Photo of Kara M. Kang, LCPC, MS
Kara M. Kang
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706
Kara is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She graduated from Boise State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Health Promotions and went on to receive a Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling with an emphasis in EMDR Therapy and Play Therapy.
Kara is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She graduated from Boise State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Health Promotions and went on to receive a Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling with an emphasis in EMDR Therapy and Play Therapy.
(208) 960-6324 View (208) 960-6324
Photo of Paisley Rose Cummings, LCSW, RPT-S, EMDRCIT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paisley Rose Cummings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, EMDRCIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pocatello, ID 83201
Every person is unique and complex in their own ways so I use an integrative approach and utilize evidence-based models, including EMDR, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and IFS (parts-work), among others.
I believe there is always hope for the future because we are all capable of change, growth, and healing, despite challenging life circumstances. We are the experts of our own lives and have an innate ability to heal, given the right resources and tools. I believe in a collaborative approach while discovering and/or rediscovering our inherent strengths, potential, and resiliency. I am committed to making therapy a safe environment where you are free to be your authentic, vulnerable, and true self, in order to move to a greater sense of wholeness.
Every person is unique and complex in their own ways so I use an integrative approach and utilize evidence-based models, including EMDR, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and IFS (parts-work), among others.
I believe there is always hope for the future because we are all capable of change, growth, and healing, despite challenging life circumstances. We are the experts of our own lives and have an innate ability to heal, given the right resources and tools. I believe in a collaborative approach while discovering and/or rediscovering our inherent strengths, potential, and resiliency. I am committed to making therapy a safe environment where you are free to be your authentic, vulnerable, and true self, in order to move to a greater sense of wholeness.
(208) 670-8583 View (208) 670-8583
Photo of Aimee Christensen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aimee Christensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Aimee specializes in sand tray, play therapy, anxiety and depression, and LGBTQIA issues.
Aimee is a psychotherapist, educator, group facilitator, and mentor. She was selected as a fellow for the National Board of Certified Counselors for one year, which she was extensively trained in many areas pertaining to different minority groups. Aimee developed a strong awareness of the needs and development of children and teens through a decade of being a teacher. Aimee’s approach to counseling focuses on mindfulness, self-compassion, sand tray, EMDR and internal family systems. Aimee creates a safe therapeutic setting for every client using a variety of therapeutic approaches and collaborating with clients.
Aimee specializes in sand tray, play therapy, anxiety and depression, and LGBTQIA issues.
Aimee is a psychotherapist, educator, group facilitator, and mentor. She was selected as a fellow for the National Board of Certified Counselors for one year, which she was extensively trained in many areas pertaining to different minority groups. Aimee developed a strong awareness of the needs and development of children and teens through a decade of being a teacher. Aimee’s approach to counseling focuses on mindfulness, self-compassion, sand tray, EMDR and internal family systems. Aimee creates a safe therapeutic setting for every client using a variety of therapeutic approaches and collaborating with clients.
(208) 826-1640 View (208) 826-1640
Photo of Joy Kaplan-Rood, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joy Kaplan-Rood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
Emphasis: Play Therapy, Grief and Loss, currently hold a certificate of Professional & Advanced studies in Adlerian Psychology.
I hold a master degree in Clinical Counseling. I also have training and years of experience within the area of: Play Therapy Strategies and Techniques in working with children. I use a variety of play therapy interventions and differing theoretical orientations in my approach to helping clients. I predominantly work with children and adolescence of all ages, and also have experience in working with couples and families.
Emphasis: Play Therapy, Grief and Loss, currently hold a certificate of Professional & Advanced studies in Adlerian Psychology.
I hold a master degree in Clinical Counseling. I also have training and years of experience within the area of: Play Therapy Strategies and Techniques in working with children. I use a variety of play therapy interventions and differing theoretical orientations in my approach to helping clients. I predominantly work with children and adolescence of all ages, and also have experience in working with couples and families.
(208) 357-9385 View (208) 357-9385
Photo of Luis Javier Cortez, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Luis Javier Cortez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
Through the use of Faith based therapy, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy or sand tray, I am confident the help you are looking for is attainable by simply walking through my doors.
Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been called to serve and help others navigate their way through this journey called life. I have plenty of years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I would classify myself as an eclectic individual and approach situations from various lenses. I do however, specialize in trauma informed care. I am EMDR trained and believe in meeting people where they are, providing unconditional positive regard and finding congruence within each story. I have experience working with depression, addiction, anxiety, couples, family systems, children and much more.
Through the use of Faith based therapy, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy or sand tray, I am confident the help you are looking for is attainable by simply walking through my doors.
Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been called to serve and help others navigate their way through this journey called life. I have plenty of years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I would classify myself as an eclectic individual and approach situations from various lenses. I do however, specialize in trauma informed care. I am EMDR trained and believe in meeting people where they are, providing unconditional positive regard and finding congruence within each story. I have experience working with depression, addiction, anxiety, couples, family systems, children and much more.
(208) 914-6256 View (208) 914-6256
Photo of Julie A Carlson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie A Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
Children will often dis play their anxiety and stress at home through outbursts, fighting, meltdowns, or isolating themselves.
Julie believes everyone has the ability to heal and thrive in their personal relationships. Julie specializes in non-directive play therapy which is a unique treatment that allows children the freedom to express inner feelings, encourages positive change and enhances their inner strengths. Experience demonstrates children have the ability to work through complex issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, divorce and abuse when given the proper tools to do so. Julie provides a safe, validating, and mindful environment where children can dis play their concerns and challenging emotions using sand tray and play therapy.
Children will often dis play their anxiety and stress at home through outbursts, fighting, meltdowns, or isolating themselves.
Julie believes everyone has the ability to heal and thrive in their personal relationships. Julie specializes in non-directive play therapy which is a unique treatment that allows children the freedom to express inner feelings, encourages positive change and enhances their inner strengths. Experience demonstrates children have the ability to work through complex issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, divorce and abuse when given the proper tools to do so. Julie provides a safe, validating, and mindful environment where children can dis play their concerns and challenging emotions using sand tray and play therapy.
(986) 345-3094 View (986) 345-3094
Photo of Justine Herbert, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justine Herbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
Waitlist for new clients
Justine is EMDR trained, Somatic Experiencing,(SEP yr 1), Polyvagal Theory, uses Play/sand tray therapy, Family systems & attachment theory.
Justine is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who works with children, families, & adults. She has much experience with diverse cultures and beliefs. With not only a background in resolving issues related to trauma, anxiety, interpersonal and relational issues, Justine meets her clients with kindness, compassion and understanding. She also often provides psycho-education on conditions and teaches all types of tools for people experiencing PTSD, ADHD, Neurodiverse populations, Anxiety/Depression, life transitions and beyond.
Justine is EMDR trained, Somatic Experiencing,(SEP yr 1), Polyvagal Theory, uses Play/sand tray therapy, Family systems & attachment theory.
Justine is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who works with children, families, & adults. She has much experience with diverse cultures and beliefs. With not only a background in resolving issues related to trauma, anxiety, interpersonal and relational issues, Justine meets her clients with kindness, compassion and understanding. She also often provides psycho-education on conditions and teaches all types of tools for people experiencing PTSD, ADHD, Neurodiverse populations, Anxiety/Depression, life transitions and beyond.
(208) 449-0244 View (208) 449-0244
Photo of Erika Moe, LCPC, Counselor
Erika Moe
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
Welcome to Erika Moe Counseling, LLC! I have been a mental health therapist in Idaho for more than 7 years. I graduated from Northwest Nazarene University in 2016 and began working with children in the Treasure Valley that same year. In 2019, I became a Registered Play Therapist.
Welcome to Erika Moe Counseling, LLC! I have been a mental health therapist in Idaho for more than 7 years. I graduated from Northwest Nazarene University in 2016 and began working with children in the Treasure Valley that same year. In 2019, I became a Registered Play Therapist.
(208) 231-3926 View (208) 231-3926
Photo of Frankie Diane Larsen - Larsen Counseling (Frankie Larsen, LCSW, RPT), LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larsen Counseling (Frankie Larsen, LCSW, RPT)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fruitland, ID 83619
As part of a collaborative therapeutic relationship, I often integrate Play Therapy (including Aut Play) and Accelerated Resolution Trauma Therapy in my sessions.
