Photo of Isabella N. Aguirre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Isabella N. Aguirre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66212
Starting from a person centered approach I use EMDR, play therapy, sand tray therapy, mindfulness/mindful movement, art, and TF-CBT in combination with talk therapy to help clients build coping skills, boundaries, and self-worth.
My joy comes from working with individuals at various stages and challenges of life; childhood, teens, college, and adulthood. I provide a playful and collaborative environment for adults, parents, and children alike looking to explore the tough stuff as well as the normal day to day bumps. My goal is to make every client and caregiver feel worthy and capable of well-being. I work with a wide variety of issues across the lifespan such as vicarious trauma in professionals, sexual and domestic abuse, childhood abuse or trauma, attachment trauma, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
Starting from a person centered approach I use EMDR, play therapy, sand tray therapy, mindfulness/mindful movement, art, and TF-CBT in combination with talk therapy to help clients build coping skills, boundaries, and self-worth.
My joy comes from working with individuals at various stages and challenges of life; childhood, teens, college, and adulthood. I provide a playful and collaborative environment for adults, parents, and children alike looking to explore the tough stuff as well as the normal day to day bumps. My goal is to make every client and caregiver feel worthy and capable of well-being. I work with a wide variety of issues across the lifespan such as vicarious trauma in professionals, sexual and domestic abuse, childhood abuse or trauma, attachment trauma, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
(913) 675-1352 View (913) 675-1352
Photo of Christine Bachtel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Christine Bachtel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Leavenworth, KS 66048
When you come to see me, you can expect that I will utilize play therapy techniques when working with children.
Life can be complicated, messy and hard sometimes. When you encounter those times in your life do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, angry, sad or depressed? I want to help you or your loved ones navigate through those times. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents and adults learn to cope with the challenges they are facing. I will walk with you as you find your way through grief, loss, school challenges, relationship troubles, anxiety and depression.
When you come to see me, you can expect that I will utilize play therapy techniques when working with children.
Life can be complicated, messy and hard sometimes. When you encounter those times in your life do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, angry, sad or depressed? I want to help you or your loved ones navigate through those times. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents and adults learn to cope with the challenges they are facing. I will walk with you as you find your way through grief, loss, school challenges, relationship troubles, anxiety and depression.
(913) 705-5238 View (913) 705-5238
Photo of Lindsay Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Lindsay Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Rose Hill, KS 67133
Sometimes it’s hard for your child or teenager to open up to you. Under the surface, they may be struggling more than it appears. Or their outbursts make it apparent that something is not right. It takes courage to acknowledge that your child is struggling and that you are not able to resolve their issues on your own. It takes even more courage to reach out for help. I can help your child or teenager through traditional talk therapy or play therapy, using a person-centered approach to find and give help for any assessed needs. It takes a village to raise a child, so let me help you with yours.
Sometimes it’s hard for your child or teenager to open up to you. Under the surface, they may be struggling more than it appears. Or their outbursts make it apparent that something is not right. It takes courage to acknowledge that your child is struggling and that you are not able to resolve their issues on your own. It takes even more courage to reach out for help. I can help your child or teenager through traditional talk therapy or play therapy, using a person-centered approach to find and give help for any assessed needs. It takes a village to raise a child, so let me help you with yours.
(316) 666-1272 View (316) 666-1272
Photo of Social Perspective, LLC in Kansas
Social Perspective, LLC
LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66044
This may include individual/group sessions based on CBT and Dialectical Behavior Therapy; play and art therapy; stress management and social skill instruction.
At Social Perspective, we are dedicated to helping you create positive change. We work with adults who are managing their own or a loved one's depression, anxiety, or increased stress. Our supportive team also works with children including those who have experienced trauma, bullying, have anger and behavior issues, are feeling depressed or having suicidal thoughts. We believe that every individual can build on hope, strengthen their coping skills, accomplish goals, and overcome challenges.
