Photo of Sara Anne Powers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Sara Anne Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BA, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I primarily use child centered non-directive play therapy.
As a parent, if your child/teen is struggling, you can often feel helpless, not knowing what you can or "should" do to help them. Therapy offers a space for your child/teen to work through difficult feelings that are getting in the way of them being able to move through the developmental tasks, that allow them to grow up confident and strong. While talk therapy is a part of my practice, for most children, and even teens, play is their primary language. Your child/teen will have the safe space they need to work through their issues, in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to them, while building skills and confidence.
I primarily use child centered non-directive play therapy.
As a parent, if your child/teen is struggling, you can often feel helpless, not knowing what you can or "should" do to help them. Therapy offers a space for your child/teen to work through difficult feelings that are getting in the way of them being able to move through the developmental tasks, that allow them to grow up confident and strong. While talk therapy is a part of my practice, for most children, and even teens, play is their primary language. Your child/teen will have the safe space they need to work through their issues, in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to them, while building skills and confidence.
(805) 590-2976 View (805) 590-2976
Photo of Kai Lillie, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Kai Lillie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
my focusing is on understanding the dynamics of each member, and how these dynamics create the cycles that play out within the system.
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
my focusing is on understanding the dynamics of each member, and how these dynamics create the cycles that play out within the system.
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
(510) 990-9815 View (510) 990-9815
Photo of Wendy Ann Clodfelter, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Wendy Ann Clodfelter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atascadero, CA 93422
I use CBT, solution focused brief therapy, directive and non directive play therapy, EMDR, EFT, mindfulness and DBT.
My passion is working with kids and families. I can help with anxiety, depression, relationships and attachment, trauma, school concerns and low self esteem. I also support parents and offer solutions to behavioral concerns at home and in the school setting. I work with families to help with improved communication and better functioning. I encourage parents to take care of themselves and focus on what is working as well as change what is not working.
I use CBT, solution focused brief therapy, directive and non directive play therapy, EMDR, EFT, mindfulness and DBT.
My passion is working with kids and families. I can help with anxiety, depression, relationships and attachment, trauma, school concerns and low self esteem. I also support parents and offer solutions to behavioral concerns at home and in the school setting. I work with families to help with improved communication and better functioning. I encourage parents to take care of themselves and focus on what is working as well as change what is not working.
(805) 391-7914 View (805) 391-7914
Photo of Janine Porter, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Janine Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I will most often utilize a combination of modalities to best suit the client, and specialize in psychodynamic, humanistic, client-centered, creative play-based, and solution-focused approaches.
Seeking therapy is a brave choice and a valuable step in the healing process. If you are pursing therapy for support through a difficult time or transition, for healing childhood wounds, if you are feeling emotional pain or hurt, having trouble navigating a difficult relationship, and/or seeking deeper self-exploration, betterment and growth, I commend you. This is a courageous first step.
I will most often utilize a combination of modalities to best suit the client, and specialize in psychodynamic, humanistic, client-centered, creative play-based, and solution-focused approaches.
Seeking therapy is a brave choice and a valuable step in the healing process. If you are pursing therapy for support through a difficult time or transition, for healing childhood wounds, if you are feeling emotional pain or hurt, having trouble navigating a difficult relationship, and/or seeking deeper self-exploration, betterment and growth, I commend you. This is a courageous first step.
(805) 316-7083 View (805) 316-7083
Photo of Veronica Fletcher, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Veronica Fletcher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
I work from a depth and relationship based perspective while integrating play therapy and evidenced-based interventions to address the unique and personal needs of my clients. I have a special interest in working with individuals with trauma histories, including childhood maltreatment and abuse, and have completed formal comprehensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I encourage gaining awareness and curiosity for all parts of self to better understand how your past can influence your present and future as well as how individual strengths can help you heal and become whole.
I work from a depth and relationship based perspective while integrating play therapy and evidenced-based interventions to address the unique and personal needs of my clients. I have a special interest in working with individuals with trauma histories, including childhood maltreatment and abuse, and have completed formal comprehensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I encourage gaining awareness and curiosity for all parts of self to better understand how your past can influence your present and future as well as how individual strengths can help you heal and become whole.
