Play Therapy in Aliso Viejo, CA

Photo of Deborah Jean Beaver, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Deborah Jean Beaver
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CATCIV
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92698
Areas of focus and experience include: co-occurring disorders (trauma, depression, anxiety, and chemical/alcohol use disorder), individual, couples and family counseling, child play therapy, process/psycho-education groups, indigenous and inter-generational issues, guided meditation/hypnosis.
If you were to put together a list of the most important people in your life, who would be on your list? We all live in relationships and when we are not in harmony with them this can cause anxiety, sadness, confusion, low self esteem and worth. Our core relationship is with our self. I invite you to take the journey inward, to explore, and learn how to bring out your greatest potential.
Areas of focus and experience include: co-occurring disorders (trauma, depression, anxiety, and chemical/alcohol use disorder), individual, couples and family counseling, child play therapy, process/psycho-education groups, indigenous and inter-generational issues, guided meditation/hypnosis.
If you were to put together a list of the most important people in your life, who would be on your list? We all live in relationships and when we are not in harmony with them this can cause anxiety, sadness, confusion, low self esteem and worth. Our core relationship is with our self. I invite you to take the journey inward, to explore, and learn how to bring out your greatest potential.
(949) 536-9802 View (949) 536-9802
Photo of Dr. Yvonne M Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Dr. Yvonne M Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
I am a Registered Play Therapist with APT and EMDR trained.
Sometimes it's hard to be a parent; you love your child and want to help them live a healthy life. You've tried everything, but nothing seems to help. You desire answers to help your child regain that happy smile they once had. Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging things you will do in your life. The good news is that as a parent, you have the opportunity to shape your child's future in a positive direction. My passion is working with children and parents to regain the of life and healthy relationships that every parent desires for their child.
I am a Registered Play Therapist with APT and EMDR trained.
Sometimes it's hard to be a parent; you love your child and want to help them live a healthy life. You've tried everything, but nothing seems to help. You desire answers to help your child regain that happy smile they once had. Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging things you will do in your life. The good news is that as a parent, you have the opportunity to shape your child's future in a positive direction. My passion is working with children and parents to regain the of life and healthy relationships that every parent desires for their child.
(714) 702-1955 View (714) 702-1955
Photo of Flavia Crovetto Hartley, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Aliso Viejo, CA
Flavia Crovetto Hartley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92653
I utilize a variety of modalities, some of them include EMDR, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral approaches and Mindfulness.
Thank you for visiting my page. First of all, I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here, seeking help. I am glad you’re here. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I am passionate about helping my clients heal and become their most authentic selves by providing them with sensitive, trauma-informed care. I approach each client with empathy, self-awareness and cultural humility, as I believe they are the experts of their own lives and my role is to guide them in discovering their ability to heal past wounds and reach deep fulfillment.
I utilize a variety of modalities, some of them include EMDR, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral approaches and Mindfulness.
Thank you for visiting my page. First of all, I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here, seeking help. I am glad you’re here. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I am passionate about helping my clients heal and become their most authentic selves by providing them with sensitive, trauma-informed care. I approach each client with empathy, self-awareness and cultural humility, as I believe they are the experts of their own lives and my role is to guide them in discovering their ability to heal past wounds and reach deep fulfillment.
(949) 979-4281 View (949) 979-4281
Photo of Trisha Church, Child and Family Therapy, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Aliso Viejo, CA
Trisha Church, Child and Family Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
I utilize Play Therapy, Behavior Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I customize a treatment plan that best addresses the client's needs to promote a new positive outlook.
As a mental health therapist, I provide support and guidance to my clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, substance abuse, and relationship difficulties. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, children, and adolescents during times that may be impacting their mental health and overall well-being. Therapy is a process of self-discovery, growth, and transformation that requires acceptance and a belief that recovery and healing are possible. I commit to building trust, listening, and providing supportive direction.
I utilize Play Therapy, Behavior Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I customize a treatment plan that best addresses the client's needs to promote a new positive outlook.
As a mental health therapist, I provide support and guidance to my clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, substance abuse, and relationship difficulties. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, children, and adolescents during times that may be impacting their mental health and overall well-being. Therapy is a process of self-discovery, growth, and transformation that requires acceptance and a belief that recovery and healing are possible. I commit to building trust, listening, and providing supportive direction.
