Play Therapy in Bethlehem, CT

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Photo of Ludi Pappas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Ludi Pappas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Preston Marble Dale, CT 06777  (Online Only)
I believe in a client centered approach in a supportive environment. I have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and trauma.I work with individuals and their families coping with chronic mental illnesses. I use CBT, DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic theory, and play therapy. I have a focus on helping children through divorce, adolescents and a specialty in geriatric psychology. I work with individuals, couples and families, seeing all age groups.
I believe in a client centered approach in a supportive environment. I have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and trauma.I work with individuals and their families coping with chronic mental illnesses. I use CBT, DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic theory, and play therapy. I have a focus on helping children through divorce, adolescents and a specialty in geriatric psychology. I work with individuals, couples and families, seeing all age groups.
(860) 969-2219 View (860) 969-2219
Photo of Jeanna Spatta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Jeanna Spatta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waterbury, CT 06708
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to foster a warm & empathic, supportive & comfortable environment, providing clients with the tools they need to achieve their desired goals & uncover their true potential. I believe each client is unique & therefore, tailor my therapy approach according to individual needs, with a strong emphasis on client strengths & empowerment. I further believe the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one, whereby clients play an integral role in the treatment planning process. I truly enjoy helping my clients & watching them grow, heal, & achieve positive, lasting changes.
In my practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to foster a warm & empathic, supportive & comfortable environment, providing clients with the tools they need to achieve their desired goals & uncover their true potential. I believe each client is unique & therefore, tailor my therapy approach according to individual needs, with a strong emphasis on client strengths & empowerment. I further believe the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one, whereby clients play an integral role in the treatment planning process. I truly enjoy helping my clients & watching them grow, heal, & achieve positive, lasting changes.
(203) 350-0468 View (203) 350-0468
Photo of Kiefer Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Kiefer Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, CT 06782
At Kiefer Counseling we offer a variety of therapy modalities: EMDR, DBT, CBT, ACT, Solutions Focused Therapy, Therapeutic Play Therapy, Certified Trauma-Focused Play Therapy, MI, ART, Crisis Intervention, Tapping Techniques, PCT, Attachment Based Family Therapy, Multi-Dimensional Family Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Psychoeducational Therapy, Client Centered.
At Kiefer Counseling we are a team of fully licensed advanced practice mental health nurse practitioners and therapists who have a wealth of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. You will find our team to not only be highly trained, but warm and down to earth. We focus our treatment on what works. Our team offers years of experience in helping patients of varying ages manage complex mental health conditions, conquer unhealthy behaviors, and lead rewarding lives. Our vision is to create lasting healing that stretches throughout our community. We are a passionate, fun, and dynamic team who values
At Kiefer Counseling we offer a variety of therapy modalities: EMDR, DBT, CBT, ACT, Solutions Focused Therapy, Therapeutic Play Therapy, Certified Trauma-Focused Play Therapy, MI, ART, Crisis Intervention, Tapping Techniques, PCT, Attachment Based Family Therapy, Multi-Dimensional Family Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Psychoeducational Therapy, Client Centered.
At Kiefer Counseling we are a team of fully licensed advanced practice mental health nurse practitioners and therapists who have a wealth of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. You will find our team to not only be highly trained, but warm and down to earth. We focus our treatment on what works. Our team offers years of experience in helping patients of varying ages manage complex mental health conditions, conquer unhealthy behaviors, and lead rewarding lives. Our vision is to create lasting healing that stretches throughout our community. We are a passionate, fun, and dynamic team who values
(860) 590-9962 View (860) 590-9962
Photo of Christina Silvia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Christina Silvia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, CT 06798
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Talk Therapy within my clinical practice.
As a provider with 10 years of experience, I appreciate the importance of establishing a solid therapeutic relationship. My goal is to provide a space where a client feels safe, secure, and supported. Within my practice, I focus on empowering the client while they focus on improving their quality of life. Seeking therapeutic support is the first step in their journey to make change. I thrive on providing said support through engagement, skill development, and behavior modification.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Talk Therapy within my clinical practice.
