Play Therapy in Denver, CO

Photo of Claire Morrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Claire Morrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
Imagine a life where you are able to play, explore, and feel empowered to be exactly who you are. We exist in a world with an abundance of talent, ideas, possibilities and strengths; yet many of the current conditions stifle, exclude, and limit us. I am here to partner with you and your family to support growth through life transitions, school or work-related difficulties, emotional and behavioral challenges, childhood trauma- so that you can fully experience life's abundance.
Imagine a life where you are able to play, explore, and feel empowered to be exactly who you are. We exist in a world with an abundance of talent, ideas, possibilities and strengths; yet many of the current conditions stifle, exclude, and limit us. I am here to partner with you and your family to support growth through life transitions, school or work-related difficulties, emotional and behavioral challenges, childhood trauma- so that you can fully experience life's abundance.
(720) 806-6744 View (720) 806-6744
Photo of Hannah Pitts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Hannah Pitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
She is trained in various forms of play therapy as well as other research backed protocols such as EMDR.
Hannah has provided trauma-informed care to children, teens, and adults for nearly ten years. She is an EMDR and Brainspotting therapist who works through an attachment lens. She provides high quality care for clients of all ages in a compassionate environment conducive to healing and growth. Although Hannah is easy going and kind, she is unafraid to sit with you and/or your family through the challenging and emotionally charged work of therapy.
She is trained in various forms of play therapy as well as other research backed protocols such as EMDR.
Hannah has provided trauma-informed care to children, teens, and adults for nearly ten years. She is an EMDR and Brainspotting therapist who works through an attachment lens. She provides high quality care for clients of all ages in a compassionate environment conducive to healing and growth. Although Hannah is easy going and kind, she is unafraid to sit with you and/or your family through the challenging and emotionally charged work of therapy.
(720) 463-1559 View (720) 463-1559
Photo of Anne Maxwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Anne Maxwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
They communicate energetically and through their play.
As a play therapist and family therapist, I believe that healing is a family affair, and, I include parents as an integral part of their child's therapy. I specialize in trauma, attachment, adoption, blended families, difficult and severe behaviors, as well as parenting, and issues stemming from any and all of the above. I love working with children and their parents and families. Children seem to have an innate sense of what is going on and what needs to happen in order for healing to occur, and, when they are able to express that and be heard, the whole family can shift and change.
They communicate energetically and through their play.
As a play therapist and family therapist, I believe that healing is a family affair, and, I include parents as an integral part of their child's therapy. I specialize in trauma, attachment, adoption, blended families, difficult and severe behaviors, as well as parenting, and issues stemming from any and all of the above. I love working with children and their parents and families. Children seem to have an innate sense of what is going on and what needs to happen in order for healing to occur, and, when they are able to express that and be heard, the whole family can shift and change.
(303) 900-5872 View (303) 900-5872
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 Mount Saint Vincent in Denver, CO
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.
(720) 640-8471 View (720) 640-8471
Photo of Kim Colna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
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.
(970) 825-1096 View (970) 825-1096
Photo of Claire Eliassen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Claire Eliassen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218
Play therapy uses the language of children, the language of play, to address struggles and difficult topics.
Currently accepting clients. Is your smart daughter struggling to get out of her own way? Are you an overwhelmed mom struggling to "do it all?" Whether it is huge emotions, or feeling consumed by it all, I empower pre-teen girls and overwhelmed moms to overcome hurdles and live with more confidence. It's the brave who go to therapy, not the weak.
Play therapy uses the language of children, the language of play, to address struggles and difficult topics.
Currently accepting clients. Is your smart daughter struggling to get out of her own way? Are you an overwhelmed mom struggling to "do it all?" Whether it is huge emotions, or feeling consumed by it all, I empower pre-teen girls and overwhelmed moms to overcome hurdles and live with more confidence. It's the brave who go to therapy, not the weak.
(720) 262-9546 View (720) 262-9546
Photo of Jaimie Wolfelt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Jaimie Wolfelt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
I'm also very passionate about grief therapy, play therapy, and trauma therapy.
I believe that creating a safe space where clients are accepted for being their authentic selves creates healing and self-understanding leading clients to living their most fulfilling lives possible. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is the most healing and helpful aspect of therapy. I strive to help individuals navigate challenges while allowing for self-compassion, exploration, and self-love. I encourage clients to see their strengths in order to achieve their goals. I aim for empathy, respect, play, humor, and learning to be a part of therapy for all ages.
I'm also very passionate about grief therapy, play therapy, and trauma therapy.
