Photo of Lizzy Glick, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Lizzy Glick
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
In my work with couples and families; in addition to bringing awareness to dynamics at play, I seek to learn about and support each individual involved in the relationship(s) to communicate effectively with the ultimate goal of feeling understood and productive across connections.
I’m a personal person. When you come into my office, I will ask you to tell me where it hurts and I will help you be very honest with yourself. This is your hour. I prefer an action-oriented approach, with the intention of tuning into all areas of wellness in your life. I will lead the way with authenticity, respect, curiosity, and an open heart as we discover our therapeutic relationship and how we can help you live fully in support of you.
In my work with couples and families; in addition to bringing awareness to dynamics at play, I seek to learn about and support each individual involved in the relationship(s) to communicate effectively with the ultimate goal of feeling understood and productive across connections.
I’m a personal person. When you come into my office, I will ask you to tell me where it hurts and I will help you be very honest with yourself. This is your hour. I prefer an action-oriented approach, with the intention of tuning into all areas of wellness in your life. I will lead the way with authenticity, respect, curiosity, and an open heart as we discover our therapeutic relationship and how we can help you live fully in support of you.
(818) 452-1866 View (818) 452-1866
Photo of Sarah Alethea De Los Santos, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Sarah Alethea De Los Santos
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I am an active and creative clinician who uses a variety of strategies with adults, as well as art, play, games, books, role-plays, and other activities with younger clients.
Every person sometimes struggles with difficult situations or feelings. I know seeking help can be scary. However, I truly believe that you can make positive changes in your life, and I would like to help. I strive to create a warm, supportive and collaborate environment, where clients can feel safe to work through difficult emotions, thoughts and experiences. As a cognitive behavioral therapist I believe that our thoughts influence our feelings and mood, which, in turn, influence our choices. I strive to give clients the tools and strategies to feel empowered to make positive and healthy changes in their life.
I am an active and creative clinician who uses a variety of strategies with adults, as well as art, play, games, books, role-plays, and other activities with younger clients.
Every person sometimes struggles with difficult situations or feelings. I know seeking help can be scary. However, I truly believe that you can make positive changes in your life, and I would like to help. I strive to create a warm, supportive and collaborate environment, where clients can feel safe to work through difficult emotions, thoughts and experiences. As a cognitive behavioral therapist I believe that our thoughts influence our feelings and mood, which, in turn, influence our choices. I strive to give clients the tools and strategies to feel empowered to make positive and healthy changes in their life.
(818) 869-6618 View (818) 869-6618
Photo of Lifespan: Center for Family Psychological Services, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Lifespan: Center for Family Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
Our treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurofeedback, Psychodynamic Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Parent Training, Family Therapy, and Couples Therapy.
Lifespan is a center specializing in mental health diagnosis and treatment across all ages. We specialize in providing psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and neurodevelopmental assessments and provide diagnostic clarity, referrals, resources, and treatment plans. We help in identifying learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, issues with attention, and memory and learning complaints, to name a few. Psychological testing can help to clarify between different diagnoses (e.g., ADHD vs Anxiety), provide answers about general difficulties you or your child may be having, and be used for schools to help accommodate you or your child’s needs. We help you better understand your strengths and identify areas of support. Furthermore, we specialize in pre-surgical evaluations (e.g., bariatric, reconstructive, etc.) and work directly with surgeons to optimize outcomes.
Our treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurofeedback, Psychodynamic Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Parent Training, Family Therapy, and Couples Therapy.
Lifespan is a center specializing in mental health diagnosis and treatment across all ages. We specialize in providing psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and neurodevelopmental assessments and provide diagnostic clarity, referrals, resources, and treatment plans. We help in identifying learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, issues with attention, and memory and learning complaints, to name a few. Psychological testing can help to clarify between different diagnoses (e.g., ADHD vs Anxiety), provide answers about general difficulties you or your child may be having, and be used for schools to help accommodate you or your child’s needs. We help you better understand your strengths and identify areas of support. Furthermore, we specialize in pre-surgical evaluations (e.g., bariatric, reconstructive, etc.) and work directly with surgeons to optimize outcomes.
(805) 852-5039 View (805) 852-5039
Photo of Elena Rybko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Elena Rybko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I always value mindfulness, meditation, CBT, specific skills training, somatic work, and art/play therapy.