As an In-Home Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand that the storms of life can impact every one of us at one time or another. Whether you are 1 or 101, life transitions and difficult circumstances can leave you feeling anxious, depressed, scared, isolated, and powerless, robbing you of a hopeful future. Functioning under these circumstances can make it difficult to reach out for help. Whether you have a child who is struggling with major life changes, or you yourself are dealing with the loss of a loved one or another form of complex trauma, you do not need to go through these experiences alone.
As part of a collaborative therapeutic relationship, I often integrate Play Therapy (including Aut Play) and Accelerated Resolution Trauma Therapy in my sessions.
As an In-Home Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand that the storms of life can impact every one of us at one time or another. Whether you are 1 or 101, life transitions and difficult circumstances can leave you feeling anxious, depressed, scared, isolated, and powerless, robbing you of a hopeful future. Functioning under these circumstances can make it difficult to reach out for help. Whether you have a child who is struggling with major life changes, or you yourself are dealing with the loss of a loved one or another form of complex trauma, you do not need to go through these experiences alone.
(208) 273-8539 View (208) 273-8539
Photo of Jennifer Richards, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704
I use a combination of family therapy, individual play therapy, and parent coaching.
Welcome to Caterpillar Counseling where there is beauty in transformation. My name is Jennifer Richards, although most people call me Jenny. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Play Therapist. I am here to support children and families on their healing journey whether having experienced Trauma or other various issues that arise within families today. Developmentally children have a specific set of abilities and needs when it comes to coping with life stressors. I believe in the therapeutic power of play and the impact it can have on creating lasting change for children.
I use a combination of family therapy, individual play therapy, and parent coaching.
Welcome to Caterpillar Counseling where there is beauty in transformation. My name is Jennifer Richards, although most people call me Jenny. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Play Therapist. I am here to support children and families on their healing journey whether having experienced Trauma or other various issues that arise within families today. Developmentally children have a specific set of abilities and needs when it comes to coping with life stressors. I believe in the therapeutic power of play and the impact it can have on creating lasting change for children.
(208) 742-2759 View (208) 742-2759
Photo of Tandice C Peterson, LCPC, CCTP, CCTHP, SSP, AAI, Counselor
Tandice C Peterson
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CCTHP, SSP, AAI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pocatello, ID 83201
My primary theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and animal assisted therapy. However I also utilize theories such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Adlerian Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the use of books, Art Therapy, sand Tray Therapy, Play therapy and attachment therapy. I'm certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Tandice has knowledge and experience working with children and families struggling with sibling and parent conflict issues. Anxiety disorders, depression disorders, PTSD, Bi-Polar, Domestic Violence, Relationship issues, self-esteem and identity issues are also areas of expertise.
My primary theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and animal assisted therapy. However I also utilize theories such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Adlerian Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the use of books, Art Therapy, sand Tray Therapy, Play therapy and attachment therapy. I'm certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Tandice has knowledge and experience working with children and families struggling with sibling and parent conflict issues. Anxiety disorders, depression disorders, PTSD, Bi-Polar, Domestic Violence, Relationship issues, self-esteem and identity issues are also areas of expertise.
(208) 487-5398 View (208) 487-5398
Photo of Sherie Ann Flagg - Inner Light Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Light Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soda Springs, ID 83276
I help children heal from past abuse and neglect using Child Centered Play Therapy.
It has been said that if you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life. I truly love helping children, teens, and adults work through trauma, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal relationships, beginning with the relationship with self. I believe that everyone has infinite worth and value. Using the client as the expert of their own life, I assist in healing and growth, increasing your ability to heal and thrive with what life presents.
I help children heal from past abuse and neglect using Child Centered Play Therapy.
It has been said that if you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life. I truly love helping children, teens, and adults work through trauma, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal relationships, beginning with the relationship with self. I believe that everyone has infinite worth and value. Using the client as the expert of their own life, I assist in healing and growth, increasing your ability to heal and thrive with what life presents.
(435) 363-3636 View (435) 363-3636
Photo of Jill Weadick, LCPC, Counselor
Jill Weadick
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
With children I use a treatment modality of nondirective play therapy.
