Photo of Rubina Haroutonian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Rubina Haroutonian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
I am a Registered Play Therapist and specialize in working with children and teens.
Are you feeling confused, scared, anxious, overwhelmed, disappointed about you're going through and what it all means? Are you an expecting parent? Are you a parent to a child or to a teen? Are you stressed or overwhelmed in your marriage or relationship? Are you a parent that's overwhelmed and need help connecting with your child? Are you a parent or a caregiver to someone with special needs or Autism? What does this all mean? What are you supposed to do? Do you feel alone? Do you need support?
I am a Registered Play Therapist and specialize in working with children and teens.
Are you feeling confused, scared, anxious, overwhelmed, disappointed about you're going through and what it all means? Are you an expecting parent? Are you a parent to a child or to a teen? Are you stressed or overwhelmed in your marriage or relationship? Are you a parent that's overwhelmed and need help connecting with your child? Are you a parent or a caregiver to someone with special needs or Autism? What does this all mean? What are you supposed to do? Do you feel alone? Do you need support?
(626) 701-8625 View (626) 701-8625
Photo of Soultenders, Inc., Psychologist in Arcadia, CA
Soultenders, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT, LCSW, MFTI
Not Verified Not Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
The licensed providers in our network can help with: Adolescents , Anxiety , Child , Codependency , Depression , Divorce , Domestic Violence , Family Conflict , Infidelity , Marital and Premarital Parenting Pregnancy , Prenatal , Postpartum , Self Esteem , Sexual Abuse , Stress , Trauma , and PTSD , EMDR, and many more.
The licensed providers in our network can help with: Adolescents , Anxiety , Child , Codependency , Depression , Divorce , Domestic Violence , Family Conflict , Infidelity , Marital and Premarital Parenting Pregnancy , Prenatal , Postpartum , Self Esteem , Sexual Abuse , Stress , Trauma , and PTSD , EMDR, and many more.
(626) 587-2663 View (626) 587-2663
Photo of Deborah R. Bates, Psychologist in Arcadia, CA
Deborah R. Bates
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
No matter your circumstance, whether you have been struggling life-long or just recently stuck in a rut, whether you are suffering from depression or anxiety, dissatisfied with your relationships, unsure how to help your child, crippled by past pain, or simply desiring to grow, there is hope for you. I strive to make the therapy room a warm and safe environment where you feel heard and understood, and where you can honestly and openly explore who you are and who you want to be. I will meet you where you are and walk with you toward growth and healing.
No matter your circumstance, whether you have been struggling life-long or just recently stuck in a rut, whether you are suffering from depression or anxiety, dissatisfied with your relationships, unsure how to help your child, crippled by past pain, or simply desiring to grow, there is hope for you. I strive to make the therapy room a warm and safe environment where you feel heard and understood, and where you can honestly and openly explore who you are and who you want to be. I will meet you where you are and walk with you toward growth and healing.
(626) 317-8506 View (626) 317-8506
Photo of Yafen Wu-Pang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Yafen Wu-Pang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR AC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91007  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You want to enjoy your relationships and reach your goals. However, some obstacles just keep blocking your success. Whether these obstacles are unresolved past issues, present crises, negative thoughts, challenging emotions, or unhealthy behaviors, they CAN be resolved and changed for the better. As a compassionate professional skilled in the therapeutic integration of brain science and many multimodal treatment approaches, I strive to provide a safe and effective environment for people to resolve their issues and find their strength.
You want to enjoy your relationships and reach your goals. However, some obstacles just keep blocking your success. Whether these obstacles are unresolved past issues, present crises, negative thoughts, challenging emotions, or unhealthy behaviors, they CAN be resolved and changed for the better. As a compassionate professional skilled in the therapeutic integration of brain science and many multimodal treatment approaches, I strive to provide a safe and effective environment for people to resolve their issues and find their strength.
