Play Therapy in Yavapai County, AZ

Photo of Ann Chavez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yavapai County, AZ
Ann Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
When I work with children, I use EMDR mixed with sand tray and play therapy.
I have over thirty years of experience, dealing with helping people change and grow. My wish is that we can collaborate together, and that I help you reach your most authentic self. We can work together to find a path through the challenges. I want you or your child to feel comfortable, seen and heard in therapy. I really enjoy doing therapy with women and children, and look forward to hearing your story.
When I work with children, I use EMDR mixed with sand tray and play therapy.
I have over thirty years of experience, dealing with helping people change and grow. My wish is that we can collaborate together, and that I help you reach your most authentic self. We can work together to find a path through the challenges. I want you or your child to feel comfortable, seen and heard in therapy. I really enjoy doing therapy with women and children, and look forward to hearing your story.
(928) 693-4786 View (928) 693-4786
Photo of Possibilities Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yavapai County, AZ
Possibilities Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ACS
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86351  (Online Only)
"C" graduated from the University of Southern California, UCLA and Columbia Pacific University and has been a practicing therapist for over 30 years, educator, lecturer, national/international conference presenter, published author of The Anger Addict and several play therapy techniques,.
Promoting Hope, Wellness and Recovery is the mission of Possibilities Counseling Center. Services are provided via telehealth for residents of Arizona, Maine and Utah. Cynthia specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy with a specialty in treating insomnia. Being flooded with anxiety, free-floating worry and depression can impair memory and sleep. Grief and loss issues are appropriate reasons to explore help and gain relief. Dr. Dodge has over 30 years of experience. She works effectively with couples wanting to deal with their relationship or assist to navigate life stage changes such as empty nest and/or retirement.
"C" graduated from the University of Southern California, UCLA and Columbia Pacific University and has been a practicing therapist for over 30 years, educator, lecturer, national/international conference presenter, published author of The Anger Addict and several play therapy techniques,.
Promoting Hope, Wellness and Recovery is the mission of Possibilities Counseling Center. Services are provided via telehealth for residents of Arizona, Maine and Utah. Cynthia specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy with a specialty in treating insomnia. Being flooded with anxiety, free-floating worry and depression can impair memory and sleep. Grief and loss issues are appropriate reasons to explore help and gain relief. Dr. Dodge has over 30 years of experience. She works effectively with couples wanting to deal with their relationship or assist to navigate life stage changes such as empty nest and/or retirement.
(928) 723-3345 View (928) 723-3345
Photo of Rachel Hodgson, Licensed Associate Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Rachel Hodgson
Licensed Associate Counselor, MEd, LAC, NCC, CSC
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
I utilize a client-centered perspective, mindfulness techniques, and play therapy, incorporating a wide range of creative expression modalities.
Trauma of all kinds can have lasting impact. I work to guide clients through their healing process with empathy and understanding. I recognize the complexity of trauma and offer personalized support to help individuals navigate their unique experiences. By fostering a non-judgmental atmosphere, I encourage clients to express their thoughts and emotions openly, facilitating exploration of underlying wounds and their effects on personal growth. Supporting clients in discovering their true selves allows for profound understanding of one's identity, leading to a more authentic and meaningful life.
I utilize a client-centered perspective, mindfulness techniques, and play therapy, incorporating a wide range of creative expression modalities.
Trauma of all kinds can have lasting impact. I work to guide clients through their healing process with empathy and understanding. I recognize the complexity of trauma and offer personalized support to help individuals navigate their unique experiences. By fostering a non-judgmental atmosphere, I encourage clients to express their thoughts and emotions openly, facilitating exploration of underlying wounds and their effects on personal growth. Supporting clients in discovering their true selves allows for profound understanding of one's identity, leading to a more authentic and meaningful life.
(928) 985-3396 View (928) 985-3396
Photo of Genie Burns, Psychologist in Yavapai County, AZ
Genie Burns
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86301
Life is fast paced and ever changing. At times, it can be difficult to find a balance. My treatment approach is to help individuals and families explore options to meet their goals to challenges. My primary treatment approach is grounded in cognitive behavioral theory, but I also utilize a blend of conventional and alternative therapeutic services (e.g., Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Nature and Ecotherapy) to fit the needs of each client and build on their strengths to achieve their goals.
