Photo of Counseling Colorado, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Counseling Colorado, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Trained play therapist for younger children.
Are you living the life you want? Recovery is a choice and I am here to help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is the empowerment of one's internal strength. I have a passion for creating a therapeutic alliance with clients to help them achieve their goals and to become their best self. Utilizing evidence based therapies, I am able to peel back the layers and get to the heart of one's core issues, resulting in healing. Choosing to seek professional help is a big decision and choosing the right counselor is essential to achieving success."
Trained play therapist for younger children.
Are you living the life you want? Recovery is a choice and I am here to help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is the empowerment of one's internal strength. I have a passion for creating a therapeutic alliance with clients to help them achieve their goals and to become their best self. Utilizing evidence based therapies, I am able to peel back the layers and get to the heart of one's core issues, resulting in healing. Choosing to seek professional help is a big decision and choosing the right counselor is essential to achieving success."
(720) 548-1604 View (720) 548-1604
Photo of Aspire Counseling Denver Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Aspire Counseling Denver Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
We combine Brainspotting, animal-assisted therapy, DBT, CBT, faith-based therapy upon request, play therapy with kids, brain mapping, and neurofeedback.
We have therapists available 7 days a week, in person or virtual! Check out our website for a list of our available therapists. We work with all ages and a variety of issues including PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, divorce, eating disorders, ADHD, Autism, addiction, bullying, major life transitions, sports performance, and self esteem.
We combine Brainspotting, animal-assisted therapy, DBT, CBT, faith-based therapy upon request, play therapy with kids, brain mapping, and neurofeedback.
We have therapists available 7 days a week, in person or virtual! Check out our website for a list of our available therapists. We work with all ages and a variety of issues including PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, divorce, eating disorders, ADHD, Autism, addiction, bullying, major life transitions, sports performance, and self esteem.
(727) 475-7611 View (727) 475-7611
Photo of Thomas Ramey Watson in Denver, CO
Thomas Ramey Watson
PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80221
Your mind, body, & spirit are important components of a good life. I work with relationships, abuse, bullying, developing a strong and healthy sense of self, sex & gender, & spirituality. Having had a number of experiences with loss and the survival of the soul, I also do lots of grief and hope work over the passing of beloved animals and people. I find that this helps people with anxiety, especially important in our time. I am fully supportive of various orientations and paths to fulfillment, aware of the roles that class, race, and gender play in our lives. Most of all, I want you to find your true self, not a mask imposed on you.
Your mind, body, & spirit are important components of a good life. I work with relationships, abuse, bullying, developing a strong and healthy sense of self, sex & gender, & spirituality. Having had a number of experiences with loss and the survival of the soul, I also do lots of grief and hope work over the passing of beloved animals and people. I find that this helps people with anxiety, especially important in our time. I am fully supportive of various orientations and paths to fulfillment, aware of the roles that class, race, and gender play in our lives. Most of all, I want you to find your true self, not a mask imposed on you.
(720) 358-2853 View (720) 358-2853
Photo of Libby Dunnigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Libby Dunnigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
We all have unique experiences that shape our perspectives. I believe that through self-awareness and vulnerability, we can all grow to become more resilient and confident individuals. As a licensed clinical therapist, I will guide you through the therapeutic process and empower you with the skills to feel more in control in your life. I’ll help you build a toolbox of coping strategies to find what works best for you. I have a client-centered, collaborative style that draws techniques from a variety of therapy modalities including (but not limited to): CBT, Psychodynamic, DBT, Solution-focused, Strength-based, and Play Therapy.
We all have unique experiences that shape our perspectives. I believe that through self-awareness and vulnerability, we can all grow to become more resilient and confident individuals. As a licensed clinical therapist, I will guide you through the therapeutic process and empower you with the skills to feel more in control in your life. I’ll help you build a toolbox of coping strategies to find what works best for you. I have a client-centered, collaborative style that draws techniques from a variety of therapy modalities including (but not limited to): CBT, Psychodynamic, DBT, Solution-focused, Strength-based, and Play Therapy.
