Photo of Leambrea (Bree) High, MA, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Leambrea (Bree) High
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Bree is EMDR-trained, specializes in play therapy, family therapy and CBT.
Starting counseling can be a big step. I’m here to guide you through the process by providing you a space to be heard. Through this journey, we will focus on what has robbed you of your peace. Let’s set a goal to get your peace back!
Bree is EMDR-trained, specializes in play therapy, family therapy and CBT.
Starting counseling can be a big step. I’m here to guide you through the process by providing you a space to be heard. Through this journey, we will focus on what has robbed you of your peace. Let’s set a goal to get your peace back!
(469) 457-4597 View (469) 457-4597
Photo of Shlomit Oliel, MS, NCC, LPCA
Shlomit Oliel
LPC Associate, MS, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I utilize a humanistic approach to empowering my clients with self-knowledge, coping skills, and self-acceptance through play therapy (kids), talk therapy, expressive arts, dreamwork, and mindfulness techniques.
I am an LPC Associate committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life transitions and emotional and behavioral challenges through acceptance, kindness, and empowerment. I am passionate about multicultural competencies and providing a safe and non-judgmental place for a diverse clientele. I specialized in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, acculturation issues, LGTBQI+, and perinatal care. I recognize my clients' efforts to commit weekly to their mental health. Therapy can be challenging and emotionally draining; thus, I encourage my client to do self-care and be compassionate during this process.
I utilize a humanistic approach to empowering my clients with self-knowledge, coping skills, and self-acceptance through play therapy (kids), talk therapy, expressive arts, dreamwork, and mindfulness techniques.
I am an LPC Associate committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life transitions and emotional and behavioral challenges through acceptance, kindness, and empowerment. I am passionate about multicultural competencies and providing a safe and non-judgmental place for a diverse clientele. I specialized in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, acculturation issues, LGTBQI+, and perinatal care. I recognize my clients' efforts to commit weekly to their mental health. Therapy can be challenging and emotionally draining; thus, I encourage my client to do self-care and be compassionate during this process.
(214) 974-3469 View (214) 974-3469
Photo of Ryanne Niki Shewchuk, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryanne Niki Shewchuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
My job is to partner with you and your child to reduce conflict, strengthen family relationships, and help kiddos process big feelings through play therapy, EMDR (trauma) therapy, sand play, and other interventions.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or at a loss about how to help your child or teen? Perhaps your child’s school has suggested you reach out to a counselor, and you’re not sure where to start, but know that you need some support. If so, I applaud you for taking steps in the right direction to seek professional help for your child. I can help guide you and help you find a way to re-connect with yourself and/or your child. Connection is the key in relationship building. I work best with families and children who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and difficulty coping.
My job is to partner with you and your child to reduce conflict, strengthen family relationships, and help kiddos process big feelings through play therapy, EMDR (trauma) therapy, sand play, and other interventions.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or at a loss about how to help your child or teen? Perhaps your child’s school has suggested you reach out to a counselor, and you’re not sure where to start, but know that you need some support. If so, I applaud you for taking steps in the right direction to seek professional help for your child. I can help guide you and help you find a way to re-connect with yourself and/or your child. Connection is the key in relationship building. I work best with families and children who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and difficulty coping.
(214) 617-9277 View (214) 617-9277
Photo of Sarah Gregory, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Gregory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I am a trauma informed, EMDR trained, & a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional therapist. I enjoy incorporating games and art therapy in sessions. I am passionate to help people move through emotional/spiritual obstacles so they can live rich lives interpersonally and contribute to their community. A warm, empathetic relationship between a counselor and client provides the context where growth and change can take place. I utilize Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Play Therapy approaches.
I am a trauma informed, EMDR trained, & a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional therapist. I enjoy incorporating games and art therapy in sessions. I am passionate to help people move through emotional/spiritual obstacles so they can live rich lives interpersonally and contribute to their community. A warm, empathetic relationship between a counselor and client provides the context where growth and change can take place. I utilize Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Play Therapy approaches.