As a provider with 10 years of experience, I appreciate the importance of establishing a solid therapeutic relationship. My goal is to provide a space where a client feels safe, secure, and supported. Within my practice, I focus on empowering the client while they focus on improving their quality of life. Seeking therapeutic support is the first step in their journey to make change. I thrive on providing said support through engagement, skill development, and behavior modification.
(203) 424-2975 View (203) 424-2975
Photo of Yehuda Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Yehuda Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterbury, CT 06710
I use strategies from multiple theoretical backgrounds including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and trauma informed psychotherapy, and have been trained in such treatment models.
I am a child and family therapist who prefers to work with children who show oppositional behavior and other problematic behaviors. Are you experiencing difficulty communicating with your child? Do you feel like you're trying to help your child but your child doesn't recognize this? Perhaps you are aware that something is bothering your child but you and your child can't put your finger on it. You may have heard from the school that your child is having difficulty in school and your having trouble identifying what is causing this.
I use strategies from multiple theoretical backgrounds including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and trauma informed psychotherapy, and have been trained in such treatment models.
I am a child and family therapist who prefers to work with children who show oppositional behavior and other problematic behaviors. Are you experiencing difficulty communicating with your child? Do you feel like you're trying to help your child but your child doesn't recognize this? Perhaps you are aware that something is bothering your child but you and your child can't put your finger on it. You may have heard from the school that your child is having difficulty in school and your having trouble identifying what is causing this.
(203) 405-9245 View (203) 405-9245
Photo of Maggie Lucian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Maggie Lucian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06710  (Online Only)
Starting therapy can feel very uncomfortable and stressful. It's a big step, but it's an important step. It means you're willing to look at the things that are causing you distress, and you're open to healing and support. My focus is relationships. With oneself as well as intimate relationships and family. I am a Solution Focused Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In sessions we will work together to solve problems, build communication and coping. I offer weekend availability as well as after hour appointments currently through teletherapy. Let's work together to find a resolution to the problem and repair your relationships.
Starting therapy can feel very uncomfortable and stressful. It's a big step, but it's an important step. It means you're willing to look at the things that are causing you distress, and you're open to healing and support. My focus is relationships. With oneself as well as intimate relationships and family. I am a Solution Focused Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In sessions we will work together to solve problems, build communication and coping. I offer weekend availability as well as after hour appointments currently through teletherapy. Let's work together to find a resolution to the problem and repair your relationships.
(203) 687-4075 View (203) 687-4075
Photo of CARE Family Counseling Services - René Drozdziel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
CARE Family Counseling Services - René Drozdziel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thomaston, CT 06787
I am passionate about building strong connections and repairing damaged relationships. It is normal to struggle when our problems seem bigger than we can handle. My role as a therapist is to walk with you on your journey, listen, help explore your feelings and identify solutions to your life challenges. I offer a non-judgmental and empathetic environment that advocates growth and healing. I believe a therapeutic environment should be authentic, emotionally safe, and at the same time challenging with a balance between hard work and fun.
I am passionate about building strong connections and repairing damaged relationships. It is normal to struggle when our problems seem bigger than we can handle. My role as a therapist is to walk with you on your journey, listen, help explore your feelings and identify solutions to your life challenges. I offer a non-judgmental and empathetic environment that advocates growth and healing. I believe a therapeutic environment should be authentic, emotionally safe, and at the same time challenging with a balance between hard work and fun.
