Photo of Trisha Sanders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07652, NJ
Trisha Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
In addition to talk therapy, I use creative approaches including play, art and sand therapy.
I take an eclectic approach to helping children, teens, young adults, families and couples lead happier, healthier lives. My specialties are in working with those who have experienced relational difficulties, life transition, loss or trauma. From the child who is having trouble dealing with their parents' divorce to the family of a teenager that longs for more open communication to a young adult facing what can come with emerging into the "adult" world, I provide a supportive, nurturing environment in which my clients can grow and move beyond the challenges they face in life.
In addition to talk therapy, I use creative approaches including play, art and sand therapy.
I take an eclectic approach to helping children, teens, young adults, families and couples lead happier, healthier lives. My specialties are in working with those who have experienced relational difficulties, life transition, loss or trauma. From the child who is having trouble dealing with their parents' divorce to the family of a teenager that longs for more open communication to a young adult facing what can come with emerging into the "adult" world, I provide a supportive, nurturing environment in which my clients can grow and move beyond the challenges they face in life.
(201) 468-6283 View (201) 468-6283
Photo of Jayne C Barrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07652, NJ
Jayne C Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-ASWCM
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of post-graduate training in the treatment of childhood, adolescent, and adult anxiety, depression, drug/ alcohol addiction, PTSD, and ADD/ADHD. I work with the family as a unit or individually if appropriate. I am trained in play therapy and have worked extensively with school and home behaviors. My style is warm, respectful, and interactive utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), in addition to being trained in conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments and implementing school and home Behavior Intervention Plans.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of post-graduate training in the treatment of childhood, adolescent, and adult anxiety, depression, drug/ alcohol addiction, PTSD, and ADD/ADHD. I work with the family as a unit or individually if appropriate. I am trained in play therapy and have worked extensively with school and home behaviors. My style is warm, respectful, and interactive utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), in addition to being trained in conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments and implementing school and home Behavior Intervention Plans.
(201) 654-7331 View (201) 654-7331
Photo of Elijawon Scott, Counselor in 07652, NJ
Elijawon Scott
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Elijawon utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness.
Elijawon is a Licensed Associate Counselor pursuing his LPC as he continues to gain experience. He has over nine years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, and individuals with developmental disabilities. Elijawon is passionate about helping others navigate unique challenges to improve their quality of life and achieve their goals and dreams. Elijawon is an eclectic counselor that does not believe in being a "One-Trick Pony," as each approach applies to the individual's different needs.
Elijawon utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness.
Elijawon is a Licensed Associate Counselor pursuing his LPC as he continues to gain experience. He has over nine years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, and individuals with developmental disabilities. Elijawon is passionate about helping others navigate unique challenges to improve their quality of life and achieve their goals and dreams. Elijawon is an eclectic counselor that does not believe in being a "One-Trick Pony," as each approach applies to the individual's different needs.
(551) 266-4513 View (551) 266-4513
Photo of Keith Raymond, Counselor in 07652, NJ
Keith Raymond
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Keith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and psychotherapist working with a wide range of client populations. Keith utilizes a person-centered approach to build the rapport with his clients and incorporates various modalities uniquely tailored to his client’s needs. Keith has experience working with clients coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress management concerns. He specializes in working with children by providing play therapy services and working with their families in various settings.
Keith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and psychotherapist working with a wide range of client populations. Keith utilizes a person-centered approach to build the rapport with his clients and incorporates various modalities uniquely tailored to his client’s needs. Keith has experience working with clients coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress management concerns. He specializes in working with children by providing play therapy services and working with their families in various settings.
(201) 949-3299 View (201) 949-3299
Photo of Anna Baldassari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07652, NJ
Anna Baldassari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
These approaches include psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy (TFT), mindfulness, and play therapy and sand play for children.
Anna Baldassari is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey certified in trauma work with women and children. She has over 4 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome symptoms of many different mental health issues. These include trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and issues in self esteem. Anna received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ramapo College and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University.
These approaches include psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy (TFT), mindfulness, and play therapy and sand play for children.
Anna Baldassari is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey certified in trauma work with women and children. She has over 4 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome symptoms of many different mental health issues. These include trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and issues in self esteem. Anna received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ramapo College and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University.
(201) 720-3758 View (201) 720-3758
Photo of Tara Guzman, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07652, NJ
Tara Guzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Through Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Play Therapy, I aim for a creative atmosphere that allows my clients to focus on learning mindfulness-based techniques and healthier coping skills.