You've known that some issues have been always holding you back from reaching your full potential in life, career, and relationships. You realize that these unresolved and unattended issues do not serve your life, and keep sabotaging your happiness on different levels... Perhaps, you even tried working through some of them on your own, but deep down you know you need some external help and guidance to heal from them. You would like to reach some peace, let go of pain, learn how to accept and love yourself better, learn some real tools and skills to be more resilient, feel strong and confident, and be able to enjoy life.
I always value mindfulness, meditation, CBT, specific skills training, somatic work, and art/play therapy.
You've known that some issues have been always holding you back from reaching your full potential in life, career, and relationships. You realize that these unresolved and unattended issues do not serve your life, and keep sabotaging your happiness on different levels... Perhaps, you even tried working through some of them on your own, but deep down you know you need some external help and guidance to heal from them. You would like to reach some peace, let go of pain, learn how to accept and love yourself better, learn some real tools and skills to be more resilient, feel strong and confident, and be able to enjoy life.
(805) 464-3058 View (805) 464-3058
Photo of Alison Shay Hochman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Alison Shay Hochman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
I specialize in working with individuals grappling with the chaos of out-of-control behaviors or the weight of unresolved trauma. They are in search of a sanctuary where truth serves as the cornerstone, and the journey to self-discovery is honored. My role is to facilitate this exploration, to gently guide them through the unveiling of their true selves. As an LGBTQ2SIA+ affirming therapist, my commitment extends to providing a haven where inclusivity is not just a principle but a practice. Respect and dignity are the rights of all, transcending sexual orientation and gender identity.
I specialize in working with individuals grappling with the chaos of out-of-control behaviors or the weight of unresolved trauma. They are in search of a sanctuary where truth serves as the cornerstone, and the journey to self-discovery is honored. My role is to facilitate this exploration, to gently guide them through the unveiling of their true selves. As an LGBTQ2SIA+ affirming therapist, my commitment extends to providing a haven where inclusivity is not just a principle but a practice. Respect and dignity are the rights of all, transcending sexual orientation and gender identity.
(805) 219-7836 View (805) 219-7836
Photo of Valeriya Bauer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Valeriya Bauer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Do you struggle with obsessive and intrusive thoughts? Do you feel unsure of the future? Do you feel hopeless or lost in your day-to-day life, unsure how to move forward? I can help you process your emotions and find new meaning in your life. Change can be hard, and you do not have to do it alone. I am passionate about helping people reach their fullest potential and thrive. I know life can sometimes be a bumpy ride, and I am here as a fellow traveler to guide you on this journey. I believe all people have the internal wisdom necessary to overcome challenges, and the right, supportive environment can make all the difference.
Do you struggle with obsessive and intrusive thoughts? Do you feel unsure of the future? Do you feel hopeless or lost in your day-to-day life, unsure how to move forward? I can help you process your emotions and find new meaning in your life. Change can be hard, and you do not have to do it alone. I am passionate about helping people reach their fullest potential and thrive. I know life can sometimes be a bumpy ride, and I am here as a fellow traveler to guide you on this journey. I believe all people have the internal wisdom necessary to overcome challenges, and the right, supportive environment can make all the difference.
(805) 819-7019 View (805) 819-7019
Photo of Leslie Cost, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Leslie Cost
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360  (Online Only)
If you are ready for breakthroughs, while learning how to regulate your body and getting your life back in order, you have met your therapist match. Get ready to swipe right. I help driven, anxious and overwhelmed people be more at ease in their world. If you are: - At a crossroads in life and unsure of what direction to take - Feeling unfulfilled despite having built a successful career - Paralyzed by anxious thoughts and imposter syndrome. Then, you have come to the right place, and I can't wait to chat soon.
If you are ready for breakthroughs, while learning how to regulate your body and getting your life back in order, you have met your therapist match. Get ready to swipe right. I help driven, anxious and overwhelmed people be more at ease in their world. If you are: - At a crossroads in life and unsure of what direction to take - Feeling unfulfilled despite having built a successful career - Paralyzed by anxious thoughts and imposter syndrome. Then, you have come to the right place, and I can't wait to chat soon.
(818) 538-2753 View (818) 538-2753
Photo of Dr. Rachel Chistyakov, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Dr. Rachel Chistyakov
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91319
My approach to therapy focuses on healing, connection, and emotional insight to allow individuals, couples, and families to reach their goals and improve their lives. We will work together to tailor your treatment so that whatever may be affecting you can be worked through in a safe, comfortable space. I utilize different treatment modalities like EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy and TRM to bring you the best treatment for your personalized needs. Some of my specialty areas include grief & loss, PTSD, couples and family therapy, depression, and anxiety.