(720) 782-2241 View (720) 782-2241
Photo of Maxwell Murray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Maxwell Murray
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Play, existential, interpersonal therapy - all grounded in a trauma-informed approach - can help to address painful interpersonal cycles and the impacts of traumatic experiences at their root.
Whether you find yourself in life transition, impacted by personal or communal violence or other traumatic events, or otherwise feel frozen or stuck, therapy may support you in building awareness and skills to move through what you're facing. You may experience doubt in aspects of yourself you're unfamiliar with, fear of known or unknown stress-inducing circumstances, or the physical and emotional impacts of violence or pain you've seen or experienced. In each case, finding space where you can name what is painful to name is often the first step in that movement through it.
Play, existential, interpersonal therapy - all grounded in a trauma-informed approach - can help to address painful interpersonal cycles and the impacts of traumatic experiences at their root.
Whether you find yourself in life transition, impacted by personal or communal violence or other traumatic events, or otherwise feel frozen or stuck, therapy may support you in building awareness and skills to move through what you're facing. You may experience doubt in aspects of yourself you're unfamiliar with, fear of known or unknown stress-inducing circumstances, or the physical and emotional impacts of violence or pain you've seen or experienced. In each case, finding space where you can name what is painful to name is often the first step in that movement through it.
(720) 961-8661 View (720) 961-8661
Photo of Boscoe-Huffman Wellness Center, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Boscoe-Huffman Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
Dr. Jeff Boscoe-Huffman and Dr. Scott Boscoe-Huffman treat children, adolescents, adults, and families. We provide individual, group and family therapy as well as psychological evaluations, psychosexual evaluations, crisis debriefings, consultation, and supervision. Treatment includes Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, DBT, EMDR and Trauma Focused CBT. We treat a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, parental divorce/separation, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, academic performance and behavior issues, suicidal ideation, mood disorder( including Bipolar Disorder), thought disorder, PTSD, Boderline Personality Disorder and Asperger's Disorder.
Dr. Jeff Boscoe-Huffman and Dr. Scott Boscoe-Huffman treat children, adolescents, adults, and families. We provide individual, group and family therapy as well as psychological evaluations, psychosexual evaluations, crisis debriefings, consultation, and supervision. Treatment includes Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, DBT, EMDR and Trauma Focused CBT. We treat a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, parental divorce/separation, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, academic performance and behavior issues, suicidal ideation, mood disorder( including Bipolar Disorder), thought disorder, PTSD, Boderline Personality Disorder and Asperger's Disorder.
(303) 900-5392 View (303) 900-5392
Photo of Leigh Bates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Leigh Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
I am a Licensed Professional Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who loves using Art Therapy and Play Therapy interventions as a safe and fun way to connect with children and adolescents. I work hard to create an approachable and non-threatening atmosphere with all my clients so they can accomplish their goals and adjust to life’s challenges. I started my career in inpatient hospital settings where I developed a strong passion for helping kids, teens, and families. Now, as a Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator, I enjoy working with parents to broaden their parenting toolkits.
I am a Licensed Professional Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who loves using Art Therapy and Play Therapy interventions as a safe and fun way to connect with children and adolescents. I work hard to create an approachable and non-threatening atmosphere with all my clients so they can accomplish their goals and adjust to life’s challenges. I started my career in inpatient hospital settings where I developed a strong passion for helping kids, teens, and families. Now, as a Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator, I enjoy working with parents to broaden their parenting toolkits.
(720) 730-3143 View (720) 730-3143
Photo of Tiffany Nerguizian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Tiffany Nerguizian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
My training includes certification in Cognitive Behavioral/ Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Family Trauma Certification, and training in art and play therapy.
Are you ready to feel and function better? Feel in control of your emotions and take better care of yourself. It's time to heal Psych Today. There is hope as you begin your journey to wellness.. Let's explore a personal plan for healing in a calm and trusting manner. I work with families, adults and adolescents to help heal from anxiety, depression and trauma. Formerly, I was the USA counselor for Colorado, where I had the joy of working with military families. I received my Masters degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and opened my practice in 2009.