Life is fast paced and ever changing. At times, it can be difficult to find a balance. My treatment approach is to help individuals and families explore options to meet their goals to challenges. My primary treatment approach is grounded in cognitive behavioral theory, but I also utilize a blend of conventional and alternative therapeutic services (e.g., Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Nature and Ecotherapy) to fit the needs of each client and build on their strengths to achieve their goals.
(928) 569-2991 View (928) 569-2991
Photo of Judi Mackey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yavapai County, AZ
Judi Mackey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86301  (Online Only)
My passion is helping others through life's ups and down standing along side them in the journey. I have found through therapeutic sessions a common thread, and that is finding and holding on to hope, and the struggle in learning to truly love yourself. This can come from a number of reasons including past trauma, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, early childhood beliefs, and the list goes on. When an individual is comfortable "being in their own skin" they can move forward into healthy relationships and joy in life beginning to feel true love and hope bringing lifetime contentment.
My passion is helping others through life's ups and down standing along side them in the journey. I have found through therapeutic sessions a common thread, and that is finding and holding on to hope, and the struggle in learning to truly love yourself. This can come from a number of reasons including past trauma, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, early childhood beliefs, and the list goes on. When an individual is comfortable "being in their own skin" they can move forward into healthy relationships and joy in life beginning to feel true love and hope bringing lifetime contentment.
(949) 353-6107 View (949) 353-6107
Photo of Vienna Aslanian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yavapai County, AZ
Vienna Aslanian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I chose to become a therapist after doing social work with children and families. Witnessing the trauma and the way that trauma impacted those individual lives caused me to develop an interest in and concern for individuals struggling with CPTSD, PTSD and childhood trauma. I have always enjoyed listening to people's stories and making a genuine connection. I believe in the healing power of therapy and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I believe in the importance of active listening and making you feel truly heard, cared about, safe, and understood. The majority of my experience is as a child and family therapist.
I chose to become a therapist after doing social work with children and families. Witnessing the trauma and the way that trauma impacted those individual lives caused me to develop an interest in and concern for individuals struggling with CPTSD, PTSD and childhood trauma. I have always enjoyed listening to people's stories and making a genuine connection. I believe in the healing power of therapy and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I believe in the importance of active listening and making you feel truly heard, cared about, safe, and understood. The majority of my experience is as a child and family therapist.
(928) 421-2385 View (928) 421-2385
Photo of Shelbi Labat Petrosius, Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Shelbi Labat Petrosius
Counselor, MA, LAC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86336  (Online Only)
I believe counseling to be a work of the human heart; healing work, life-giving work, work that heals the soul and repairs trauma, past pain, and brokenness. I am happy to accompany clients on their journeys to assist them in making changes in their lives that will enable them to reach their fullest potential and to find deeper fulfillment and joy. I am honored to accompany clients on the journey of uncovering & healing past pain by challenging beliefs that hold them back from whole-heartedly accepting themselves, loving themselves and from taking ownership for their thoughts and behaviors.
I believe counseling to be a work of the human heart; healing work, life-giving work, work that heals the soul and repairs trauma, past pain, and brokenness. I am happy to accompany clients on their journeys to assist them in making changes in their lives that will enable them to reach their fullest potential and to find deeper fulfillment and joy. I am honored to accompany clients on the journey of uncovering & healing past pain by challenging beliefs that hold them back from whole-heartedly accepting themselves, loving themselves and from taking ownership for their thoughts and behaviors.
(928) 455-8346 View (928) 455-8346
Photo of Christine Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Christine Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CLL-E
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86301
Is your life troubled with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, or difficulty managing stress in your life. Do you have a child, teenager, or family that is struggling in communication and/or building healthy relationships. Or, do you want to help your child/teenager be successful in their lives. As a therapist, I believe in empowering you as an individual and/or your family to be the best it can be and enjoy your journey along the way. I also want to help new therapists in reaching their goal of becoming independently licensed and provide clinical supervision so they can accomplish their dreams.
