Photo of Bethany Irvine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indiana
Bethany Irvine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brownsburg, IN 46112
I offer a strengths based, person centered approach to in-office counseling, incorporating play and therapeutic techniques that can make sessions enjoyable.
Has there been a recent change in your child's behavior or emotions? Has your family experienced an increase in stress and you are needing support with adjusting? Parenting is hard and parenting a child with behavioral or emotional needs is exceptionally challenging.
I offer a strengths based, person centered approach to in-office counseling, incorporating play and therapeutic techniques that can make sessions enjoyable.
Has there been a recent change in your child's behavior or emotions? Has your family experienced an increase in stress and you are needing support with adjusting? Parenting is hard and parenting a child with behavioral or emotional needs is exceptionally challenging.
(317) 680-7333 View (317) 680-7333
Photo of Rebecca Peters, Counselor in Indiana
Rebecca Peters
Counselor, LMHC, RPT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I work in a child's first language of play.
Raising children is the hardest and most rewarding job you will ever have. When a child has experienced trauma, transition or is struggling with another concern, it is even more difficult. I work with children and their families to help them integrate their unique experiences in the world. There is hope, help and support for children who are struggling with; trauma, grief/loss, transitions, ADHD, anxiety, defiance, depression, and worry. I believe in the power of play and the ability of children and families to grow towards health and healing.
I work in a child's first language of play.
Raising children is the hardest and most rewarding job you will ever have. When a child has experienced trauma, transition or is struggling with another concern, it is even more difficult. I work with children and their families to help them integrate their unique experiences in the world. There is hope, help and support for children who are struggling with; trauma, grief/loss, transitions, ADHD, anxiety, defiance, depression, and worry. I believe in the power of play and the ability of children and families to grow towards health and healing.
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Photo of Aimee Dershowitz, Psychologist in Indiana
Aimee Dershowitz
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Zionsville, IN 46077
I utilize a combination of play therapy, behavioral interventions, and talk therapy.
In my practice I see clients of all ages with a wide variety of concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach, which means that your goals are my goals and we will work on them together. I offer individual and family psychotherapy as well as psychological testing. Within this practice I want to help you or your child make positive changes in life to reduce struggle. I create a warm, nonjudgmental environment that allows you to have the space to explore various solutions and find what works best for you. Clients who work with me see functional improvements and behavioral changes in their lives.
I utilize a combination of play therapy, behavioral interventions, and talk therapy.
In my practice I see clients of all ages with a wide variety of concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach, which means that your goals are my goals and we will work on them together. I offer individual and family psychotherapy as well as psychological testing. Within this practice I want to help you or your child make positive changes in life to reduce struggle. I create a warm, nonjudgmental environment that allows you to have the space to explore various solutions and find what works best for you. Clients who work with me see functional improvements and behavioral changes in their lives.
(317) 344-8736 View (317) 344-8736
Photo of Nicole Martin, Counselor in Indiana
Nicole Martin
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038  (Online Only)
I utilize many modalities (CBT, DBT, ERP, art/play therapy techniques) and each session is truly tailored toward your specific needs and goals.
Hi there! I'm Nicole. Seven years as a counselor has provided me with a wide range of experiences and tools. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I work best with clients who are motivated to create positive change in their lives.
I utilize many modalities (CBT, DBT, ERP, art/play therapy techniques) and each session is truly tailored toward your specific needs and goals.
Hi there! I'm Nicole. Seven years as a counselor has provided me with a wide range of experiences and tools. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I work best with clients who are motivated to create positive change in their lives.
(317) 660-1398 View (317) 660-1398
Photo of Kristina Mattingly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indiana
Kristina Mattingly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vincennes, IN 47591
Some specific approaches I use regularly are EMDR, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Feeling nervous about starting therapy? Completely normal! You're making a huge step to work on yourself, process trauma, and open up about things you’ve never shared before. Having a safe and comfortable therapeutic relationship to help navigate these feelings is key to successful treatment. I hope we can achieve that together. My style is relaxed, supportive, and nonjudgemental. I believe in meeting people where they are. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, parenting, and relationship issues.
