Photo of Leah Hodari - Leah Hodari & Miami Beach Therapy LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Leah Hodari & Miami Beach Therapy LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
I am an experienced child therapist specializing in Play Therapy. I also work with teens and adults. Children need and deserve therapy, too. Play therapy works wonders for children 2-12, and teens benefit from the integrative, expressive therapies we offer. Parents can meet with clinicians to work on parenting skills and new ways to better support children. Individual adult clients are welcome, too. MOST Insurances accepted! Medicaid, too.
I am an experienced child therapist specializing in Play Therapy. I also work with teens and adults. Children need and deserve therapy, too. Play therapy works wonders for children 2-12, and teens benefit from the integrative, expressive therapies we offer. Parents can meet with clinicians to work on parenting skills and new ways to better support children. Individual adult clients are welcome, too. MOST Insurances accepted! Medicaid, too.
(786) 882-7402 View (786) 882-7402
Photo of Santina Maria Bianco, MA
Santina Maria Bianco
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
My area of specialty is play therapy.
It is my goal to provide a safe and collaborative space where you can fully express your thoughts, feelings, doubts, and desires. I deeply respect all people and their unique identities and experiences. I listen carefully to make sure I fully understand and then work in partnership and support to develop goals and plans. It is my hope that everyone I meet with feels accepted and comfortable throughout our journey together.
My area of specialty is play therapy.
It is my goal to provide a safe and collaborative space where you can fully express your thoughts, feelings, doubts, and desires. I deeply respect all people and their unique identities and experiences. I listen carefully to make sure I fully understand and then work in partnership and support to develop goals and plans. It is my hope that everyone I meet with feels accepted and comfortable throughout our journey together.
(239) 666-8002 View (239) 666-8002
Photo of Laura S Olivos, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura S Olivos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Waitlist for new clients
Through an integrative and client-centered approach, I integrate mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and play therapies to collaboratively develop a unique and personalized treatment plan for each child & family that seeks services.
Welcome! I pride myself in providing child & adolescent specific care that heavily emphasizes family engagement. I find more optimal outcomes in my work when parents are willing to become vulnerable and connect with their children. Too often, we become focused on what children are not doing right and on their pathology that we lose sight of the things they are good at and the things that make them precious and unique. I teach parents how to harness their children's strengths to aid them in overcoming their struggles. The heart of this work lies in connection. If a child does not feel connected and safe, they will not heal.
Through an integrative and client-centered approach, I integrate mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and play therapies to collaboratively develop a unique and personalized treatment plan for each child & family that seeks services.
Welcome! I pride myself in providing child & adolescent specific care that heavily emphasizes family engagement. I find more optimal outcomes in my work when parents are willing to become vulnerable and connect with their children. Too often, we become focused on what children are not doing right and on their pathology that we lose sight of the things they are good at and the things that make them precious and unique. I teach parents how to harness their children's strengths to aid them in overcoming their struggles. The heart of this work lies in connection. If a child does not feel connected and safe, they will not heal.
(305) 792-8168 View (305) 792-8168
Photo of Jessica Collins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
I use elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment Theory, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals.
Immediate Availability! Yung Pueblo, one of my favorite writers says, "Personal transformation is not easy. Healing yourself takes time. Letting go can sometimes feel overwhelming. Building new habits can seem like an uphill battle. Even with all of these challenges, inner work is worth it. This active form of self-love can radically change your life." Growth isn't just about being in full bloom; it's the process by which you get there...and how you continue to thrive after all the messiness from that growth. But often, you can't do this alone or without the right tools, support, and encouragement. That's what I'm here for!
I use elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment Theory, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals.
Immediate Availability! Yung Pueblo, one of my favorite writers says, "Personal transformation is not easy. Healing yourself takes time. Letting go can sometimes feel overwhelming. Building new habits can seem like an uphill battle. Even with all of these challenges, inner work is worth it. This active form of self-love can radically change your life." Growth isn't just about being in full bloom; it's the process by which you get there...and how you continue to thrive after all the messiness from that growth. But often, you can't do this alone or without the right tools, support, and encouragement. That's what I'm here for!
