Therapists in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC

Photo of Damian McBeth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Damian McBeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHP
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002
I specialize in crisis response, family therapy, play therapy, and adult psychotherapy.
Results-oriented, compassionate and "Relentless work ethic" are words patients have described me. I take a "whatever it takes empathic attitude" serving patients suffering from depression, psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and family dysfunction. I spent my most of my career practicing in DC's Ward 7 and Ward 8 servicing DC's most vulnerable lower income populations. I have experience with The Department of Behavior Health as a crisis supervisor, ACT clinical supervisor and a Child/Adult psychotherapist.
I specialize in crisis response, family therapy, play therapy, and adult psychotherapy.
Results-oriented, compassionate and "Relentless work ethic" are words patients have described me. I take a "whatever it takes empathic attitude" serving patients suffering from depression, psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and family dysfunction. I spent my most of my career practicing in DC's Ward 7 and Ward 8 servicing DC's most vulnerable lower income populations. I have experience with The Department of Behavior Health as a crisis supervisor, ACT clinical supervisor and a Child/Adult psychotherapist.
(202) 972-7938 View (202) 972-7938
Photo of Lindsay King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Lindsay King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Through evidence-based DBT-Informed Skills Training and expressive arts/play, I help kids/teens and families, learn skills to resolve their challenges effectively, creating joyful lives.
Hi, I'm Lindsay King, a creative, compassionate counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience counseling kids, caregivers, & communities to heal and thrive. Does it seem like you and your child/teen are facing mental health challenges, stress, anxiety, change, or grief? Do you want to help your child improve their communication, coping, or focusing skills? Do you want an improved relationship with your child/teen? I’d love to help you and your family set goals, process stress, and learn new skills to last a lifetime. I primarily use expressive, DBT-informed therapy & training to encourage human growth and change.
Through evidence-based DBT-Informed Skills Training and expressive arts/play, I help kids/teens and families, learn skills to resolve their challenges effectively, creating joyful lives.
Hi, I'm Lindsay King, a creative, compassionate counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience counseling kids, caregivers, & communities to heal and thrive. Does it seem like you and your child/teen are facing mental health challenges, stress, anxiety, change, or grief? Do you want to help your child improve their communication, coping, or focusing skills? Do you want an improved relationship with your child/teen? I’d love to help you and your family set goals, process stress, and learn new skills to last a lifetime. I primarily use expressive, DBT-informed therapy & training to encourage human growth and change.
(202) 972-2902 View (202) 972-2902
Photo of Elaina Vasserman-Stokes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Elaina Vasserman-Stokes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002
I offer individual, couples, and play therapy to adults, children, and parents.
My clinical expertise is in issues related to emotional regulation, trauma, loss, and early life attachment experiences. I have a particular interest in supporting parents of young children (particularly at this time and in relationship to COVID-related school and care transitions). My approach can broadly be described as insight oriented and rooted in attachment, relational, and interpersonal theories as well as self-psychology. My expertise rests on meaningful personal experiences and on continuing rigorous training and teaching.
I offer individual, couples, and play therapy to adults, children, and parents.
My clinical expertise is in issues related to emotional regulation, trauma, loss, and early life attachment experiences. I have a particular interest in supporting parents of young children (particularly at this time and in relationship to COVID-related school and care transitions). My approach can broadly be described as insight oriented and rooted in attachment, relational, and interpersonal theories as well as self-psychology. My expertise rests on meaningful personal experiences and on continuing rigorous training and teaching.
(240) 607-5480 View (240) 607-5480
Photo of SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20003
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
(202) 804-0992 View (202) 804-0992
Photo of Turner Lyfe Around Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Turner Lyfe Around Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Alesia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with Adults, Children, Youth and Families. I obtained my master’s degree in Social Work from Howard University in May 1990. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to providing the tools necessary to help you overcome obstacles and barriers that are keeping you from living your authentic life.
My name is Alesia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with Adults, Children, Youth and Families. I obtained my master’s degree in Social Work from Howard University in May 1990. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to providing the tools necessary to help you overcome obstacles and barriers that are keeping you from living your authentic life.