Is your life troubled with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, or difficulty managing stress in your life. Do you have a child, teenager, or family that is struggling in communication and/or building healthy relationships. Or, do you want to help your child/teenager be successful in their lives. As a therapist, I believe in empowering you as an individual and/or your family to be the best it can be and enjoy your journey along the way. I also want to help new therapists in reaching their goal of becoming independently licensed and provide clinical supervision so they can accomplish their dreams.
(928) 362-3070 View (928) 362-3070
Photo of Calli Grace Monroe, Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Calli Grace Monroe
Counselor, MA, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sedona, AZ 86336
Calli Grace Monroe is a Nationally Certified & Licensed Counselor offering wayfinding support in Sedona, Arizona. Believes strongly in the interconnectedness of all of life and Spirit and meeting clients where they are, supporting them through their own healing of trauma by highlighting their strengths and personal path, so they find their own way to balance & wellbeing. Grew up, living in diverse multicultural areas of the country from the SF Bay Area to NYC, Southern Florida and the Southwest, having been a resident of Northern Arizona for most of the last twenty years. I am multiculturally aware, sensitive & compassionate.
Calli Grace Monroe is a Nationally Certified & Licensed Counselor offering wayfinding support in Sedona, Arizona. Believes strongly in the interconnectedness of all of life and Spirit and meeting clients where they are, supporting them through their own healing of trauma by highlighting their strengths and personal path, so they find their own way to balance & wellbeing. Grew up, living in diverse multicultural areas of the country from the SF Bay Area to NYC, Southern Florida and the Southwest, having been a resident of Northern Arizona for most of the last twenty years. I am multiculturally aware, sensitive & compassionate.
(928) 202-9187 View (928) 202-9187
Photo of Laura Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Laura Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
Hello. I know looking for a therapist can often be frustrating and requires courage. Taking steps toward your overall wellbeing and health are important. With the severity of stressors in our lives today, it is even more important to address the symptoms like anxiety, fear, depression, isolation, and relationship issues present in our lives. Many times these symptoms are effects of traumas, past and/or present that can include childhood abuse, sexual, physical, and psychological abuse, grief, loss, toxic work environments, navigating difficult family situations, and unexpected news.
Hello. I know looking for a therapist can often be frustrating and requires courage. Taking steps toward your overall wellbeing and health are important. With the severity of stressors in our lives today, it is even more important to address the symptoms like anxiety, fear, depression, isolation, and relationship issues present in our lives. Many times these symptoms are effects of traumas, past and/or present that can include childhood abuse, sexual, physical, and psychological abuse, grief, loss, toxic work environments, navigating difficult family situations, and unexpected news.
(623) 624-8809 View (623) 624-8809
Photo of Kacy L Garfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yavapai County, AZ
Kacy L Garfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
I enjoy thinking critically, problem solving, and working with others. I can empathize with others that are going through difficult life experiences and provide support and empowerment. I believe that every person has a story to tell and a difference to make. It is my desire to meet others where they are and acknowledge the dignity and worth of each individual. I believe that acceptance, love and faith are incredible foundations for healing. I also believe that it is my purpose to walk alongside those seeking help as they grow within themselves and allow the world to be blessed by their presence.
I enjoy thinking critically, problem solving, and working with others. I can empathize with others that are going through difficult life experiences and provide support and empowerment. I believe that every person has a story to tell and a difference to make. It is my desire to meet others where they are and acknowledge the dignity and worth of each individual. I believe that acceptance, love and faith are incredible foundations for healing. I also believe that it is my purpose to walk alongside those seeking help as they grow within themselves and allow the world to be blessed by their presence.
(928) 260-4260 View (928) 260-4260
Photo of Nanette D Burton Mongelluzzo, Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Nanette D Burton Mongelluzzo
Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86341  (Online Only)
I work with all manner of emotional issues that can present in a lifetime. I was trained in general mental health, much like a physician who was trained in primary care. I work with all ages and understand developmental psychology and the challenges through different life stages. I work with anxiety, depression, loss and grief, posttraumatic stress disorder, adjustment issues, parenting, and many other categories of behavioral health challenges. I work with my client or the parents of children to arrive at the best treatment options for the issues at hand.