(860) 631-5575 View (860) 631-5575
Photo of Krista Maturo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, CT
Krista Maturo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06708
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with experience providing mental health and substance abuse services to adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings and through individual, couples, and group therapy. I also have experience working with adults involved with the Criminal Justice System, DCF, Probation and Parole. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques from psychodynamic with an eclectic approach to cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with experience providing mental health and substance abuse services to adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings and through individual, couples, and group therapy. I also have experience working with adults involved with the Criminal Justice System, DCF, Probation and Parole. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques from psychodynamic with an eclectic approach to cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
(203) 779-6180 View (203) 779-6180
Photo of Kristen Elaine Maguire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Kristen Elaine Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Roxbury, CT 06783  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I am deeply committed to facilitating healing and growth across diverse populations, including individuals, couples, families, and the aging community. With a focus on holistic well-being, I specialize in addressing a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, health-related concerns, life transitions, and supporting mothers through their unique challenges, including those related to postpartum and menopausal transitions. Additionally, I offer specialized expertise in individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as support for the aging population.
As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I am deeply committed to facilitating healing and growth across diverse populations, including individuals, couples, families, and the aging community. With a focus on holistic well-being, I specialize in addressing a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, health-related concerns, life transitions, and supporting mothers through their unique challenges, including those related to postpartum and menopausal transitions. Additionally, I offer specialized expertise in individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as support for the aging population.
(959) 335-9212 View (959) 335-9212
Photo of Nicole Martino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, CT
Nicole Martino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Watertown, CT 06795  (Online Only)
I'm Nicole, an LPC licensed in CT with extensive experience in providing diverse services for children and adolescents. In addition to offering outpatient therapy, I serve as a Trauma Therapist in a residential setting for adolescents with co-occurring disorders. With a focus on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment, my integrative and creative approach ensures a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients. Whether addressing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interpersonal issues, trauma, eating disorders, or anger management, I am dedicated to supporting clients in overcoming life's challenges.
I'm Nicole, an LPC licensed in CT with extensive experience in providing diverse services for children and adolescents. In addition to offering outpatient therapy, I serve as a Trauma Therapist in a residential setting for adolescents with co-occurring disorders. With a focus on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment, my integrative and creative approach ensures a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients. Whether addressing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interpersonal issues, trauma, eating disorders, or anger management, I am dedicated to supporting clients in overcoming life's challenges.
(860) 854-4249 View (860) 854-4249
Photo of Jessica Raistrick (Formerly Jessica Adams), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Jessica Raistrick (Formerly Jessica Adams)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Author
Verified Verified
Watertown, CT 06795
As a clinician, my most inspiring clients are the adolescents and adults that have overcome the struggles of addiction, eating disorders and family conflict. Effective change happens when strategies addressing the underlying problem are individualized and creative. The safe space offered in therapy allows my clients to explore their feelings, their choices, and challenge their patterns of behavior. I have worked extensively with teens struggling at school, at home, and with the legal system. My work with parents includes finding effective strategies to reach their teen while opening the lines of communication within the family system.
As a clinician, my most inspiring clients are the adolescents and adults that have overcome the struggles of addiction, eating disorders and family conflict. Effective change happens when strategies addressing the underlying problem are individualized and creative. The safe space offered in therapy allows my clients to explore their feelings, their choices, and challenge their patterns of behavior. I have worked extensively with teens struggling at school, at home, and with the legal system. My work with parents includes finding effective strategies to reach their teen while opening the lines of communication within the family system.
(860) 909-0660 View (860) 909-0660
Photo of Artlighten LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, CT
Artlighten LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC, ATR-BC, CLAT
Verified Verified
Watertown, CT 06795
Are you experiencing imbalance, anxiety, depression, unwanted emotions or thoughts, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes, or taking control of your life? Are you concerned for a child or spouse and aren't sure how to help them? This can feel overwhelming and impossible to solve. This dwelling is not a permanent place and you can be relieved of this. With my expertise in combining talk therapy with art therapy, I can guide you in opening new doors to mindfulness, self-expression and healing. Art Therapists are trained extensively in the use of art materials so that you may use them in a safe and healing manner.
Are you experiencing imbalance, anxiety, depression, unwanted emotions or thoughts, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes, or taking control of your life? Are you concerned for a child or spouse and aren't sure how to help them? This can feel overwhelming and impossible to solve. This dwelling is not a permanent place and you can be relieved of this. With my expertise in combining talk therapy with art therapy, I can guide you in opening new doors to mindfulness, self-expression and healing. Art Therapists are trained extensively in the use of art materials so that you may use them in a safe and healing manner.