(559) 632-0191 View (559) 632-0191
Photo of Gianna Merriam, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Gianna Merriam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atascadero, CA 93422
I commonly utilize therapy modalities such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused CBT, and EMDR.
Hello! My name is Gianna Merriam, LCSW. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based. My areas of practice include working with children and families, individuals (all ages), and groups. I enjoy promoting use of self-compassion practices, functional communication and empathy to impact individual needs and relationships. Clients I typically work with can range from age 5-60. I have extensive experience working with school-aged children that receive IEP services; I am educated and able to support parents in navigating the school system as well as community based resources.
I commonly utilize therapy modalities such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused CBT, and EMDR.
Hello! My name is Gianna Merriam, LCSW. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based. My areas of practice include working with children and families, individuals (all ages), and groups. I enjoy promoting use of self-compassion practices, functional communication and empathy to impact individual needs and relationships. Clients I typically work with can range from age 5-60. I have extensive experience working with school-aged children that receive IEP services; I am educated and able to support parents in navigating the school system as well as community based resources.
(805) 793-1356 View (805) 793-1356
Photo of Laurie Claire Gallagher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Laurie Claire Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
I am certified in EMDR and highly trained in CBT, Hypnotherapy, Guided imagery, Mindfulness & Play/Art Therapy.
Let me help you process, heal and move beyond trauma, anxiety, depression, life challenges, and perceived limitations to improve quality of life, find peace, fulfillment and happiness in your life and relationships. I provide a comfortable, non judgmental environment for individuals, couples and children 9 and up. In person and virtual appointments available.
I am certified in EMDR and highly trained in CBT, Hypnotherapy, Guided imagery, Mindfulness & Play/Art Therapy.
Let me help you process, heal and move beyond trauma, anxiety, depression, life challenges, and perceived limitations to improve quality of life, find peace, fulfillment and happiness in your life and relationships. I provide a comfortable, non judgmental environment for individuals, couples and children 9 and up. In person and virtual appointments available.
(530) 450-2959 View (530) 450-2959
Photo of Leslie R Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Leslie R Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Nipomo, CA 93444
As a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) I utilize play therapy and art in my sessions with children as young as 3.
Therapy is a process of healing, growth and change. The aim is to achieve lasting growth by helping you find ways of seeing, thinking and feeling that leave you more capable and prosperous. My passion is to help children, teens, couples and adults build on their strengths to reach their full potential. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental and interactive.
As a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) I utilize play therapy and art in my sessions with children as young as 3.
Therapy is a process of healing, growth and change. The aim is to achieve lasting growth by helping you find ways of seeing, thinking and feeling that leave you more capable and prosperous. My passion is to help children, teens, couples and adults build on their strengths to reach their full potential. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental and interactive.
(805) 307-7971 View (805) 307-7971
Photo of Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Our Play Therapy room is state of art.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Our Play Therapy room is state of art.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Leslie Barton, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Leslie Barton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
My specialty areas have varied over the years including codependency, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, grief, play therapy and sandtray.
"I believe that each person has unlimited potential within themself! It is my role to assist a person in finding the answers to the dilemnas' they may be facing. Often someone is experiencing a high level of stress through a current life circumstance that brings up feelings or grief from the past. When this happens, part of the therapy process is to deal with the "unfinished business" to access more energy to bring to the present. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I focus on relationship issues including patterns of communication that can improve to develop more satisfying relationships too.
My specialty areas have varied over the years including codependency, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, grief, play therapy and sandtray.
"I believe that each person has unlimited potential within themself! It is my role to assist a person in finding the answers to the dilemnas' they may be facing. Often someone is experiencing a high level of stress through a current life circumstance that brings up feelings or grief from the past. When this happens, part of the therapy process is to deal with the "unfinished business" to access more energy to bring to the present. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I focus on relationship issues including patterns of communication that can improve to develop more satisfying relationships too.
(805) 623-4087 View (805) 623-4087
Photo of Eva M Prado, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Eva M Prado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paso Robles, CA 93446  (Online Only)
I currently offer tele-health sessions.I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. Dealing with Anger? Anxiety? Depression? Grief/Loss? Trauma? Stress? Feeling overwhelmed? Unable to focus? Feeling helpless? Let me support you and help you re-gain control of your life. My goal as a clinician is to help clients alleviate symptoms, improve the quality of their functioning and strengthen their relationships with themselves and others.
