Photo of Manuel Cruz Dominguez Jr., Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, CA
Manuel Cruz Dominguez Jr.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD-c, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stockton, CA 95219  (Online Only)
Are you currently searching for a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Do you find yourself in an existential/spiritual emergency? Are you exploring your personal identity, expression, or sexuality? I help people of all ages increase self-awareness and decrease symptomology by bringing unconscious material into conscious awareness. Mental health concerns eventually arise because deep in our mind/body/soul we yearn for authenticity/individuation. Together we can explore which aspects of ourselves that no longer serve us to let go, in order to make space for something new to enter.
Are you currently searching for a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Do you find yourself in an existential/spiritual emergency? Are you exploring your personal identity, expression, or sexuality? I help people of all ages increase self-awareness and decrease symptomology by bringing unconscious material into conscious awareness. Mental health concerns eventually arise because deep in our mind/body/soul we yearn for authenticity/individuation. Together we can explore which aspects of ourselves that no longer serve us to let go, in order to make space for something new to enter.
(209) 502-2363 View (209) 502-2363
Luis Leyva Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95202
I work with survivors of trauma and victims of crime. Not only that, but also I work with those struggling with symptoms of depression and symptoms of anxiety. I incorporate mindfulness and symptom management. I assist my clients learn and practice effective coping skills. Services in Spanish are available.
I work with survivors of trauma and victims of crime. Not only that, but also I work with those struggling with symptoms of depression and symptoms of anxiety. I incorporate mindfulness and symptom management. I assist my clients learn and practice effective coping skills. Services in Spanish are available.
(209) 451-2476 View (209) 451-2476

Online Therapists

Photo of Brenda Estrada (Deep Wellness Center), Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stockton, CA
Brenda Estrada (Deep Wellness Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95356
In my practice I utilize a variety of techniques such as DBT, CBT, Person Centered, art therapy and play therapy.
Hello! My name is Brenda Estrada Ramirez, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a genuine interest in helping children, adults and families achieve a greater sense of wellness in their lives. Throughout our time we experience life changes that are unexpected or difficult to manage. During tough times one can find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling alone. It is important for individuals who are experiencing life changes or mental health challenges to reach out for additional support.
In my practice I utilize a variety of techniques such as DBT, CBT, Person Centered, art therapy and play therapy.
Hello! My name is Brenda Estrada Ramirez, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a genuine interest in helping children, adults and families achieve a greater sense of wellness in their lives. Throughout our time we experience life changes that are unexpected or difficult to manage. During tough times one can find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling alone. It is important for individuals who are experiencing life changes or mental health challenges to reach out for additional support.
(209) 457-5850 View (209) 457-5850
Photo of Abigail Camille Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stockton, CA
Abigail Camille Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I have worked with children of all ages from 3 years old and up, utilizing play, art, and music therapy.
Living authentically requires courage. Sometimes past experiences can feel like a barrier that has to be removed or denied. My practice focuses on honoring the life that has shaped you, and empowering you to use those formative incidents to understand and grow into your truest self. My approach is collaborative, holistic and creative. I work with a variety of treatment styles to support my clients to go deeper into self-knowledge and self-acceptance. Modern life presents sometimes-complicated and difficult situations My job is to empower you to respond to those opportunities from a realistic, authentic self.
I have worked with children of all ages from 3 years old and up, utilizing play, art, and music therapy.
Living authentically requires courage. Sometimes past experiences can feel like a barrier that has to be removed or denied. My practice focuses on honoring the life that has shaped you, and empowering you to use those formative incidents to understand and grow into your truest self. My approach is collaborative, holistic and creative. I work with a variety of treatment styles to support my clients to go deeper into self-knowledge and self-acceptance. Modern life presents sometimes-complicated and difficult situations My job is to empower you to respond to those opportunities from a realistic, authentic self.
