Therapists in Denver, CO
Travis Pilarcik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
Working with kids/teens has shown me how powerful, resilient, and amazing they can become with help and support from those who care. Through caring, compassion, and a little bit of play, we’ll work together to create a future where they can grow into the best versions of themselves. I believe in using a mix of play and developmentally appropriate experiential therapy, along with using ways of expressing themselves such as art or even drama therapy.
Working with kids/teens has shown me how powerful, resilient, and amazing they can become with help and support from those who care. Through caring, compassion, and a little bit of play, we’ll work together to create a future where they can grow into the best versions of themselves. I believe in using a mix of play and developmentally appropriate experiential therapy, along with using ways of expressing themselves such as art or even drama therapy.
Suwattana Maestas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212
I utilize Synergetic Play Therapy and other therapy modalities (Behavior Management, DBT, ACT, etc) to create an accepting space for your child to process and find solutions from their challenging experience, and collaborate with you to maximize your child's progress into your home!.
Is your child verbally and physically aggressive that it is impossible to go out to even a store or you dread their teachers reporting their "behaviors" at school? Are you worried that your child is too shy to engage in positive friendship and activities? Parenting can be very challenging at times, and I am here to listen, understand, and create treatment plan that are unique and meaningful for your child and your family. I believe (& witnessed!) children thrive despite trauma and life challenges with consistent supportive caregiving!!!
I utilize Synergetic Play Therapy and other therapy modalities (Behavior Management, DBT, ACT, etc) to create an accepting space for your child to process and find solutions from their challenging experience, and collaborate with you to maximize your child's progress into your home!.
Is your child verbally and physically aggressive that it is impossible to go out to even a store or you dread their teachers reporting their "behaviors" at school? Are you worried that your child is too shy to engage in positive friendship and activities? Parenting can be very challenging at times, and I am here to listen, understand, and create treatment plan that are unique and meaningful for your child and your family. I believe (& witnessed!) children thrive despite trauma and life challenges with consistent supportive caregiving!!!
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.
Barbara Degenhart
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237
I use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, art therapy, and trauma-informed care in my counseling practice.
Hi - My name is Barbara. As a dedicated graduate student in a CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, I am driven by a profound passion for aiding Colorado's children, adolescents, and adults in their mental and behavioral health recovery journey. My past experience includes conducting subjective mental health screenings, intake processes, and diagnostic interventions for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities, along with mental health diagnoses.
I use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, art therapy, and trauma-informed care in my counseling practice.
Hi - My name is Barbara. As a dedicated graduate student in a CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, I am driven by a profound passion for aiding Colorado's children, adolescents, and adults in their mental and behavioral health recovery journey. My past experience includes conducting subjective mental health screenings, intake processes, and diagnostic interventions for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities, along with mental health diagnoses.
Amanda (Amy) Pickett-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
My specialty areas include grief/loss, chronic/terminal illness, trauma, abuse, infertility, post-partum mood disorders, divorce/children of divorce, depression/anxiety, ADD/ADHD, gifted and twice-exceptional children, play therapy, art therapy and family and couples therapy.
I have provided counseling services in Denver since completing graduate school in 1999. I worked in both pediatric and adult medical settings, including hematology/oncology, emergency trauma and hospice. For 8 years, I worked at a school and community based medical clinic providing psychotherapy to all ages. I have also enjoyed private practice over the years. In each setting I work, including private practice, my therapeutic modality varies, but I always come from a strengths based/empowerment approach. I love somatic (mind/body) based work, as I am also a yoga teacher.
My specialty areas include grief/loss, chronic/terminal illness, trauma, abuse, infertility, post-partum mood disorders, divorce/children of divorce, depression/anxiety, ADD/ADHD, gifted and twice-exceptional children, play therapy, art therapy and family and couples therapy.
I have provided counseling services in Denver since completing graduate school in 1999. I worked in both pediatric and adult medical settings, including hematology/oncology, emergency trauma and hospice. For 8 years, I worked at a school and community based medical clinic providing psychotherapy to all ages. I have also enjoyed private practice over the years. In each setting I work, including private practice, my therapeutic modality varies, but I always come from a strengths based/empowerment approach. I love somatic (mind/body) based work, as I am also a yoga teacher.