I believe that creating a safe space where clients are accepted for being their authentic selves creates healing and self-understanding leading clients to living their most fulfilling lives possible. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is the most healing and helpful aspect of therapy. I strive to help individuals navigate challenges while allowing for self-compassion, exploration, and self-love. I encourage clients to see their strengths in order to achieve their goals. I aim for empathy, respect, play, humor, and learning to be a part of therapy for all ages.
(720) 738-5357 View (720) 738-5357
Photo of Arley Gordon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denver, CO
Arley Gordon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I have a unique passion for working with a diverse range of individuals, including children, teens, young adults, and adults. I believe that every stage of life presents its unique challenges and I am committed to helping individuals navigate these transitions with empowerment and curiosity. I provide play therapy for highly sensitive children and parent coaching to support caregivers. I provide Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for adults.
I have a unique passion for working with a diverse range of individuals, including children, teens, young adults, and adults. I believe that every stage of life presents its unique challenges and I am committed to helping individuals navigate these transitions with empowerment and curiosity. I provide play therapy for highly sensitive children and parent coaching to support caregivers. I provide Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for adults.
(720) 821-1560 View (720) 821-1560
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 Elizabeth Bogen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Elizabeth Bogen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
I offer both in-person and telehealth services including play therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, parenting support, and family therapy.
Have you or your child experienced grief, anxiety, or difficult changes as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, a death, or traumatic experience? I support children, adolescents, young adults and their caregivers in growing their ability to cope and regulate with these difficulties. I offer an individualized approach to therapy. I have extensive experience in providing group services, play therapy, and individual/family clinical interventions. I offer both in-person and remote services that focus on promoting resiliency and preventing disruptive grief, including symptoms of anxiety, depression, reactions to trauma, and suicidality.
I offer both in-person and telehealth services including play therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, parenting support, and family therapy.
Have you or your child experienced grief, anxiety, or difficult changes as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, a death, or traumatic experience? I support children, adolescents, young adults and their caregivers in growing their ability to cope and regulate with these difficulties. I offer an individualized approach to therapy. I have extensive experience in providing group services, play therapy, and individual/family clinical interventions. I offer both in-person and remote services that focus on promoting resiliency and preventing disruptive grief, including symptoms of anxiety, depression, reactions to trauma, and suicidality.
(303) 529-9716 View (303) 529-9716
Photo of Elizabeth Hoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Elizabeth Hoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I am a creative person myself, so I enjoy implementing creative methods with my clients when appropriate; this includes art, movement, nature, meditation, play (even with adults!), etc.
Hello, I'm Lizzie Hoff. I'm excited to meet you and learn more about you while we start your therapy work together! I really enjoy working with folks of all ages who are interested in understanding not just their symptoms and how to manage them, but also in getting to the root cause(s) and working to address that, as well. I connect especially well with highly sensitive people (HSPs); folks who struggle with anxiety and/or depression, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and boundary-setting; and individuals who simply want or need someone to accompany them down the road to healing and wellness.
I am a creative person myself, so I enjoy implementing creative methods with my clients when appropriate; this includes art, movement, nature, meditation, play (even with adults!), etc.
Hello, I'm Lizzie Hoff. I'm excited to meet you and learn more about you while we start your therapy work together! I really enjoy working with folks of all ages who are interested in understanding not just their symptoms and how to manage them, but also in getting to the root cause(s) and working to address that, as well. I connect especially well with highly sensitive people (HSPs); folks who struggle with anxiety and/or depression, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and boundary-setting; and individuals who simply want or need someone to accompany them down the road to healing and wellness.
(720) 734-9669 View (720) 734-9669
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 Chad Calderon, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Chad Calderon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
Welcome! If you are here, you have found the courage to seek the life balance you deserve through the best care possible. I'm Dr. Calderon, a licensed clinical psychologist, and compassionate, fun therapist. I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology in San Francisco. I've worked across the country in clinical settings including veteran, inpatient, outpatient, addiction, sexual behaviors, human services, psych assessment and primary care centers. I use a diverse range of therapy modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, child play, and psychodynamic. I am dedicated to specializing in child/adolescent care but work with all age groups.
Welcome! If you are here, you have found the courage to seek the life balance you deserve through the best care possible. I'm Dr. Calderon, a licensed clinical psychologist, and compassionate, fun therapist. I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology in San Francisco. I've worked across the country in clinical settings including veteran, inpatient, outpatient, addiction, sexual behaviors, human services, psych assessment and primary care centers. I use a diverse range of therapy modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, child play, and psychodynamic. I am dedicated to specializing in child/adolescent care but work with all age groups.
(720) 815-9712 View (720) 815-9712
Photo of Bethany Marie Crile, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Bethany Marie Crile
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
I integrate play therapy and TF-CBT techniques into my work.
