Play Therapy in Point Reyes Station, CA

Photo of Terry Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Terry Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Healing, growth and change are possible. By coming here you've taken the first step toward feeling better. Whether you're gripped by anxiety or depression, yearning for more fulfillment in relationships, or hungry for purpose and meaning in life, I am here to support and uplift you. I feel intense gratitude for this work because of the profound changes I witness in my clients. Through guided self inquiry and direct, compassionate feedback you’ll develop your capacities to understand yourself and take action toward building a life in alignment with your values and dreams. I got you, let's do this.
Healing, growth and change are possible. By coming here you've taken the first step toward feeling better. Whether you're gripped by anxiety or depression, yearning for more fulfillment in relationships, or hungry for purpose and meaning in life, I am here to support and uplift you. I feel intense gratitude for this work because of the profound changes I witness in my clients. Through guided self inquiry and direct, compassionate feedback you’ll develop your capacities to understand yourself and take action toward building a life in alignment with your values and dreams. I got you, let's do this.
(415) 870-3422 View (415) 870-3422

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christine Hamill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Christine Hamill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947
I believe you are the expert in your own experiences and the therapist's role is to guide you towards accessing the part of yourself that already knows the answer. Therapy is an opportunity to sit in a nurturing environment where anything can be said with acceptance. The gift of therapy provides a chance to hone your coping skills and bolster your resilience in your own time and at your own pace. In our work together I will meet you where you're at in your healing journey. You will have the opportunity to learn to activate your natural resiliency and self-acceptance to let go of shame, anger, or guilt that may be holding you back.
I believe you are the expert in your own experiences and the therapist's role is to guide you towards accessing the part of yourself that already knows the answer. Therapy is an opportunity to sit in a nurturing environment where anything can be said with acceptance. The gift of therapy provides a chance to hone your coping skills and bolster your resilience in your own time and at your own pace. In our work together I will meet you where you're at in your healing journey. You will have the opportunity to learn to activate your natural resiliency and self-acceptance to let go of shame, anger, or guilt that may be holding you back.
(415) 450-6878 View (415) 450-6878
Photo of Sonja Wanhala, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Sonja Wanhala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94947
I work with both children and adults and provide each client with the individualized support they need. I have specialized training in OCD and Brainspotting and work with individuals inflicted by anxiety, depression and life transitions. I also offer parenting support and educational consultation around the IEP process.
I work with both children and adults and provide each client with the individualized support they need. I have specialized training in OCD and Brainspotting and work with individuals inflicted by anxiety, depression and life transitions. I also offer parenting support and educational consultation around the IEP process.
(707) 416-2392 View (707) 416-2392

Online Therapists

Photo of Baljeet Heyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Baljeet Heyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
If you’re experiencing anxiety or trauma, I can help. Trauma, particularly from early childhood can have a deep impact on your self-esteem, relationships and functioning. You may struggle with perfectionism, people pleasing or codependency. Your nervous system may be dsyregulated which can lead to feeling flooded with emotions and or exhausted. This can lead to adaptions which may have serious consequences. Some interventions I use with clients include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art, sandplay and play therapy. Which interventions are based on your preferences and fit.
If you’re experiencing anxiety or trauma, I can help. Trauma, particularly from early childhood can have a deep impact on your self-esteem, relationships and functioning. You may struggle with perfectionism, people pleasing or codependency. Your nervous system may be dsyregulated which can lead to feeling flooded with emotions and or exhausted. This can lead to adaptions which may have serious consequences. Some interventions I use with clients include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art, sandplay and play therapy. Which interventions are based on your preferences and fit.
(510) 254-3478 View (510) 254-3478
Photo of Alicia M Foronda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Alicia M Foronda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I count with the fortune of a large experience assisting families, where the systemic and psychodynamic perspectives have been valuable in their mental health progress; along with the skills in adult psychotherapy and play-therapy with children.