I work with all manner of emotional issues that can present in a lifetime. I was trained in general mental health, much like a physician who was trained in primary care. I work with all ages and understand developmental psychology and the challenges through different life stages. I work with anxiety, depression, loss and grief, posttraumatic stress disorder, adjustment issues, parenting, and many other categories of behavioral health challenges. I work with my client or the parents of children to arrive at the best treatment options for the issues at hand.
(928) 339-3441 View (928) 339-3441
Photo of Monica Pineda, Pre-Licensed Professional in Yavapai County, AZ
Monica Pineda
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86303  (Online Only)
Monica obtained her Master of Education degree from Northern Arizona University. She has experience working in the non-profit sector, assisting homeless Veterans and their families, as well as serving marginalized communities as a school counselor in the education field. Through her work, Monica gained invaluable insights into the challenges faced by these individuals and the importance of providing comprehensive support systems. Fluent in Spanish, Monica is dedicated to supporting her Hispanic community by addressing mental health barriers and stigmas.
Monica obtained her Master of Education degree from Northern Arizona University. She has experience working in the non-profit sector, assisting homeless Veterans and their families, as well as serving marginalized communities as a school counselor in the education field. Through her work, Monica gained invaluable insights into the challenges faced by these individuals and the importance of providing comprehensive support systems. Fluent in Spanish, Monica is dedicated to supporting her Hispanic community by addressing mental health barriers and stigmas.
(928) 260-0350 View (928) 260-0350
Photo of Laura Siri Simran Kaur Khalsa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Laura Siri Simran Kaur Khalsa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT, ATR, ET
Verified Verified
Cottonwood, AZ 86326  (Online Only)
In my 30 years of personal and professional development, I have created a unique approach to bring hope and strength, healing and transformation to those who are ready. It is my honor to provide and hold space for you as I offer assistance with your empowerment, acceptance, trust, forgiveness and gratitude. My philosophy is based on healing relationship within Self, with others and with the world. Our time together is precious and I will share with you mindful and compassionate practices and share the value of authenticity, and presence.
In my 30 years of personal and professional development, I have created a unique approach to bring hope and strength, healing and transformation to those who are ready. It is my honor to provide and hold space for you as I offer assistance with your empowerment, acceptance, trust, forgiveness and gratitude. My philosophy is based on healing relationship within Self, with others and with the world. Our time together is precious and I will share with you mindful and compassionate practices and share the value of authenticity, and presence.
(928) 288-4714 View (928) 288-4714
Photo of Scott Kerr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yavapai County, AZ
Scott Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86305
I welcome you and aim to make you feel at ease as I offer professional guidance using research-based interventions in a confidential, non-judgmental atmosphere. Whether you are seeking to improve interpersonal relationships, find greater fulfillment, overcome addictions, depression or anxiety, I can help guide you in the most effective personalized approach. We all experience situations in our lives when we may need professional support as we face obstacles that seem overwhelming or too daunting to overcome on our own. I believe no problem exists without both a solution and a potential positive outcome.
I welcome you and aim to make you feel at ease as I offer professional guidance using research-based interventions in a confidential, non-judgmental atmosphere. Whether you are seeking to improve interpersonal relationships, find greater fulfillment, overcome addictions, depression or anxiety, I can help guide you in the most effective personalized approach. We all experience situations in our lives when we may need professional support as we face obstacles that seem overwhelming or too daunting to overcome on our own. I believe no problem exists without both a solution and a potential positive outcome.
(520) 502-6097 View (520) 502-6097
Photo of Doreen Ellis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yavapai County, AZ
Doreen Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86336
As a marriage and family therapist since 1986, I continue to work for increasing health and well being of my clients and help them find their strengths and resiliency. I am trained in EMDR Therapy and complex trauma. I also work with couples and relationship issues, focusing on family patterns and helping my clients discover how the past can contaminate the present. I work to maintain the acceptance of meeting my clients where they are, honestly and non-judgmentally. Whether you come to me as an individual or a couple, I can help you better understand yourself in relationship to yourself and others.
As a marriage and family therapist since 1986, I continue to work for increasing health and well being of my clients and help them find their strengths and resiliency. I am trained in EMDR Therapy and complex trauma. I also work with couples and relationship issues, focusing on family patterns and helping my clients discover how the past can contaminate the present. I work to maintain the acceptance of meeting my clients where they are, honestly and non-judgmentally. Whether you come to me as an individual or a couple, I can help you better understand yourself in relationship to yourself and others.
