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 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 Creative Family Therapy, Inc , Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Creative Family Therapy, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Release anxiety, depression, stress, and traumas through Neurologically based healing techniques, that quickly restore you to explore your potential. I am a certified Brainspotting and Mindfulness expert who will help you set goals based on your personality type to release trauma integrating Art, Guided Imagery, Somatic, Mindfulness, SandTray, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive Behavioral techniques. Together we will choose from a combination of techniques that will release negative experiences and help you rebuild positive goals for your future! Experience true joy and love aligning your mind, body, spirit, and soul for purpose.
Release anxiety, depression, stress, and traumas through Neurologically based healing techniques, that quickly restore you to explore your potential. I am a certified Brainspotting and Mindfulness expert who will help you set goals based on your personality type to release trauma integrating Art, Guided Imagery, Somatic, Mindfulness, SandTray, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive Behavioral techniques. Together we will choose from a combination of techniques that will release negative experiences and help you rebuild positive goals for your future! Experience true joy and love aligning your mind, body, spirit, and soul for purpose.
(805) 301-5227 View (805) 301-5227
Photo of Dianalucy Eneriz-Champion, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Dianalucy Eneriz-Champion
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360  (Online Only)
Are you at a crossroads in your life and seeking direction? Perhaps you're a parent trying to care for your child, keep your relationship alive, and find yourself after years of caring for others. What if you didn't have to do this alone? My role as your therapist is to serve as your ally and to help you gain the tools and strategies to live your fullest life. In my 10 years of practice, I have come to specialize in early childhood trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting/bonding and family dynamics. I have also enjoyed working on cultural/intercultural identification and LGBTQ+ expression.
Are you at a crossroads in your life and seeking direction? Perhaps you're a parent trying to care for your child, keep your relationship alive, and find yourself after years of caring for others. What if you didn't have to do this alone? My role as your therapist is to serve as your ally and to help you gain the tools and strategies to live your fullest life. In my 10 years of practice, I have come to specialize in early childhood trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting/bonding and family dynamics. I have also enjoyed working on cultural/intercultural identification and LGBTQ+ expression.
(805) 202-4633 View (805) 202-4633

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laura Siri Simran Kaur Khalsa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Thousand Oaks, CA
Laura Siri Simran Kaur Khalsa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT, ATR, ET
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301  (Online Only)
In my 30 years of personal and professional development, I have created a unique approach to bring hope and strength, healing and transformation to those who are ready. It is my honor to provide and hold space for you as I offer assistance with your empowerment, acceptance, trust, forgiveness and gratitude. My philosophy is based on healing relationship within Self, with others and with the world. Our time together is precious and I will share with you mindful and compassionate practices and share the value of authenticity, and presence.
In my 30 years of personal and professional development, I have created a unique approach to bring hope and strength, healing and transformation to those who are ready. It is my honor to provide and hold space for you as I offer assistance with your empowerment, acceptance, trust, forgiveness and gratitude. My philosophy is based on healing relationship within Self, with others and with the world. Our time together is precious and I will share with you mindful and compassionate practices and share the value of authenticity, and presence.
(928) 288-4714 View (928) 288-4714

Online Therapists

Photo of Vanessa Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Vanessa Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, AT-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newhall, CA 91321
Hello, I am an Associate MFT- Art Therapist. I am of Zapotec heritage, raised on Tataviam lands, known today as the Northeast San Fernando Valley. I understand the importance of clients knowing that their therapist is aware of the way systemic issues play a role in our mental health. I attune to issues of systemic oppression such as racism/white supremacy, colonization, capitalism, ableism, patriarchy, fatphobia, and other forms of structural violence and its related traumas. I am LGBTQ+ affirmative, anti-imperialist, and I offer holistic, non-carceral support.
Hello, I am an Associate MFT- Art Therapist. I am of Zapotec heritage, raised on Tataviam lands, known today as the Northeast San Fernando Valley. I understand the importance of clients knowing that their therapist is aware of the way systemic issues play a role in our mental health. I attune to issues of systemic oppression such as racism/white supremacy, colonization, capitalism, ableism, patriarchy, fatphobia, and other forms of structural violence and its related traumas. I am LGBTQ+ affirmative, anti-imperialist, and I offer holistic, non-carceral support.
(661) 466-5292 View (661) 466-5292
Photo of Jeannine Lira, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Jeannine Lira
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Redlands, CA 92374
I provide various approaches to treatment to customize treatment needs for clients, such as play therapy, trauma focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to name a few.
I enjoys working with children, teens, and adults. My passion is working with the teenage population, and challenging young minds to overcome difficulties that they face. I have the belief that not one type of approach or intervention works for everyone, which is why I like to incorporate my clients interests and needs in therapy. I enjoy challenging the mind of my clients, and aiding them in understanding emotions, behaviors and thought processing.
I provide various approaches to treatment to customize treatment needs for clients, such as play therapy, trauma focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to name a few.
I enjoys working with children, teens, and adults. My passion is working with the teenage population, and challenging young minds to overcome difficulties that they face. I have the belief that not one type of approach or intervention works for everyone, which is why I like to incorporate my clients interests and needs in therapy. I enjoy challenging the mind of my clients, and aiding them in understanding emotions, behaviors and thought processing.
