Photo of Summit's Edge Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Summit's Edge Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
We offer services including but not limited to trauma-informed interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness training, person-centered therapy, directive therapy, parent coaching, child and family therapy, play therapy, creative interventions, internal family systems, somatic therapy, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
We are an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities. We serve children (3+), teens, and adults, individuals, couples (all structures), families. We create treatment plans that utilize evidence-based treatments while considering the unique experiences and identifies of our clients. Our clients want to feel safe to explore their needs with a therapist that understands them.
We offer services including but not limited to trauma-informed interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness training, person-centered therapy, directive therapy, parent coaching, child and family therapy, play therapy, creative interventions, internal family systems, somatic therapy, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
We are an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities. We serve children (3+), teens, and adults, individuals, couples (all structures), families. We create treatment plans that utilize evidence-based treatments while considering the unique experiences and identifies of our clients. Our clients want to feel safe to explore their needs with a therapist that understands them.
(404) 348-0715 View (404) 348-0715
Photo of Love 1 Two Another, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Love 1 Two Another
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
We specialize in Trauma-Informed Care, Play Therapy, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, EMDR, DBT, and other evidence-based treatments.
Welcome, your wellness journey starts here. No matter where you are in your search for healing, L1TA has counselors available now to support you. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, or feeling like you’ve lost control, we are here to support you. If you are searching for answers, seeking balance and/or feeling stuck, you've found the right place. Our counselors are committed to empowering those feeling hopeless and seeking genuine change and fulfillment.
We specialize in Trauma-Informed Care, Play Therapy, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, EMDR, DBT, and other evidence-based treatments.
Welcome, your wellness journey starts here. No matter where you are in your search for healing, L1TA has counselors available now to support you. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, or feeling like you’ve lost control, we are here to support you. If you are searching for answers, seeking balance and/or feeling stuck, you've found the right place. Our counselors are committed to empowering those feeling hopeless and seeking genuine change and fulfillment.
(470) 414-5385 View (470) 414-5385
Photo of Inneractions Therapy Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Inneractions Therapy Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
social skills development, process oriented groups, role play gaming groups, individual therapy, family therapy, parenting.
I believe in a trusting therapeutic relationship to create change. Then we design, create and assemble a toolbox filled with interests, experiences, successes, skills, and reminders to handle the unexpected and difficult parts of life. Since working with children, adolescents, adults, parents and families for over 20 years, my specialties focus on social skills development, interpersonal relationships, verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as understanding and identifying client strengths, beliefs, and passions so that they may gain a toolbox that works for them.
social skills development, process oriented groups, role play gaming groups, individual therapy, family therapy, parenting.
I believe in a trusting therapeutic relationship to create change. Then we design, create and assemble a toolbox filled with interests, experiences, successes, skills, and reminders to handle the unexpected and difficult parts of life. Since working with children, adolescents, adults, parents and families for over 20 years, my specialties focus on social skills development, interpersonal relationships, verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as understanding and identifying client strengths, beliefs, and passions so that they may gain a toolbox that works for them.
(678) 846-6946 View (678) 846-6946
Photo of Ariela Lack, Pre-Licensed Professional in 30067, GA
Ariela Lack
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
As a therapist specializing in both young children and young adult women, I recognize the unique challenges each group faces. For children aged 7 to 11, struggles with self-esteem, sadness, friendships, and school can be overwhelming. They may retreat inward when distressed, making it hard for parents to connect. Moreover, the burden of worrying excessively about others’ opinions can drown out their voices. Parents, while supportive, often find themselves unsure of how best to help. In my practice, I specialize in Play Therapy and Child-Centered approaches, offering a safe environment for children to explore their emotions.
As a therapist specializing in both young children and young adult women, I recognize the unique challenges each group faces. For children aged 7 to 11, struggles with self-esteem, sadness, friendships, and school can be overwhelming. They may retreat inward when distressed, making it hard for parents to connect. Moreover, the burden of worrying excessively about others’ opinions can drown out their voices. Parents, while supportive, often find themselves unsure of how best to help. In my practice, I specialize in Play Therapy and Child-Centered approaches, offering a safe environment for children to explore their emotions.