(972) 608-3179 View (972) 608-3179
Photo of Shivangi Patel, MBA, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shivangi Patel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I specialize in play therapy, filial therapy, parent consults, adult and adolescent counseling.
Being a child in today's world can be challenging and just like adults, children also need a safe space to process their experiences. Play therapy is a specialized approach that focuses on helping children express their thoughts and feelings through play, rather than through words alone. Children often find it difficult to say their emotions directly, especially if they’re experiencing stress, trauma, or other challenges. By engaging in play, children can express themselves more freely and explore their feelings in a non-threatening way.
I specialize in play therapy, filial therapy, parent consults, adult and adolescent counseling.
Being a child in today's world can be challenging and just like adults, children also need a safe space to process their experiences. Play therapy is a specialized approach that focuses on helping children express their thoughts and feelings through play, rather than through words alone. Children often find it difficult to say their emotions directly, especially if they’re experiencing stress, trauma, or other challenges. By engaging in play, children can express themselves more freely and explore their feelings in a non-threatening way.
(940) 765-9029 View (940) 765-9029
Photo of Jodi Payson, MS, LPC, RPT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Payson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Jodi is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist.
Practice is accepting new clients at this time. Counseling begins with having the courage to take the first step toward change. Jodi's initial focus is to provide a safe, trusting environment to explore avenues of growth and development. Using a combination of techniques and activities, she strives to meet the individual needs of her clients. Jodi's experiences within the counseling field have allowed her to work in a variety of settings helping clients of diverse backgrounds, ages, and presenting concerns. Jodi earned a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Oklahoma and her M.S. in Counseling at Southern Methodist University.
Jodi is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist.
Practice is accepting new clients at this time. Counseling begins with having the courage to take the first step toward change. Jodi's initial focus is to provide a safe, trusting environment to explore avenues of growth and development. Using a combination of techniques and activities, she strives to meet the individual needs of her clients. Jodi's experiences within the counseling field have allowed her to work in a variety of settings helping clients of diverse backgrounds, ages, and presenting concerns. Jodi earned a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Oklahoma and her M.S. in Counseling at Southern Methodist University.
(972) 845-5554 View (972) 845-5554
Photo of Destinie Myers, LMSW, LCCA
Destinie Myers
LMSW, LCCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I primarily work with children and teens, where I enjoy incorporating play and art modalities.
I am so glad you are here because life is not meant to walk alone. I bring a wealth of experience and passion for helping children and adolescents navigate their emotional challenges through the transformative power of play and art therapy. This allows young clients to express themselves, explore their feelings, and develop coping skills in a developmentally appropriate manner. In addition, I feel strongly about supporting parents through parent education, empathy, active listening, and showing compassion to meet you where you are.
I primarily work with children and teens, where I enjoy incorporating play and art modalities.
I am so glad you are here because life is not meant to walk alone. I bring a wealth of experience and passion for helping children and adolescents navigate their emotional challenges through the transformative power of play and art therapy. This allows young clients to express themselves, explore their feelings, and develop coping skills in a developmentally appropriate manner. In addition, I feel strongly about supporting parents through parent education, empathy, active listening, and showing compassion to meet you where you are.
(940) 765-9029 View (940) 765-9029
Photo of Bryna Talamantez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryna Talamantez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Seeing your kid struggle is one of the toughest things to do as a parent or caregiver. Our children cannot always express their thoughts and feelings through words, and this can lead to frustration and confusion for both parent and child. Children express their thoughts and feelings through play and their toys are their words. When we allow children to play alongside therapeutic interventions, children can tell us so much about what is going on in their lives. Whether your child is experiencing grief, sadness, anxiety, anger, or school problems, they deserve some extra help!
Seeing your kid struggle is one of the toughest things to do as a parent or caregiver. Our children cannot always express their thoughts and feelings through words, and this can lead to frustration and confusion for both parent and child. Children express their thoughts and feelings through play and their toys are their words. When we allow children to play alongside therapeutic interventions, children can tell us so much about what is going on in their lives. Whether your child is experiencing grief, sadness, anxiety, anger, or school problems, they deserve some extra help!