(949) 356-7259 View (949) 356-7259
Photo of S. Hultquist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
S. Hultquist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656  (Online Only)
I’m deadly curious about what you want to say but can’t, who you want to be but won’t, and what would unfold out of you if we could together tend to the parts that are hard to bear— without judgment and without a goal for what comes next. There is a reason you have been bottling up precious parts of you. We will explore that reason, that need you had to hold yourself tightly inside. It is from this safer space that you will once again look at the long-hidden precious parts of you, and together we will see how you want to unfold from here. I'm a good fit for authenticity/identity/wounds/therapists/queer folks/over-thinkers/creatives.
I’m deadly curious about what you want to say but can’t, who you want to be but won’t, and what would unfold out of you if we could together tend to the parts that are hard to bear— without judgment and without a goal for what comes next. There is a reason you have been bottling up precious parts of you. We will explore that reason, that need you had to hold yourself tightly inside. It is from this safer space that you will once again look at the long-hidden precious parts of you, and together we will see how you want to unfold from here. I'm a good fit for authenticity/identity/wounds/therapists/queer folks/over-thinkers/creatives.
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Photo of Valerie Armstrong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Valerie Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Valerie Armstrong is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 46903), with over two decades of experience working with children, adults and families. Valerie has extensive experience in treating child abuse/neglect and trauma. She is skilled in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Informed care. Valerie has directed state-funded mental health programs for both children and adults serving hundreds of individuals. Valerie received her Master's Degree in Clinical-Counseling Psychology from La Salle University in 2001, and received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University in 1995.
Valerie Armstrong is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 46903), with over two decades of experience working with children, adults and families. Valerie has extensive experience in treating child abuse/neglect and trauma. She is skilled in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Informed care. Valerie has directed state-funded mental health programs for both children and adults serving hundreds of individuals. Valerie received her Master's Degree in Clinical-Counseling Psychology from La Salle University in 2001, and received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University in 1995.
(844) 995-0970 View (844) 995-0970
Photo of Terapia en Español , Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Terapia en Español
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656  (Online Only)
Hola, Mi nombre es Sofía Alonso, LMFT y APCC. He trabajado con niños, adolescentes, familias, parejas e individuos en diferentes entornos y países. Amo mi trabajo y me comprometo con todos mis pacientes en su proceso terapéutico, estoy ahí cuando más me necesitan. Quiero que experimente cómo la terapia le ayuda a mejorar y alcanzar sus metas. Tengo formación en diferentes áreas donde podrá elegir y decidir qué es lo mejor para usted, ya que usted es el experto en su vida donde la terapia le ayudará a identificar y aclarar situaciones que puedan interrumpir o perturbar su rutina diaria.
Hola, Mi nombre es Sofía Alonso, LMFT y APCC. He trabajado con niños, adolescentes, familias, parejas e individuos en diferentes entornos y países. Amo mi trabajo y me comprometo con todos mis pacientes en su proceso terapéutico, estoy ahí cuando más me necesitan. Quiero que experimente cómo la terapia le ayuda a mejorar y alcanzar sus metas. Tengo formación en diferentes áreas donde podrá elegir y decidir qué es lo mejor para usted, ya que usted es el experto en su vida donde la terapia le ayudará a identificar y aclarar situaciones que puedan interrumpir o perturbar su rutina diaria.
(949) 229-4801 View (949) 229-4801
Photo of Julie Wilnier, Psychologist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Julie Wilnier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92653
I have been in private practice in since 2006, providing assessment and therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults of Orange County. Is someone in your family… Easily distracted? Restless? Struggling with academics? Losing concentration? Struggling to follow through with tasks? Falling behind at school or work? Having difficulty listening? Struggling with appropriate behavior? Experiencing test/school anxiety? Complaining of boredom? Experiencing emotional conflicts? Or struggling with peer/family issues? Let me help you get to the bottom of the issue, not just label it. I offer comprehensive psychological services to meet your needs.
I have been in private practice in since 2006, providing assessment and therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults of Orange County. Is someone in your family… Easily distracted? Restless? Struggling with academics? Losing concentration? Struggling to follow through with tasks? Falling behind at school or work? Having difficulty listening? Struggling with appropriate behavior? Experiencing test/school anxiety? Complaining of boredom? Experiencing emotional conflicts? Or struggling with peer/family issues? Let me help you get to the bottom of the issue, not just label it. I offer comprehensive psychological services to meet your needs.