My approach to therapy focuses on healing, connection, and emotional insight to allow individuals, couples, and families to reach their goals and improve their lives. We will work together to tailor your treatment so that whatever may be affecting you can be worked through in a safe, comfortable space. I utilize different treatment modalities like EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy and TRM to bring you the best treatment for your personalized needs. Some of my specialty areas include grief & loss, PTSD, couples and family therapy, depression, and anxiety.
(747) 999-8610 View (747) 999-8610
Photo of Christine A. Harrington, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Christine A. Harrington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
I appreciate very much that you are taking the time to read my page today! I take my job very seriously and thoughtfully and have the utmost respect for your desire to find some help for yourself or a loved one. I think that your story is important. Both professionally and personally, I know that feeling Depressed or Anxious or a combination of both can really effect our lives. Though I work with all ages, I tend to see Teens and Young Adults as well as Couples and Families in addressing issues resulting from these conditions.
I appreciate very much that you are taking the time to read my page today! I take my job very seriously and thoughtfully and have the utmost respect for your desire to find some help for yourself or a loved one. I think that your story is important. Both professionally and personally, I know that feeling Depressed or Anxious or a combination of both can really effect our lives. Though I work with all ages, I tend to see Teens and Young Adults as well as Couples and Families in addressing issues resulting from these conditions.
(805) 725-5373 View (805) 725-5373
Photo of Darlynn Roscoe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Darlynn Roscoe, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
An important step toward living a happier and more fulfilling life involves recognizing the need and desire for change. I believe that therapy can be a very important and effective tool for bringing about positive change in one's life. I work collaboratively with you to set goals, and use strengths to complement and minimize weaknesses standing in the way of achieving these goals. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families on a wide array of issues including anxiety, depression, parenting, behavioral challenges, self-esteem, relationship problems, and life transitions.
An important step toward living a happier and more fulfilling life involves recognizing the need and desire for change. I believe that therapy can be a very important and effective tool for bringing about positive change in one's life. I work collaboratively with you to set goals, and use strengths to complement and minimize weaknesses standing in the way of achieving these goals. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families on a wide array of issues including anxiety, depression, parenting, behavioral challenges, self-esteem, relationship problems, and life transitions.
(805) 727-4017 View (805) 727-4017
Photo of Danny Chulack, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Danny Chulack
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Perhaps you’ve been feeling stuck in this season of life. Maybe you’re having trouble setting boundaries with friends or family. Or you might need support learning how to manage big feelings in healthy ways. Wherever you're at, I would be honored to assist you in your journey. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about providing a safe and affirming space for clients from diverse backgrounds. I also recognize the role that spirituality has for many people and am able to work with clients in a way that respects their beliefs.
Perhaps you’ve been feeling stuck in this season of life. Maybe you’re having trouble setting boundaries with friends or family. Or you might need support learning how to manage big feelings in healthy ways. Wherever you're at, I would be honored to assist you in your journey. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about providing a safe and affirming space for clients from diverse backgrounds. I also recognize the role that spirituality has for many people and am able to work with clients in a way that respects their beliefs.
(805) 222-7273 View (805) 222-7273
Photo of Affordable Therapy Los Angeles, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Affordable Therapy Los Angeles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
(213) 465-3669 View (213) 465-3669
Photo of Maurissa Joan Szilagi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Maurissa Joan Szilagi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
I imagine that on most days we all work hard to do the best for our children. No matter how hard some of their challenging behaviors may be; you have love, patience, understanding, and most of all you continue to try to be creative and consistent. But in the end, something just is not working. You continue to ask your friends and family for support and advice, yet you are growing more stressed and tired by the minute. I can help your adolescent come to understand, and work through their struggles and challenges.Adolescence can be a time in life that can be complicated, demanding, and sometimes confusing for both you and your teen.
I imagine that on most days we all work hard to do the best for our children. No matter how hard some of their challenging behaviors may be; you have love, patience, understanding, and most of all you continue to try to be creative and consistent. But in the end, something just is not working. You continue to ask your friends and family for support and advice, yet you are growing more stressed and tired by the minute. I can help your adolescent come to understand, and work through their struggles and challenges.Adolescence can be a time in life that can be complicated, demanding, and sometimes confusing for both you and your teen.
(805) 716-6318 View (805) 716-6318
Photo of Jeri Johnston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Jeri Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91319
There are times in our lives when we are challenged by circumstances that seem too great to navigate and bear alone. The corona virus is truly one of these times. I am offering tele-therapy through video or the phone to those who need extra support during these uncertain time. I am a trauma specialist and understand how addictions and other self-destructive behaviors mask pain. To interact with another person who can respond appropriately and share your concerns and emotional experiences can bring about meaningful life changes.
