Play Therapy in Jasper County, IL

There are no results for therapists in Jasper County

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Illinois below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Deanna Morelli, LCPC, Counselor
Deanna Morelli
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Also, when engaging in play therapy with children, I enjoy using musical expression which can be implemented into sessions.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with advanced experience in marriage and family counseling. For nearly a decade, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in a variety of settings and circumstances. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, whether that is working with individuals, families, or couples. My focus is to work with my clients to identify their individual needs, and establish goals that not only assist in meeting those needs, but that celebrate the strengths and gifts that already exist in them.
Also, when engaging in play therapy with children, I enjoy using musical expression which can be implemented into sessions.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with advanced experience in marriage and family counseling. For nearly a decade, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in a variety of settings and circumstances. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, whether that is working with individuals, families, or couples. My focus is to work with my clients to identify their individual needs, and establish goals that not only assist in meeting those needs, but that celebrate the strengths and gifts that already exist in them.
(866) 420-3256 View (866) 420-3256
Photo of Rachel Stewart, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Children express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through play.
Now accepting new clients! I have a passion for working with children who have been through trauma, and who struggle with maladaptive behaviors, anxiety, ADHD, & relational issues. I also work with parents to build knowledge, communication, & a plan that works for both child & parent.
Children express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through play.
Now accepting new clients! I have a passion for working with children who have been through trauma, and who struggle with maladaptive behaviors, anxiety, ADHD, & relational issues. I also work with parents to build knowledge, communication, & a plan that works for both child & parent.
(217) 965-8350 View (217) 965-8350
Photo of Alexandra Stromidlo, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexandra Stromidlo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Du Quoin, IL 62832
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
(618) 740-3675 View (618) 740-3675
Photo of Ariel Warner, MA, QMHP, LPC, Counselor
Ariel Warner
Counselor, MA, QMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
While my overall view of therapy most closely aligns with RCT, I also utilize CBT, person-centered, and play therapy tools in my sessions in order to best fit my clients’ needs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. I have provided counseling services in a variety of different settings including community mental health, university, and private practice. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and young adults surrounding difficulties with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, and ADHD symptoms.
While my overall view of therapy most closely aligns with RCT, I also utilize CBT, person-centered, and play therapy tools in my sessions in order to best fit my clients’ needs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. I have provided counseling services in a variety of different settings including community mental health, university, and private practice. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and young adults surrounding difficulties with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, and ADHD symptoms.
(217) 773-5783 View (217) 773-5783
Photo of Matthew Tansy, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matthew Tansy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Danville, IL 61832
In my practice, I primarily adopt a person-centered approach, supplemented with techniques from solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness exercises, and other counseling theories to cater to the unique needs of each client. I am skilled in various play therapy techniques suitable for all ages, such as sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral play therapy, and creative expression.
In my practice, I primarily adopt a person-centered approach, supplemented with techniques from solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness exercises, and other counseling theories to cater to the unique needs of each client. I am skilled in various play therapy techniques suitable for all ages, such as sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral play therapy, and creative expression.
(217) 833-8669 View (217) 833-8669
Photo of Alexandra Stromidlo, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexandra Stromidlo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
(618) 740-3901 View (618) 740-3901
Photo of Emily M Young, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily M Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
I have experience working with a wide variety of age groups and a diverse population of people. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families, treating anxiety, life adjustments, chronic illness, problems at school and life transitions. I mainly work with CBT but also incorporate play therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness.
I have experience working with a wide variety of age groups and a diverse population of people. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families, treating anxiety, life adjustments, chronic illness, problems at school and life transitions. I mainly work with CBT but also incorporate play therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness.
(217) 908-8905 View (217) 908-8905
Photo of Sierra Larson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sierra Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mascoutah, IL 62258
Hi! I am Sierra Larson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with all age groups in areas such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress. I use a variety of treatments such as CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, Play, Solution-Focused, and Strength-Based Practices to help you become who you want to become. I believe in growth, change, and that anyone is capable of making their life what they want it to be with some help.