Kim Colna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
Kim Colna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience providing evidence based mental health services to children, adults and families to include diagnostic assessment, individual, family, and group therapy. Kim uses a variety of individualized treatment modalities to include, but not limited to CBT, ERP, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, family systems, and strengths based treatment to treat a wide range of mental health symptoms and conditions to include but not limited to, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Behavioral Dysregulation, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Conversion Disorders and Psychosis.
Kim Colna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience providing evidence based mental health services to children, adults and families to include diagnostic assessment, individual, family, and group therapy. Kim uses a variety of individualized treatment modalities to include, but not limited to CBT, ERP, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, family systems, and strengths based treatment to treat a wide range of mental health symptoms and conditions to include but not limited to, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Behavioral Dysregulation, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Conversion Disorders and Psychosis.
Bobbie Ann Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80224
As a play therapist, I seek to connect with my clients in their internal world and walk alongside parents as they grow in their attachment with their children.
Sometimes the strength you show is really hiding the shame and fear you are actually feeling. Difficult experiences in life like loss, grief, parenting, anxiety, depression or trauma might be why you need help, but giving yourself permission to ask feels overwhelming and impossible. Maybe you are the parent of a struggling child or adolescent who just cannot seem to find their way through anxiety and depression. Perhaps you are a teen wondering why life has to be so hard. Maybe the trauma of your past has taken up residence in your present. No matter what you are facing, You do not have to do it alone.
As a play therapist, I seek to connect with my clients in their internal world and walk alongside parents as they grow in their attachment with their children.
Sometimes the strength you show is really hiding the shame and fear you are actually feeling. Difficult experiences in life like loss, grief, parenting, anxiety, depression or trauma might be why you need help, but giving yourself permission to ask feels overwhelming and impossible. Maybe you are the parent of a struggling child or adolescent who just cannot seem to find their way through anxiety and depression. Perhaps you are a teen wondering why life has to be so hard. Maybe the trauma of your past has taken up residence in your present. No matter what you are facing, You do not have to do it alone.
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.
Family First Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA-MFT, LMFT, PhD (C)
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
We have specific training, education, and experience in treating children and adolescents with play, art, experiential therapy that includes the parents and the client's ecology like their school and community in applying behavioral strategies to improve behavior and emotions; and increase problem solving, coping skills, and communication skills.
Our typical clients are children and adolescents who are struggling with a specific change, transition, trauma incident, loss, or other stressor that is causing behavioral and emotional concerns, like defiance, anxiety, depression, self-harm, which interferes with school, home-life, and other relationships. Clients have goals to decrease behavioral concerns at home and school, improve emotions, coping skills, communication skills, and school performance. A lot of parents want their children to listen, respect, and connect and communicate with them. We also work with individual adults, families and couples.
We have specific training, education, and experience in treating children and adolescents with play, art, experiential therapy that includes the parents and the client's ecology like their school and community in applying behavioral strategies to improve behavior and emotions; and increase problem solving, coping skills, and communication skills.
Our typical clients are children and adolescents who are struggling with a specific change, transition, trauma incident, loss, or other stressor that is causing behavioral and emotional concerns, like defiance, anxiety, depression, self-harm, which interferes with school, home-life, and other relationships. Clients have goals to decrease behavioral concerns at home and school, improve emotions, coping skills, communication skills, and school performance. A lot of parents want their children to listen, respect, and connect and communicate with them. We also work with individual adults, families and couples.
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.