(678) 929-2312 View (678) 929-2312
Photo of Terris Hagan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Terris Hagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
As a warm, heart-centered therapist I am interested in joining my clients on a journey to live life more fully: Full of play, peace, connection, confidence, and wellness.
I join children, teens, and their parents seeking support related to anxiety, past trauma, emotion regulation, social skills, and self-esteem. My passion is working with kiddos who have big hearts + big feelings. With children ages 3-12, I utilize the therapeutic power of play and creative arts to nurture and enhance wellness. Through developmentally appropriate medium, clients are able to naturally explore, learn, and grow. Parents/caregivers are viewed as an integral part of the therapeutic process and I value openness from those on the "support team."
As a warm, heart-centered therapist I am interested in joining my clients on a journey to live life more fully: Full of play, peace, connection, confidence, and wellness.
I join children, teens, and their parents seeking support related to anxiety, past trauma, emotion regulation, social skills, and self-esteem. My passion is working with kiddos who have big hearts + big feelings. With children ages 3-12, I utilize the therapeutic power of play and creative arts to nurture and enhance wellness. Through developmentally appropriate medium, clients are able to naturally explore, learn, and grow. Parents/caregivers are viewed as an integral part of the therapeutic process and I value openness from those on the "support team."
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Photo of Katie Reed Yeilding, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Katie Reed Yeilding
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in ages 3+ using play therapy.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide support to children and families with a variety of presenting concerns. I serve children ages 3-18 and young adults. I provide parent coaching as a Certified Positive Discipline Early Childhood Educator. When clients come to me, they are typically looking to help a child or themselves modify a behavior. I often educate clients that behavior is a form of communication. When we can learn what a maladaptive behavior is trying to communicate, we can work together to find a way to alter it.
I specialize in ages 3+ using play therapy.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide support to children and families with a variety of presenting concerns. I serve children ages 3-18 and young adults. I provide parent coaching as a Certified Positive Discipline Early Childhood Educator. When clients come to me, they are typically looking to help a child or themselves modify a behavior. I often educate clients that behavior is a form of communication. When we can learn what a maladaptive behavior is trying to communicate, we can work together to find a way to alter it.
(470) 465-9936 View (470) 465-9936
Photo of Hayley Barden, Counselor in 30067, GA
Hayley Barden
Counselor, LAPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Though I work with all ages, but I specialize as a play therapist who practices Child Centered Play Therapy.
It takes courage to reach out for help. I believe every person big or small deserves to be supported and championed as they continue to grow. Often, parents feel overwhelmed in knowing how to best provide support for those they love most: their children. Children are innately different from adults as they develop into their true selves. It is my honor to partner with parents to bridge this gap and provide space for their child to be supported, heard, and grow in confidence. I see clients of all ages including children, adolescents, parents, and adults. I also offer faith integrative Christian counseling upon client request only.
Though I work with all ages, but I specialize as a play therapist who practices Child Centered Play Therapy.
It takes courage to reach out for help. I believe every person big or small deserves to be supported and championed as they continue to grow. Often, parents feel overwhelmed in knowing how to best provide support for those they love most: their children. Children are innately different from adults as they develop into their true selves. It is my honor to partner with parents to bridge this gap and provide space for their child to be supported, heard, and grow in confidence. I see clients of all ages including children, adolescents, parents, and adults. I also offer faith integrative Christian counseling upon client request only.
(678) 321-4731 x103 View (678) 321-4731 x103
Photo of L Michael Fields, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
L Michael Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I believe in the power of stories to inspire and to promote growth and healing. I embrace a wellness model employing the DIR Floortime framework using play (following a person's lead and need) and semi-structured cooperative and collaborative games, to give people the opportunity to see themselves as not just the authors, but the heroes of their own stories, shifting the focus from pathology to potential.
I believe in the power of stories to inspire and to promote growth and healing. I embrace a wellness model employing the DIR Floortime framework using play (following a person's lead and need) and semi-structured cooperative and collaborative games, to give people the opportunity to see themselves as not just the authors, but the heroes of their own stories, shifting the focus from pathology to potential.