Invest in yourself and your loved ones; therapy is not just a mental health treatment sought when we are suffering from mental distress, or unable to conduct life as wanted. Therapy is also a self discovery process to get a greater and deeper knowledge about ourselves, which will allow to make better choices and become the person that we have wished. Having someone to accompany you in this path, with a professional perspective, non-judgmental listening and accurate interventions, will allow you to cope with painful circumstances, significant life changes / transitions, as well with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and others.
I count with the fortune of a large experience assisting families, where the systemic and psychodynamic perspectives have been valuable in their mental health progress; along with the skills in adult psychotherapy and play-therapy with children.
Invest in yourself and your loved ones; therapy is not just a mental health treatment sought when we are suffering from mental distress, or unable to conduct life as wanted. Therapy is also a self discovery process to get a greater and deeper knowledge about ourselves, which will allow to make better choices and become the person that we have wished. Having someone to accompany you in this path, with a professional perspective, non-judgmental listening and accurate interventions, will allow you to cope with painful circumstances, significant life changes / transitions, as well with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and others.
(831) 704-8692 View (831) 704-8692
Photo of Paula F Mierzejewski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Paula F Mierzejewski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
With children I use play and art therapy, role playing, and CBT.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who came to practice later in life and believe my life's experience makes me a better therapist. I enjoy working with children and older adults in life transitions. I treat children who suffer from anxiety and depression and those that are victims of abuse, abandonment, and homelessness. I support Transgender & Gender Non-Conforming Clients. I also work with adults facing a life transition. This may be caring for an older parent, loss of a loved one, or a life threatening illness. These situations trigger a mixed bag of emotions that can be overwhelming.
With children I use play and art therapy, role playing, and CBT.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who came to practice later in life and believe my life's experience makes me a better therapist. I enjoy working with children and older adults in life transitions. I treat children who suffer from anxiety and depression and those that are victims of abuse, abandonment, and homelessness. I support Transgender & Gender Non-Conforming Clients. I also work with adults facing a life transition. This may be caring for an older parent, loss of a loved one, or a life threatening illness. These situations trigger a mixed bag of emotions that can be overwhelming.
(628) 333-3593 View (628) 333-3593
Photo of Stephanie Boggs-Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Point Reyes Station, CA
Stephanie Boggs-Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95678
With kids and teens I implement Play and Art therapy and often draw from somatic interventions.
You might be feeling a bit worn down, overwhelmed, burnt out, maybe even hopeless that you will ever feel “ok” again. Life gets overwhelming, for everyone. But you don’t have to go through it alone. As someone who has wrestled with seasons of anxiety and depression, I understand how intimidating it can feel to start therapy. Over the course of my personal therapy, I have come to realize that the most helpful role a therapist can take is to hold space for hope. I have experience working with neurodiverse children and couples and can help guide you.
With kids and teens I implement Play and Art therapy and often draw from somatic interventions.
You might be feeling a bit worn down, overwhelmed, burnt out, maybe even hopeless that you will ever feel “ok” again. Life gets overwhelming, for everyone. But you don’t have to go through it alone. As someone who has wrestled with seasons of anxiety and depression, I understand how intimidating it can feel to start therapy. Over the course of my personal therapy, I have come to realize that the most helpful role a therapist can take is to hold space for hope. I have experience working with neurodiverse children and couples and can help guide you.
(916) 665-0491 x712 View (916) 665-0491 x712
Photo of Lillian Goldbard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Lillian Goldbard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IFECMH , RP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I offer individual, dyadic, play therapy or family therapy.
You might be seeking help because you feel stuck in your relationships, with your family or with your child. The stories of our lives are powerful and can shape our reality. You might be holding stories and pain about yourself, your family, the world, or your child, that are interfering with a present focus and ability to face current challenges. Together we can champion your innate healing capacity in a safe, emphatic, and attached, therapeutic relationship. Therapeutic support can help you recover your true sense of self as an individual or a parent, can heal family wounds, and help you find a renewed zest for life.
I offer individual, dyadic, play therapy or family therapy.