My training includes certification in Cognitive Behavioral/ Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Family Trauma Certification, and training in art and play therapy.
Are you ready to feel and function better? Feel in control of your emotions and take better care of yourself. It's time to heal Psych Today. There is hope as you begin your journey to wellness.. Let's explore a personal plan for healing in a calm and trusting manner. I work with families, adults and adolescents to help heal from anxiety, depression and trauma. Formerly, I was the USA counselor for Colorado, where I had the joy of working with military families. I received my Masters degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and opened my practice in 2009.
(720) 817-4531 View (720) 817-4531
Photo of Tiffany Nerguizian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Tiffany Nerguizian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SRT, DBTC, CCTP, CFTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202
My other specialties include EMDR, Dialectical Behavior therapy, Sexual Recovery therapy, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy.
Now offering limited in person sessions on Saturdays. Tiffany is a compassionate and dedicated provider with 14 years of experience. Tiffany has worked with adults, children, couples, and families through Art and Play therapies and is well experienced in trauma recovery modalities. If you are ready to accept help, call for a free consultation.
My other specialties include EMDR, Dialectical Behavior therapy, Sexual Recovery therapy, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy.
Now offering limited in person sessions on Saturdays. Tiffany is a compassionate and dedicated provider with 14 years of experience. Tiffany has worked with adults, children, couples, and families through Art and Play therapies and is well experienced in trauma recovery modalities. If you are ready to accept help, call for a free consultation.
(719) 568-9296 View (719) 568-9296
Photo of Dr. Faye Kouimelis, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Dr. Faye Kouimelis
Psychologist, PsyD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
I practice psychodynamic therapy, play therapy and deep psychological work.
I specialize in treating children ages 2 years and up with PTSD/complex trauma, behavioral concerns and developmental disabilities. I also specialize in working with first respond and combat veterans. When working with children, I use client-centered play therapy as this allows the child to communicate through play. For my adult clients who want to heal from trauma, I provide a space to unload the trauma because trauma is a heavy burden. Together we unravel the trauma and work through it to come out the other side to achieve a healthy present and future.
I practice psychodynamic therapy, play therapy and deep psychological work.
I specialize in treating children ages 2 years and up with PTSD/complex trauma, behavioral concerns and developmental disabilities. I also specialize in working with first respond and combat veterans. When working with children, I use client-centered play therapy as this allows the child to communicate through play. For my adult clients who want to heal from trauma, I provide a space to unload the trauma because trauma is a heavy burden. Together we unravel the trauma and work through it to come out the other side to achieve a healthy present and future.
(720) 696-9441 View (720) 696-9441
Photo of Alyssa Mullen, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Alyssa Mullen
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I am a somatic therapist specializing in EMDR and Synergetic Play Therapy.
Are you, your child, or relationship grappling with difficult reactions? Having intrusive thoughts? Repeating old patterns? Struggling to process a challenging event or trauma? You might be feeling stuck and unsure of how to help yourself. Or you may be overwhelmed by all of the mental health opinions in our world today. Through a blend of interventions I assist children, adults, parents, and couples in overcoming their anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, dissociation, traumas, grief, and relationship patterns and conflict.
I am a somatic therapist specializing in EMDR and Synergetic Play Therapy.
Are you, your child, or relationship grappling with difficult reactions? Having intrusive thoughts? Repeating old patterns? Struggling to process a challenging event or trauma? You might be feeling stuck and unsure of how to help yourself. Or you may be overwhelmed by all of the mental health opinions in our world today. Through a blend of interventions I assist children, adults, parents, and couples in overcoming their anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, dissociation, traumas, grief, and relationship patterns and conflict.
(720) 575-5768 View (720) 575-5768
Photo of Tyler Atkinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Tyler Atkinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
Waitlist for new clients
I have been trained in several modalities including play therapy, narrative therapy, CBT, DBT, and gestalt therapy.