Hi my name is Jill and I have over 25 years of counseling experience. I have worked with people of all ages treating them for a variety of mental health issues. Currently, I prefer to work with children and adults. My training is focused on helping people heal from the many experiences and issues of life including depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, attachment disorders, suicidal ideation, domestic violence, addiction, divorce, transitions, and grief and loss issues. I have extensive training and experience in treating all of these issues and more. Creating a trusted relationship with my clients is very important to me.
With children I use a treatment modality of nondirective play therapy.
Hi my name is Jill and I have over 25 years of counseling experience. I have worked with people of all ages treating them for a variety of mental health issues. Currently, I prefer to work with children and adults. My training is focused on helping people heal from the many experiences and issues of life including depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, attachment disorders, suicidal ideation, domestic violence, addiction, divorce, transitions, and grief and loss issues. I have extensive training and experience in treating all of these issues and more. Creating a trusted relationship with my clients is very important to me.
(986) 766-4445 View (986) 766-4445
Photo of Elena Marchesan Lopez, MS, LCPC, NCC, CRC, Counselor
Elena Marchesan Lopez
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704  (Online Only)
Elena is experienced working with individuals on the Autism spectrum, and has a passion for transition youth at risk. With strength-based interventions she hopes to empower her clients to their fullest potential; adding in play therapy, somatic approaches to foster an engaging and accepting therapeutic environment. With the four languages she speaks, she hopes to continue to bring access to counseling services to various communities in need by proving Telehealth to clients living in rural areas.
Elena is experienced working with individuals on the Autism spectrum, and has a passion for transition youth at risk. With strength-based interventions she hopes to empower her clients to their fullest potential; adding in play therapy, somatic approaches to foster an engaging and accepting therapeutic environment. With the four languages she speaks, she hopes to continue to bring access to counseling services to various communities in need by proving Telehealth to clients living in rural areas.
(208) 506-2520 View (208) 506-2520
Photo of Jennifer Browning - Family Counseling Services, LPC, LCPC, Interns, Counselor
Family Counseling Services
Counselor, LPC, LCPC, Interns
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
Counselors at both our Boise and Meridian site offer play therapy, family, and individual counseling.
Creating lasting positive changes in marriages, families, and individuals through compassionate, ethical relationships based in resiliency and recovery. We have licensed counselors as well as graduate level interns with sessions starting at just $20. We accept most major insurances as well as Medicaid! We have 2 sites to accommodate your location, in Meridian and in Boise. We are also offering telehealth sessions based on clients' request.
Counselors at both our Boise and Meridian site offer play therapy, family, and individual counseling.
Creating lasting positive changes in marriages, families, and individuals through compassionate, ethical relationships based in resiliency and recovery. We have licensed counselors as well as graduate level interns with sessions starting at just $20. We accept most major insurances as well as Medicaid! We have 2 sites to accommodate your location, in Meridian and in Boise. We are also offering telehealth sessions based on clients' request.
(208) 888-5905 View (208) 888-5905
Photo of Becky Johnson - Compass Solutions, PLLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Compass Solutions, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nampa, ID 83651
We use a multitude of techniques including EMDR, CBT, talk or play therapy to help you in ways unique to you.
If you are struggling and need help with depression, anxiety, fear, guilt, shame, trauma, etc. and want to heal, find peace, and a sense of a whole you, We can help you. Our team is trained in multiple ways to help each unique person, especially if trauma is involved in your story.
We use a multitude of techniques including EMDR, CBT, talk or play therapy to help you in ways unique to you.
If you are struggling and need help with depression, anxiety, fear, guilt, shame, trauma, etc. and want to heal, find peace, and a sense of a whole you, We can help you. Our team is trained in multiple ways to help each unique person, especially if trauma is involved in your story.
(208) 213-8148 View (208) 213-8148
Photo of Gail I Peterson, LCPC, RPT-S, Counselor
Gail I Peterson
Counselor, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nampa, ID 83687
Waitlist for new clients
I offer traditional talk therapy, the Gottman Method for couples counseling, EMDR, Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for those who have experienced trauma real or perceived, hypnotherapy to assist client's with anxiety, depression, pain, and self-esteem issues, PLAY THERAPY to assist the client with healing and Filial Therapy for parents.