(972) 564-8528 View (972) 564-8528
Photo of Heather Hollinsworth, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Hollinsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I practice play therapy with children as young as five years old and teach filial therapy to parents.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Intern and I work with individuals, from childhood through adolescence to older adults. I believe that every one is capable of making changes to break patterns; and ultimately, live a life that includes self-love and self-respect. I am experienced in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, isolation, self-discovery, improving self-esteem, career dissatisfaction, life transitions, grief, loneliness, adjusting to change, relationship difficulties, anger, eating disorders, suicidal ideation and self harm.
I practice play therapy with children as young as five years old and teach filial therapy to parents.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Intern and I work with individuals, from childhood through adolescence to older adults. I believe that every one is capable of making changes to break patterns; and ultimately, live a life that includes self-love and self-respect. I am experienced in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, isolation, self-discovery, improving self-esteem, career dissatisfaction, life transitions, grief, loneliness, adjusting to change, relationship difficulties, anger, eating disorders, suicidal ideation and self harm.
(214) 225-3245 View (214) 225-3245
Photo of Jacqueline Guardiola, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Guardiola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults, adolescents, and children who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I also have experience in treating Bipolar Disorder and substance use. As an experienced play therapist, I am trained to work with children, focusing on trauma treatment using EMDR. I enjoy involving caregivers in the process through parent-child interaction therapy. My priority is understanding your expectations and helping you achieve your goals.
I specialize in treating adults, adolescents, and children who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I also have experience in treating Bipolar Disorder and substance use. As an experienced play therapist, I am trained to work with children, focusing on trauma treatment using EMDR. I enjoy involving caregivers in the process through parent-child interaction therapy. My priority is understanding your expectations and helping you achieve your goals.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Rachael Taliancich, MA, LPC, RPT
Rachael Taliancich
MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
As a Registered Play Therapist, I offer counseling, parent coaching, and play therapy services.
Are you noticing any changes in your child's behavior or emotions that you'd like to explore further? Have you considered how play therapy could support your child's social and emotional development? Have you and your child gone through changes that have impacted their overall well-being? As a registered play therapist, I specialize in working with children aged 4 and older. I believe in the significance of supporting parents by offering parenting guidance, a compassionate presence, and empathetic understanding as we address the concerns you may have.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I offer counseling, parent coaching, and play therapy services.
Are you noticing any changes in your child's behavior or emotions that you'd like to explore further? Have you considered how play therapy could support your child's social and emotional development? Have you and your child gone through changes that have impacted their overall well-being? As a registered play therapist, I specialize in working with children aged 4 and older. I believe in the significance of supporting parents by offering parenting guidance, a compassionate presence, and empathetic understanding as we address the concerns you may have.
(940) 765-9029 View (940) 765-9029
Photo of Cathi Beresford, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Cathi Beresford
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I'm dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages, from children discovering their voices to adults navigating life transitions. My down-to-earth style is known for building a therapeutic atmosphere where you feel accepted, supported, and safe. Remember, you can be a masterpiece and still be a work in progress. I've completed the coursework for Child Centered Play Therapy and am working towards my credentials in CCPT as well as Registered Play Therapy (RPT).
I'm dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages, from children discovering their voices to adults navigating life transitions. My down-to-earth style is known for building a therapeutic atmosphere where you feel accepted, supported, and safe. Remember, you can be a masterpiece and still be a work in progress. I've completed the coursework for Child Centered Play Therapy and am working towards my credentials in CCPT as well as Registered Play Therapy (RPT).
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Josh Hawkins, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, CCPT-S , CHST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josh Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, CCPT-S , CHST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I am a registered play therapist supervisor with years of experience working with a large array of populations.
Hello! Whether you are needing help with the overwhelming process of finding a counselor or are ready to get started I’d love to help. I provide a non-judgemental environment to express your feelings and learn positive coping mechanisms to succeed and gain self-awareness providing self growth. I earned my doctorate degree in Counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce where I received specialty training in Play Therapy, Activity Therapy, Child-Adolescent-Adult Therapy, Group Therapy, and Family Counseling. I specialize in working with children through adults in helping them grow through mental health issues and life changes.