Welcome :) I am here to work with and support children, teens, and young adults who need a safe, nonjudgmental environment to deal with life's challenges. I aim for my clients to feel comfortable and eager to come to me to vent, problem-solve, or to celebrate in their accomplishments! I enjoy collaborating with my client's family to help them reach their goals and facilitate a better understanding of the client’s needs and encourage ways to implement the skills they’ve learned into home, school, or in the community.
Through Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Play Therapy, I aim for a creative atmosphere that allows my clients to focus on learning mindfulness-based techniques and healthier coping skills.
Welcome :) I am here to work with and support children, teens, and young adults who need a safe, nonjudgmental environment to deal with life's challenges. I aim for my clients to feel comfortable and eager to come to me to vent, problem-solve, or to celebrate in their accomplishments! I enjoy collaborating with my client's family to help them reach their goals and facilitate a better understanding of the client’s needs and encourage ways to implement the skills they’ve learned into home, school, or in the community.
(862) 247-4237 View (862) 247-4237
Photo of The Koch Center, Psychologist in 07652, NJ
The Koch Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Our child and adolescent services: Individual, Family, & Couples Psychotherapy, Social Skills Groups (Preschool thru High School), Psychological Assessments, School Refusal Program, Medication Evaluation, Play Therapy, Parenting Support.
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Waldwick, Morristown, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Middle Schoolers, and Families. Our Intensive DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have a Trauma Program for adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
Our child and adolescent services: Individual, Family, & Couples Psychotherapy, Social Skills Groups (Preschool thru High School), Psychological Assessments, School Refusal Program, Medication Evaluation, Play Therapy, Parenting Support.
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Waldwick, Morristown, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Middle Schoolers, and Families. Our Intensive DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have a Trauma Program for adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
(201) 730-1280 View (201) 730-1280
Photo of Cathy Gilio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07652, NJ
Cathy Gilio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Welcome to the first step on the path toward a more fulfilled you. Your journey may have twists and turns, hills and valleys. The right therapist by your side will help you safely unpack your bags and ease your load. As a seasoned clinician with over 25 years of experience in various settings, I will be your partner. Therapy in my office means less repetition of the story, and more active engagement with techniques that are gentle yet powerful. Drawing on extensive training and practice with EMDR, somatic processing, internal family systems models, and play therapy, I am prepared to guide you or your child along the road.
Welcome to the first step on the path toward a more fulfilled you. Your journey may have twists and turns, hills and valleys. The right therapist by your side will help you safely unpack your bags and ease your load. As a seasoned clinician with over 25 years of experience in various settings, I will be your partner. Therapy in my office means less repetition of the story, and more active engagement with techniques that are gentle yet powerful. Drawing on extensive training and practice with EMDR, somatic processing, internal family systems models, and play therapy, I am prepared to guide you or your child along the road.
(201) 731-2183 View (201) 731-2183
Photo of Julie B Stewart, Psychologist in 07652, NJ
Julie B Stewart
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Having had a diversity of experiences allows me a unique ability to approach helping others. I provide neuropsychological assessment as well as a variety of treatment services, using an mix of various orientations and modalities. I understand how cognitive and emotional difficulties can impact not just school/work functioning but also personal relationships and family life. I appreciate that parents and families can play an important role in treatment and include them when appropriate. I work with a variety of emotional and neurological issues with the ultimate goal of helping my clients get the most they can from their lives.
Having had a diversity of experiences allows me a unique ability to approach helping others. I provide neuropsychological assessment as well as a variety of treatment services, using an mix of various orientations and modalities. I understand how cognitive and emotional difficulties can impact not just school/work functioning but also personal relationships and family life. I appreciate that parents and families can play an important role in treatment and include them when appropriate. I work with a variety of emotional and neurological issues with the ultimate goal of helping my clients get the most they can from their lives.
(347) 797-5977 View (347) 797-5977
Photo of Karolyna Fernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07652, NJ
Karolyna Fernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Beginning my career in 2012 has allowed me to build on a unique approach that includes providing empathy, genuineness, trust, and creating a safe space. My expertise includes working with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, substance use, LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, crisis management, self-esteem, relationship issues, and family systems. Through the use of Person-Centered Approach, CBT, IFS, Play Therapy, and Trauma-focused therapy, I am here to help you find the balance you need.
Beginning my career in 2012 has allowed me to build on a unique approach that includes providing empathy, genuineness, trust, and creating a safe space. My expertise includes working with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, substance use, LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, crisis management, self-esteem, relationship issues, and family systems. Through the use of Person-Centered Approach, CBT, IFS, Play Therapy, and Trauma-focused therapy, I am here to help you find the balance you need.