Some specific approaches I use regularly are EMDR, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Feeling nervous about starting therapy? Completely normal! You're making a huge step to work on yourself, process trauma, and open up about things you’ve never shared before. Having a safe and comfortable therapeutic relationship to help navigate these feelings is key to successful treatment. I hope we can achieve that together. My style is relaxed, supportive, and nonjudgemental. I believe in meeting people where they are. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, parenting, and relationship issues.
(812) 690-3561 View (812) 690-3561
Photo of Emily Elder, Psychologist in Indiana
Emily Elder
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
I use empirically supported strategies to help children, families, individuals, and couples and integrate techniques from internal family systems (IFS), emotion focused therapy (EFT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and play therapy.
Our mental health can suffer due to traumatic events, life changes, negative relationship patterns, and lack of support and skills to help us cope with confusing emotions. Relationships, both positive and negative, begin in childhood and impact how we relate to others throughout our lives. My patients are often seeking healing from trauma, relief from anxiety and depression, and better relationships with their spouse and children.
I use empirically supported strategies to help children, families, individuals, and couples and integrate techniques from internal family systems (IFS), emotion focused therapy (EFT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and play therapy.
Our mental health can suffer due to traumatic events, life changes, negative relationship patterns, and lack of support and skills to help us cope with confusing emotions. Relationships, both positive and negative, begin in childhood and impact how we relate to others throughout our lives. My patients are often seeking healing from trauma, relief from anxiety and depression, and better relationships with their spouse and children.
(812) 419-3607 View (812) 419-3607
Photo of Nicole Sears, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indiana
Nicole Sears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, IN 47901
Nicole utilizes several different approaches including Narrative Therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and solution-focused therapy (SFT).
Nicole Sears is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about partnering with children, teens, and adults to help them navigate the effects of trauma. Nicole's focus has been in trauma for the majority of her 10 years servicing the mental health field.
Nicole utilizes several different approaches including Narrative Therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and solution-focused therapy (SFT).
Nicole Sears is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about partnering with children, teens, and adults to help them navigate the effects of trauma. Nicole's focus has been in trauma for the majority of her 10 years servicing the mental health field.
(765) 534-7089 View (765) 534-7089
Photo of Holly Plybon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indiana
Holly Plybon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Together, we will utilize art, play, and conversation to elicit positive change.
First things first! Let me start by saying, I recognize the immense strength it takes to begin this journey. You’ve come to the right place. Due to my own life experiences I have a passion for working with children and families to help them navigate difficult times and transitions. I am a true believer in using strengths we gain from overcoming our own obstacles to serve as a guide for others. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you until, using your strengths, you can navigate your path.
Together, we will utilize art, play, and conversation to elicit positive change.
First things first! Let me start by saying, I recognize the immense strength it takes to begin this journey. You’ve come to the right place. Due to my own life experiences I have a passion for working with children and families to help them navigate difficult times and transitions. I am a true believer in using strengths we gain from overcoming our own obstacles to serve as a guide for others. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you until, using your strengths, you can navigate your path.
(463) 500-1706 View (463) 500-1706
Photo of Madallyn Warner Bagley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indiana
Madallyn Warner Bagley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Greenwood, IN 46142
Waitlist for new clients
Are you seeking support for your child? I work with families who are ready to make changes and work towards healing. My expertise is with youth and their families, using play based interventions to best meet the needs of children. I utilize play therapy to support parents and caregivers in deepening their connection with their children, and supporting children in expressing feelings, self regulation and accepting limits. I have experience with addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment and relationship problems, nuances and challenges of parenting and exploration of gender and sexual identity.
Are you seeking support for your child? I work with families who are ready to make changes and work towards healing. My expertise is with youth and their families, using play based interventions to best meet the needs of children. I utilize play therapy to support parents and caregivers in deepening their connection with their children, and supporting children in expressing feelings, self regulation and accepting limits. I have experience with addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment and relationship problems, nuances and challenges of parenting and exploration of gender and sexual identity.