(949) 391-4791 View (949) 391-4791
Photo of Julie Kathleen Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Julie Kathleen Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92653
Life brings painful experiences that can pull us away from becoming who we were intended to be. Whatever the source of your pain, there is grace, comfort, and healing for you. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to heal, and in the courage of my clients as they pursue wholeness. I am passionate about creating a safe space for my clients to explore the problems that keep them from being intimately connected with themselves and the people they love. I use a whole person approach; trying to be attentive to the synergy of body, mind, and spirit in the client's experience.
Life brings painful experiences that can pull us away from becoming who we were intended to be. Whatever the source of your pain, there is grace, comfort, and healing for you. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to heal, and in the courage of my clients as they pursue wholeness. I am passionate about creating a safe space for my clients to explore the problems that keep them from being intimately connected with themselves and the people they love. I use a whole person approach; trying to be attentive to the synergy of body, mind, and spirit in the client's experience.
(949) 485-5376 View (949) 485-5376
Photo of Brian Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Brian Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, CATC-IV, CHT, CCA, CI, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
I am looking for clients that are ready to get to work and make lasting change possible in their lives. My style is centered on creating a direct partnership with my clients in order to make change happen rather than continue to sit in the problem. I am very well versed in working with all aspects of addiction, anxiety, depression, life changes, sexual abuse, trauma & PTSD, and day to day living concerns, to name a few, for all individuals, couples & families.
I am looking for clients that are ready to get to work and make lasting change possible in their lives. My style is centered on creating a direct partnership with my clients in order to make change happen rather than continue to sit in the problem. I am very well versed in working with all aspects of addiction, anxiety, depression, life changes, sexual abuse, trauma & PTSD, and day to day living concerns, to name a few, for all individuals, couples & families.
(714) 942-2736 View (714) 942-2736
Photo of David Adams, Psychologist in Aliso Viejo, CA
David Adams
Psychologist, MDiv, PsyD, LPCC, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Hi- I look forward to meeting you! I am a licensed psychologist and work with children and adults. For adults, I specialize in life coaching, depression, and anxiety related issues. For children, I specialize in behavior disorders, autism, ADHD, PTSD, and depression. I also provide Christian-based counseling. I also provide psychological testing for ADHD and autism.
Hi- I look forward to meeting you! I am a licensed psychologist and work with children and adults. For adults, I specialize in life coaching, depression, and anxiety related issues. For children, I specialize in behavior disorders, autism, ADHD, PTSD, and depression. I also provide Christian-based counseling. I also provide psychological testing for ADHD and autism.
(888) 725-4642 View (888) 725-4642
Photo of Christine Lewis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Christine Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families. I bring to my practice expertise in the fields of foster care, attachment, grief and loss, adoption, trauma and parenting. I have 26+ years of experience in working with traumatized youth in a variety of setting such as Level 12 and 14 residential, hospitals, schools and outpatient settings. I believe that what kids need most is to heal within their families, and although will work with the child individually believe that family sessions are crucial is building attachments and healing past trauma.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families. I bring to my practice expertise in the fields of foster care, attachment, grief and loss, adoption, trauma and parenting. I have 26+ years of experience in working with traumatized youth in a variety of setting such as Level 12 and 14 residential, hospitals, schools and outpatient settings. I believe that what kids need most is to heal within their families, and although will work with the child individually believe that family sessions are crucial is building attachments and healing past trauma.
(949) 536-9832 View (949) 536-9832
Photo of Therapy Together Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Therapy Together Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Hello! My name is Robin Ensor Kopf. I know that choosing to seek therapy is hard and I’m glad you’re here. I’ve been working in the mental health field for over twenty years. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction, chronic illness, relationships as well as teen issues.
Hello! My name is Robin Ensor Kopf. I know that choosing to seek therapy is hard and I’m glad you’re here. I’ve been working in the mental health field for over twenty years. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction, chronic illness, relationships as well as teen issues.
(949) 694-3626 View (949) 694-3626
Photo of Amy Neufeld, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Amy Neufeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92653
Anxiety, depression, stress, divorce, parenting, co-parenting, teen anxiety, children behavioral issues, navigating adult pressures.... Oh my! It’s a lot to manage on your own. Life is going to present its challenges and you don't have to deal with them alone. Together we can get you living the life you want.