This may include individual/group sessions based on CBT and Dialectical Behavior Therapy; play and art therapy; stress management and social skill instruction.
At Social Perspective, we are dedicated to helping you create positive change. We work with adults who are managing their own or a loved one's depression, anxiety, or increased stress. Our supportive team also works with children including those who have experienced trauma, bullying, have anger and behavior issues, are feeling depressed or having suicidal thoughts. We believe that every individual can build on hope, strengthen their coping skills, accomplish goals, and overcome challenges.
(785) 522-4672 x841 View (785) 522-4672 x841
Photo of Catherine Sterchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Catherine Sterchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
I specialize in Divorce, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Marital/Relationship Issues, and Play Therapy for children.
Do you struggle in your life with strong reactions to events that seem out of your control? Do you find yourself captured by anger, upset, fear, or anxiety? Have you wanted to find a way to take the difficult things that have happened in your life and somehow have them set a foundation for you to have a better, less critical connection with yourself and others around you? I know how hard it is to make real changes that will lead to lasting peace, joy and effectiveness. I also know that it is absolutely possible to change course and rebuild.
I specialize in Divorce, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Marital/Relationship Issues, and Play Therapy for children.
Do you struggle in your life with strong reactions to events that seem out of your control? Do you find yourself captured by anger, upset, fear, or anxiety? Have you wanted to find a way to take the difficult things that have happened in your life and somehow have them set a foundation for you to have a better, less critical connection with yourself and others around you? I know how hard it is to make real changes that will lead to lasting peace, joy and effectiveness. I also know that it is absolutely possible to change course and rebuild.
(913) 601-8038 View (913) 601-8038
Photo of Brieanna Claassen, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas
Brieanna Claassen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lenexa, KS 66215
I also hold a post-graduate certification in Play Therapy.
Dealing with emotional and relational difficulties can be overwhelming to tackle alone, and a counselor provides the support, encouragement, and care to help overcome life's many obstacles. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University. I work with a variety of clients as individuals, families, couples, and children at re:Vive Counseling, Consulting, and Training in Lenexa. My treatment approach utilizes attachment relationships and family systems to promote healing.
I also hold a post-graduate certification in Play Therapy.
Dealing with emotional and relational difficulties can be overwhelming to tackle alone, and a counselor provides the support, encouragement, and care to help overcome life's many obstacles. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University. I work with a variety of clients as individuals, families, couples, and children at re:Vive Counseling, Consulting, and Training in Lenexa. My treatment approach utilizes attachment relationships and family systems to promote healing.
(913) 305-5011 View (913) 305-5011
Photo of Lawrence Play Therapy, LLC, Counselor in Kansas
Lawrence Play Therapy, LLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66047
Our therapists at Lawrence Play Therapy have worked with children and families for over 20 years.
Children often do not have the words to express what they are feeling or thinking. Traditional talk therapy alone is rarely successful in helping children process difficult life situations. At Lawrence Play Therapy, therapists can work with your child and family to bring healing. Play therapy involves children exploring their thoughts and feelings by using play rather than just talking. The toys are the child's words and play is the child's language. We specialize in therapy with children ages 2 - 12. We also incorporate family therapy, Theraplay, and EMDR when appropriate.
Our therapists at Lawrence Play Therapy have worked with children and families for over 20 years.
Children often do not have the words to express what they are feeling or thinking. Traditional talk therapy alone is rarely successful in helping children process difficult life situations. At Lawrence Play Therapy, therapists can work with your child and family to bring healing. Play therapy involves children exploring their thoughts and feelings by using play rather than just talking. The toys are the child's words and play is the child's language. We specialize in therapy with children ages 2 - 12. We also incorporate family therapy, Theraplay, and EMDR when appropriate.
(785) 657-4099 View (785) 657-4099
Photo of Tricia Brown, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas
Tricia Brown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NBCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Olathe, KS 66062
I have studied lifespan transitions and family issues for many years and am a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor, a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas as well as an LPC in Missouri.