Jim Winges
PhD, CMPC, MS, BA, BAA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
Dr. Jim is a Performance Consultant & Mental Conditioning Coach who provides mental skills training and counseling to athletes of all ages and levels, sports teams, organizations & governing bodies all over the world. He works with Olympic, professional, collegiate, high school, amateur & youth athletes to improve performance both on & off the field of play, welling-being & mental health. He has worked with teams and professional athletes He has worked with & trained thousands of athletes, coaches & parents over the past 22 years. He also works with performing arts, business professionals as an performance coach, & with government &
Dr. Jim is a Performance Consultant & Mental Conditioning Coach who provides mental skills training and counseling to athletes of all ages and levels, sports teams, organizations & governing bodies all over the world. He works with Olympic, professional, collegiate, high school, amateur & youth athletes to improve performance both on & off the field of play, welling-being & mental health. He has worked with teams and professional athletes He has worked with & trained thousands of athletes, coaches & parents over the past 22 years. He also works with performing arts, business professionals as an performance coach, & with government &
15 Second Videos
Family First Counseling, LLC
Jim Winges
Bridget Kromrey
Rene Guerette
Michael Hooten
Allison Zage
Georgina Valdez
Christian Lee Vasquez
Mindfully - Denver, CO
August (Formerly Heather) Tousignant-Stanton
Ashley Hansen
Westside Behavioral Care
Margaret Bell
Lizzie Joan Stevenson
Cassie Finegan
Caroline Fraase
Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center
Ruth Rasmussen
Mary Bowles
Balanced MInd Counseling
Westside Behavioral Care - Therapists in Lakewood
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management
Lori L Soli
SALT Wellness Group PLLC
Westside Behavioral Care
Chris Pagley
Realistic Serenity Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
There are currently 4 mental health professionals within our practice, providing Individual, Family or Couples Counseling, Play Therapy, LGBTQ+ support and EMDR, as well as Clinical Supervision for professionals.
For too long, mental well-being has been something that people were supposed to figure out for themselves. We're here to tell you that it really isn't necessary to go it alone. Our private practice is located near I-25 and Colorado Blvd. We utilize Play Therapy with children and teens in addition to working with adult individuals and families to create the empowerment to make choices that better fit the reality you envision for yourself.
There are currently 4 mental health professionals within our practice, providing Individual, Family or Couples Counseling, Play Therapy, LGBTQ+ support and EMDR, as well as Clinical Supervision for professionals.
For too long, mental well-being has been something that people were supposed to figure out for themselves. We're here to tell you that it really isn't necessary to go it alone. Our private practice is located near I-25 and Colorado Blvd. We utilize Play Therapy with children and teens in addition to working with adult individuals and families to create the empowerment to make choices that better fit the reality you envision for yourself.
Janessa Henninger
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children and adolescents and am a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor.
Change can be scary and challenging for children and adults. We develop many different ways of coping with change, some that are healthy and others that are not. While you are the expert in your own life, I am here to help you (regardless of age) process through change and make life choices that are healthy for you in a safe, non-judgmental space. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, and cultures, as well as different presenting concerns. Working with me, we will explore your life at your pace.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents and am a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor.
Change can be scary and challenging for children and adults. We develop many different ways of coping with change, some that are healthy and others that are not. While you are the expert in your own life, I am here to help you (regardless of age) process through change and make life choices that are healthy for you in a safe, non-judgmental space. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, and cultures, as well as different presenting concerns. Working with me, we will explore your life at your pace.
Cassie Grossman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
I'm Cassie (she/they), and I would describe myself as a nurturer who strives to create a therapeutic space in which children, adolescents, and adults can feel safe and seen. I am trained in Art Therapy, as well as Play Therapy (yes, online works too!). I believe the capacity to heal is within us already, and the therapeutic relationship can reminds us of our own strength.
I'm Cassie (she/they), and I would describe myself as a nurturer who strives to create a therapeutic space in which children, adolescents, and adults can feel safe and seen. I am trained in Art Therapy, as well as Play Therapy (yes, online works too!). I believe the capacity to heal is within us already, and the therapeutic relationship can reminds us of our own strength.
Bridget Kromrey
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
I also utilize play therapy, sand tray therapy, and cognitive and behavioral models.
Therapy can be an invitation to explore our inner world and how it relates to the development of the self, relationships, and our way of making meaning in this world. My aim as a psychologist is to offer that unique space to clients where transformation, challenge and deeper understanding can occur. I specialize in work with LGBTQ+ youth and adults, in grief and loss, end of life concerns, identity development, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and psychosocial oncology. I work with adults, children, and adolescents for psychotherapy and provide assessments for autism, learning disabilities and social/emotional concerns.
I also utilize play therapy, sand tray therapy, and cognitive and behavioral models.