(317) 779-7574 View (317) 779-7574
Photo of Carina Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indiana
Carina Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47715
Waitlist for new clients
I use play therapy, sand tray therapy, EMDR, and more to support your child’s process and help them understand their struggles.
I currently have office hours Mon-Thur 8am-4pm CT. The best way to contact me is via email or text message. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Does your child ever seem different from others their age? Have you ever had difficulty trying to help your child communicate? Has your child lost what makes them uniquely special? I primarily work with families and children dealing with the symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and trauma, amongst many other difficulties they may face. I have helped many families get through difficult times or deal with challenging emotions.
I use play therapy, sand tray therapy, EMDR, and more to support your child’s process and help them understand their struggles.
I currently have office hours Mon-Thur 8am-4pm CT. The best way to contact me is via email or text message. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Does your child ever seem different from others their age? Have you ever had difficulty trying to help your child communicate? Has your child lost what makes them uniquely special? I primarily work with families and children dealing with the symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and trauma, amongst many other difficulties they may face. I have helped many families get through difficult times or deal with challenging emotions.
(812) 889-0371 View (812) 889-0371
Photo of Sharon Ezop, Psychologist in Indiana
Sharon Ezop
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Muncie, IN 47303
I may incorporate play, family, cognitive-behavioral, compassion-focused, acceptance-commitment, and interpersonal therapies.
I am a licensed psychologist, practicing since 2002 in East Central Indiana. My clients know me as "Sharon or Dr. Sharon" as I am not especially formal. Originally trained in the area of child & adolescent assessment and treatment, ages 3-21, I now consider myself a generalist with eclectic treatment approaches. I see children and teens and their families; and adults of all ages. My goal is to make each person I see comfortable so they may find their personal strengths to face and overcome whatever difficulty brings them into my office.
I may incorporate play, family, cognitive-behavioral, compassion-focused, acceptance-commitment, and interpersonal therapies.
I am a licensed psychologist, practicing since 2002 in East Central Indiana. My clients know me as "Sharon or Dr. Sharon" as I am not especially formal. Originally trained in the area of child & adolescent assessment and treatment, ages 3-21, I now consider myself a generalist with eclectic treatment approaches. I see children and teens and their families; and adults of all ages. My goal is to make each person I see comfortable so they may find their personal strengths to face and overcome whatever difficulty brings them into my office.
(765) 205-4125 View (765) 205-4125
Photo of Sydney Ray, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Indiana
Sydney Ray
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Munster, IN 46321
Sydney utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that combines Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy to foster a compassionate, creative, judgement-free space for her clients to explore their stories, strengthen their voices and empower authorship of their own lives.
Sydney is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA), who has experience working with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, life transitions, communication in romantic and family relationships, and women’s empowerment. Sydney is an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. Sydney works with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples.
Sydney utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that combines Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy to foster a compassionate, creative, judgement-free space for her clients to explore their stories, strengthen their voices and empower authorship of their own lives.
Sydney is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA), who has experience working with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, life transitions, communication in romantic and family relationships, and women’s empowerment. Sydney is an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. Sydney works with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples.
(219) 217-4634 View (219) 217-4634
Photo of Laurie Freeman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indiana
Laurie Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I have extensive training in play therapy which is the primary approach that I use for children under 13.
My approach is to understand my client through a complete history of childhood and adult experiences so that we can together explore how the client perceives the world. Sometimes experiences can cause clients to be anxious, defensive or make poor choices. I hope to help clients see how these approaches may have been useful in other times in life but may be less useful now. Sometimes a new approach to thinking is helpful. Other times insight and being understood can promote change.This approach also works with both parties in a couple to help regain trust and form new ways of relating.
I have extensive training in play therapy which is the primary approach that I use for children under 13.