(786) 980-9232 View (786) 980-9232
Photo of Elsa M Orlandini - Miami Psychology Group, PsyD, CST, Psychologist
Miami Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
(305) 676-9667 View (305) 676-9667
Photo of Ariane N Ladd, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariane N Ladd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
The evolving challenges of raising children involve the addition of new technology and an ever-increasing pressure to succeed. Keeping on top of these dynamics can at best overwhelm and at worst alienate those in even the most healthy families. Teens pass through a stage of fluctuating hormonal levels, while negotiating burgeoning independence, and navigating the waters of social media along with peer pressure. Meanwhile parents are dealing with keeping a household afloat, managing the family and their careers, while often having aging parents and/or dealing with grief over their loss. When teens and parents need a little help or mental health challenges require more effort for daily living than they should, learning new coping skills with or without medication can make a difference. Discovering what influences behaviors and learning ways to express what needs to be said can empower parents and their children to find more happiness and fulfillment in life. Sorting through these challenges and developing coping techniques that help organize and balance communication is my goal with all families and individuals.
The evolving challenges of raising children involve the addition of new technology and an ever-increasing pressure to succeed. Keeping on top of these dynamics can at best overwhelm and at worst alienate those in even the most healthy families. Teens pass through a stage of fluctuating hormonal levels, while negotiating burgeoning independence, and navigating the waters of social media along with peer pressure. Meanwhile parents are dealing with keeping a household afloat, managing the family and their careers, while often having aging parents and/or dealing with grief over their loss. When teens and parents need a little help or mental health challenges require more effort for daily living than they should, learning new coping skills with or without medication can make a difference. Discovering what influences behaviors and learning ways to express what needs to be said can empower parents and their children to find more happiness and fulfillment in life. Sorting through these challenges and developing coping techniques that help organize and balance communication is my goal with all families and individuals.
(203) 807-6572 View (203) 807-6572
Photo of Anna Marchenko, LMHC, MA, EdM, CCHt
Anna Marchenko
LMHC, MA, EdM, CCHt
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Anna Marchenko is a licensed mental health counselor with specialized training in trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), addiction, family counseling, and hypnotherapy. She earned her double Master's degree from Columbia University, New York. She continued her post-graduate education at International Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy and worked at Mount Sinai Hospital and CSEDNY of NY before going into full-time private practice. She provides psychotherapy in a variety of areas, including stress, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, adjustment, performance psychology, creative and work blocks, sexuality, and interpersonal issues.
Anna Marchenko is a licensed mental health counselor with specialized training in trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), addiction, family counseling, and hypnotherapy. She earned her double Master's degree from Columbia University, New York. She continued her post-graduate education at International Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy and worked at Mount Sinai Hospital and CSEDNY of NY before going into full-time private practice. She provides psychotherapy in a variety of areas, including stress, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, adjustment, performance psychology, creative and work blocks, sexuality, and interpersonal issues.
(305) 526-4405 View (305) 526-4405
Photo of Natalia Hunt, LMHC, EdS, Counselor
Natalia Hunt
Counselor, LMHC, EdS
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Waitlist for new clients
With over a decade of experience in mental health counseling, I provide individual and family therapy for an array of mental health disorders, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, OCD, family conflict and abuse, as well as eating disorders, peer conflict, and parenting issues. I bring an eclectic and thoughtful psychodynamic therapeutic approach to my practice, which includes a combination of orthodox and creative therapies. With the knowledge that no two clients are alike, I employ different therapies depending on each circumstance. I work with adults, children, and families.
With over a decade of experience in mental health counseling, I provide individual and family therapy for an array of mental health disorders, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, OCD, family conflict and abuse, as well as eating disorders, peer conflict, and parenting issues. I bring an eclectic and thoughtful psychodynamic therapeutic approach to my practice, which includes a combination of orthodox and creative therapies. With the knowledge that no two clients are alike, I employ different therapies depending on each circumstance. I work with adults, children, and families.