Hello there, how's your search for a therapist going? It can be difficult to find someone who understands and appreciates all of the parts that make you, you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for guiding others in unlocking their full potential. I approach the therapeutic relationship with genuine intrigue and compassion, as I believe empathy & curiosity are two of the most important human values and essential for an effective therapeutic experience. Through balancing creativity with evidenced-based practices, our collaboration will create sustainable & meaningful progress in becoming the person you wish to be.
I have been trained in several modalities including play therapy, narrative therapy, CBT, DBT, and gestalt therapy.
Hello there, how's your search for a therapist going? It can be difficult to find someone who understands and appreciates all of the parts that make you, you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for guiding others in unlocking their full potential. I approach the therapeutic relationship with genuine intrigue and compassion, as I believe empathy & curiosity are two of the most important human values and essential for an effective therapeutic experience. Through balancing creativity with evidenced-based practices, our collaboration will create sustainable & meaningful progress in becoming the person you wish to be.
(720) 730-4256 View (720) 730-4256
Photo of Muhammad Zeeshan, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Muhammad Zeeshan
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202
My expertise includes working with kids, teenagers and their families in such a manner that helps them cope with issues of their daily life I fee content and happy working with them. I provide early intervention; restoring, rehabilitating, and supporting the effect of the child's diagnosis while reestablishing daily functioning skills. During sessions I believe in utilizing a person centered approach, cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness, play therapy, art and crafts, outdoors community integrations and usage of technology (games, internet) in a way that is productive for individuals.
My expertise includes working with kids, teenagers and their families in such a manner that helps them cope with issues of their daily life I fee content and happy working with them. I provide early intervention; restoring, rehabilitating, and supporting the effect of the child's diagnosis while reestablishing daily functioning skills. During sessions I believe in utilizing a person centered approach, cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness, play therapy, art and crafts, outdoors community integrations and usage of technology (games, internet) in a way that is productive for individuals.
(720) 796-8829 View (720) 796-8829
Photo of Camille L. Reich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 900-5913 View (303) 900-5913
Photo of Alyssandra Livingston-Shelburne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Alyssandra Livingston-Shelburne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80214  (Online Only)
I specialize in play therapy and am a fully registered Play Therapist through the Association of Play Therapy.
Has your child has started behaving out of character leading you to wonder what they are going through? Perhaps they are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger. Play therapy offers an avenue to gain insight into what your child is struggling with and can help them gain confidence and explore their emotions in a safe environment where they can freely express themselves. I strive to build a therapeutic egalitarian relationship where we work together in order to help resolve the issues you and your family could be struggling with.
I specialize in play therapy and am a fully registered Play Therapist through the Association of Play Therapy.
Has your child has started behaving out of character leading you to wonder what they are going through? Perhaps they are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger. Play therapy offers an avenue to gain insight into what your child is struggling with and can help them gain confidence and explore their emotions in a safe environment where they can freely express themselves. I strive to build a therapeutic egalitarian relationship where we work together in order to help resolve the issues you and your family could be struggling with.
(855) 910-9401 View (855) 910-9401
Photo of Alexis Olson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Alexis Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80123  (Online Only)
I have worked with children ranging in age from 5-18 as well as adults using a variety of practices that include Play Therapy, CBT, DBT and EMDR.
I believe that children and adults alike have the potential for growth, healing, and living a happy successful life. I offer a compassionate, inviting atmosphere where you will feel safe, heard, and relaxed. Children and adults can feel welcome to be their complete, authentic selves. I aim to meet you exactly where you are in life and we can work together at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Whether that means talking, coloring, going for a walk, listening to music, or playing a game, etc. we can do it together as you embark on your journey of growth and healing.
I have worked with children ranging in age from 5-18 as well as adults using a variety of practices that include Play Therapy, CBT, DBT and EMDR.