Hi! I am Sierra Larson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with all age groups in areas such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress. I use a variety of treatments such as CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, Play, Solution-Focused, and Strength-Based Practices to help you become who you want to become. I believe in growth, change, and that anyone is capable of making their life what they want it to be with some help.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Evonne Stephenson, MS, LCPC
Evonne Stephenson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
(618) 740-3607 x1 View (618) 740-3607 x1
Photo of Laura Adamgbo, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Adamgbo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alton, IL 62002
I'm a child and adolescent therapist and use play therapy in session with younger clients.
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
I'm a child and adolescent therapist and use play therapy in session with younger clients.
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
(314) 925-1850 View (314) 925-1850
Photo of Evonne Stephenson, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evonne Stephenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
(618) 984-6872 x1 View (618) 984-6872 x1
Photo of Brandy Anderson Murray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy Anderson Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62223
I also have years of experience working with children utilizing play therapy.
My name is Brandy Murray, and I am so glad you're here. You deserve to be seen, heard and validated. You have a unique life experience that plays into your entire being and goals. I’m here to offer compassionate guidance and unconditional support, in a nonjudgmental, open and affirming atmosphere.
I also have years of experience working with children utilizing play therapy.
My name is Brandy Murray, and I am so glad you're here. You deserve to be seen, heard and validated. You have a unique life experience that plays into your entire being and goals. I’m here to offer compassionate guidance and unconditional support, in a nonjudgmental, open and affirming atmosphere.
(618) 787-1972 View (618) 787-1972
Photo of Ghada Abdalla, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ghada Abdalla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822
She integrates a variety of evidence-based therapies such as CBT, TF-CBT, ACT, play therapy, and psychoanalysis.
Ghada works with you to better your sense of awareness and focuses on bettering relationships and connections in your life. She is certified in II LEND (Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities). Specializing in major mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Ghada has extensive experience with family/children therapy.
She integrates a variety of evidence-based therapies such as CBT, TF-CBT, ACT, play therapy, and psychoanalysis.
Ghada works with you to better your sense of awareness and focuses on bettering relationships and connections in your life. She is certified in II LEND (Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities). Specializing in major mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Ghada has extensive experience with family/children therapy.
(217) 687-1326 View (217) 687-1326
Photo of Kathrin Alexandra Simac, MA, LCPC
Kathrin Alexandra Simac
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, IL 62062
I practice EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT and Child Play Interaction Therapy.
Life can be difficult and hard to navigate, but I believe that we all have the strength and resilience to grow, change, and live a more fulfilling life. As a therapist, I believe that the self- work you do will echo throughout every part of your life. I meet people where they are and walk alongside them to where they want to be. It is important for me to create a space for you to feel comfortable, and open. My goals are to help you reach your goals in a supportive, empathic and compassionate space where you feel safe.
I practice EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT and Child Play Interaction Therapy.
Life can be difficult and hard to navigate, but I believe that we all have the strength and resilience to grow, change, and live a more fulfilling life. As a therapist, I believe that the self- work you do will echo throughout every part of your life. I meet people where they are and walk alongside them to where they want to be. It is important for me to create a space for you to feel comfortable, and open. My goals are to help you reach your goals in a supportive, empathic and compassionate space where you feel safe.
(618) 701-3688 View (618) 701-3688
Photo of Laura D Williams, LPC, CCTP , Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura D Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Forsyth, IL 62535
I utilize somatics, play therapy, sand tray, nature therapy, and other evidence-based, trauma-informed interventions.
My clients are individuals, couples, and families, of all ages and backgrounds seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, simple- and complex- PTSD, struggling identities, chronic stress, family wounds, and parental conflicts; I offer a safe space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I utilize somatics, play therapy, sand tray, nature therapy, and other evidence-based, trauma-informed interventions.
