulness based practices while maintaining a trauma informed lens.
Accepting new clients as of September 17th! I enjoy working with families, couples, individuals and children. Many of us struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, anger, grief, and more. My approach is to walk alongside you and explore and further process the challenges that may be present in your life. I hope to provide an environment where you may feel safe and accepted. As a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I use attachment-based, existential, and systems frameworks. Together, we may work together exploring patterns in relationships, support systems, past and present experiences, and emotions.
Depending on your needs and preferences, I may use Emotion-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Motivation Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and/or Family Systems, as well as mindfulness based practices while maintaining a trauma informed lens.
Accepting new clients as of September 17th! I enjoy working with families, couples, individuals and children. Many of us struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, anger, grief, and more. My approach is to walk alongside you and explore and further process the challenges that may be present in your life. I hope to provide an environment where you may feel safe and accepted. As a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I use attachment-based, existential, and systems frameworks. Together, we may work together exploring patterns in relationships, support systems, past and present experiences, and emotions.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Portland
- Beaverton
- Clackamas
- Gladstone
- Gresham
- Happy Valley
- Hillsboro
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Oregon City
- Tigard
- Tualatin
- West Linn
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.