Anxiety, depression, stress, divorce, parenting, co-parenting, teen anxiety, children behavioral issues, navigating adult pressures.... Oh my! It’s a lot to manage on your own. Life is going to present its challenges and you don't have to deal with them alone. Together we can get you living the life you want.
(949) 541-4921 View (949) 541-4921
Photo of The Weichman Clinic, Psychologist in Aliso Viejo, CA
The Weichman Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
(949) 537-2393 View (949) 537-2393
Photo of Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656  (Online Only)
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy and fresh approach to understanding my clients. I am also fortunate enough to work collaborately with another therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to provide wraparound services for clients all in our beautiful office space. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy and fresh approach to understanding my clients. I am also fortunate enough to work collaborately with another therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to provide wraparound services for clients all in our beautiful office space. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
(949) 273-2912 View (949) 273-2912
Photo of Karen Marley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Karen Marley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Not accepting new clients
Everyone experiences challenging times in their lives and occasional conflict in their relationships. Sometimes we are not able to work through these problems on our own and feel, although we have tried everything, we are stuck. Here's where I can help.
Everyone experiences challenging times in their lives and occasional conflict in their relationships. Sometimes we are not able to work through these problems on our own and feel, although we have tried everything, we are stuck. Here's where I can help.
(949) 558-2090 View (949) 558-2090

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jian Tan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Aliso Viejo, CA
Jian Tan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
I primarily use an eclectic approach to maximize therapeutic outcomes, employing Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Logotherapy, Family Therapy, Play Therapy (on-line version when needed), Sand-tray Therapy (on-line version when needed), and Child-Parent-Relationship Therapy.
My name is Jian Tan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I hold an active license issued by Board of Behavioral Sciences of California. I am an accomplished and dynamic professional with a master’s degree in counseling and proven experience helping individuals, couples, children, families, and groups. I am a skilled interpersonal communicator able to facilitate conversation and provide a safe and welcoming environment to encourage participation.
I primarily use an eclectic approach to maximize therapeutic outcomes, employing Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Logotherapy, Family Therapy, Play Therapy (on-line version when needed), Sand-tray Therapy (on-line version when needed), and Child-Parent-Relationship Therapy.
My name is Jian Tan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I hold an active license issued by Board of Behavioral Sciences of California. I am an accomplished and dynamic professional with a master’s degree in counseling and proven experience helping individuals, couples, children, families, and groups. I am a skilled interpersonal communicator able to facilitate conversation and provide a safe and welcoming environment to encourage participation.
(951) 904-2469 View (951) 904-2469
Photo of Patricia Anita Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Patricia Anita Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Through cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy for children and adolescents, Imago therapy for interpersonal relationships, clients can achieve their goals.
During this exceptionally stressful time, anxiety, depression, and/or general life issues impact daily life. A need to lower anxiety, elevate mood, and find ways to cope with the unknown is important for all ages.
Through cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy for children and adolescents, Imago therapy for interpersonal relationships, clients can achieve their goals.
During this exceptionally stressful time, anxiety, depression, and/or general life issues impact daily life. A need to lower anxiety, elevate mood, and find ways to cope with the unknown is important for all ages.
(949) 649-6179 View (949) 649-6179
Photo of Tanya Belloso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Aliso Viejo, CA
Tanya Belloso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92654  (Online Only)
I help people to manage anxiety, process grief, decrease depression and improve relationships though use of psychoeducation, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, hand-outs, relaxation exercises, visualization and role-play.
Looking for a caring therapist to help with solutions for anxiety or grief and loss? Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or divorce? Do you want a therapist who provides feedback as well as listening? I can help you through counseling and psychotherapy to move through your current struggle to a place of healing and peace. I am currently working with adults, couples, and adolescents and their parents, and I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you!
I help people to manage anxiety, process grief, decrease depression and improve relationships though use of psychoeducation, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, hand-outs, relaxation exercises, visualization and role-play.
Looking for a caring therapist to help with solutions for anxiety or grief and loss? Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or divorce? Do you want a therapist who provides feedback as well as listening? I can help you through counseling and psychotherapy to move through your current struggle to a place of healing and peace. I am currently working with adults, couples, and adolescents and their parents, and I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you!
(949) 304-6204 View (949) 304-6204

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.