I have experience and training in assisting people through lifespan transitions including: •Women seeking relationship and personal counseling •Teenagers wrestling with identity, parents and safe relationships •Children needing counseling •Couples who deeply long to be cared for and care about the other but are missing each others hearts and are losing hope •Fathers and mothers desiring a different home environment and looking for support and guidance •Caregivers caring for a parent or in-law, needing support during this transition I offer a safe compassionate environment and specific training in each of these areas
I have studied lifespan transitions and family issues for many years and am a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor, a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas as well as an LPC in Missouri.
I have experience and training in assisting people through lifespan transitions including: •Women seeking relationship and personal counseling •Teenagers wrestling with identity, parents and safe relationships •Children needing counseling •Couples who deeply long to be cared for and care about the other but are missing each others hearts and are losing hope •Fathers and mothers desiring a different home environment and looking for support and guidance •Caregivers caring for a parent or in-law, needing support during this transition I offer a safe compassionate environment and specific training in each of these areas
(913) 624-1199 View (913) 624-1199
Photo of Dawn Stillinger, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas
Dawn Stillinger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC/KS, LPC/MO, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66202
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy approaches that I practice are person-centered, family systems, trauma-focused CBT, CBT, EMDR, play therapy, attachment-based interventions, mindfulness, art interventions and psychoeducation.
I currently have a 2-3 week wait to schedule an appointment. I am a creative and caring professional holding a master in counseling psychology degree and a certificate in child and adolescent counseling. With a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I treat the whole person with special emphasis on the effects of trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. With my previous work in the private sector and art community, I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals with creative challenges or career transitions and concerns.
The therapy approaches that I practice are person-centered, family systems, trauma-focused CBT, CBT, EMDR, play therapy, attachment-based interventions, mindfulness, art interventions and psychoeducation.
I currently have a 2-3 week wait to schedule an appointment. I am a creative and caring professional holding a master in counseling psychology degree and a certificate in child and adolescent counseling. With a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I treat the whole person with special emphasis on the effects of trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. With my previous work in the private sector and art community, I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals with creative challenges or career transitions and concerns.
(913) 728-4016 View (913) 728-4016
Photo of Erik E Johnston, Counselor in Kansas
Erik E Johnston
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66202
In other ways your work with me will be quite unique in its play, creativity and depth of meaning.
My name is Erik Johnston, and I am a depth therapist. Being a depth therapist means I explore inner feelings, thoughts, sensations and intuitions to create options and new ways of being in my client's inner and outer life.
In other ways your work with me will be quite unique in its play, creativity and depth of meaning.
My name is Erik Johnston, and I am a depth therapist. Being a depth therapist means I explore inner feelings, thoughts, sensations and intuitions to create options and new ways of being in my client's inner and outer life.
(913) 270-1487 View (913) 270-1487
Photo of Lisa Reed, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Lisa Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hays, KS 67601
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy), DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy), and Play Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with children and families for the past 6 years in different capacities. I meet every individual where they are at in life to best provide unique and individualized services and work towards goals that are set by the client. I work with children ages 2 and up, as well as adults doing both individual and family therapy. I have experience working with individuals that have suffered trauma from physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse, neglect, domestic violence, and incarceration.
I have training in AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy), DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy), and Play Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with children and families for the past 6 years in different capacities. I meet every individual where they are at in life to best provide unique and individualized services and work towards goals that are set by the client. I work with children ages 2 and up, as well as adults doing both individual and family therapy. I have experience working with individuals that have suffered trauma from physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse, neglect, domestic violence, and incarceration.
(785) 333-1438 View (785) 333-1438
Photo of Bridget Kromrey, Psychologist in Kansas
Bridget Kromrey
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66103
I also utilize play therapy, sand tray therapy, and cognitive and behavioral models.