My approach is to understand my client through a complete history of childhood and adult experiences so that we can together explore how the client perceives the world. Sometimes experiences can cause clients to be anxious, defensive or make poor choices. I hope to help clients see how these approaches may have been useful in other times in life but may be less useful now. Sometimes a new approach to thinking is helpful. Other times insight and being understood can promote change.This approach also works with both parties in a couple to help regain trust and form new ways of relating.
(317) 793-3614 View (317) 793-3614
Photo of Malyssa May, Counselor in Indiana
Malyssa May
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Muncie, IN 47304
I enjoy working with clients to help identify and progress towards their individual goals. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults who have a history of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and actions, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I utilize various interventions (based on the client's preferences) such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, art therapy, etc.
I enjoy working with clients to help identify and progress towards their individual goals. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults who have a history of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and actions, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I utilize various interventions (based on the client's preferences) such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, art therapy, etc.
(765) 885-6541 View (765) 885-6541
Photo of Kinsley Noelle Castro, Pre-Licensed Professional in Indiana
Kinsley Noelle Castro
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Acknowledging that every child is different and responds best to different approaches, I use tailored play-based and restorative strategies to help children be successful in the world they live in.
I have a passion for working with preschool-age children through adolescents, and their families, to grow and develop the emotional skills needed to navigate life. I am a master's level intern with Marian University, where I am studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Acknowledging that every child is different and responds best to different approaches, I use tailored play-based and restorative strategies to help children be successful in the world they live in.
I have a passion for working with preschool-age children through adolescents, and their families, to grow and develop the emotional skills needed to navigate life. I am a master's level intern with Marian University, where I am studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(463) 888-7021 View (463) 888-7021
Photo of Davi Stein-Kiley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indiana
Davi Stein-Kiley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LCAC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IN 46168
I specialize in Play Therapy and Brain Spotting and I love working with all youth ages 4-18 and their parents.
Feeling overwhelmed by your moods? Trying to break free of past issues? Are you a parent of a child with mental health/special needs seeking help for them/ or yourself? Are you isolated in unwanted habits that drain energy and resources? Are you dying for someone to ask if you are Okay, but worried about how you would react? High levels of stress are the root of countless mental health concerns. A reset for you and/or your child is possible. We can discuss concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Irritability, Impulsivity, Trauma, Substance Abuse, Pain and Stress Management.
I specialize in Play Therapy and Brain Spotting and I love working with all youth ages 4-18 and their parents.
Feeling overwhelmed by your moods? Trying to break free of past issues? Are you a parent of a child with mental health/special needs seeking help for them/ or yourself? Are you isolated in unwanted habits that drain energy and resources? Are you dying for someone to ask if you are Okay, but worried about how you would react? High levels of stress are the root of countless mental health concerns. A reset for you and/or your child is possible. We can discuss concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Irritability, Impulsivity, Trauma, Substance Abuse, Pain and Stress Management.
(317) 742-6187 View (317) 742-6187
Photo of Lyndsay Mack, Counselor in Indiana
Lyndsay Mack
Counselor, LMHC, RPT™
Verified Verified
Warsaw, IN 46580
At Linden Tree Counseling there is space for play, for expressive exploration, for movement, and for sitting in comfort and connection.
Are you a parent with a child experiencing emotional or behavioral issues, finding yourself worn out, desperate to understand and help your child, and in need of support to find your way forward? Are you an adult impacted by and suffering from mental, emotional, or relational issues? Whether you're seeking to support your child or yourself, you need a safe space, a knowledgeable guide, and an empathic presence to help create the change and healing you desire to live your most meaningful and connected life. We are each our own best healer, with innate capacity and inherent wisdom. And we don't have to do it alone.
At Linden Tree Counseling there is space for play, for expressive exploration, for movement, and for sitting in comfort and connection.
Are you a parent with a child experiencing emotional or behavioral issues, finding yourself worn out, desperate to understand and help your child, and in need of support to find your way forward? Are you an adult impacted by and suffering from mental, emotional, or relational issues? Whether you're seeking to support your child or yourself, you need a safe space, a knowledgeable guide, and an empathic presence to help create the change and healing you desire to live your most meaningful and connected life. We are each our own best healer, with innate capacity and inherent wisdom. And we don't have to do it alone.