(301) 690-9372 View (301) 690-9372
Photo of Ashley C. Whiteside, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Ashley C. Whiteside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002
My name is Ashley and I am a healer, therapist, doula, and educator. I am fueled by my charge: to walk alongside Black and Brown femmes as they continue on the ever-evolving process of self-discovery, making adjustments to live in alignment with their desires and express themselves the most authentically. I believe that choosing to heal is a radical act of self-love. I am a Licensed Social Worker and in my practice, I center and prioritize the experiences and healing of Black and Brown Femmes (women, girls). I serve as a guide as clients navigate back to a space of remembering the inherent truths of who they are and desire to be.
My name is Ashley and I am a healer, therapist, doula, and educator. I am fueled by my charge: to walk alongside Black and Brown femmes as they continue on the ever-evolving process of self-discovery, making adjustments to live in alignment with their desires and express themselves the most authentically. I believe that choosing to heal is a radical act of self-love. I am a Licensed Social Worker and in my practice, I center and prioritize the experiences and healing of Black and Brown Femmes (women, girls). I serve as a guide as clients navigate back to a space of remembering the inherent truths of who they are and desire to be.
(518) 625-8425 View (518) 625-8425
Photo of TrueYou Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
TrueYou Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
(301) 918-5812 View (301) 918-5812
Photo of Christopher Barry Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Christopher Barry Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20003
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
(202) 759-4221 View (202) 759-4221
Photo of Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20003
Welcome! Beginning therapy can be a difficult first step, but it often leads to important insights and tremendous personal growth. Therapy is not a one size fits all model. Our approach ensures you will receive the treatment that is right for you. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or current life challenges, you don't have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe and warm therapeutic environment that makes you comfortable sharing.
Welcome! Beginning therapy can be a difficult first step, but it often leads to important insights and tremendous personal growth. Therapy is not a one size fits all model. Our approach ensures you will receive the treatment that is right for you. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or current life challenges, you don't have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe and warm therapeutic environment that makes you comfortable sharing.
(202) 642-6661 View (202) 642-6661
Photo of Tamara L Burke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Tamara L Burke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you feeling stuck and can't seem to find your way out? Let me guess, you've tried therapy before and it just wasn't the right fit. Well, you have come to the right place. Burke Wellness & Consulting (BW&C) is here to help.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you feeling stuck and can't seem to find your way out? Let me guess, you've tried therapy before and it just wasn't the right fit. Well, you have come to the right place. Burke Wellness & Consulting (BW&C) is here to help.
(202) 831-1641 View (202) 831-1641
Photo of Nina Boyd, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Nina Boyd
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002
I am a strong believer in therapy being a collaborative, healing, and restorative experience. As Pema Chödrön once said, “Let difficulty transform you. And it will. In my experience, we just need help in learning how to not run away.” But that’s easier said than done – what are the steps to getting to a better place? Where do you even start? You are not alone in this journey. I take great pride in building a therapeutic connection and a safe space for you to be your genuine self so that you may find that resiliency within.
I am a strong believer in therapy being a collaborative, healing, and restorative experience. As Pema Chödrön once said, “Let difficulty transform you. And it will. In my experience, we just need help in learning how to not run away.” But that’s easier said than done – what are the steps to getting to a better place? Where do you even start? You are not alone in this journey. I take great pride in building a therapeutic connection and a safe space for you to be your genuine self so that you may find that resiliency within.
(443) 665-8295 View (443) 665-8295

Online Therapists

Photo of Mindology Counseling and Wellness Center in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Mindology Counseling and Wellness Center
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20024
our trained therapist use Play Therapy to help children with social or emotional deficits learn to communicate better, change their behavior develop problem-solving skills, and relate to others in positive ways.
IF YOU HAVE BEEN FEELING: Worried about future; Stressed about work; Discouraged and not motivated for life; Feeling I am not good enough; Feeling lost, loneliness, hopeless, and confused...WE WILL HELP YOU FEEL: Fulfilled life with purpose and joy; Ready for whatever life obstacles are ahead of you; Connected with the people who you are close to! You have been struggling for some time with negative thoughts and feelings that just won't seem to go away. You are in the right place. We can help! Mindology is a professional and licensed private counseling practice that is specialized in treatment for Trauma, Substance Abuse and other mental/behavioral disorders, in order to empower and help our clients to overcome day-to-day life challenges; achieve personal goals and improve the qualities of life.
our trained therapist use Play Therapy to help children with social or emotional deficits learn to communicate better, change their behavior develop problem-solving skills, and relate to others in positive ways.