Therapy can be an invitation to explore our inner world and how it relates to the development of the self, relationships, and our way of making meaning in this world. My aim as a psychologist is to offer that unique space to clients where transformation, challenge and deeper understanding can occur. I specialize in work with LGBTQ+ youth and adults, in grief and loss, end of life concerns, identity development, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and psychosocial oncology. I work with adults, children, and adolescents for psychotherapy and provide assessments for autism, learning disabilities and social/emotional concerns.
I also utilize play therapy, sand tray therapy, and cognitive and behavioral models.
Therapy can be an invitation to explore our inner world and how it relates to the development of the self, relationships, and our way of making meaning in this world. My aim as a psychologist is to offer that unique space to clients where transformation, challenge and deeper understanding can occur. I specialize in work with LGBTQ+ youth and adults, in grief and loss, end of life concerns, identity development, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and psychosocial oncology. I work with adults, children, and adolescents for psychotherapy and provide assessments for autism, learning disabilities and social/emotional concerns.
(720) 727-6282 View (720) 727-6282
Photo of Jill Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Jill Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, CAAPT, RPT-S™, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mission, KS 66202
Hi! My name is Jill and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Missouri, a licensed specialist clinical social worker (LSCSW) in Kansas, and a registered play therapist supervisor (RPT-S). I am also a Certified AutPlay Therapy Provider, a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), an EMDR certified therapist, and a Certified Animal Assisted Play Therapist (CAAPT). I am passionate about helping individuals meet their goals and enhance their well-being. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I also provide supervision for social workers (LMSWs) in Kansas and play therapy supervision towards the RPT credential.
Hi! My name is Jill and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Missouri, a licensed specialist clinical social worker (LSCSW) in Kansas, and a registered play therapist supervisor (RPT-S). I am also a Certified AutPlay Therapy Provider, a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), an EMDR certified therapist, and a Certified Animal Assisted Play Therapist (CAAPT). I am passionate about helping individuals meet their goals and enhance their well-being. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I also provide supervision for social workers (LMSWs) in Kansas and play therapy supervision towards the RPT credential.
(816) 407-8759 View (816) 407-8759
Photo of A Balanced Life LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
A Balanced Life LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Mission Hills, KS 66208
Approaches we use may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); emotionally focused therapy (EFT); EMDR therapy; expressive arts therapy; and play and sand tray therapy.
Healing requires restoring trust in yourself and tapping into your strengths and inner wisdom. At A Balanced Life LLC we believe in each person's innate capacity for, and natural progression towards, healing. Our goal is to help you achieve relief, lasting change, and confidence. Trusting you as the expert, our therapeutic approaches follow your lead. A Balanced Life LLC offers therapy to people of all ages and stages of life, matching you to a therapist who provides effective therapy according to your needs and goals.
Approaches we use may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); emotionally focused therapy (EFT); EMDR therapy; expressive arts therapy; and play and sand tray therapy.
Healing requires restoring trust in yourself and tapping into your strengths and inner wisdom. At A Balanced Life LLC we believe in each person's innate capacity for, and natural progression towards, healing. Our goal is to help you achieve relief, lasting change, and confidence. Trusting you as the expert, our therapeutic approaches follow your lead. A Balanced Life LLC offers therapy to people of all ages and stages of life, matching you to a therapist who provides effective therapy according to your needs and goals.
(816) 470-9023 View (816) 470-9023
Photo of Jamie Lee Jacobs, Counselor in Kansas
Jamie Lee Jacobs
Counselor, MSEd, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, KS 66434
My approach may utilize mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and psychotherapy.
As your therapist, a graduate of UNK's master's program with an emphasis in community counseling, I will provide a safe environment for any individual or groups (i.e., mental health, substance abuse, families). It is in this capacity that you can begin the journey of collaboration to overcome and begin living a holistic life. The scope of 15 plus years of experience ranges across a multiple spectrum that includes but not limited to, families, couples, drug courts, school settings, anger management, and military consultant. The needs of the client will determine the individualized integrated therapeutic approach.
My approach may utilize mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and psychotherapy.