As a passionate and empathetic mental health professional, I seek to provide creative, exploratory therapeutic practices to help children and adolescents flourish. I hold space for children to think, feel, explore, and make sense of their innermost worlds. I seek to enhance their brain/body connections to aid in healthy, autonomous development while healing from past traumatic experiences. My approach is very playful, child-directed, and trauma-informed. I am simply an instrument to help children unlock their unique gifts and potentials. Together, we will work towards integration of mind, body, and spirit.
I integrate play therapy and TF-CBT techniques into my work.
As a passionate and empathetic mental health professional, I seek to provide creative, exploratory therapeutic practices to help children and adolescents flourish. I hold space for children to think, feel, explore, and make sense of their innermost worlds. I seek to enhance their brain/body connections to aid in healthy, autonomous development while healing from past traumatic experiences. My approach is very playful, child-directed, and trauma-informed. I am simply an instrument to help children unlock their unique gifts and potentials. Together, we will work towards integration of mind, body, and spirit.
(720) 679-1486 View (720) 679-1486
Photo of Susan Finnefrock, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Susan Finnefrock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Waitlist for new clients
Training in play therapy, expressive arts, mindfulness, and progressive relaxation augments traditional talk therapy, offering a more individualized therapeutic approach.
Welcome! If you are searching for a therapist, you are looking for relief or change in your life. For all of us, life can be hard at times and you are courageous to embark on this journey of discovery. I know what it is like to sit on the other side of the therapist's chair. I am honored and privileged to walk this part of your journey with you while instilling great hope for healing and wholeness. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and facilitate groups for women of partners or spouses experiencing sex addiction or sexual integrity issues.
Training in play therapy, expressive arts, mindfulness, and progressive relaxation augments traditional talk therapy, offering a more individualized therapeutic approach.
Welcome! If you are searching for a therapist, you are looking for relief or change in your life. For all of us, life can be hard at times and you are courageous to embark on this journey of discovery. I know what it is like to sit on the other side of the therapist's chair. I am honored and privileged to walk this part of your journey with you while instilling great hope for healing and wholeness. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and facilitate groups for women of partners or spouses experiencing sex addiction or sexual integrity issues.
(720) 575-0643 View (720) 575-0643
Photo of Emily Mackay King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Emily Mackay King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80207
In my work, I incorporate DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), CBT/TF-CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ Trauma-Focused CBT), Synergetic Play Therapy and EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) based off of goals we set forth in our initial meetings.
No one person's story is the same, and individual experiences are often impacted by life stressors, challenging circumstances and uncertainty regarding the path towards healing. My work is primarily focused on healing from trauma and shame, addressing anxious and depressive symptoms that arise from adverse life experiences. The people I work with often experience low self-worth, struggle with relationships or have difficulties accessing coping mechanisms to manage symptoms. I work with individuals across the lifespan, incorporating appropriate modalities to fit the unique needs that arise during different seasons of our life.
In my work, I incorporate DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), CBT/TF-CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ Trauma-Focused CBT), Synergetic Play Therapy and EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) based off of goals we set forth in our initial meetings.
No one person's story is the same, and individual experiences are often impacted by life stressors, challenging circumstances and uncertainty regarding the path towards healing. My work is primarily focused on healing from trauma and shame, addressing anxious and depressive symptoms that arise from adverse life experiences. The people I work with often experience low self-worth, struggle with relationships or have difficulties accessing coping mechanisms to manage symptoms. I work with individuals across the lifespan, incorporating appropriate modalities to fit the unique needs that arise during different seasons of our life.
(720) 741-7315 View (720) 741-7315
Photo of Libby Korell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
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
(720) 675-7123 View (720) 675-7123
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 Dawn Goers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Dawn Goers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
After working with children and families for 15 years in foster care and adoption settings, I developed a passion for empowering people who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, and who struggle with relationship issues. Life always presents challenges and the ability to move through those challenges with a strong sense of self is important. I work closely with clients to develop a strong therapeutic relationship, which engenders an environment of safety and promotes healing. I am an EMDR Certified Clinician which integrates attachment theory, CBT and emotion regulation. I also use child-centered play therapy with children.
After working with children and families for 15 years in foster care and adoption settings, I developed a passion for empowering people who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, and who struggle with relationship issues. Life always presents challenges and the ability to move through those challenges with a strong sense of self is important. I work closely with clients to develop a strong therapeutic relationship, which engenders an environment of safety and promotes healing. I am an EMDR Certified Clinician which integrates attachment theory, CBT and emotion regulation. I also use child-centered play therapy with children.
(303) 814-9173 View (303) 814-9173
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.