IF YOU HAVE BEEN FEELING: Worried about future; Stressed about work; Discouraged and not motivated for life; Feeling I am not good enough; Feeling lost, loneliness, hopeless, and confused...WE WILL HELP YOU FEEL: Fulfilled life with purpose and joy; Ready for whatever life obstacles are ahead of you; Connected with the people who you are close to! You have been struggling for some time with negative thoughts and feelings that just won't seem to go away. You are in the right place. We can help! Mindology is a professional and licensed private counseling practice that is specialized in treatment for Trauma, Substance Abuse and other mental/behavioral disorders, in order to empower and help our clients to overcome day-to-day life challenges; achieve personal goals and improve the qualities of life.
(301) 701-2481 View (301) 701-2481
Photo of Xanthia Bianca Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Xanthia Bianca Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
My clinical areas of specialization and interest include but are not limited to: Women & Women of Color Issues, Urban Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Sandtray Therapy, Grief & Loss, LGBTQ+ Folk, TF-CBT, Broad Spectrum Couples & Family Work.
Everyone deserves a chance to become their best selves. During defining transitions, I provide a safe place for you to be who you are. Whether you are 2 years old or 85 years young, you will enjoy a transformative experience. I know DC Metro folk and am experienced in the nuanced issues they face. If you are in a proactive self-seeking stanz, I can help you discover the panacea for which your heart has always desired. Thank you for considering me to be apart of your journey. I look forward to meeting you.
My clinical areas of specialization and interest include but are not limited to: Women & Women of Color Issues, Urban Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Sandtray Therapy, Grief & Loss, LGBTQ+ Folk, TF-CBT, Broad Spectrum Couples & Family Work.
Everyone deserves a chance to become their best selves. During defining transitions, I provide a safe place for you to be who you are. Whether you are 2 years old or 85 years young, you will enjoy a transformative experience. I know DC Metro folk and am experienced in the nuanced issues they face. If you are in a proactive self-seeking stanz, I can help you discover the panacea for which your heart has always desired. Thank you for considering me to be apart of your journey. I look forward to meeting you.
(240) 949-4168 View (240) 949-4168
Photo of Elissa Gross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Elissa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
I am trained in expressive arts therapy, sandtray, and play therapy modalities that I can utilize in our sessions.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
I am trained in expressive arts therapy, sandtray, and play therapy modalities that I can utilize in our sessions.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
(202) 831-0229 View (202) 831-0229
Photo of Dr. LaNail R. Plummer, Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Dr. LaNail R. Plummer
Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20045
I specialize in following therapies: cognitive-behavioral, play, solutions-focused & strengths based.
Accepting new clients- Life is hard. Most of us want to think that it gets easier but that only occurs when our skills (emotional, mental, physical, spiritual) improve. Therapy is the perfect place to learn and practice new skills while getting the encouragement to make it through life's toughest moments. And I am ready for you. I work with all clients and specialize in the Black/Brown communities, LGBTQ population, couples, and adolescents. I value intersectionality, solutions-focused work, and holistic practices.
I specialize in following therapies: cognitive-behavioral, play, solutions-focused & strengths based.
Accepting new clients- Life is hard. Most of us want to think that it gets easier but that only occurs when our skills (emotional, mental, physical, spiritual) improve. Therapy is the perfect place to learn and practice new skills while getting the encouragement to make it through life's toughest moments. And I am ready for you. I work with all clients and specialize in the Black/Brown communities, LGBTQ population, couples, and adolescents. I value intersectionality, solutions-focused work, and holistic practices.
(202) 803-8556 View (202) 803-8556
Photo of Sammi Rosenfeld, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Sammi Rosenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, DC LPC, MD LCPC, MSEd, CCTP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Waitlist for new clients
I am a mental health and school counselor passionate about supporting the growth of children and young adults. I am experienced with both school-age children, young adults, and adults. I have also spent a lifetime in the world of professional dance and the creative arts. My experience in dance and the body highly influences my therapeutic lens. I view integration of body and mind through multi-sensory modalities as integral to client growth. I take an integrative approach to my work; in one session we may talk, play, draw, explore the sand tray, or move. Some moments may be more directive and some may be client-led.