(973) 559-2472 View (973) 559-2472
Photo of Olivia Hann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07652, NJ
Olivia Hann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am psychodynamically oriented but eclectic in my therapeutic approach, incorporating elements of the Internal Family Systems model, CBT, DBT, and play therapy into my work to best meet your needs.
“All problems are relational problems”. I believe that the quality of our relationships determines the quality of our life - especially the relationship we have with ourselves. I am here to walk with you on your journey to deepening your understanding and improving the quality of your relationships with yourself and with others. The focus of my work is the healing dynamic of the therapeutic relationship you and I will create together. I create a warm, nurturing, and non-judgmental space where you feel safe enough to heal at your own pace and challenged enough to grow!
I am psychodynamically oriented but eclectic in my therapeutic approach, incorporating elements of the Internal Family Systems model, CBT, DBT, and play therapy into my work to best meet your needs.
“All problems are relational problems”. I believe that the quality of our relationships determines the quality of our life - especially the relationship we have with ourselves. I am here to walk with you on your journey to deepening your understanding and improving the quality of your relationships with yourself and with others. The focus of my work is the healing dynamic of the therapeutic relationship you and I will create together. I create a warm, nurturing, and non-judgmental space where you feel safe enough to heal at your own pace and challenged enough to grow!
(201) 751-1549 View (201) 751-1549
Photo of Kristen Kurth, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07652, NJ
Kristen Kurth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Children/Teens: Using talk, Play therapy, art & creativity, we will work together to address emotional & behavioral challenges.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the never-ending demands of motherhood? Juggling a million things while your own needs simmer on the back burner? Are you parenting a child with BIG feelings, at a loss for how to help them? Struggling to connect with your teen, as they navigate the rollercoaster of adolescence? Haunted by mom-guilt? Let’s face it: Parenting is hard. The constant demands for your time, attention & energy can leave you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted & inadequate. Whether you're a new mom adjusting to the ups & downs of motherhood or a seasoned mom facing the trials of raising teenagers, you’re in the right place.
Children/Teens: Using talk, Play therapy, art & creativity, we will work together to address emotional & behavioral challenges.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the never-ending demands of motherhood? Juggling a million things while your own needs simmer on the back burner? Are you parenting a child with BIG feelings, at a loss for how to help them? Struggling to connect with your teen, as they navigate the rollercoaster of adolescence? Haunted by mom-guilt? Let’s face it: Parenting is hard. The constant demands for your time, attention & energy can leave you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted & inadequate. Whether you're a new mom adjusting to the ups & downs of motherhood or a seasoned mom facing the trials of raising teenagers, you’re in the right place.
(201) 228-9953 View (201) 228-9953
Alexis Powers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Alexis Powers is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience in the mental health field. Alexis is empathic, warm, and energetic while working with clients of all ages. Alexis reminds clients they are in the driver's seat and she is along for the ride while cheering them on. Alexis is passionate about her job and helping others meet their needs. Alexis specializes in anxiety, depression, OCD, adoption, personality disorders, and adjustment disorders.
Alexis Powers is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience in the mental health field. Alexis is empathic, warm, and energetic while working with clients of all ages. Alexis reminds clients they are in the driver's seat and she is along for the ride while cheering them on. Alexis is passionate about her job and helping others meet their needs. Alexis specializes in anxiety, depression, OCD, adoption, personality disorders, and adjustment disorders.
(551) 465-5204 View (551) 465-5204
Photo of Rebecca Dombrowsky-Henriquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07652, NJ
Rebecca Dombrowsky-Henriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
In my twenty years of working in the mental health field, I've learned that it is not the situation that can render us helpless, but the meaning we create about the situation. The judgments we make about ourselves and others can make a situation worse, creating anxiety, depression, or undue stress. I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions to decrease self defeating patterns and negative self-talk. You will be engaged in a partnership as treatment goals are identified to personalize your care. I specialize in the following therapies: DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnotherapy, and Imago Couple Therapy.
In my twenty years of working in the mental health field, I've learned that it is not the situation that can render us helpless, but the meaning we create about the situation. The judgments we make about ourselves and others can make a situation worse, creating anxiety, depression, or undue stress. I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions to decrease self defeating patterns and negative self-talk. You will be engaged in a partnership as treatment goals are identified to personalize your care. I specialize in the following therapies: DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnotherapy, and Imago Couple Therapy.
(201) 977-6926 View (201) 977-6926
Photo of Sandra Nunez, Counselor in 07652, NJ
Sandra Nunez
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Hi, I'm a warm and compassionate therapist passionate about helping people discover their inner potential and strength to deal with life's struggles. With over ten years of experience in both individual and group therapy, I have an expansive understanding of how relationship issues, stress, anxiety, or loss can affect our lives. I believe that with every challenge comes a positive outcome, and I love to be at the forefront of helping my clients reach these breakthroughs. Whether you are seeking support for current struggles or looking for guidance towards an overall betterment of your life, I'm here to guide your every step.