(770) 726-9624 View (770) 726-9624
Photo of Corey Milsap, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Corey Milsap
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, LSP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
Ready for change? My approach to therapy includes cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive therapy, and play therapy. I have +20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Ready for change? My approach to therapy includes cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive therapy, and play therapy. I have +20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults.
(678) 726-5075 View (678) 726-5075
Photo of Jessica B Whyte, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Jessica B Whyte
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NFB
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I am a licensed professional counselor, specializing in therapies (Neurofeedback, Play Therapy, Yoga) which have been demonstrated by neuroscience to be effective tools in addressing symptoms and causes of ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, TBI, tinnitus, chronic pain and some mood disorders. I believe that our bodies and minds are inextricably connected and have an enormous capacity not only to heal anything that ails us, but to take us beyond healing- to a state in which we are able to thrive. My passion is using Neurofeedback to restore, rebalance, and retrain brainwaves in the direction of health and happiness, while supporting and empowering my clients as they reclaim the thriving lives that they were meant to live.
I am a licensed professional counselor, specializing in therapies (Neurofeedback, Play Therapy, Yoga) which have been demonstrated by neuroscience to be effective tools in addressing symptoms and causes of ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, TBI, tinnitus, chronic pain and some mood disorders. I believe that our bodies and minds are inextricably connected and have an enormous capacity not only to heal anything that ails us, but to take us beyond healing- to a state in which we are able to thrive. My passion is using Neurofeedback to restore, rebalance, and retrain brainwaves in the direction of health and happiness, while supporting and empowering my clients as they reclaim the thriving lives that they were meant to live.
(678) 967-0848 View (678) 967-0848
Photo of Genobia Wedemier Babalola, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Genobia Wedemier Babalola
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
We do expressive/play therapy and will have family sessions.
Kids are AWESOME! But they struggle. That’s when they act out, or act in. Maybe you’ve been seeing it for years. Or they’re angry, frustrated, or disobedient all of a sudden. And if they’re harming themselves, you’re doubly scared. You can’t help but wonder what’s behind it all. You might be thinking that your child’s behavior is a reflection of your parenting. But your child’s fears and anxieties can come from any number of places: media, school experiences, traumatic events, family issues. It can even be inherited and we all know we can’t control our genes.
We do expressive/play therapy and will have family sessions.
Kids are AWESOME! But they struggle. That’s when they act out, or act in. Maybe you’ve been seeing it for years. Or they’re angry, frustrated, or disobedient all of a sudden. And if they’re harming themselves, you’re doubly scared. You can’t help but wonder what’s behind it all. You might be thinking that your child’s behavior is a reflection of your parenting. But your child’s fears and anxieties can come from any number of places: media, school experiences, traumatic events, family issues. It can even be inherited and we all know we can’t control our genes.
(678) 944-8058 View (678) 944-8058
Photo of Robyn Starks, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Robyn Starks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
Robyn utilizes relational, collaborative, strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, art and play therapy techniques, solutions-focused (SFT), and emotionally-focused (EFT) approaches to therapy.
Robyn Starks is a Resident in Counseling (RIC) who has more than 7 years of experience working with children, adults, individuals, and couples who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, communication, coping skills and parenting issues. Her passion includes learning alongside couples while helping them build and maintain fulfilling relationships through self-awareness and continued growth. Robyn completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kennesaw State University and received his Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from Richmont Graduate University.
Robyn utilizes relational, collaborative, strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, art and play therapy techniques, solutions-focused (SFT), and emotionally-focused (EFT) approaches to therapy.
Robyn Starks is a Resident in Counseling (RIC) who has more than 7 years of experience working with children, adults, individuals, and couples who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, communication, coping skills and parenting issues. Her passion includes learning alongside couples while helping them build and maintain fulfilling relationships through self-awareness and continued growth. Robyn completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kennesaw State University and received his Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from Richmont Graduate University.
(678) 252-6537 View (678) 252-6537
Photo of Sharon Price Lightstone, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Sharon Price Lightstone
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I use a variety of techniques within cognitive-behavioral, play, mindfulness and solution-based therapies, with a focus on examining how thoughts impact thoughts and behaviors.