(860) 483-3954 View (860) 483-3954
Photo of Hop Brook Counseling Center, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Hop Brook Counseling Center, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Watertown, CT 06795
Taking the first step towards improving your mental health can be challenging, but finding the right provider doesn't need to be. At Hop Brook Counseling Center our providers are passionate about empowering you to learn strategies for growth and healing. Our team of fully licensed mental health professionals has a wide array of specialties and backgrounds, and we always work to match you with the therapist most equipped to support your personal goals. Hop Brook provides a supportive, safe, non judgmental environment with both in person and telehealth options for counseling and medication visits.
Taking the first step towards improving your mental health can be challenging, but finding the right provider doesn't need to be. At Hop Brook Counseling Center our providers are passionate about empowering you to learn strategies for growth and healing. Our team of fully licensed mental health professionals has a wide array of specialties and backgrounds, and we always work to match you with the therapist most equipped to support your personal goals. Hop Brook provides a supportive, safe, non judgmental environment with both in person and telehealth options for counseling and medication visits.
(203) 601-7798 View (203) 601-7798
Photo of Amanda Cepero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, CT
Amanda Cepero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Watertown, CT 06795  (Online Only)
If you are motivated for change, welcome! My focus is to explore how your past and present relationships/coping patterns influence your life. I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT). I treat a vast array of conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family conflict and family therapy and parenting, parenting training, premarital counseling, divorce, grief and loss, medical conditions and concerns, significant life transitions, trauma, OCD, grief, and spirituality.
If you are motivated for change, welcome! My focus is to explore how your past and present relationships/coping patterns influence your life. I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT). I treat a vast array of conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family conflict and family therapy and parenting, parenting training, premarital counseling, divorce, grief and loss, medical conditions and concerns, significant life transitions, trauma, OCD, grief, and spirituality.
(203) 875-0933 View (203) 875-0933
Photo of Amy Arruda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Amy Arruda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, CT 06752  (Online Only)
My most recent endeavors have been learning how to heal without medication. Many don't know that 90% of our brain's serotonin is made in our gut. Let me teach you how to feel better by eating the right foods. I also have a great deal of experience working with adolescents and can effectively provide emotional and behavioral support for youth with wide array of needs utilizing a holistic and strengths-based clinical approach.

 I specialize in the assessment and treatment of:

 PTSD
, Substance abuse
, Conduct Disorder
, ADHD
, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, 
Anxiety, 
Depression
, Postpartum & can help with health related issues
My most recent endeavors have been learning how to heal without medication. Many don't know that 90% of our brain's serotonin is made in our gut. Let me teach you how to feel better by eating the right foods. I also have a great deal of experience working with adolescents and can effectively provide emotional and behavioral support for youth with wide array of needs utilizing a holistic and strengths-based clinical approach.

 I specialize in the assessment and treatment of:

 PTSD
, Substance abuse
, Conduct Disorder
, ADHD
, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, 
Anxiety, 
Depression
, Postpartum & can help with health related issues
(203) 813-5457 View (203) 813-5457
Photo of Melissa Schiavone, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Melissa Schiavone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Litchfield, CT 06750
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I approach my time with clients from both an individual and relational point of view. I believe it is vital to explore self-awareness and interpersonal relationships in order to understand what may be interfering with living a more fulfilling life. I understand that not everyone responds to the same experiences in the same way and that therapy needs to be designed to fit each individual clients needs based on their own histories and experiences. I will collaborate with you to make therapy a place that fits your needs.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I approach my time with clients from both an individual and relational point of view. I believe it is vital to explore self-awareness and interpersonal relationships in order to understand what may be interfering with living a more fulfilling life. I understand that not everyone responds to the same experiences in the same way and that therapy needs to be designed to fit each individual clients needs based on their own histories and experiences. I will collaborate with you to make therapy a place that fits your needs.