Therapy can be an invitation to explore our inner world and how it relates to the development of the self, relationships, and our way of making meaning in this world. My aim as a psychologist is to offer that unique space to clients where transformation, challenge and deeper understanding can occur. I specialize in work with LGBTQ+ youth and adults, in grief and loss, end of life concerns, identity development, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and psychosocial oncology. I work with adults, children, and adolescents for psychotherapy and provide assessments for autism, learning disabilities and social/emotional concerns.
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."
Libby Korell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I also incorporate synergetic play therapy, child centered play therapy and attachment EMDR into sessions.
As a dedicated trauma therapist, I have special training and expertise in working with children (4-11) and families that have experienced trauma. I also have extensive experience in working with families whose children are facing end-of-life situations, life-limiting illnesses, and chronic health issues. I believe that children and parents are the experts in their lives and view my role as a catalyst for greater connection, attachment, healing, and meaningful change. As a clinical social worker, I recognize the impact systems and institutions can have on children and families and will be your advocate as you navigate these systems
I also incorporate synergetic play therapy, child centered play therapy and attachment EMDR into sessions.
As a dedicated trauma therapist, I have special training and expertise in working with children (4-11) and families that have experienced trauma. I also have extensive experience in working with families whose children are facing end-of-life situations, life-limiting illnesses, and chronic health issues. I believe that children and parents are the experts in their lives and view my role as a catalyst for greater connection, attachment, healing, and meaningful change. As a clinical social worker, I recognize the impact systems and institutions can have on children and families and will be your advocate as you navigate these systems
Mount Saint Vincent
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Mount Saint Vincent has been helping children and families in the Denver area for over 135 years. Let us help you and your child with our Pediatric Behavioral Health services: Outpatient Therapy, In-Home Therapy and Day Treatment. Our Masters level clinicians offer evidenced based counseling modalities specific to client needs, including: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Play Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Mount Saint Vincent has been helping children and families in the Denver area for over 135 years. Let us help you and your child with our Pediatric Behavioral Health services: Outpatient Therapy, In-Home Therapy and Day Treatment. Our Masters level clinicians offer evidenced based counseling modalities specific to client needs, including: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Play Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Rebecca I Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
With young children, I utilize play and family therapy providing a systemic approach.
Hello, I have been a Licensed Psychologist for over 10 years. I specialize in assessments to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disorder, Cognitive and/or Adaptive Testing, and Personality and Mood evaluations. I use an integrative and strengths based approach to therapy and assessment, where personal values, beliefs, and strengths are utilized in our work together in therapy. Email or call me today with questions or to schedule an appointment. Please note I currently do not have availability for new therapy clients. I only have availability for assessments.
With young children, I utilize play and family therapy providing a systemic approach.
Hello, I have been a Licensed Psychologist for over 10 years. I specialize in assessments to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disorder, Cognitive and/or Adaptive Testing, and Personality and Mood evaluations. I use an integrative and strengths based approach to therapy and assessment, where personal values, beliefs, and strengths are utilized in our work together in therapy. Email or call me today with questions or to schedule an appointment. Please note I currently do not have availability for new therapy clients. I only have availability for assessments.
Joyous Life Counseling,LLC
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80208
I use Play Therapy as a therapeutic tool with toddlers to school age children.
Counseling is my passion. It is my passion because I have seen lives and families change through this powerful growth and healing medium. Many people find themselves feeling stuck and frozen in their lives and circumstances. They don't believe they have choices or options. Counseling provides clients with the opportunity to make life changes and acquire tools to navigate life in a new way. This enables them to make changes in their families, relationships, jobs and future goals.
I use Play Therapy as a therapeutic tool with toddlers to school age children.
Counseling is my passion. It is my passion because I have seen lives and families change through this powerful growth and healing medium. Many people find themselves feeling stuck and frozen in their lives and circumstances. They don't believe they have choices or options. Counseling provides clients with the opportunity to make life changes and acquire tools to navigate life in a new way. This enables them to make changes in their families, relationships, jobs and future goals.
See more therapy options for Denver
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Denver
- Aurora
- Centennial
- Cherry Hills
- Cherry Hills Village
- Commerce City
- Englewood
- Glendale
- Greenwood Village
- Lakewood
- Littleton
- Lowry
- Wheat Ridge
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.