Life can be difficult with the many challenges we face. Each person is unique and a trial for one may be easy, yet for another, difficult. We all have different perceptions, understandings, communication patterns, and disappointments in life. It can be helpful to seek assistance in navigating the rough storms of life. Whether you are an adult, child, or teen experiences symptoms of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, parenting problems or couple or family difficulties. I look forward to working with you by assisting and supporting you through the challenges you are facing in life past or present.
I offer traditional talk therapy, the Gottman Method for couples counseling, EMDR, Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for those who have experienced trauma real or perceived, hypnotherapy to assist client's with anxiety, depression, pain, and self-esteem issues, PLAY THERAPY to assist the client with healing and Filial Therapy for parents.
Life can be difficult with the many challenges we face. Each person is unique and a trial for one may be easy, yet for another, difficult. We all have different perceptions, understandings, communication patterns, and disappointments in life. It can be helpful to seek assistance in navigating the rough storms of life. Whether you are an adult, child, or teen experiences symptoms of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, parenting problems or couple or family difficulties. I look forward to working with you by assisting and supporting you through the challenges you are facing in life past or present.
(208) 547-6990 View (208) 547-6990
Photo of Aileen Roberts, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aileen Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
I have worked extensively for the past ten years with individuals who have various mental health diagnosis. I enjoy working with families/couples in finding a resolve to the struggles we face daily as well as with children who are living with unresolved past traumas. I love working with children utilizing play therapy techniques and watch them begin their healing process. I offer EMDR for treating past traumas, anxiety and depression both with children and adults. Additionally, I offer online only affordable treatment subscriptions for those who don't have insurance or have catastrophic type insurance. Call office for details.
I have worked extensively for the past ten years with individuals who have various mental health diagnosis. I enjoy working with families/couples in finding a resolve to the struggles we face daily as well as with children who are living with unresolved past traumas. I love working with children utilizing play therapy techniques and watch them begin their healing process. I offer EMDR for treating past traumas, anxiety and depression both with children and adults. Additionally, I offer online only affordable treatment subscriptions for those who don't have insurance or have catastrophic type insurance. Call office for details.
(208) 874-4102 View (208) 874-4102
Photo of Dan Martin Hooley, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Dan Martin Hooley
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Star, ID 83669
Waitlist for new clients
As a counselor that utilizes person-centered and play therapy modalities I believe in creating a safe place that allows clients to explore their world and find solutions that work for them.
I am gifted in working with children, teens and adults especially those struggling with grief, trauma, parental separations, and anxiety. I believe kids/people are resilient in dealing with these events if given the opportunity to do so. Children/teens often just need the unencumbered help of an empathetic adult, I offer this through play therapy sessions. I also work with adults in navigating issues such as anger, grief, parenting, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
As a counselor that utilizes person-centered and play therapy modalities I believe in creating a safe place that allows clients to explore their world and find solutions that work for them.
I am gifted in working with children, teens and adults especially those struggling with grief, trauma, parental separations, and anxiety. I believe kids/people are resilient in dealing with these events if given the opportunity to do so. Children/teens often just need the unencumbered help of an empathetic adult, I offer this through play therapy sessions. I also work with adults in navigating issues such as anger, grief, parenting, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(208) 505-9441 View (208) 505-9441
Photo of Shanell Wallentine, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanell Wallentine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
My training includes an emphasis in Play Therapy and specialization in Sand Tray.
Sometimes it can be difficult to navigate the challenges in life. You may be feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, and alone. Whether you are struggling with a current situation or something from the past that is showing up and causing distress, you will be met with compassion and empathy as we work together to find solutions that help you meet the challenges in your life.
My training includes an emphasis in Play Therapy and specialization in Sand Tray.
Sometimes it can be difficult to navigate the challenges in life. You may be feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, and alone. Whether you are struggling with a current situation or something from the past that is showing up and causing distress, you will be met with compassion and empathy as we work together to find solutions that help you meet the challenges in your life.
(208) 487-4249 View (208) 487-4249
1
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.