I am a mental health and school counselor passionate about supporting the growth of children and young adults. I am experienced with both school-age children, young adults, and adults. I have also spent a lifetime in the world of professional dance and the creative arts. My experience in dance and the body highly influences my therapeutic lens. I view integration of body and mind through multi-sensory modalities as integral to client growth. I take an integrative approach to my work; in one session we may talk, play, draw, explore the sand tray, or move. Some moments may be more directive and some may be client-led.
(202) 935-7358 View (202) 935-7358
Photo of Tiffani Boykin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Tiffani Boykin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, LCPC, RYT200, IARP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
If you are slow to warm up to, I offer a number of options including expressive art and play therapy approaches.
I believe in the infinite potential within each individual. My approach is grounded in humanism, evidenced based interventions, and the wholistic wellness model.. As a therapist I consider physical, environmental, social, and spiritual factors in addition to emotional and mental issues contributing to presenting concerns.
If you are slow to warm up to, I offer a number of options including expressive art and play therapy approaches.
I believe in the infinite potential within each individual. My approach is grounded in humanism, evidenced based interventions, and the wholistic wellness model.. As a therapist I consider physical, environmental, social, and spiritual factors in addition to emotional and mental issues contributing to presenting concerns.
(202) 759-2447 View (202) 759-2447
Photo of Hannah Guidry in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Hannah Guidry
LICSW, CNA, HFRM
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
My training includes Play therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and mindfulness practices.
Life can be really hard at times; however, therapy can help. I listen non-judgmentally and empathetically. Together, we can think through possibilities and options for change in your life. I use cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches to help you strengthen and develop your own life skills.
My training includes Play therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and mindfulness practices.
Life can be really hard at times; however, therapy can help. I listen non-judgmentally and empathetically. Together, we can think through possibilities and options for change in your life. I use cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches to help you strengthen and develop your own life skills.
View
Photo of Erica Cornelius, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Erica Cornelius
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20374
I utilize evidence based modalities of therapy including CBT, EMDR, IFS, and play therapy.
Are you overwhelmed by work/school stressors? Feeling trapped in the continuous loop of anxious thoughts? Responsibilities and juggling many hats is hard. Having anxiety or depression, a mood disorder, or managing ADHD symptoms can make things more complicated. If you're struggling with negative thinking or unhelpful behaviors, I would love to hear from you to see how I can help. These are the kinds of clients I help gain self compassion and acceptance. You can move towards your goals by first understanding your patterns of thinking and acting. Gain new tools and strategies to be a healthier and happier you.
I utilize evidence based modalities of therapy including CBT, EMDR, IFS, and play therapy.
Are you overwhelmed by work/school stressors? Feeling trapped in the continuous loop of anxious thoughts? Responsibilities and juggling many hats is hard. Having anxiety or depression, a mood disorder, or managing ADHD symptoms can make things more complicated. If you're struggling with negative thinking or unhelpful behaviors, I would love to hear from you to see how I can help. These are the kinds of clients I help gain self compassion and acceptance. You can move towards your goals by first understanding your patterns of thinking and acting. Gain new tools and strategies to be a healthier and happier you.
(703) 215-1121 View (703) 215-1121
Photo of Cathy Eisenhower, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Cathy Eisenhower
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I have advanced training in play therapy and parent-child therapy for caregivers and their infants or young children, as well as in psychoanalytic psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children.
The key to successful therapy is a relationship with a caring, nonjudgmental therapist there to respond sensitively and patiently to whatever comes up. In my work, I offer that to my clients, as we collaborate in developing an understanding of your emotional states and how they drive your thoughts and actions. We’ll learn together what you need to strengthen and grow. My work with children and adolescents informs my understanding of development over the life span, and how those relationships and experiences that shape us are alive in the present moment.
I have advanced training in play therapy and parent-child therapy for caregivers and their infants or young children, as well as in psychoanalytic psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children.
The key to successful therapy is a relationship with a caring, nonjudgmental therapist there to respond sensitively and patiently to whatever comes up. In my work, I offer that to my clients, as we collaborate in developing an understanding of your emotional states and how they drive your thoughts and actions. We’ll learn together what you need to strengthen and grow. My work with children and adolescents informs my understanding of development over the life span, and how those relationships and experiences that shape us are alive in the present moment.
(202) 318-3958 View (202) 318-3958

See more therapy options for Capitol Hill, Washington

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.