(626) 513-8577 View (626) 513-8577
Photo of Dr. Winnie Ng, Psychologist in Arcadia, CA
Dr. Winnie Ng
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
Are you struggling with emotional challenges, seeking guidance, or striving for personal growth? Look no further, as a compassionate and experienced psychologist, I am here to support you on your unique journey towards healing and self-discovery. With a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind, I specialize in addressing a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to relationship difficulties and self-esteem concerns. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore your innermost thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Are you struggling with emotional challenges, seeking guidance, or striving for personal growth? Look no further, as a compassionate and experienced psychologist, I am here to support you on your unique journey towards healing and self-discovery. With a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind, I specialize in addressing a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to relationship difficulties and self-esteem concerns. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore your innermost thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
(626) 322-9986 View (626) 322-9986
Photo of Alice Elizabeth Kevork, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Alice Elizabeth Kevork
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91007  (Online Only)
Is life too much to handle and it's triggering anger? Sometimes it feels that way... Would you like to reach the goals you once set? Are you ready to know more about yourself and do thing and solve problems like you once did but somehow it feels overwhelming now? Are you ready to thrive? You are in the right place. Call the number above for a free phone consultation.
Is life too much to handle and it's triggering anger? Sometimes it feels that way... Would you like to reach the goals you once set? Are you ready to know more about yourself and do thing and solve problems like you once did but somehow it feels overwhelming now? Are you ready to thrive? You are in the right place. Call the number above for a free phone consultation.
(818) 724-9924 View (818) 724-9924
Photo of Melissa J Johnson, Psychologist in Arcadia, CA
Melissa J Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
Are you looking for ways to help your family m or yourself find zest and build strength for facing life's challenges? Is your family challenged by stress during COVID-19? I and the Institute therapy team work with children, teens, young women, families and gender-expansive youth to build resilience during challenging times like these. Individual, family, and group therapy are provided with fee and payment options to meet varied needs. As CEO and founder, I offer consultation and training to educators, medical and mental health professionals. Our website is full of resources to support social and emotional growth for our times.
Are you looking for ways to help your family m or yourself find zest and build strength for facing life's challenges? Is your family challenged by stress during COVID-19? I and the Institute therapy team work with children, teens, young women, families and gender-expansive youth to build resilience during challenging times like these. Individual, family, and group therapy are provided with fee and payment options to meet varied needs. As CEO and founder, I offer consultation and training to educators, medical and mental health professionals. Our website is full of resources to support social and emotional growth for our times.
(626) 782-5928 View (626) 782-5928
Photo of Carrie N Dilley, Psychologist in Arcadia, CA
Carrie N Dilley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91007
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of every individual knowing that they have been understood. I am passionate about helping others know themselves better and I meet my clients wherever they are regardless of age, area of struggle, or disability. My specializations are: Neurodevelopmental Delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Issues, Behavioral Challenges, Impulse Control Issues, Learning Disabilities, and Regulation and Sensory Processing Disorders. I provide individual, family and group therapy, parent coaching, neuropsychological assessment, and school consultations.
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of every individual knowing that they have been understood. I am passionate about helping others know themselves better and I meet my clients wherever they are regardless of age, area of struggle, or disability. My specializations are: Neurodevelopmental Delays including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Issues, Behavioral Challenges, Impulse Control Issues, Learning Disabilities, and Regulation and Sensory Processing Disorders. I provide individual, family and group therapy, parent coaching, neuropsychological assessment, and school consultations.
(626) 539-2001 x2 View (626) 539-2001 x2
Photo of Rozlyn W Kwong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Rozlyn W Kwong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
Not accepting new clients
With passion, I provide psychotherapy to individuals and people-in-relationships (couples, families, parent-child dyads) to improve relationship dynamics, heal from relational losses and difficulties, and restore potentials to be in relationships. Issues in treatment I specialize in include: grief and loss, trauma, parent-child bonding challenges, child behavioral management/parenting, depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflicts. Contact me if you are seeking help in topics relating to life transitions, self-esteem, personal growth, and cultural and faith-related struggles, including spiritual abuse. With an interpersonal and reflective approach, I consider it a privilege to embark in this journey with you.