I work collaboratively with clients, finding the next best step for them to take to handle challenges and roadblocks in life. I get great satisfaction watching my clients improve their life through short or long-term therapy. I help children and adolescents reach their academic/social potential with the parents' support. I advocate for students with navigation of EiP’s/504’s and RTI. Other areas of expertise include grief/loss, stress, anxiety, self-esteem and relationship issues for children, teens and adults. I teach social skills to those dealing with Asperger's Syndrome and work with youth at risk for sexual exploitation.
I use a variety of techniques within cognitive-behavioral, play, mindfulness and solution-based therapies, with a focus on examining how thoughts impact thoughts and behaviors.
I work collaboratively with clients, finding the next best step for them to take to handle challenges and roadblocks in life. I get great satisfaction watching my clients improve their life through short or long-term therapy. I help children and adolescents reach their academic/social potential with the parents' support. I advocate for students with navigation of EiP’s/504’s and RTI. Other areas of expertise include grief/loss, stress, anxiety, self-esteem and relationship issues for children, teens and adults. I teach social skills to those dealing with Asperger's Syndrome and work with youth at risk for sexual exploitation.
(678) 726-5804 View (678) 726-5804
Photo of Marietta West Cobb Counseling Center, Inc. in 30067, GA
Marietta West Cobb Counseling Center, Inc.
LPC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
Do you wake up every morning hoping this will be a better day but are not sure anything will be different? Tired of feeling sad, stressed, anxious, or angry? Marietta West Cobb Counseling Center is a community of licensed therapists who work with clients from birth through senior years, applying traditional psychotherapy, experiential psychotherapies (such as art and play therapy), and body psychotherapy to help each man, woman, and child live their happiest and most fulfilling lives and have meaningful, loving relationships. Your success is our goal!
Do you wake up every morning hoping this will be a better day but are not sure anything will be different? Tired of feeling sad, stressed, anxious, or angry? Marietta West Cobb Counseling Center is a community of licensed therapists who work with clients from birth through senior years, applying traditional psychotherapy, experiential psychotherapies (such as art and play therapy), and body psychotherapy to help each man, woman, and child live their happiest and most fulfilling lives and have meaningful, loving relationships. Your success is our goal!
(770) 574-6493 View (770) 574-6493
Photo of Bethany Verbrugge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30067, GA
Bethany Verbrugge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I am trained in EMDR and also use Sand Tray, Play Therapy, mindfulness and attachment focused strategies to empower and equip clients in their healing journey.
Going through trauma, grief, depression, anxiety and/or an eating disorder can be very lonely and isolating. Clients sometimes feel that they have no one who really understands what they are going through. I have worked with many clients who have experienced tragedies and difficult times in their lives, and maybe you can relate to some of those difficult feelings. I'm here to tell you that you don't have to go through this alone! You may be looking for a place to heal, to explore painful memories, to receive support. There is strength in seeking help and I would love to be by your side to support you.
I am trained in EMDR and also use Sand Tray, Play Therapy, mindfulness and attachment focused strategies to empower and equip clients in their healing journey.
Going through trauma, grief, depression, anxiety and/or an eating disorder can be very lonely and isolating. Clients sometimes feel that they have no one who really understands what they are going through. I have worked with many clients who have experienced tragedies and difficult times in their lives, and maybe you can relate to some of those difficult feelings. I'm here to tell you that you don't have to go through this alone! You may be looking for a place to heal, to explore painful memories, to receive support. There is strength in seeking help and I would love to be by your side to support you.
(678) 326-4370 View (678) 326-4370
Photo of Cate McCollum, Pre-Licensed Professional in 30067, GA
Cate McCollum
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
My passion is working with kids (10+), teenage girls, and young adult women facing challenges such as anxiety, sports performance, life changes, friendship struggles, depression, self-esteem, and perfectionistic tendencies. The clients I support are high-achieving, motivated, and goal-driven individuals who are often silently struggling on the inside. My goal is to assist clients in developing the skills and mindsets necessary to reach their full potential. I support my clients by offering them unconditional encouragement while building upon their strengths and talents.