(305) 547-8537 View (305) 547-8537
Photo of Elsa M Orlandini - Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini, MS, PsyD, CST, Psychologist
Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini
Psychologist, MS, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
MIAMI PSYCHOLOGY GROUP : "I believe the bond that is developed between the therapist and client is essential for change and is based on respect and positive regard. If you are ready to change, I would consider it an honor to help you reach your goals. I believe in building on your strengths and in helping you find the tools necessary to reach a more fulfilling life and tackle the problems you may be facing. If you need someone to listen to you, I can be there for you. Talking about concerns can be empowering and healing." Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini
MIAMI PSYCHOLOGY GROUP : "I believe the bond that is developed between the therapist and client is essential for change and is based on respect and positive regard. If you are ready to change, I would consider it an honor to help you reach your goals. I believe in building on your strengths and in helping you find the tools necessary to reach a more fulfilling life and tackle the problems you may be facing. If you need someone to listen to you, I can be there for you. Talking about concerns can be empowering and healing." Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini
(786) 664-7975 View (786) 664-7975
Photo of Raquel Behar, RMHCI
Raquel Behar
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Raquel Behar, RMHCI, is a Master’s Level Psychotherapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Therapy, Mindfulness, Art and Sand play.
Raquel believes in utilizing a holistic approach to treating patients, with emphasis on environment, health, nutrition and safety.
Raquel Behar, RMHCI, is a Master’s Level Psychotherapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Therapy, Mindfulness, Art and Sand play.
Raquel believes in utilizing a holistic approach to treating patients, with emphasis on environment, health, nutrition and safety.
(786) 882-4812 View (786) 882-4812
Photo of Lucia Rose Fernandez, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lucia Rose Fernandez
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Hello! My name is Lucia, and I am a licensed mental health counselor specialized in child development and childhood issues. Please, take a moment. How are you feeling today? Perhaps overwhelmed or maybe worried about your child and whether they’re happy? That’s where I come in, as I have vast experience working with children and adolescents and help them work through the many issues they face as they grow and develop. I can help your child manage unhelpful behaviors, become aware of, and connected to their emotions, strengthen their coping skills, improve academic performance, and have a more positive outlook on life.
Hello! My name is Lucia, and I am a licensed mental health counselor specialized in child development and childhood issues. Please, take a moment. How are you feeling today? Perhaps overwhelmed or maybe worried about your child and whether they’re happy? That’s where I come in, as I have vast experience working with children and adolescents and help them work through the many issues they face as they grow and develop. I can help your child manage unhelpful behaviors, become aware of, and connected to their emotions, strengthen their coping skills, improve academic performance, and have a more positive outlook on life.
(786) 998-8458 View (786) 998-8458
Photo of Netta Shaked - Dr. Netta Shaked, PhD, PhD, Doctor, Psychologist
Dr. Netta Shaked, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, Doctor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY specializing in FAMILY LAW/CUSTODY & HIGH CONFLICT, ADHD evals & treatment, GIFTED testing, ANXIETY and DEPRESSION. You're here because something is off. Maybe you're hurt, or maybe you're in the midst of a real crisis. I applaud you for getting this far. Choose who you work with wisely. CHOOSE A DOCTOR. CHOOSE A DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY. IT'S FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH. I am Dr. Netta Shaked, SOUTH BEACH PSYCHOLOGIST®. I am a FL & NY licensed psychologist providing services, in-person or online, in English, Spanish & Hebrew. I am easy to relate to, warm and compassionate. FREE PARKING
DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY specializing in FAMILY LAW/CUSTODY & HIGH CONFLICT, ADHD evals & treatment, GIFTED testing, ANXIETY and DEPRESSION. You're here because something is off. Maybe you're hurt, or maybe you're in the midst of a real crisis. I applaud you for getting this far. Choose who you work with wisely. CHOOSE A DOCTOR. CHOOSE A DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY. IT'S FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH. I am Dr. Netta Shaked, SOUTH BEACH PSYCHOLOGIST®. I am a FL & NY licensed psychologist providing services, in-person or online, in English, Spanish & Hebrew. I am easy to relate to, warm and compassionate. FREE PARKING
(786) 942-9425 View (786) 942-9425
Photo of Loveth C Marcellus, MA, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Loveth C Marcellus
Counselor, MA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
On the surface, everything is fine. You do your work, pay your bills, and seem to have it all together. But inside is a different story. Your emotions are unpredictable – dizzyingly high one moment, then crashing back to earth the next. It’s impossible to find relief from the constant triggers and intrusive thoughts, so you hide. But in the process, you’re shrinking from the world. Nobody sees the real you, and it feels so isolating. You’d love to be able to express how you really feel, but you’re scared of how people would react. So you smile through your struggles and suffer in silence. If only there were some other way to live.