With passion, I provide psychotherapy to individuals and people-in-relationships (couples, families, parent-child dyads) to improve relationship dynamics, heal from relational losses and difficulties, and restore potentials to be in relationships. Issues in treatment I specialize in include: grief and loss, trauma, parent-child bonding challenges, child behavioral management/parenting, depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflicts. Contact me if you are seeking help in topics relating to life transitions, self-esteem, personal growth, and cultural and faith-related struggles, including spiritual abuse. With an interpersonal and reflective approach, I consider it a privilege to embark in this journey with you.
(626) 774-7794 View (626) 774-7794

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Debra Padmini Bergman Therapy For The Soul, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Debra Padmini Bergman Therapy For The Soul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I draw on research-based relational approaches - DDP, Attachment Focused Family Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Play Therapy, IFS, Mindfulness, Trauma and Attachment researched evidenced-based practices: TF-CBT and EMDR.
Therapy is a process of self-discovery that often entails delving into past relationships and trauma to uncover their affect on our relationships with ourselves, our families and the outside world. My work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families is designed to restore trust, joy & zest and to develop meaningful connections and skills to thrive-mindfulness, authenticity & inner strength. As a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist, I work with an attachment focused interpersonal neurobiological approach creating a safe space to nurture individuals, couples and families in any orientation or socio-economic status.
I draw on research-based relational approaches - DDP, Attachment Focused Family Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Play Therapy, IFS, Mindfulness, Trauma and Attachment researched evidenced-based practices: TF-CBT and EMDR.
Therapy is a process of self-discovery that often entails delving into past relationships and trauma to uncover their affect on our relationships with ourselves, our families and the outside world. My work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families is designed to restore trust, joy & zest and to develop meaningful connections and skills to thrive-mindfulness, authenticity & inner strength. As a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist, I work with an attachment focused interpersonal neurobiological approach creating a safe space to nurture individuals, couples and families in any orientation or socio-economic status.
(323) 622-1987 View (323) 622-1987
Photo of Life Tree Psychological Services, Psychologist in Arcadia, CA
Life Tree Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sierra Madre, CA 91024  (Online Only)
Putman is trained in EMDR for trauma with children, adolescents and adults, as well as Trauma-Informed CBT, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy for Adolescents, Internal Family Systems and Family Therapy.
Dr. Katharine Putman seek to create a warm, healing collaboration with each client. With over 18 years' experience providing therapy for children, adolescents, adults and families, Dr. Putman blends expertise in healing from trauma, anxiety, depression and grief. Life Tree therapists also tailor a unique approach to help each client to help the client to heal and thrive. Dr. Putman works within clients' spirituality, culture and worldview to reach short-term goals and/or longer-term therapy goals for those who wish to pursue deeper healing and growth in their relational patterns.
Putman is trained in EMDR for trauma with children, adolescents and adults, as well as Trauma-Informed CBT, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy for Adolescents, Internal Family Systems and Family Therapy.
Dr. Katharine Putman seek to create a warm, healing collaboration with each client. With over 18 years' experience providing therapy for children, adolescents, adults and families, Dr. Putman blends expertise in healing from trauma, anxiety, depression and grief. Life Tree therapists also tailor a unique approach to help each client to help the client to heal and thrive. Dr. Putman works within clients' spirituality, culture and worldview to reach short-term goals and/or longer-term therapy goals for those who wish to pursue deeper healing and growth in their relational patterns.
(626) 790-7066 View (626) 790-7066
Photo of Ledette Gambini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Ledette Gambini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
I am a Registered Play Therapist and EMDR trained.
I have extensive experience working with families who are currently fostering a child or have built their family through adoption. I use a trauma informed and neurodevelopmental lens in all of my work, and understand how in utero and early developmental trauma affect children in many areas of their life. As a former foster parent and now an adoptive mom, I further understands how close relationships are created through a sense of safety and trust.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and EMDR trained.