(928) 235-9980 View (928) 235-9980
Photo of Christina McKelvy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Christina McKelvy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86304  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of clients and love working with caregivers. I understand the demands of being a caregiver. Being a caregiver is hard, whether that is for your own child or an older loved one. It can be difficult to put yourself first and remember your own self-care. I can sympathize that burnout is real. I've seen this throughout my career. I hope that my experience working with various backgrounds specifically young children, the Autism community, and as a crisis counselor, can provide a unique perspective to your needs.
I work with a variety of clients and love working with caregivers. I understand the demands of being a caregiver. Being a caregiver is hard, whether that is for your own child or an older loved one. It can be difficult to put yourself first and remember your own self-care. I can sympathize that burnout is real. I've seen this throughout my career. I hope that my experience working with various backgrounds specifically young children, the Autism community, and as a crisis counselor, can provide a unique perspective to your needs.
(928) 331-4320 View (928) 331-4320
Photo of Kara Schumann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Kara Schumann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86301
You are taking the first step toward healing and making changes in your life that will bring peace, healing, happiness and an overall sense of wellbeing by seeking counseling, and I am excited to help guide you. Life's experiences can lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, guilt, shame, and anger which can impact your relationships and your success at school or work. Through my kind, compassionate, person-centered approach, we will quickly create a sense of therapeutic safety and trust to help you gain your own insights and empowerment for change. It is my privilege to be part of your therapeutic journey.
You are taking the first step toward healing and making changes in your life that will bring peace, healing, happiness and an overall sense of wellbeing by seeking counseling, and I am excited to help guide you. Life's experiences can lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, guilt, shame, and anger which can impact your relationships and your success at school or work. Through my kind, compassionate, person-centered approach, we will quickly create a sense of therapeutic safety and trust to help you gain your own insights and empowerment for change. It is my privilege to be part of your therapeutic journey.
(928) 899-9677 x700 View (928) 899-9677 x700
Photo of Kimberly Elliott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Kimberly Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Current accepting new patients! Offering in person or telehealth. Making the decision to seek therapy can be difficult and takes courage. My therapeutic style is one of warmth, validation, and acceptance as we work together to foster growth and healing in your life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and trauma informed therapist with over 13 years of experience providing counseling to teens and adults in a variety of settings. I accept clients ages 6 and above, my areas of expertise includes helping individuals overcome and cope with trauma, life transitions, anxiety and depressive disorders.
Current accepting new patients! Offering in person or telehealth. Making the decision to seek therapy can be difficult and takes courage. My therapeutic style is one of warmth, validation, and acceptance as we work together to foster growth and healing in your life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and trauma informed therapist with over 13 years of experience providing counseling to teens and adults in a variety of settings. I accept clients ages 6 and above, my areas of expertise includes helping individuals overcome and cope with trauma, life transitions, anxiety and depressive disorders.
(623) 263-9016 View (623) 263-9016
Photo of Jenna Gibson, Beyond the Pines, Counselor in Yavapai County, AZ
Jenna Gibson, Beyond the Pines
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86340
Waitlist for new clients
Do you often find yourself striving for perfection or constantly seeking approval from others? Perhaps you feel like you've lost touch with your creativity and zest for life? Whether you're a perfectionist, a people-pleaser, or otherwise feeling unfulfilled in your interpersonal relationships and day-to-day life, I'm here to support you on your journey towards self-discovery and growth. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, empathetic, and radically open environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. I value authenticity and humor as a counselor, and invite you to show up wholly as you!
Do you often find yourself striving for perfection or constantly seeking approval from others? Perhaps you feel like you've lost touch with your creativity and zest for life? Whether you're a perfectionist, a people-pleaser, or otherwise feeling unfulfilled in your interpersonal relationships and day-to-day life, I'm here to support you on your journey towards self-discovery and growth. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, empathetic, and radically open environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. I value authenticity and humor as a counselor, and invite you to show up wholly as you!
(928) 455-8243 View (928) 455-8243

See more therapy options for Yavapai County

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.