There are times in our lives when we are challenged by circumstances that seem too great to navigate and bear alone. The corona virus is truly one of these times. I am offering tele-therapy through video or the phone to those who need extra support during these uncertain time. I am a trauma specialist and understand how addictions and other self-destructive behaviors mask pain. To interact with another person who can respond appropriately and share your concerns and emotional experiences can bring about meaningful life changes.
(805) 491-4737 View (805) 491-4737
Photo of Danielle Selvin Harris, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Danielle Selvin Harris
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91319
Waitlist for new clients
Is your teenager feeling anxious or sad, grieving a loss, having problems in school or using drugs? Are you having trouble talking to your child about the changes they are going through? Your teenager experiences many stressors which can lead to various issues that impact your entire family and these stressors can be explored in therapy to give your family the relief you are searching for. Your teenager needs a safe place to express his/her feelings and learn healthier ways to cope with struggles to help him/her go on to lead a healthy life.
Is your teenager feeling anxious or sad, grieving a loss, having problems in school or using drugs? Are you having trouble talking to your child about the changes they are going through? Your teenager experiences many stressors which can lead to various issues that impact your entire family and these stressors can be explored in therapy to give your family the relief you are searching for. Your teenager needs a safe place to express his/her feelings and learn healthier ways to cope with struggles to help him/her go on to lead a healthy life.
(310) 494-2778 View (310) 494-2778
Photo of A Place To Turn, Inc, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
A Place To Turn, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, PATP
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
At A Place to Turn, we understand that your journey to well-being is unique, and our approach to holistic healing is tailored to meet your individual needs. Our ideal client is someone seeking not just relief from symptoms but a comprehensive transformation that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their goal is beyond symptom relief but a profound sense of balance, purpose, and vitality. Our clients desire a holistic approach seeking the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. A Place to Turn becomes the refuge where their needs for deep healing, personal growth, and a renewed sense of purpose converge.
At A Place to Turn, we understand that your journey to well-being is unique, and our approach to holistic healing is tailored to meet your individual needs. Our ideal client is someone seeking not just relief from symptoms but a comprehensive transformation that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their goal is beyond symptom relief but a profound sense of balance, purpose, and vitality. Our clients desire a holistic approach seeking the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. A Place to Turn becomes the refuge where their needs for deep healing, personal growth, and a renewed sense of purpose converge.
(818) 495-8678 View (818) 495-8678
Photo of Kathryn Kegley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Kathryn Kegley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
I offer mental health services to individuals, couples, and families who are seeking a safe and comfortable environment to discuss their current challenges and focus on their goals.
I offer mental health services to individuals, couples, and families who are seeking a safe and comfortable environment to discuss their current challenges and focus on their goals.
(805) 203-3567 View (805) 203-3567
Photo of Casey J. Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Casey J. Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Waitlist for new clients
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
(805) 716-6072 View (805) 716-6072
Photo of Craig Melton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Craig Melton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
I am a marriage and family therapist in California working with children, families, teens and professional athletes. My specialties include life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems, family stress, parenting, children with developmental delay, addiction and anger management. My counseling style is authentic and interactive. My approach is strength based and combines a cognitive-behavioral approach while utilizing mindfulness; solution-focused, and existential modalities.
I am a marriage and family therapist in California working with children, families, teens and professional athletes. My specialties include life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems, family stress, parenting, children with developmental delay, addiction and anger management. My counseling style is authentic and interactive. My approach is strength based and combines a cognitive-behavioral approach while utilizing mindfulness; solution-focused, and existential modalities.
(805) 386-9757 View (805) 386-9757
Photo of Julie Klamon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Julie Klamon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Are you concerned about your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues? I have extensive experience helping children and teens navigate complex emotions related to anxiety, depression, trauma, peer difficulties, and sexual abuse. Together, we will develop coping skills, practice mindfulness, and strengthen family bonds to promote healing and growth. Schedule a free consultation to discuss how I can support your child's well-being.
Are you concerned about your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues? I have extensive experience helping children and teens navigate complex emotions related to anxiety, depression, trauma, peer difficulties, and sexual abuse. Together, we will develop coping skills, practice mindfulness, and strengthen family bonds to promote healing and growth. Schedule a free consultation to discuss how I can support your child's well-being.
(747) 205-4009 View (747) 205-4009

See more therapy options for Thousand Oaks

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.