I believe that children and adults alike have the potential for growth, healing, and living a happy successful life. I offer a compassionate, inviting atmosphere where you will feel safe, heard, and relaxed. Children and adults can feel welcome to be their complete, authentic selves. I aim to meet you exactly where you are in life and we can work together at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Whether that means talking, coloring, going for a walk, listening to music, or playing a game, etc. we can do it together as you embark on your journey of growth and healing.
(719) 745-4520 View (719) 745-4520
Photo of Grace Lloyd, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denver, CO
Grace Lloyd
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80002
Hi, I’m Grace and I am here to help! I am proud of you for starting the therapy journey. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults in all stages of life. I practice psychology from a psychodynamic lens which simply means I believe that a person’s roots and earlier life experiences impact their current functioning. While therapy goals are built on an individual’s needs, I will always maintain a focus of deeper self awareness during our time together. During sessions you can expect a variety of techniques from play, art, exploring family history, to CBT and DBT tools.
Hi, I’m Grace and I am here to help! I am proud of you for starting the therapy journey. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults in all stages of life. I practice psychology from a psychodynamic lens which simply means I believe that a person’s roots and earlier life experiences impact their current functioning. While therapy goals are built on an individual’s needs, I will always maintain a focus of deeper self awareness during our time together. During sessions you can expect a variety of techniques from play, art, exploring family history, to CBT and DBT tools.
(303) 529-4204 View (303) 529-4204
Photo of Samantha Burns in Denver, CO
Samantha Burns
MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are struggling with nightmares, past trauma and flashbacks of negative memories that you have experienced in your life? Are you or your child having difficulties with functioning with daily tasks such as attending school or work because of negative past experiences you have endured? Or do you feel extremely overwhelmed, depressed and experience difficulties with racing thought patterns? These difficulties can limit your ability to live a happy and fulfilling life. Allow me to support you in your therapeutic journey as we work through these experiences together.
Do you feel like you are struggling with nightmares, past trauma and flashbacks of negative memories that you have experienced in your life? Are you or your child having difficulties with functioning with daily tasks such as attending school or work because of negative past experiences you have endured? Or do you feel extremely overwhelmed, depressed and experience difficulties with racing thought patterns? These difficulties can limit your ability to live a happy and fulfilling life. Allow me to support you in your therapeutic journey as we work through these experiences together.
(970) 601-7355 View (970) 601-7355
Photo of Mindfully - Denver, CO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Mindfully - Denver, CO
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LPCC, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
At Mindfully, we are dedicated to helping our clients heal, grow, and thrive. We focus on matching clients with providers who specialize in the challenges they are facing. By providing the best fit from the start, we help our clients meet their goals with greater success, faster.
At Mindfully, we are dedicated to helping our clients heal, grow, and thrive. We focus on matching clients with providers who specialize in the challenges they are facing. By providing the best fit from the start, we help our clients meet their goals with greater success, faster.
(720) 500-7091 View (720) 500-7091
Photo of Michael Hooten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Michael Hooten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, AASW, BS, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
If you enjoy animals, nature or people, you already have a powerful foundation to create stability and momentum in your life. What you might struggle with isn't a label. It's an experience. Start where you're at, and explore it with somebody who will start there with you. Need change or just greater balance? Want more out of life? On a journey, but somehow lost? Feeling stuck, apathetic, burnt out or anxious is not uncommon! However, the tools and how to use them are not always obvious. Animal assisted, experiential, mindfulness and nature-based therapies are most clients' favorite tools.
If you enjoy animals, nature or people, you already have a powerful foundation to create stability and momentum in your life. What you might struggle with isn't a label. It's an experience. Start where you're at, and explore it with somebody who will start there with you. Need change or just greater balance? Want more out of life? On a journey, but somehow lost? Feeling stuck, apathetic, burnt out or anxious is not uncommon! However, the tools and how to use them are not always obvious. Animal assisted, experiential, mindfulness and nature-based therapies are most clients' favorite tools.
(720) 419-1657 View (720) 419-1657
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.