You might be seeking help because you feel stuck in your relationships, with your family or with your child. The stories of our lives are powerful and can shape our reality. You might be holding stories and pain about yourself, your family, the world, or your child, that are interfering with a present focus and ability to face current challenges. Together we can champion your innate healing capacity in a safe, emphatic, and attached, therapeutic relationship. Therapeutic support can help you recover your true sense of self as an individual or a parent, can heal family wounds, and help you find a renewed zest for life.
(408) 351-9939 View (408) 351-9939
Photo of Edythe Swidler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Edythe Swidler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95864
We work with children and teens using a variety of modalities, including play, sand tray and expressive arts.
During these stressful times, many of us are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and/or sadness. Are you worried about your child or teen, concerned about your marriage or struggling with family relationships? Do you need new tools to help you feel more confident in parenting your adopted or special needs child/teen? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community who is looking for a supportive therapist who understands your unique strengths and challenges. I created American River Family Counseling because I believe that we all deserve happy, healthy and connected relationships.
We work with children and teens using a variety of modalities, including play, sand tray and expressive arts.
During these stressful times, many of us are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and/or sadness. Are you worried about your child or teen, concerned about your marriage or struggling with family relationships? Do you need new tools to help you feel more confident in parenting your adopted or special needs child/teen? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community who is looking for a supportive therapist who understands your unique strengths and challenges. I created American River Family Counseling because I believe that we all deserve happy, healthy and connected relationships.
(916) 304-8410 View (916) 304-8410
Photo of Eva Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Eva Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
With children and teens, I use a non-directive play-based approach.
In my practice, I see children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help for a variety of reasons. Common areas of need include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and relationship difficulties. With children, these concerns may express themselves through externalizing behaviors at school and/or at home. I offer an open, non-judgmental, and safe therapeutic relationship. My approach is adapted carefully to individual needs and is inclusive in regard to gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, culture, class, and religious/spiritual orientation. I work with many LGBTQ+ individuals in my practice.
With children and teens, I use a non-directive play-based approach.
In my practice, I see children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help for a variety of reasons. Common areas of need include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and relationship difficulties. With children, these concerns may express themselves through externalizing behaviors at school and/or at home. I offer an open, non-judgmental, and safe therapeutic relationship. My approach is adapted carefully to individual needs and is inclusive in regard to gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, culture, class, and religious/spiritual orientation. I work with many LGBTQ+ individuals in my practice.
(510) 640-8279 View (510) 640-8279
Photo of Alham Rodriguez (Bilingual), Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Alham Rodriguez (Bilingual)
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Watsonville, CA 95076  (Online Only)
My approach when working with children is play-based, art-based, and toy-based.
Hello and bienvenidos. I have over 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My approach to practice is tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. My style is authentic, attentive, warm, yet playful and humorous. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel heard and understood. I enjoy working from an integrated approach that is person-centered, mindfulness-based, and rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
My approach when working with children is play-based, art-based, and toy-based.
Hello and bienvenidos. I have over 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My approach to practice is tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. My style is authentic, attentive, warm, yet playful and humorous. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel heard and understood. I enjoy working from an integrated approach that is person-centered, mindfulness-based, and rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(831) 387-6689 View (831) 387-6689
Photo of Megan Bradley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Megan Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I also utilize Art and Play Therapy techniques and use clear and concrete self-regulation interventions.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
I also utilize Art and Play Therapy techniques and use clear and concrete self-regulation interventions.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
(925) 318-9684 View (925) 318-9684
Photo of Danielle Wood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Danielle Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95831
I use evidence-based tools and practices, have been in practice for several years, have additional training in trauma, play therapy, and EMDR, and have worked with a variety of clients from many different populations.
I know we are all born as a promise to the world with a unique set of gifts and abilities, with a divine right to space on the planet by virtue of our birth, but life can get in the way of us knowing these truths. If you are looking for a therapist to help you on your healing journey, congratulations! Starting is the hard part! You can call Heart of the Matter Counseling to set up an assessment appointment now to get started with me if you would like- (916) 245-0715
I use evidence-based tools and practices, have been in practice for several years, have additional training in trauma, play therapy, and EMDR, and have worked with a variety of clients from many different populations.