(385) 492-6220 View (385) 492-6220
Photo of Stephanie Boggs-Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stockton, 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 Isa Reser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, CA
Isa Reser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I believe therapy is the development of a safe and trusting relationship between the facilitator and the participant. Therapy can be hard work and getting started can be scary, however making art, using play or being in nature can ease this process. As your therapist I will encourage you to use your creative imagination as a vehicle to understanding your inner turmoil, psychic pain or stagnancy. Along the way we will be implementing these effective tools in cultivating a more fulfilling life experience.
I believe therapy is the development of a safe and trusting relationship between the facilitator and the participant. Therapy can be hard work and getting started can be scary, however making art, using play or being in nature can ease this process. As your therapist I will encourage you to use your creative imagination as a vehicle to understanding your inner turmoil, psychic pain or stagnancy. Along the way we will be implementing these effective tools in cultivating a more fulfilling life experience.
(831) 471-5007 View (831) 471-5007
Photo of Sheila Rubin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, CA
Sheila Rubin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Children like Drama Therapy—play is their native language!.
I am a leading authority on healing shame. I co-created the Healing Shame – Lyon/Rubin method and am the Co-Director of the Center for Healing Shame, a continuing education provider that offers workshops to therapists and other helping professionals. In my private practice, I developed therapy techniques integrating somatic and expressive processes to work with the all-pervasive shame and trauma that underlie toxic family dynamics, depression and eating disorders. I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy and AEDP with Drama Therapy, Hakomi, Focusing and Expressive Arts. I work with the imposter syndrome and voracious inner critics.
Children like Drama Therapy—play is their native language!.
I am a leading authority on healing shame. I co-created the Healing Shame – Lyon/Rubin method and am the Co-Director of the Center for Healing Shame, a continuing education provider that offers workshops to therapists and other helping professionals. In my private practice, I developed therapy techniques integrating somatic and expressive processes to work with the all-pervasive shame and trauma that underlie toxic family dynamics, depression and eating disorders. I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy and AEDP with Drama Therapy, Hakomi, Focusing and Expressive Arts. I work with the imposter syndrome and voracious inner critics.
(415) 858-6869 View (415) 858-6869
Photo of James Francis Gallagher Jr., Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, CA
James Francis Gallagher Jr.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Albany, CA 94706
meditation, movement, role play, and exploring archetypes are common tools.
We are all born whole, in lovingkind perfection. But life produces obstacles that sidetrack our becoming ourselves. Obstacles take any forms: trauma in the body, inauthentic identities, existential fears, beliefs indoctrinated but in conflict with one's essential values, or anxiety that something is wrong with oneself. The result can be alienation, grief, substance use issues, depression, anxiety, difficulty connecting, or incapacity to speak or create from the heart. Reconnecting with ones body, the natural world, and with an unconditional community are the foundations re-emerging into the Self you've always been.
meditation, movement, role play, and exploring archetypes are common tools.
We are all born whole, in lovingkind perfection. But life produces obstacles that sidetrack our becoming ourselves. Obstacles take any forms: trauma in the body, inauthentic identities, existential fears, beliefs indoctrinated but in conflict with one's essential values, or anxiety that something is wrong with oneself. The result can be alienation, grief, substance use issues, depression, anxiety, difficulty connecting, or incapacity to speak or create from the heart. Reconnecting with ones body, the natural world, and with an unconditional community are the foundations re-emerging into the Self you've always been.
(510) 876-9446 View (510) 876-9446
Photo of Catherine Pollard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, 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 Sonja Baumer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, CA
Sonja Baumer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94708
In my practice I use Relational Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, & Sensory Integration Therapy.
I have over 10 years of clinical experience in outpatient clinics, schools, private practice, and humanitarian organizations. My practice has been informed by clinical training and extensive academic background in developmental psychology. It also incorporates my life experience in coping with challenges of immigration, parenthood, career transitions and aging. I believe that healing entails personal growth. You may need to develop a new awareness, an insight, or a specific coping skill to resolve your problem. I provide a safe space for you to explore what is that you need in order to live a more productive and enjoyable life.
In my practice I use Relational Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, & Sensory Integration Therapy.