(909) 358-6206 View (909) 358-6206
Photo of Heidi Ann Hanson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Heidi Ann Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
My integrative practice also includes Grief Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples Therapy), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, and Art Therapy.
I am honored to be a part of our beautiful Central Coast, characterized by care and community. My client-centered, humanistic approach is a balance of compassion, empathy and open-mindedness. I have been honored to share this healing space with children as young as 3 years, families, adolescents, young and middle-aged adults, and the healthy aging population, who have become willing to explore their experiences of change, grief, suffering, trauma, depression, separation and anxiety. Hope and empowerment grow through the process of healing and recovery. It is a collaborative experience where alternative ways of being occur.
My integrative practice also includes Grief Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples Therapy), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, and Art Therapy.
I am honored to be a part of our beautiful Central Coast, characterized by care and community. My client-centered, humanistic approach is a balance of compassion, empathy and open-mindedness. I have been honored to share this healing space with children as young as 3 years, families, adolescents, young and middle-aged adults, and the healthy aging population, who have become willing to explore their experiences of change, grief, suffering, trauma, depression, separation and anxiety. Hope and empowerment grow through the process of healing and recovery. It is a collaborative experience where alternative ways of being occur.
(805) 283-6985 View (805) 283-6985
Photo of Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90012  (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 David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(323) 366-3016 View (323) 366-3016
Photo of Joanna Dunton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Joanna Dunton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
Joanna is a Native American/Indigenous queer womxn of color attuned to the intersectionality of her existence which allows her firsthand experience to the unique intricacies of a person. Her values are rooted in community, social justice, shared learning, and the consideration of how one’s actions impact the next seven generations. Joanna has been in the field since 2011, her practice is centered on working with BIPOC and queer, trans/gender expansive folx; she is sex and kink positive. She is person centered, viewing therapy as collaborative partnership, she is non-judgmental and works to foster a safe space to facilitate healing.
Joanna is a Native American/Indigenous queer womxn of color attuned to the intersectionality of her existence which allows her firsthand experience to the unique intricacies of a person. Her values are rooted in community, social justice, shared learning, and the consideration of how one’s actions impact the next seven generations. Joanna has been in the field since 2011, her practice is centered on working with BIPOC and queer, trans/gender expansive folx; she is sex and kink positive. She is person centered, viewing therapy as collaborative partnership, she is non-judgmental and works to foster a safe space to facilitate healing.
(951) 336-0547 View (951) 336-0547
Photo of Renee Rios, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Renee Rios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I possess a passion for helping others along their life's journey. In my work, I arrive with sincerity, humility, optimism, and professionalism. My purpose is to hold a safe space--- removed of judgment and bias--- in order to facilitate healing, growth and transformation, so one can fulfill their life's purpose. I serve infant, child, adolescent, adult and geriatric populations through an intersectional approach to client-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, culturally-attuned, evidence-based, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapeutic interventions. Individual, couples, and family therapy available.
I possess a passion for helping others along their life's journey. In my work, I arrive with sincerity, humility, optimism, and professionalism. My purpose is to hold a safe space--- removed of judgment and bias--- in order to facilitate healing, growth and transformation, so one can fulfill their life's purpose. I serve infant, child, adolescent, adult and geriatric populations through an intersectional approach to client-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, culturally-attuned, evidence-based, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapeutic interventions. Individual, couples, and family therapy available.
(424) 416-2317 View (424) 416-2317
Photo of Dr. Erik James Escareño, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Dr. Erik James Escareño
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
Are you in your sad-girl era? Anxious? Exploring gender? Throuple trouble? Tired of therapist who judge you? If that’s you, look no further, our licensed therapists are for, and from our community. Just. Like. You. So, stop giving your hard-earned coin to unseasoned therapists who just don't get it. We are reimagining and reindigenizing therapy. More importantly, we’re giving you life with indigenous practices that are culturally appropriate, judgement free, and affirmative care.
Are you in your sad-girl era? Anxious? Exploring gender? Throuple trouble? Tired of therapist who judge you? If that’s you, look no further, our licensed therapists are for, and from our community. Just. Like. You. So, stop giving your hard-earned coin to unseasoned therapists who just don't get it. We are reimagining and reindigenizing therapy. More importantly, we’re giving you life with indigenous practices that are culturally appropriate, judgement free, and affirmative care.
(951) 366-1387 View (951) 366-1387
Photo of Tameca Dove, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Tameca Dove
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA,LMFT
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90232  (Online Only)
My passion is working with BIPOC, LGBTQIA2s+, Neuro-Divergent, 2E, Hsp's & Couples. I work with people who are anxious, overthinkers,empaths, depressed, neuro diverse, adoptees, and creatives. I take a holistic approach. I help people who struggle with setting boundaries, emotional regulation. relationship conflicts, and putting their needs first. I work with people going through life transitions, & are tired of being stuck and misunderstood by themselves and others. I help people understand how their behavior is connected to their thoughts, feelings, past experiences, mood & actions.