Hi, I'm a warm and compassionate therapist passionate about helping people discover their inner potential and strength to deal with life's struggles. With over ten years of experience in both individual and group therapy, I have an expansive understanding of how relationship issues, stress, anxiety, or loss can affect our lives. I believe that with every challenge comes a positive outcome, and I love to be at the forefront of helping my clients reach these breakthroughs. Whether you are seeking support for current struggles or looking for guidance towards an overall betterment of your life, I'm here to guide your every step.
(201) 903-4643 View (201) 903-4643
Photo of Cynthia Rowberg, Counselor in 07652, NJ
Cynthia Rowberg
Counselor, MEd, LPC, SAC, NCC, MM
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Life is challenging. Are you feel overwhelmed, depressed, lethargic, or anxious? I am here for you and ready to help you move forward in a healthy, happy, and productive life. I work closely with adults, adolescents, children, and families who wish to change something that is not working for them. I provide effective treatment for anxiety, depression, mood management, behavioral issues, grief/loss, and career coaching.
Life is challenging. Are you feel overwhelmed, depressed, lethargic, or anxious? I am here for you and ready to help you move forward in a healthy, happy, and productive life. I work closely with adults, adolescents, children, and families who wish to change something that is not working for them. I provide effective treatment for anxiety, depression, mood management, behavioral issues, grief/loss, and career coaching.
(201) 778-6503 View (201) 778-6503
Photo of Jennifer Brea, Counselor in 07652, NJ
Jennifer Brea
Counselor, LPC, NCC, EdS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking counseling therapy takes courage, willingness to invite change, exploring difficulties, and learning new strategies. We will work together to learn healthy coping skills, to assist you in navigating challenges faced throughout life's journey. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, thoughts of self-doubt, negative beliefs, or a sense of hopelessness, counseling therapy will provide a safe space to talk. My goal is to ensure you feel safe, supported, and empowered to manage whatever comes your way.
Seeking counseling therapy takes courage, willingness to invite change, exploring difficulties, and learning new strategies. We will work together to learn healthy coping skills, to assist you in navigating challenges faced throughout life's journey. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, thoughts of self-doubt, negative beliefs, or a sense of hopelessness, counseling therapy will provide a safe space to talk. My goal is to ensure you feel safe, supported, and empowered to manage whatever comes your way.
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Photo of Chastity M. Biagiotti, Counselor in 07652, NJ
Chastity M. Biagiotti
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent worry, sadness, or haunted by past trauma? Do you find it difficult to break free from negative thought patterns that impact your daily life? I specialize in utilizing evidence-based practices to address the unique needs of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. My sessions are carefully tailored to address the nuanced aspects of your experiences, fostering a healing journey that aligns with your unique needs. Through a blend of therapeutic modalities, we work together to uncover underlying factors and develop coping strategies to break through the barriers to recovery
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent worry, sadness, or haunted by past trauma? Do you find it difficult to break free from negative thought patterns that impact your daily life? I specialize in utilizing evidence-based practices to address the unique needs of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. My sessions are carefully tailored to address the nuanced aspects of your experiences, fostering a healing journey that aligns with your unique needs. Through a blend of therapeutic modalities, we work together to uncover underlying factors and develop coping strategies to break through the barriers to recovery
(201) 485-5537 View (201) 485-5537
Photo of Joslyn Camilo, Licensed Social Worker in 07652, NJ
Joslyn Camilo
Licensed Social Worker , LSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
My treatment focuses on compassion and cultural awareness in the realm of mental health. With unwavering dedication, I extend my compassionate hand to guide you through life's intricate challenges. My heart is a sanctuary for fostering genuine connections, where empathy and understanding are the cornerstones of my therapeutic approach.
My treatment focuses on compassion and cultural awareness in the realm of mental health. With unwavering dedication, I extend my compassionate hand to guide you through life's intricate challenges. My heart is a sanctuary for fostering genuine connections, where empathy and understanding are the cornerstones of my therapeutic approach.
(973) 846-9288 View (973) 846-9288
Photo of Baker Street Behavioral Health, Psychologist in 07652, NJ
Baker Street Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
IN PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE - We are a small practice of high quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, and Neuropsychological Assessment Appointments are Now Available
IN PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE - We are a small practice of high quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, and Neuropsychological Assessment Appointments are Now Available
(201) 297-9710 View (201) 297-9710
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.