I have over 10 years of clinical experience in outpatient clinics, schools, private practice, and humanitarian organizations. My practice has been informed by clinical training and extensive academic background in developmental psychology. It also incorporates my life experience in coping with challenges of immigration, parenthood, career transitions and aging. I believe that healing entails personal growth. You may need to develop a new awareness, an insight, or a specific coping skill to resolve your problem. I provide a safe space for you to explore what is that you need in order to live a more productive and enjoyable life.
(858) 922-3855 View (858) 922-3855
Photo of Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stockton, CA
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
My last name furthers holiday vibes, word play, and relationship to the here-and-now.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
My last name furthers holiday vibes, word play, and relationship to the here-and-now.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
View
Photo of Nicole Symcox Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, CA
Nicole Symcox Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008  (Online Only)
Using Expressive Arts, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy she helps children externalize feelings, build confidence, improve behavior, and gain problem solving skills.
Nicole is passionate about helping people heal from their past so they can build a better future. She supports women through unhealthy relationships, healing from childhood abuse, sexual abuse, anxiety and PTSD. For over a decade, Nicole has studied and worked in human development and psychology. She is EMDRIA Certified EMDR Clinician and supports kids and adults in the healing process.
Using Expressive Arts, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy she helps children externalize feelings, build confidence, improve behavior, and gain problem solving skills.
Nicole is passionate about helping people heal from their past so they can build a better future. She supports women through unhealthy relationships, healing from childhood abuse, sexual abuse, anxiety and PTSD. For over a decade, Nicole has studied and worked in human development and psychology. She is EMDRIA Certified EMDR Clinician and supports kids and adults in the healing process.
(408) 214-6894 View (408) 214-6894
Photo of Whyell Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, CA
Whyell Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Coarsegold, CA 93614  (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Art and Play therapy, among other techniques.
Becoming a therapist was my first choice, a passion I discovered during my sophomore year as an undergrad. Of course, it was not my first major, as I thought I would attend medical school. However, due to a car accident, I had to take a break from classes with laboratory courses, which led me to psychology. The best methods to pique anyone's interest are, in my opinion, abnormal psychology and personality psychology; they started my passion for learning more. After earning my Bachelor's degree in Psychology, I applied for my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialty in Latino Family Studies.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Art and Play therapy, among other techniques.
Becoming a therapist was my first choice, a passion I discovered during my sophomore year as an undergrad. Of course, it was not my first major, as I thought I would attend medical school. However, due to a car accident, I had to take a break from classes with laboratory courses, which led me to psychology. The best methods to pique anyone's interest are, in my opinion, abnormal psychology and personality psychology; they started my passion for learning more. After earning my Bachelor's degree in Psychology, I applied for my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialty in Latino Family Studies.
(559) 702-5266 View (559) 702-5266
Photo of Diana Borromeo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Stockton, CA
Diana Borromeo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94404
Diana is an empathic and attentive individual that loves to help others through their healing journey. The guiding theories she works within are cognitive behavior therapy, existentialism, and the Gottman method. She hopes to work with you through deep and intentional therapeutic work to promote positive change.
Diana is an empathic and attentive individual that loves to help others through their healing journey. The guiding theories she works within are cognitive behavior therapy, existentialism, and the Gottman method. She hopes to work with you through deep and intentional therapeutic work to promote positive change.
(650) 628-6583 View (650) 628-6583
Photo of April Faith Hirschman in Stockton, CA
April Faith Hirschman
CPC
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
My sessions are fun, upbeat, and full of insightful ways to turn problems into solutions. I work with couples and individuals to achieve a satisfying sex life and connection to their bodies. Perhaps you are looking looking to connect with yourself, to get out in the dating world, to deepen an existing relationship, or exit a relationship in a conscious manner. Whether you want more expression or passion in your sex life, or you are working on dating, boundaries, sexual dysfunction and other relationship aspects – I will meet you right where you are on your path, and support your growth and transformation.