My passion is working with kids (10+), teenage girls, and young adult women facing challenges such as anxiety, sports performance, life changes, friendship struggles, depression, self-esteem, and perfectionistic tendencies. The clients I support are high-achieving, motivated, and goal-driven individuals who are often silently struggling on the inside. My goal is to assist clients in developing the skills and mindsets necessary to reach their full potential. I support my clients by offering them unconditional encouragement while building upon their strengths and talents.
(678) 719-4201 View (678) 719-4201
Photo of Rebecca Lanier, Marriage & Family Therapist in 30067, GA
Rebecca Lanier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Rebecca aims to provide a safe and uplifting environment for clients to foster their authentic self, gain insight regarding themselves and others, engage in positive peer interactions, and build self-confidence. She enjoys working with neurodiverse couples, individuals, and families. She specializes in ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, and mood disorders. Rebecca also leads therapeutic gaming, process-oriented, and social skills groups and provides virtual and in-person services at the Marietta office.
Rebecca aims to provide a safe and uplifting environment for clients to foster their authentic self, gain insight regarding themselves and others, engage in positive peer interactions, and build self-confidence. She enjoys working with neurodiverse couples, individuals, and families. She specializes in ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, and mood disorders. Rebecca also leads therapeutic gaming, process-oriented, and social skills groups and provides virtual and in-person services at the Marietta office.
(770) 872-6929 View (770) 872-6929
Photo of Jennifer Carlson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Jennifer Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Does your child or teen (or you!) ever feel overwhelmed, anxious, lonely, or discouraged? Does your family struggle to navigate the challenges of school, friends, family, or stress? As a parent, it's hard to see your child or teen experience these types of challenges. You want to help them gain confidence and happiness but you are not sure how to best help them. If your family is currently facing this type of challenge, I would love to help you find the best way to help your loved ones.
Does your child or teen (or you!) ever feel overwhelmed, anxious, lonely, or discouraged? Does your family struggle to navigate the challenges of school, friends, family, or stress? As a parent, it's hard to see your child or teen experience these types of challenges. You want to help them gain confidence and happiness but you are not sure how to best help them. If your family is currently facing this type of challenge, I would love to help you find the best way to help your loved ones.
(770) 467-3966 View (770) 467-3966
Photo of Life Empowerment Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30067, GA
Life Empowerment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Our therapists at Life Empowerment Services (LES) are trained with a diverse skillset and ready to walk alongside you in various approaches to assist you and/or your family with healing. We are a trauma informed agency that specializes in treating trauma survivors which is ANY event that is difficult to cope with. This can be sexual trauma, or physical and emotional (neglect or abandonment, etc.) abuse, spiritual abuse, or life changes (divorce, empty nesters, loss of a loved one, etc.). We will meet you at your point of need and engage you in a therapeutic and supportive way, promoting self-actualization and empowerment.
Our therapists at Life Empowerment Services (LES) are trained with a diverse skillset and ready to walk alongside you in various approaches to assist you and/or your family with healing. We are a trauma informed agency that specializes in treating trauma survivors which is ANY event that is difficult to cope with. This can be sexual trauma, or physical and emotional (neglect or abandonment, etc.) abuse, spiritual abuse, or life changes (divorce, empty nesters, loss of a loved one, etc.). We will meet you at your point of need and engage you in a therapeutic and supportive way, promoting self-actualization and empowerment.
(470) 735-2408 x1 View (470) 735-2408 x1
Photo of Dr. Ashley Tolleson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30067, GA
Dr. Ashley Tolleson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping girls and women struggling with stress, anxiety, perfectionism, past trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions. I believe the better we understand ourselves, the better we get at making conscious choices. Gaining insight into the "why" and "how" we operate can help us cultivate self-compassion for where we've been and find the courage to do things differently. Many clients who come to work with me identify as overwhelmed high-achievers on the brink of burnout or misunderstood big feelers needing skills and support.
I specialize in helping girls and women struggling with stress, anxiety, perfectionism, past trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions. I believe the better we understand ourselves, the better we get at making conscious choices. Gaining insight into the "why" and "how" we operate can help us cultivate self-compassion for where we've been and find the courage to do things differently. Many clients who come to work with me identify as overwhelmed high-achievers on the brink of burnout or misunderstood big feelers needing skills and support.
(678) 498-7319 View (678) 498-7319
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.