I am a registered play therapist supervisor with years of experience working with a large array of populations.
Hello! Whether you are needing help with the overwhelming process of finding a counselor or are ready to get started I’d love to help. I provide a non-judgemental environment to express your feelings and learn positive coping mechanisms to succeed and gain self-awareness providing self growth. I earned my doctorate degree in Counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce where I received specialty training in Play Therapy, Activity Therapy, Child-Adolescent-Adult Therapy, Group Therapy, and Family Counseling. I specialize in working with children through adults in helping them grow through mental health issues and life changes.
(469) 291-9469 View (469) 291-9469
Photo of Brandy Schumann, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, CCPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandy Schumann
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, CCPT-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
With over 20 years in the field, I specialize in play therapy, child/teen counseling, family therapy, and child-parent relationship training.
Believe you’ve failed because you seek counseling? Nope, you’re just being a superhero! It is your willingness to seek help, to do what is needed, that demonstrates the depth of your dedication and courageousness toward health. My hope is to provide an accepting environment, to facilitate your family members' ability to express themselves fully, and genuinely hear each other. Together, we will explore untapped resources, already possessed by you, to eliminate distress from your lives.
With over 20 years in the field, I specialize in play therapy, child/teen counseling, family therapy, and child-parent relationship training.
Believe you’ve failed because you seek counseling? Nope, you’re just being a superhero! It is your willingness to seek help, to do what is needed, that demonstrates the depth of your dedication and courageousness toward health. My hope is to provide an accepting environment, to facilitate your family members' ability to express themselves fully, and genuinely hear each other. Together, we will explore untapped resources, already possessed by you, to eliminate distress from your lives.
(469) 901-7842 View (469) 901-7842
Photo of Jillissa Cooper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillissa Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Counseling has been Jillissa's passion for years. She specializes in, but is not limited to, issues including: marriage and family, relationship dynamics, boundary issues, adolescent and children's issues, and woman's issues such as eating disorders, depression, anger, anxiety, divorce care, singleness, grief, bitterness, identity and significance issues and mood disorders. She also works with clients struggling with anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Adjustment Disorders. Jillissa's philosophy of counseling is the integration of Christianity and psychology, and her counseling methods include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Psychoeducation, and Child Play Therapy.
Counseling has been Jillissa's passion for years. She specializes in, but is not limited to, issues including: marriage and family, relationship dynamics, boundary issues, adolescent and children's issues, and woman's issues such as eating disorders, depression, anger, anxiety, divorce care, singleness, grief, bitterness, identity and significance issues and mood disorders. She also works with clients struggling with anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Adjustment Disorders. Jillissa's philosophy of counseling is the integration of Christianity and psychology, and her counseling methods include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Psychoeducation, and Child Play Therapy.
(972) 767-9518 View (972) 767-9518
Photo of Jennifer Eubank, MS, LPC-A
Jennifer Eubank
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. Many face the profound impact of childhood trauma, and my strength lies in guiding clients of all ages through this process. Through play therapy, I connect with children, providing a safe space to explore emotions, build self-confidence, and develop healthier coping strategies. Whether navigating trauma recovery, seeking to strengthen self-esteem, or enhancing emotional regulation (for you or your child), I am here to walk with you. Let’s work together to create a path toward greater resilience, well-being, and a fulfilling life.
I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. Many face the profound impact of childhood trauma, and my strength lies in guiding clients of all ages through this process. Through play therapy, I connect with children, providing a safe space to explore emotions, build self-confidence, and develop healthier coping strategies. Whether navigating trauma recovery, seeking to strengthen self-esteem, or enhancing emotional regulation (for you or your child), I am here to walk with you. Let’s work together to create a path toward greater resilience, well-being, and a fulfilling life.
(469) 405-3517 View (469) 405-3517
Photo of Cate Rossio, LPC-A
Cate Rossio
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I have also received specialty training in providing Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Activity Therapy.
Finding a counselor to support you in your healing journey can be overwhelming. There are so many to choose from, and it can be hard to know what you need. Whether you are looking for support for your child, adolescent, or yourself, I aim to provide you with a nonjudgmental, empathic, and safe environment to explore your needs and goals. I am passionate about helping my clients bring joy and connection back into their lives.