(574) 212-0403 View (574) 212-0403
Photo of Emma Lichlyter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Indiana
Emma Lichlyter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47715
I have experience with CBT, DBT, ACT, play therapy, and art therapy, working with both individuals and families.
It's easy to feel lost right now and to not know how to navigate life and everything that comes with it. You do not have to have everything figured out because sometimes the best thing you can do is to keep moving forward, but after doing it alone for too long, it becomes harder. Asking for help and starting therapy can be scary. Especially if you have never done it before or had a previous bad experience. My job as a therapist is to help you increase your inner-strength and navigate whatever overwhelming emotions that you are having.
I have experience with CBT, DBT, ACT, play therapy, and art therapy, working with both individuals and families.
It's easy to feel lost right now and to not know how to navigate life and everything that comes with it. You do not have to have everything figured out because sometimes the best thing you can do is to keep moving forward, but after doing it alone for too long, it becomes harder. Asking for help and starting therapy can be scary. Especially if you have never done it before or had a previous bad experience. My job as a therapist is to help you increase your inner-strength and navigate whatever overwhelming emotions that you are having.
(812) 609-6032 View (812) 609-6032
Photo of Alexandra (Lexie) LeMasters in Indiana
Alexandra (Lexie) LeMasters
MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenfield, IN 46140
When working with children I use a Play Therapy approach which involves using play as a means to navigate their big feelings and emotional challenges.
I've always had an interest in working alongside individuals as they navigate their mental health journey. I find that individuals connect best with their varying emotions when they fully examine the meaning behind them and uncover the root cause of their struggles. As a therapist, I view my role as a fellow passenger during the therapeutic process. I believe in sitting with my client as they unpack their emotions, allowing us to examine and process them together. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages with their varying emotional challenges, including children and families.
When working with children I use a Play Therapy approach which involves using play as a means to navigate their big feelings and emotional challenges.
I've always had an interest in working alongside individuals as they navigate their mental health journey. I find that individuals connect best with their varying emotions when they fully examine the meaning behind them and uncover the root cause of their struggles. As a therapist, I view my role as a fellow passenger during the therapeutic process. I believe in sitting with my client as they unpack their emotions, allowing us to examine and process them together. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages with their varying emotional challenges, including children and families.
(463) 223-9963 View (463) 223-9963
Photo of Emma Jean McEvilly, Pre-Licensed Professional in Indiana
Emma Jean McEvilly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, CYT1000
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47403
With over a decade of experience in the field of health and wellness, I brings together a confluence of professional knowledge from behavior and play therapy, traditional psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, yoga therapeutics, Reiki, and more.
I specialize in helping people of all ages in managing the symptoms of trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, disordered eating, body image, and more. I am particularly keen on working with people interested in spirtual wellness. I serve all ages, but especially kids to young adults and older adults. I am passionate about working with veterans, LGBTQIA folx, and culturally diverse peoples. I bring warmth, positivity,  kindness, and compassion to my work. I have the utmost regard for each client's unique life story, personality, and goals. I aspire to make you feel seen, heard, and valued as the individual that you are.
With over a decade of experience in the field of health and wellness, I brings together a confluence of professional knowledge from behavior and play therapy, traditional psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, yoga therapeutics, Reiki, and more.
I specialize in helping people of all ages in managing the symptoms of trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, disordered eating, body image, and more. I am particularly keen on working with people interested in spirtual wellness. I serve all ages, but especially kids to young adults and older adults. I am passionate about working with veterans, LGBTQIA folx, and culturally diverse peoples. I bring warmth, positivity,  kindness, and compassion to my work. I have the utmost regard for each client's unique life story, personality, and goals. I aspire to make you feel seen, heard, and valued as the individual that you are.
(812) 502-5234 View (812) 502-5234
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.