My clients are individuals, couples, and families, of all ages and backgrounds seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, simple- and complex- PTSD, struggling identities, chronic stress, family wounds, and parental conflicts; I offer a safe space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(217) 749-1285 View (217) 749-1285
Photo of Kelsey Langley, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelsey Langley
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
With a background in supporting children through their play, it is my hope to bring a playful energy to therapy.
Welcome, you've found a soft landing space with a caring therapist ready to walk with you on your healing journey. I bring a person-centered approach to therapy, believing the best in everyone and trusting in their capacity for positive change and development. Using this relational approach allows me to see clients beyond their diagnoses and support them in personally meaningful ways. I look forward to holding a safe container for my clients in which they can reconnect to their bodies, find support and co-regulation, and learn new skills that will help each individual on their journey.
With a background in supporting children through their play, it is my hope to bring a playful energy to therapy.
Welcome, you've found a soft landing space with a caring therapist ready to walk with you on your healing journey. I bring a person-centered approach to therapy, believing the best in everyone and trusting in their capacity for positive change and development. Using this relational approach allows me to see clients beyond their diagnoses and support them in personally meaningful ways. I look forward to holding a safe container for my clients in which they can reconnect to their bodies, find support and co-regulation, and learn new skills that will help each individual on their journey.
(217) 360-7921 View (217) 360-7921
Photo of Anna Asplund, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Asplund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
While I am comfortable using a variety of therapeutic modalities, I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed practices, and child-centered play therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, received in 2018. I have worked in social services since 2014 in a variety of settings, including residential treatment, community mental health, and private practice. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults as they cope with a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, trauma, grief, and religious transitions.
While I am comfortable using a variety of therapeutic modalities, I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed practices, and child-centered play therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, received in 2018. I have worked in social services since 2014 in a variety of settings, including residential treatment, community mental health, and private practice. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults as they cope with a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, trauma, grief, and religious transitions.
(217) 439-3983 View (217) 439-3983
Photo of Becky Harrison Catalyst Counseling, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Becky Harrison Catalyst Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
I use a combination of modalities in individual, couples and group counseling- including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) -which builds skills to help us regulate and manage intense emotions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Creative Expressive Therapy- using pop culture, music and other expressive techniques, Sandtray Therapy and Play Therapy .
We all have a story and each of our stories are unique and complex. Does your story have a chapter full of pain? Are you feeling discouraged, lonely or anxious? Facing a life transition or finding that your relationships are struggling? I am dedicated to assisting you in finding resolution to internal and external conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, learning healthy coping skills and creating an environment that is safe to explore the next desired chapters in your life. I work with adults, teens and children with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues.
I use a combination of modalities in individual, couples and group counseling- including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) -which builds skills to help us regulate and manage intense emotions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Creative Expressive Therapy- using pop culture, music and other expressive techniques, Sandtray Therapy and Play Therapy .
We all have a story and each of our stories are unique and complex. Does your story have a chapter full of pain? Are you feeling discouraged, lonely or anxious? Facing a life transition or finding that your relationships are struggling? I am dedicated to assisting you in finding resolution to internal and external conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, learning healthy coping skills and creating an environment that is safe to explore the next desired chapters in your life. I work with adults, teens and children with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues.
(217) 993-8655 View (217) 993-8655
Photo of Megan Joy Bates, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Joy Bates
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
(618) 787-5315 View (618) 787-5315
Photo of Julie Marie Diaz, LCPC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Julie Marie Diaz
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, play therapy, family systems therapy to aide in your therapy journey.
I am excited to connect with you to explore your insights and desires thus establishing your personal and professional goals.
I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, play therapy, family systems therapy to aide in your therapy journey.
I am excited to connect with you to explore your insights and desires thus establishing your personal and professional goals.
(618) 591-1558 View (618) 591-1558

See more therapy options for Jasper County

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.