I currently offer tele-health sessions.I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. Dealing with Anger? Anxiety? Depression? Grief/Loss? Trauma? Stress? Feeling overwhelmed? Unable to focus? Feeling helpless? Let me support you and help you re-gain control of your life. My goal as a clinician is to help clients alleviate symptoms, improve the quality of their functioning and strengthen their relationships with themselves and others.
(559) 744-4485 View (559) 744-4485
Photo of Odette Boyd, Psychological Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Odette Boyd
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Breathe, you are not alone. I'm here to listen and assist you with the issues you are experiencing. I am passionate about helping people learn to cope with and overcome the concerns hindering their lives. I have learned that a better outcome is possible no matter the circumstances. I love to assist teens and college-age students who suffer from depression and anxiety. My specialty also includes the LGBTQ community (helping parents and teens cope), adult depression, anxiety, and couples counseling. Christian counseling is also a path I offer for those seeking a Faith-led path. Let's start this new experience now! You've got this!
Breathe, you are not alone. I'm here to listen and assist you with the issues you are experiencing. I am passionate about helping people learn to cope with and overcome the concerns hindering their lives. I have learned that a better outcome is possible no matter the circumstances. I love to assist teens and college-age students who suffer from depression and anxiety. My specialty also includes the LGBTQ community (helping parents and teens cope), adult depression, anxiety, and couples counseling. Christian counseling is also a path I offer for those seeking a Faith-led path. Let's start this new experience now! You've got this!
(760) 616-5820 View (760) 616-5820
Photo of Christine T Tran, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Christine T Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hello and welcome. I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. It takes plenty of courage to seek out therapy and it is okay to feel vulnerable at this moment. Life is unpredictable and challenging. Whether you are a parent looking to support your child or someone whose struggling to manage their emotions, I offer empathetic support and tools to deal with life's many stressors. I work with children, teens, and young adults to help address challenges with stress, anxiety, sadness, trauma, behavioral issues, separation, and family conflict.
Hello and welcome. I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. It takes plenty of courage to seek out therapy and it is okay to feel vulnerable at this moment. Life is unpredictable and challenging. Whether you are a parent looking to support your child or someone whose struggling to manage their emotions, I offer empathetic support and tools to deal with life's many stressors. I work with children, teens, and young adults to help address challenges with stress, anxiety, sadness, trauma, behavioral issues, separation, and family conflict.
(805) 429-6440 View (805) 429-6440
Photo of Diane M. Thorp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Diane M. Thorp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cayucos, CA 93430
Welcome to DMT Psychotherapy. I am a Licensed Board Certified Psychotherapist along with a Certified Clinical Supervisor and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, & families. I have extensive training and experience treating a variety of issues such as complex trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, relationship problems, ADHD, and parenting. Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times and asking for help is the first step towards leading a happier and more fulfilled life. I can help & assist in finding tools you need to make positive transformations. I provide a safe and comfortable environment where individuals can share their thoughts and feelings.
Welcome to DMT Psychotherapy. I am a Licensed Board Certified Psychotherapist along with a Certified Clinical Supervisor and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, & families. I have extensive training and experience treating a variety of issues such as complex trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, relationship problems, ADHD, and parenting. Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times and asking for help is the first step towards leading a happier and more fulfilled life. I can help & assist in finding tools you need to make positive transformations. I provide a safe and comfortable environment where individuals can share their thoughts and feelings.
(747) 247-9471 View (747) 247-9471
Photo of Vicki M Matthews, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Vicki M Matthews
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, PCCI
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Are you feeling a loss of joy in your life? Are you depressed, anxious, and emotional? Do you have problems with drugs or alcohol and suffering alone? I can help! I am a compassionate, empathetic and motivated Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling who wants to be a part of restoring the happiness in those struggling with life difficulties in my own community. I believe in a creative solution-focused and strength based approach to therapy. Together, I will help you identify fitting healing interventions; finding the source of your concerns and issues in a safe, non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere.