My passion is working with BIPOC, LGBTQIA2s+, Neuro-Divergent, 2E, Hsp's & Couples. I work with people who are anxious, overthinkers,empaths, depressed, neuro diverse, adoptees, and creatives. I take a holistic approach. I help people who struggle with setting boundaries, emotional regulation. relationship conflicts, and putting their needs first. I work with people going through life transitions, & are tired of being stuck and misunderstood by themselves and others. I help people understand how their behavior is connected to their thoughts, feelings, past experiences, mood & actions.
(310) 340-6371 View (310) 340-6371
Photo of Tristan Destry Saldaña, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Tristan Destry Saldaña
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
Perhaps no one can ever inhabit fully the lived experience of another, nor would I presume that I could know it, yet our therapeutic relationship can—without disrespecting the integrity of your lived experience—present the opportunity to take your perspective. I hope to imagine your experience because, as Carl Jung articulates: “Loneliness does not come from having no people around you but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to you," and in the memory of childhood’s loneliness and solitude, creative power resides.
Perhaps no one can ever inhabit fully the lived experience of another, nor would I presume that I could know it, yet our therapeutic relationship can—without disrespecting the integrity of your lived experience—present the opportunity to take your perspective. I hope to imagine your experience because, as Carl Jung articulates: “Loneliness does not come from having no people around you but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to you," and in the memory of childhood’s loneliness and solitude, creative power resides.
(628) 214-7695 View (628) 214-7695
Photo of Marisol Murillo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Marisol Murillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
It is my privilege to support folks in their healing, growth and attaining their desired changes. In my 13 yrs in practice, I developed an eclectic approach in which I try to get clients their progress as early as possible, customizing a variety of methods. During sessions, I give my full attention, compassion, skills-teaching, and honest feedback. I customize sessions for what they need (consider their upbringing, values, goals & ability). I work with clients of a wide range of cultural, political, religious, or spiritual backgrounds/value systems. Focus is on clients feeling more self-empowered, at peace & self-satisfied.
It is my privilege to support folks in their healing, growth and attaining their desired changes. In my 13 yrs in practice, I developed an eclectic approach in which I try to get clients their progress as early as possible, customizing a variety of methods. During sessions, I give my full attention, compassion, skills-teaching, and honest feedback. I customize sessions for what they need (consider their upbringing, values, goals & ability). I work with clients of a wide range of cultural, political, religious, or spiritual backgrounds/value systems. Focus is on clients feeling more self-empowered, at peace & self-satisfied.
(805) 222-6185 View (805) 222-6185
Photo of Gabriella Cuaderes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Gabriella Cuaderes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Covina, CA 91724  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a multi-ethnic and queer therapist who specializes in working with Highly sensitive people, families, queer folks, new and/or expecting parents, neurodivergent folks, those who want to heal inner child wounds and who crave deeper healing for themselves and their family/community. I am fluent in English and speak Spanish conversationally.
Hello, I am a multi-ethnic and queer therapist who specializes in working with Highly sensitive people, families, queer folks, new and/or expecting parents, neurodivergent folks, those who want to heal inner child wounds and who crave deeper healing for themselves and their family/community. I am fluent in English and speak Spanish conversationally.
(562) 561-2936 View (562) 561-2936
Photo of Tiffany Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Tiffany Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
(661) 765-8731 View (661) 765-8731
Photo of Jeanette Yoffe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Jeanette Yoffe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing unresolved childhood trauma, shame, anxiety, or grief and loss related to adoption or foster care? Gently know, you are not alone. I am an adoptee and former foster youth and adoption-foster care competent. I understand how complex the challenges can be. I have a team of adoption foster care competent therapists supporting birth parents, adoptees, foster youth, foster parents, and adoptive parents skilled in reunification, adoption, adoption trauma, open adoption, foster care to adoption, search, and reunion. We have a network of peer support groups so you can be part of a thriving community!
Are you experiencing unresolved childhood trauma, shame, anxiety, or grief and loss related to adoption or foster care? Gently know, you are not alone. I am an adoptee and former foster youth and adoption-foster care competent. I understand how complex the challenges can be. I have a team of adoption foster care competent therapists supporting birth parents, adoptees, foster youth, foster parents, and adoptive parents skilled in reunification, adoption, adoption trauma, open adoption, foster care to adoption, search, and reunion. We have a network of peer support groups so you can be part of a thriving community!
(424) 999-1231 View (424) 999-1231
Photo of Angelica Andrade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Angelica Andrade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92706
Life is challenging and we all can benefit from seeking guidance when we need it the most. Whether it is divorce, past trauma, difficulty adjusting to change or issues with motivation, initiative and/or focus, I am here to support YOU. As a Therapist, I am here to help sort life's issues and support your journey in becoming the best version of you. Hablo Español
Life is challenging and we all can benefit from seeking guidance when we need it the most. Whether it is divorce, past trauma, difficulty adjusting to change or issues with motivation, initiative and/or focus, I am here to support YOU. As a Therapist, I am here to help sort life's issues and support your journey in becoming the best version of you. Hablo Español
(707) 309-0600 View (707) 309-0600

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.