I have also received specialty training in providing Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Activity Therapy.
Finding a counselor to support you in your healing journey can be overwhelming. There are so many to choose from, and it can be hard to know what you need. Whether you are looking for support for your child, adolescent, or yourself, I aim to provide you with a nonjudgmental, empathic, and safe environment to explore your needs and goals. I am passionate about helping my clients bring joy and connection back into their lives.
(214) 307-6596 View (214) 307-6596
Photo of Rebecca Houser - Blank Slate Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blank Slate Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
We have the right therapist to meet your unique needs. With 35 licensed psychotherapists and four North Dallas locations, we specialize in changing lives. Offering a range of clinical services such as play therapy, adolescent therapy, individual adult counseling, couples therapy, family therapy, psychological testing and Teen DBT. Our clinicians are experts in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, addictions, trauma, OCD, grief, needs of gifted and talented, relationship concerns, self-harm, anger, guilt, divorce, identity concerns, perfectionism, behavior concerns, parenting, LGBTQIA+ concerns and more.
We have the right therapist to meet your unique needs. With 35 licensed psychotherapists and four North Dallas locations, we specialize in changing lives. Offering a range of clinical services such as play therapy, adolescent therapy, individual adult counseling, couples therapy, family therapy, psychological testing and Teen DBT. Our clinicians are experts in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, addictions, trauma, OCD, grief, needs of gifted and talented, relationship concerns, self-harm, anger, guilt, divorce, identity concerns, perfectionism, behavior concerns, parenting, LGBTQIA+ concerns and more.
(469) 771-1639 View (469) 771-1639
Photo of Lizz Garza, LPC-A
Lizz Garza
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Utilizing Child-Centered Play Therapy and other evidence based techniques, Lizz addresses underlying concerns and empowers clients to make positive changes in their lives.
Welcome to the transformative journey of self-discovery and healing. Lizz Garza is dedicated to providing compassionate, warm and inclusive mental health support for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. As a dedicated therapist with a passion for facilitating emotional growth and healing, Lizz offers a range of therapeutic interventions to help clients of all ages find their path towards well-being and self-discovery.
Utilizing Child-Centered Play Therapy and other evidence based techniques, Lizz addresses underlying concerns and empowers clients to make positive changes in their lives.
Welcome to the transformative journey of self-discovery and healing. Lizz Garza is dedicated to providing compassionate, warm and inclusive mental health support for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. As a dedicated therapist with a passion for facilitating emotional growth and healing, Lizz offers a range of therapeutic interventions to help clients of all ages find their path towards well-being and self-discovery.
(214) 239-1004 View (214) 239-1004
Photo of Svetlana Kutikova, MA, LPC-A
Svetlana Kutikova
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Aside from the traditional talk therapy, I will also use CBT approaches, as well as play, sandtray, and art therapy with the kids and adolescents, which will allow the kids to communicate in a way that feels more comfortable and less anxiety-producing for them.
I am of the belief that every person is the expert on their own self. Sometimes we just need a sounding board. I recognize that therapy can be a scary and daunting process and I am here to provide a safe and welcoming space to help make you comfortable expressing your emotions. I recognize that each person is a unique individual, with a unique set of goals and needs from therapy. I work to meet you where you are, taking the time to understand your needs, and happily walk alongside you on your journey to reach those needs.
Aside from the traditional talk therapy, I will also use CBT approaches, as well as play, sandtray, and art therapy with the kids and adolescents, which will allow the kids to communicate in a way that feels more comfortable and less anxiety-producing for them.
I am of the belief that every person is the expert on their own self. Sometimes we just need a sounding board. I recognize that therapy can be a scary and daunting process and I am here to provide a safe and welcoming space to help make you comfortable expressing your emotions. I recognize that each person is a unique individual, with a unique set of goals and needs from therapy. I work to meet you where you are, taking the time to understand your needs, and happily walk alongside you on your journey to reach those needs.
(469) 746-3701 View (469) 746-3701
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.