I know we are all born as a promise to the world with a unique set of gifts and abilities, with a divine right to space on the planet by virtue of our birth, but life can get in the way of us knowing these truths. If you are looking for a therapist to help you on your healing journey, congratulations! Starting is the hard part! You can call Heart of the Matter Counseling to set up an assessment appointment now to get started with me if you would like- (916) 245-0715
(916) 245-0715 View (916) 245-0715
Photo of Catherine Pollard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Catherine Pollard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95678
We have a child play therapy room for the younger one’s which include games, art therapy and ways to process in a child’s language.
Children, Teens, Families, Adults, Couples: Your struggling with grief and it seems like the world has continued to go on. You find yourself stuck or doing the same things over and over again. You are tired of not being on the same page with your partner and are growing more and more distant. This is true for many people and I am so glad you are here. There is a way through and I would love to join you on your journey. You will find a compassionate, supportive guide who walks with you and to the other side where there is hope and healing .We will work together in a safe, supportive environment.
We have a child play therapy room for the younger one’s which include games, art therapy and ways to process in a child’s language.
Children, Teens, Families, Adults, Couples: Your struggling with grief and it seems like the world has continued to go on. You find yourself stuck or doing the same things over and over again. You are tired of not being on the same page with your partner and are growing more and more distant. This is true for many people and I am so glad you are here. There is a way through and I would love to join you on your journey. You will find a compassionate, supportive guide who walks with you and to the other side where there is hope and healing .We will work together in a safe, supportive environment.
(916) 827-4698 x717 View (916) 827-4698 x717
Photo of Bianca Hovda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Bianca Hovda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I utilize somatic experiencing techniques, expressive arts therapies, humor, play and creative outlets.
I am a dedicated and passionate healer, Psychotherapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. I believe that we are all unique in our journeys and yet deeply connected in our collective human experience. I provide a safe, warm, compassionate space in which to share your unique story, deepen your relationship to self, others, and your community, identify and break down internal/external barriers and challenges, and have more meaningful and joyful experiences in your life.
I utilize somatic experiencing techniques, expressive arts therapies, humor, play and creative outlets.
I am a dedicated and passionate healer, Psychotherapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. I believe that we are all unique in our journeys and yet deeply connected in our collective human experience. I provide a safe, warm, compassionate space in which to share your unique story, deepen your relationship to self, others, and your community, identify and break down internal/external barriers and challenges, and have more meaningful and joyful experiences in your life.
(510) 851-9419 View (510) 851-9419
Photo of Jessica Chesbro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Jessica Chesbro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I specialize in Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA); using art, music, role-play, and creativity to assist clients in deepening their understanding of themselves.
I believe every person and family is unique and there are many ways to raise a healthy child. I want to honor the strengths within you and your family and offer the tools and support to help your child and family thrive. Through a trauma-informed lens, I work extensively with youth, parents, and families on life transitions, healthy communication, and processing/ healing from grief or abuse.
I specialize in Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA); using art, music, role-play, and creativity to assist clients in deepening their understanding of themselves.
I believe every person and family is unique and there are many ways to raise a healthy child. I want to honor the strengths within you and your family and offer the tools and support to help your child and family thrive. Through a trauma-informed lens, I work extensively with youth, parents, and families on life transitions, healthy communication, and processing/ healing from grief or abuse.
(510) 405-3206 View (510) 405-3206
Photo of Stephanie Antoni, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Stephanie Antoni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
I work with adults, teens and children as young as 3 years old. My work with children relies heavily on play and metaphor to unlock deeper layers of a child's psyche. Teenagers tend to need a safe, private space and having someone understand what they are going through and providing supportive listening and feedback. Adult therapy often explores strengths, core wounding, the private inner narrative, the stories we tell ourselves, and the energies we have carried with us possibly since birth. I find that often, seemingly maladaptive behaviors are simply ways we have learned to get our needs met and survive in a complicated world.