As your therapist, a graduate of UNK's master's program with an emphasis in community counseling, I will provide a safe environment for any individual or groups (i.e., mental health, substance abuse, families). It is in this capacity that you can begin the journey of collaboration to overcome and begin living a holistic life. The scope of 15 plus years of experience ranges across a multiple spectrum that includes but not limited to, families, couples, drug courts, school settings, anger management, and military consultant. The needs of the client will determine the individualized integrated therapeutic approach.
(404) 975-1967 View (404) 975-1967
Photo of Grace Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Grace Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Olathe, KS 66061
I'm so glad you're here! Therapy can be a powerful journey of self-discovery, offering a safe space to tackle anything life throws your way. Feeling overwhelmed by everyday stress? Ready to heal from past experiences? Just need some tools to navigate the changing world? Let's explore it all together. My approach is empowering and collaborative. We'll work as a team to identify your goals and design a personalized plan to get you where you want to be. Laughter and a relaxed atmosphere are key – I believe in creating a space where you feel heard and understood.This is your journey, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
I'm so glad you're here! Therapy can be a powerful journey of self-discovery, offering a safe space to tackle anything life throws your way. Feeling overwhelmed by everyday stress? Ready to heal from past experiences? Just need some tools to navigate the changing world? Let's explore it all together. My approach is empowering and collaborative. We'll work as a team to identify your goals and design a personalized plan to get you where you want to be. Laughter and a relaxed atmosphere are key – I believe in creating a space where you feel heard and understood.This is your journey, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(913) 946-7653 View (913) 946-7653
Photo of Amy Benson, Counselor in Kansas
Amy Benson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66211
Amy believes that the most important part of her role as a counselor is the caring relationship she creates with her clients. When people feel safe, supported and valued, they are able to take steps forward to make meaningful changes in their lives. Amy approaches her clients from a non-judgmental viewpoint. She will help clients navigate the stressors and challenges of life by validating feelings and then creating strategies and skills to put them on a path to acceptance, hope, and change. Amy uses a variety of theoretical approaches in order to best meet the needs of each client.
Amy believes that the most important part of her role as a counselor is the caring relationship she creates with her clients. When people feel safe, supported and valued, they are able to take steps forward to make meaningful changes in their lives. Amy approaches her clients from a non-judgmental viewpoint. She will help clients navigate the stressors and challenges of life by validating feelings and then creating strategies and skills to put them on a path to acceptance, hope, and change. Amy uses a variety of theoretical approaches in order to best meet the needs of each client.
(913) 703-5578 View (913) 703-5578
Photo of Paulina Zacapa- Reyes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Paulina Zacapa- Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dodge City, KS 67801
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas with over 9 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families. I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, major life transitions, grief/loss, anger management and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas with over 9 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families. I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, major life transitions, grief/loss, anger management and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
(620) 490-4624 View (620) 490-4624
Photo of Ryna Fisher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Ryna Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67205
My name is Ryna. I work with ages 5 and up. My areas of treatment include autism, anxiety, depression, family therapy, and trauma. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I am affirming of the LGBTQ+ community and familiar with the community's experiences and needs.
My name is Ryna. I work with ages 5 and up. My areas of treatment include autism, anxiety, depression, family therapy, and trauma. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I am affirming of the LGBTQ+ community and familiar with the community's experiences and needs.
(316) 999-8156 View (316) 999-8156
Photo of Vincent Tafolla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Vincent Tafolla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CPT
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67202
Therapy is a journey; my role is simply to walk with you as you navigate the stressors and complications of life. It is my goal to provide a secure and healing environment in which you can begin the process of restoring the person you wish to be. I believe you are worthy of an unbiased, safe and productive opportunity to process your experiences.
Therapy is a journey; my role is simply to walk with you as you navigate the stressors and complications of life. It is my goal to provide a secure and healing environment in which you can begin the process of restoring the person you wish to be. I believe you are worthy of an unbiased, safe and productive opportunity to process your experiences.
(833) 576-1156 View (833) 576-1156
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.