I have extensive experience working with families who are currently fostering a child or have built their family through adoption. I use a trauma informed and neurodevelopmental lens in all of my work, and understand how in utero and early developmental trauma affect children in many areas of their life. As a former foster parent and now an adoptive mom, I further understands how close relationships are created through a sense of safety and trust.
(626) 658-3144 View (626) 658-3144
Photo of Mending Hearts Family Counseling Center, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Mending Hearts Family Counseling Center, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Our passion is supporting parents to teach them how to dissolve tantrums, manage their impulses and help their children follow instructions quickly and happily? We teach the principles of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and PC-CARE, two protocols researched at UC Davis Children's Hospital that are both nurturing and effective. Parent learn a set of play therapy skills and behavior therapy skills that can bring warmth and peace back to the home. Foster, adoptive and LGBTQ+ families are welcomed and celebrated.
Our passion is supporting parents to teach them how to dissolve tantrums, manage their impulses and help their children follow instructions quickly and happily? We teach the principles of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and PC-CARE, two protocols researched at UC Davis Children's Hospital that are both nurturing and effective. Parent learn a set of play therapy skills and behavior therapy skills that can bring warmth and peace back to the home. Foster, adoptive and LGBTQ+ families are welcomed and celebrated.
(909) 643-8741 View (909) 643-8741
Photo of Sarah Beth Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arcadia, CA
Sarah Beth Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Covina, CA 91723
Through the use of state-of-the-art play therapy, art therapy, and talk therapy, I create a safe and nurturing space for children to express themselves.
At times we all struggle to find the words to express what we feel. Children can find healing and resolution for issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, parental divorce and life adjustments through talk, play, and art therapy. I desire for clients, of all ages, to feel seen, heard, and valued as they are encouraged to express themselves; verbally, visually, or both.
Through the use of state-of-the-art play therapy, art therapy, and talk therapy, I create a safe and nurturing space for children to express themselves.
At times we all struggle to find the words to express what we feel. Children can find healing and resolution for issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, parental divorce and life adjustments through talk, play, and art therapy. I desire for clients, of all ages, to feel seen, heard, and valued as they are encouraged to express themselves; verbally, visually, or both.
(626) 727-8519 View (626) 727-8519
Photo of Andrea Price, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arcadia, CA
Andrea Price
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91104
I use Child Centered Play Therapy, DBT, CBT, ERP, Mindfulness, Family Systems, and a client centered approach.
I believe that therapy should be a truly collaborative and evidence based approach. My approach is genuine and warm. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship especially in working with kids, teens, parents and families. I have many years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents and families when working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework.
I use Child Centered Play Therapy, DBT, CBT, ERP, Mindfulness, Family Systems, and a client centered approach.
I believe that therapy should be a truly collaborative and evidence based approach. My approach is genuine and warm. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship especially in working with kids, teens, parents and families. I have many years of experience working as a school based therapist and in inpatient adolescent treatment centers. I love providing support to parents and families when working with kids individually or in the context of family based treatment. My approach with kids emphasizes a neurorelational framework.
(323) 894-0263 View (323) 894-0263
Photo of Micaela Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Micaela Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Duarte, CA 91010
I am skilled in using a wide range of interventions including play therapy, sandtray therapy, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, parenting, trauma treatment, as well as multiple other interventions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have worked with individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I believe that through collaborative work together, there is hope for changing behaviors, beliefs, and conflicts that are impeding you from having the quality of life you desire. I strive to provide an environment that is nurturing, open, and safe for you to process and grow, improving your life and level of functioning.
I am skilled in using a wide range of interventions including play therapy, sandtray therapy, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, parenting, trauma treatment, as well as multiple other interventions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have worked with individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I believe that through collaborative work together, there is hope for changing behaviors, beliefs, and conflicts that are impeding you from having the quality of life you desire. I strive to provide an environment that is nurturing, open, and safe for you to process and grow, improving your life and level of functioning.