My sessions are fun, upbeat, and full of insightful ways to turn problems into solutions. I work with couples and individuals to achieve a satisfying sex life and connection to their bodies. Perhaps you are looking looking to connect with yourself, to get out in the dating world, to deepen an existing relationship, or exit a relationship in a conscious manner. Whether you want more expression or passion in your sex life, or you are working on dating, boundaries, sexual dysfunction and other relationship aspects – I will meet you right where you are on your path, and support your growth and transformation.
(707) 728-8336 View (707) 728-8336
Photo of Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stockton, CA
Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
(925) 722-5853 View (925) 722-5853
Kristen Rouse Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94538
Practices empowerment and the healing arts of psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and groups. Experienced in supporting parenthood through fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, parenting education, coaching, and support. Treats multiple and co-occurring disorders. Experienced in supporting mood disorders and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and compulsions. Trauma specialist. Grief and loss. Experienced treating first responders. Provides LGBTQIA safe and affirming space and is experienced and trained in transgender and non-heteronormative support. Works to strengthen families and partners with their goals and values.
Practices empowerment and the healing arts of psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and groups. Experienced in supporting parenthood through fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, parenting education, coaching, and support. Treats multiple and co-occurring disorders. Experienced in supporting mood disorders and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and compulsions. Trauma specialist. Grief and loss. Experienced treating first responders. Provides LGBTQIA safe and affirming space and is experienced and trained in transgender and non-heteronormative support. Works to strengthen families and partners with their goals and values.
(510) 519-3493 View (510) 519-3493
Photo of Liz Eichmann @ The Connective, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stockton, CA
Liz Eichmann @ The Connective
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Benicia, CA 94510
I have experience working with both children and adults and specialize in anxiety disorders, LGBTQI2A, gender diversity, sexual minorities. sexual trauma, and all stages of a person's birth journey (family planning, early pregnancy loss, abortion, labor, and postpartum).
I have experience working with both children and adults and specialize in anxiety disorders, LGBTQI2A, gender diversity, sexual minorities. sexual trauma, and all stages of a person's birth journey (family planning, early pregnancy loss, abortion, labor, and postpartum).
(510) 851-9585 View (510) 851-9585
Photo of Karen Clay Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stockton, CA
Karen Clay Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
My dedication to my clients comes from a well deep with purpose. I enjoy working with clients in the age range of 30-55 who are experiencing burnout and may feel emotionally and physically exhausted due to prolonged stress, demanding responsibilities, or dissatisfaction in various aspects of their lives. Going through a midlife crisis due to life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss or trauma, you might be questioning life choices, and seeking meaning or change in your personal or professional spheres. These situations can benefit from self-reflection, professional support and guidance.
My dedication to my clients comes from a well deep with purpose. I enjoy working with clients in the age range of 30-55 who are experiencing burnout and may feel emotionally and physically exhausted due to prolonged stress, demanding responsibilities, or dissatisfaction in various aspects of their lives. Going through a midlife crisis due to life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss or trauma, you might be questioning life choices, and seeking meaning or change in your personal or professional spheres. These situations can benefit from self-reflection, professional support and guidance.
(310) 807-1866 View (310) 807-1866
Photo of Shine a Light Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stockton, CA
Shine a Light Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Watsonville, CA 95076
Shine a Light Counseling Center offers quality, affordable therapy in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, and Monterey. Our diverse staff of therapists can help with a wide range of personal difficulties, including difficult emotions, conflicted relationships, and problematic behaviors. We believe in your good intentions. And we would like to help you self-reflect to discover how to move through the challenges you face, so you can emerge with a more satisfying life.
Shine a Light Counseling Center offers quality, affordable therapy in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, and Monterey. Our diverse staff of therapists can help with a wide range of personal difficulties, including difficult emotions, conflicted relationships, and problematic behaviors. We believe in your good intentions. And we would like to help you self-reflect to discover how to move through the challenges you face, so you can emerge with a more satisfying life.
(408) 409-8508 View (408) 409-8508
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.