(860) 579-6980 View (860) 579-6980
Photo of Mary Lee Carroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Mary Lee Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Watertown, CT 06795
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, isolation, loneliness? Has the Pandemic affected the quality of your health? Are you seeking a therapist for support? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Private Practice with a specialty in grief counseling. Call to schedule an initial session where we can decide how therapy can best be structured to meet your needs.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, isolation, loneliness? Has the Pandemic affected the quality of your health? Are you seeking a therapist for support? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Private Practice with a specialty in grief counseling. Call to schedule an initial session where we can decide how therapy can best be structured to meet your needs.
(860) 348-5964 View (860) 348-5964
Photo of Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, CT
Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06708
Wolf Spirit Wellness is dedicated to assisting its clients in becoming the best version of themselves through patience, compassion, acceptance and love. We utilize both a therapeutic and energetic alliance to guide our clients toward an understanding of the issues at hand and to help them heal the past and present which then provides a brighter future. Whatever the issue we are ready and able to help you move forward. In addition, we are now offering our in home therapy program called Therapy in Motion where our clinicians can provide evidence based treatment customized to meet the client where they are most comfortable...at home.
Wolf Spirit Wellness is dedicated to assisting its clients in becoming the best version of themselves through patience, compassion, acceptance and love. We utilize both a therapeutic and energetic alliance to guide our clients toward an understanding of the issues at hand and to help them heal the past and present which then provides a brighter future. Whatever the issue we are ready and able to help you move forward. In addition, we are now offering our in home therapy program called Therapy in Motion where our clinicians can provide evidence based treatment customized to meet the client where they are most comfortable...at home.
(203) 263-3175 View (203) 263-3175
Photo of Kelly W Mays, Professional Counselor Associate in Bethlehem, CT
Kelly W Mays
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750  (Online Only)
I offer remote tele-health and video therapy sessions to anyone seeking mental health support. I earned my MA in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hartford following earning a BA in Psychology, minoring in Women's Studies, from Uconn. I served at York Correctional Maximum Security Prison as a Post Graduate Clinical Intern. I worked as an IICAPS clinician following graduation. I am now working as an Outpatient Clinician serving clients of varying ages and clinical needs. I take the trust my clients offer very seriously and I only take a limited amount of clients ensuring I can give the best care possible.
I offer remote tele-health and video therapy sessions to anyone seeking mental health support. I earned my MA in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hartford following earning a BA in Psychology, minoring in Women's Studies, from Uconn. I served at York Correctional Maximum Security Prison as a Post Graduate Clinical Intern. I worked as an IICAPS clinician following graduation. I am now working as an Outpatient Clinician serving clients of varying ages and clinical needs. I take the trust my clients offer very seriously and I only take a limited amount of clients ensuring I can give the best care possible.
(860) 909-8469 View (860) 909-8469
Photo of Ash Compton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethlehem, CT
Ash Compton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
New Preston, CT 06777  (Online Only)
A trauma-focused, relational Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in depth and existential traditions. I work together with clients to create and reach goals and commit to them inquisitively. We will employ myriad methods, including visual, expressive, and somatic modalities to enhance coping skills, make meaning, and foster change- all with a gentle, open approach. I work well with persons undergoing stress, anxiety, depression, existential concerns, and unease. We will together build a compassionate and curious container to undertake this work. It is an honor to work with you to reveal a more vibrant, resilient self.
A trauma-focused, relational Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in depth and existential traditions. I work together with clients to create and reach goals and commit to them inquisitively. We will employ myriad methods, including visual, expressive, and somatic modalities to enhance coping skills, make meaning, and foster change- all with a gentle, open approach. I work well with persons undergoing stress, anxiety, depression, existential concerns, and unease. We will together build a compassionate and curious container to undertake this work. It is an honor to work with you to reveal a more vibrant, resilient self.
(469) 848-4568 View (469) 848-4568

See more therapy options for Bethlehem

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.