(626) 587-2087 View (626) 587-2087
Photo of Rebecca Bokoch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Rebecca Bokoch
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I enjoy applying creative therapeutic modalities to my practice, such as: mindfulness, art therapy, play therapy, parenting, sibling relationships, trauma, emerging adulthood, and infant and child development.
Life can be complex. Take a step towards comfort and change! Therapy can help to nurture the healthy growth and development of your life and your relationships. The ultimate goal is to help you to create healthy bonds that bring joy to your life and relationships. I have experience working with children of all ages from infancy to young adulthood. I want to support you in the challenges of parenting. Together we can work to find an approach that fits you and your child.
I enjoy applying creative therapeutic modalities to my practice, such as: mindfulness, art therapy, play therapy, parenting, sibling relationships, trauma, emerging adulthood, and infant and child development.
Life can be complex. Take a step towards comfort and change! Therapy can help to nurture the healthy growth and development of your life and your relationships. The ultimate goal is to help you to create healthy bonds that bring joy to your life and relationships. I have experience working with children of all ages from infancy to young adulthood. I want to support you in the challenges of parenting. Together we can work to find an approach that fits you and your child.
(323) 800-4926 View (323) 800-4926
Photo of Hannah Kissick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Hannah Kissick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT, PPSC
Verified Verified
Glendora, CA 91741
Play is a critical part of expression and communication for children and youth but can also be used affectively at any age.
Thank you for your interest in me as your therapist. Starting the journey to find the right fit for a therapist can be difficult, and I am here to provide any support and guidance through the process. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on children, teens, young adults, and families. I am a Registered Play Therapist and utilize play therapy as a modality in much of my work.
Play is a critical part of expression and communication for children and youth but can also be used affectively at any age.
Thank you for your interest in me as your therapist. Starting the journey to find the right fit for a therapist can be difficult, and I am here to provide any support and guidance through the process. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on children, teens, young adults, and families. I am a Registered Play Therapist and utilize play therapy as a modality in much of my work.
(626) 714-6893 View (626) 714-6893
Photo of Kayla Tsongas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arcadia, CA
Kayla Tsongas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I approach child therapy by incorporating parents and family, utilizing play therapy which is based on imagination and creativity to support development and connection.
I invite my clients to be curious about their relationships, struggles, and dreams within a framework of creativity and emotional safety. I ensure our space is safe and inclusive for all people, honoring your individual differences. I recognize collaboration between client and therapist as a foundational ingredient to psychotherapy, a process that is marked by deep exploration, which can foster change and build resilience. With this dedication to safety and trust, healing can begin.
I approach child therapy by incorporating parents and family, utilizing play therapy which is based on imagination and creativity to support development and connection.
I invite my clients to be curious about their relationships, struggles, and dreams within a framework of creativity and emotional safety. I ensure our space is safe and inclusive for all people, honoring your individual differences. I recognize collaboration between client and therapist as a foundational ingredient to psychotherapy, a process that is marked by deep exploration, which can foster change and build resilience. With this dedication to safety and trust, healing can begin.
(213) 682-3085 View (213) 682-3085
Photo of Jayme Malachowsky, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arcadia, CA
Jayme Malachowsky
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
If traditional talk therapy isn’t the right fit for you or your child, that’s okay! I have experience in play and art therapy too.
You are the expert in your own experience, so our work together will be collaborative, creative and customized to fit your unique needs. I strongly believe that we are all doing the best we can with the knowledge and resources we have in the moment. We can’t do better until we know better, so I’m here to support you as you learn, grow, heal and discover what "better" is for you.
If traditional talk therapy isn’t the right fit for you or your child, that’s okay! I have experience in play and art therapy too.
You are the expert in your own experience, so our work together will be collaborative, creative and customized to fit your unique needs. I strongly believe that we are all doing the best we can with the knowledge and resources we have in the moment. We can’t do better until we know better, so I’m here to support you as you learn, grow, heal and discover what "better" is for you.
(323) 870-1803 View (323) 870-1803
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.