I work with adults, teens and children as young as 3 years old. My work with children relies heavily on play and metaphor to unlock deeper layers of a child's psyche. Teenagers tend to need a safe, private space and having someone understand what they are going through and providing supportive listening and feedback. Adult therapy often explores strengths, core wounding, the private inner narrative, the stories we tell ourselves, and the energies we have carried with us possibly since birth. I find that often, seemingly maladaptive behaviors are simply ways we have learned to get our needs met and survive in a complicated world.
(408) 805-3267 View (408) 805-3267
Photo of Deborah Dunning, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Deborah Dunning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My skilled use of dreams, sand play therapy, and expressive arts makes my practice unique.
If you are reading this now, you may be struggling with feelings or experiences that have become hard to bear and even understand. You may feel alone and as though no one seems to really get what you are going through. It may be some immediate situation or transition in life that feels extra hard to navigate, or some long-standing grief or pattern in relationships that seems to have a hold on you. You may have symptoms such as anxiety or depression, perhaps with less than optimal means of coping. Psychotherapy can help you understand and change.
My skilled use of dreams, sand play therapy, and expressive arts makes my practice unique.
If you are reading this now, you may be struggling with feelings or experiences that have become hard to bear and even understand. You may feel alone and as though no one seems to really get what you are going through. It may be some immediate situation or transition in life that feels extra hard to navigate, or some long-standing grief or pattern in relationships that seems to have a hold on you. You may have symptoms such as anxiety or depression, perhaps with less than optimal means of coping. Psychotherapy can help you understand and change.
(415) 383-1314 View (415) 383-1314
Sylvia C Blake
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MS, PPS, LEP
Verified Verified
Castro Valley, CA 94546
I specialize in Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), wherein the child processes their life experiences through play.
I provide educationally related mental health services for children with disabilities. Children with disabilities and children who suffer from trauma/s will often display significant difficulties accessing the general curriculum in school. Many children suffer from a disability (such as a speech impediment, learning disability, autism, or ADHD) as well as trauma. Oftentimes the disability itself causes trauma to the child.
I specialize in Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), wherein the child processes their life experiences through play.
I provide educationally related mental health services for children with disabilities. Children with disabilities and children who suffer from trauma/s will often display significant difficulties accessing the general curriculum in school. Many children suffer from a disability (such as a speech impediment, learning disability, autism, or ADHD) as well as trauma. Oftentimes the disability itself causes trauma to the child.
(510) 617-5735 View (510) 617-5735
Photo of Tessa Barrows, Marriage & Family Therapist in Point Reyes Station, CA
Tessa Barrows
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I provide a safe, compassionate and collaborative healing space combining different styles of psychotherapy such as somatic (body-based), mindfulness, experiential, play therapy, and solution-oriented approaches.
Are you feeling distracted or overwhelmed? Perhaps you are lacking motivation and seeking clarity to connect with your passions and purpose in life, or desire more fulfilling, harmonious relationships. Maybe you’re tired of people saying you’re “too much” or “not enough” leaving you feeling not good enough or unworthy. You are not alone. Releasing old fears, anxiety, shame, guilt, and negative thoughts doesn’t have to be a painful, difficult process (deep breath!). It can be incredibly freeing, creating space and connection to a part of yourself you never knew was there.
I provide a safe, compassionate and collaborative healing space combining different styles of psychotherapy such as somatic (body-based), mindfulness, experiential, play therapy, and solution-oriented approaches.
Are you feeling distracted or overwhelmed? Perhaps you are lacking motivation and seeking clarity to connect with your passions and purpose in life, or desire more fulfilling, harmonious relationships. Maybe you’re tired of people saying you’re “too much” or “not enough” leaving you feeling not good enough or unworthy. You are not alone. Releasing old fears, anxiety, shame, guilt, and negative thoughts doesn’t have to be a painful, difficult process (deep breath!). It can be incredibly freeing, creating space and connection to a part of yourself you never knew was there.
(925) 406-3731 View (925) 406-3731

See more therapy options for Point Reyes Station

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.