On the surface, everything is fine. You do your work, pay your bills, and seem to have it all together. But inside is a different story. Your emotions are unpredictable – dizzyingly high one moment, then crashing back to earth the next. It’s impossible to find relief from the constant triggers and intrusive thoughts, so you hide. But in the process, you’re shrinking from the world. Nobody sees the real you, and it feels so isolating. You’d love to be able to express how you really feel, but you’re scared of how people would react. So you smile through your struggles and suffer in silence. If only there were some other way to live.
(305) 240-6520 View (305) 240-6520
Photo of Dr. Breanne Taylor, Postdoc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Breanne Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, Postdoc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
(773) 839-2846 View (773) 839-2846
Photo of Gail A Wint, PsyD, Psychologist
Gail A Wint
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
Dr. Wint believes that everyone possess the power to transform the quality of life at every moment, under all circumstances. Dr. Wint understands that transforming into the best version of yourself in order to live the best version of your life is one of the most invaluable endeavors. Therefore, she invests an enormous amount of compassion and attentiveness in each person, exemplifying her commitment in personally facilitating the transformational process with great care and thoughtfulness. Her personalized approach functions to meet the precise need of every individual. She provides a safe space and positive experiences.
Dr. Wint believes that everyone possess the power to transform the quality of life at every moment, under all circumstances. Dr. Wint understands that transforming into the best version of yourself in order to live the best version of your life is one of the most invaluable endeavors. Therefore, she invests an enormous amount of compassion and attentiveness in each person, exemplifying her commitment in personally facilitating the transformational process with great care and thoughtfulness. Her personalized approach functions to meet the precise need of every individual. She provides a safe space and positive experiences.
(786) 244-8269 View (786) 244-8269
Photo of Andrew Extein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Extein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33139
I am a clinical social worker providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My areas of specialty and interest are LGBTQ-identified people, kids and teens, and people struggling with eating disorders. I value critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and humor within the therapeutic relationship. I treat my clients with respect and acknowledge that they are the authorities of their own lives. I make an effort to emphasize strengths without invalidating very real feelings or minimizing problems. I collaborate with my clients to develop effective and individualized treatment plans to empower them to make changes in their own lives.
I am a clinical social worker providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My areas of specialty and interest are LGBTQ-identified people, kids and teens, and people struggling with eating disorders. I value critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and humor within the therapeutic relationship. I treat my clients with respect and acknowledge that they are the authorities of their own lives. I make an effort to emphasize strengths without invalidating very real feelings or minimizing problems. I collaborate with my clients to develop effective and individualized treatment plans to empower them to make changes in their own lives.
(323) 922-4103 View (323) 922-4103
Photo of Terry Ann Dornak, PsyD, Psychologist
Terry Ann Dornak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
(847) 532-3007 View (847) 532-3007
Photo of Angelique Alonso, PhD, Psychologist
Angelique Alonso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
I work with clients to address a wide range of concerns that cause personal distress, which can be experienced as feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. Moments of distress may also be marked by interpersonal difficulties with others, including family, friends, co-workers and partners, which can also be explored in therapy. In my work with couples, I carefully attune to each person's needs, as well as, to the couple as a whole. I also work with clients to pinpoint areas of communication that can be strengthened, developing stronger communication abilities that can positively affect other life areas as well.
I work with clients to address a wide range of concerns that cause personal distress, which can be experienced as feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. Moments of distress may also be marked by interpersonal difficulties with others, including family, friends, co-workers and partners, which can also be explored in therapy. In my work with couples, I carefully attune to each person's needs, as well as, to the couple as a whole. I also work with clients to pinpoint areas of communication that can be strengthened, developing stronger communication abilities that can positively affect other life areas as well.
(305) 930-8850 View (305) 930-8850
Photo of Patricia M Gunerman - Licensed Professional Counseling Services, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33139
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
(215) 688-5978 View (215) 688-5978
Photo of Alessana Fordin, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Alessana Fordin
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(305) 834-4115 View (305) 834-4115
1
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.