Are you feeling a loss of joy in your life? Are you depressed, anxious, and emotional? Do you have problems with drugs or alcohol and suffering alone? I can help! I am a compassionate, empathetic and motivated Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling who wants to be a part of restoring the happiness in those struggling with life difficulties in my own community. I believe in a creative solution-focused and strength based approach to therapy. Together, I will help you identify fitting healing interventions; finding the source of your concerns and issues in a safe, non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere.
(805) 977-6117 View (805) 977-6117
Photo of Monique Nelson Sigler, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Monique Nelson Sigler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
My passion is serving those in SLO community and promoting meaningful change and healing in the individuals I treat. I imagine you are here because something in your life has caused you pain or suffering. Achieving emotional and mental wellness is hard and uncomfortable work, but it does not have to happen alone. I honor the vulnerability and courage it takes to begin therapy. My goal is to help you discover a life of balance, authenticity, and happiness. Everyone can benefit from therapy— from children to adults.
My passion is serving those in SLO community and promoting meaningful change and healing in the individuals I treat. I imagine you are here because something in your life has caused you pain or suffering. Achieving emotional and mental wellness is hard and uncomfortable work, but it does not have to happen alone. I honor the vulnerability and courage it takes to begin therapy. My goal is to help you discover a life of balance, authenticity, and happiness. Everyone can benefit from therapy— from children to adults.
(805) 429-1170 View (805) 429-1170
Photo of Ron Huxley, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Ron Huxley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Avila Beach, CA 93424  (Online Only)
Looking for faith-based therapy on anxiety and trauma issues? I have 30 years of experience and integrate traditional mental health tools with Christian Inner Healing principles that will bring you the transformation you desire. Schedule an appointment now or learn more about me at RonHuxley.com
Looking for faith-based therapy on anxiety and trauma issues? I have 30 years of experience and integrate traditional mental health tools with Christian Inner Healing principles that will bring you the transformation you desire. Schedule an appointment now or learn more about me at RonHuxley.com
(805) 709-2023 View (805) 709-2023
Photo of Hannah Wright, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Hannah Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Osos, CA 93402
I understand that searching for a therapist can be a difficult decision. I believe that the therapeutic process should be collaborative. You are the expert in your own life. My goal is to offer a therapeutic space that is collaborative, compassionate, and directive. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re facing struggles with identity, relationships, career, or mental health I’m here to help you develop coping strategies, build resilience, and create a deeper understanding of the different parts of yourself.
I understand that searching for a therapist can be a difficult decision. I believe that the therapeutic process should be collaborative. You are the expert in your own life. My goal is to offer a therapeutic space that is collaborative, compassionate, and directive. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re facing struggles with identity, relationships, career, or mental health I’m here to help you develop coping strategies, build resilience, and create a deeper understanding of the different parts of yourself.
(805) 664-2046 View (805) 664-2046
Photo of Neil Giannini, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Neil Giannini
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atascadero, CA 93422
Our developing years can often be filled with confusion, fear, and other big emotions. Whether I’m working with children or the inner child, speaking with someone who can present a different vantage point and offer tools of healing from a non-judgmental and supportive place can be what we need to achieve wholeness. From coping and managing stressors, self-esteem and confidence building, social and relationship concerns, or self-discovery, I'm dedicated to supporting the growth and development of children, teens and young adults.
Our developing years can often be filled with confusion, fear, and other big emotions. Whether I’m working with children or the inner child, speaking with someone who can present a different vantage point and offer tools of healing from a non-judgmental and supportive place can be what we need to achieve wholeness. From coping and managing stressors, self-esteem and confidence building, social and relationship concerns, or self-discovery, I'm dedicated to supporting the growth and development of children, teens and young adults.
(805) 723-2565 View (805) 723-2565
Photo of Julie Messer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Julie Messer
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Since you found me on this site I would venture to guess something is awry in your life...am I right? Whether you are struggling with relationships, tackling your own personal demons, or just have absolutely no idea why you don't feel like your normal self anymore we can work together to figure it out and discover solutions that work for you.
Since you found me on this site I would venture to guess something is awry in your life...am I right? Whether you are struggling with relationships, tackling your own personal demons, or just have absolutely no idea why you don't feel like your normal self anymore we can work together to figure it out and discover solutions that work for you.
(805) 978-5080 View (805) 978-5080

See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo County

Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.