Play Therapy in Louisville, KY

Photo of Creative Family Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Louisville, KY
Creative Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
Some specialties include Play Therapy, Art Therapy, AutPlay for those experiencing ADHD or ASD, Positive Discipline Parenting Support, TFCBT, and EMDR.
It is our mission to make the world a happier place, one household at a time. Our expert Child and Family Counselors help families turn homes of chaos and pain into homes of happiness and healing by providing safe space to connect in the therapy room, tools to connect better with family at home, and inspiration for a deeper connection with the world around us. Our approach is creative, collaborative, and centered on the belief that every voice matters.
Some specialties include Play Therapy, Art Therapy, AutPlay for those experiencing ADHD or ASD, Positive Discipline Parenting Support, TFCBT, and EMDR.
It is our mission to make the world a happier place, one household at a time. Our expert Child and Family Counselors help families turn homes of chaos and pain into homes of happiness and healing by providing safe space to connect in the therapy room, tools to connect better with family at home, and inspiration for a deeper connection with the world around us. Our approach is creative, collaborative, and centered on the belief that every voice matters.
(502) 237-4387 View (502) 237-4387
Photo of Rebecca L Donaldson Accepting New Clients, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Rebecca L Donaldson Accepting New Clients
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40299
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy and expressive therapy techniques.
We all need help at times to manage life's challenges. I strive to provide a safe, compassionate, judgment-free space for you to navigate the healing process. I believe in a person's right to live their life as they see fit and in providing individualized treatment to best suit their personal needs and goals. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families with a diverse range of issues such as depression, anxiety, attachment disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, ADHD, and trauma.
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy and expressive therapy techniques.
We all need help at times to manage life's challenges. I strive to provide a safe, compassionate, judgment-free space for you to navigate the healing process. I believe in a person's right to live their life as they see fit and in providing individualized treatment to best suit their personal needs and goals. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families with a diverse range of issues such as depression, anxiety, attachment disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, ADHD, and trauma.
(502) 334-1233 View (502) 334-1233
Photo of Heather Patterson, Counselor in Louisville, KY
Heather Patterson
Counselor, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40217
My goal as a therapist is to help individuals achieve their highest level of functioning based on their stage of development. I recognize that oftentimes trauma and toxic stress block people from accessing their authentic selves which leads to a feeling of being “stuck.” Moreover, these blocks must be worked through to avoid reenacting harmful intra- and inter-personal patterns of interaction. With my youngest clients, I utilize the therapeutic powers of play to help with emotional processing and becoming “unstuck.”
My goal as a therapist is to help individuals achieve their highest level of functioning based on their stage of development. I recognize that oftentimes trauma and toxic stress block people from accessing their authentic selves which leads to a feeling of being “stuck.” Moreover, these blocks must be worked through to avoid reenacting harmful intra- and inter-personal patterns of interaction. With my youngest clients, I utilize the therapeutic powers of play to help with emotional processing and becoming “unstuck.”
(502) 549-1927 View (502) 549-1927
Photo of Innovative Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Louisville, KY
Innovative Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, GC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
All of our therapists are trained in many types of therapy, and each have their own specialties such as grief counseling, anxiety, marital/couple's issues, depression, behavioral issues, parenting, trauma, play therapy, addiction and many more.
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
All of our therapists are trained in many types of therapy, and each have their own specialties such as grief counseling, anxiety, marital/couple's issues, depression, behavioral issues, parenting, trauma, play therapy, addiction and many more.
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
(502) 612-9129 View (502) 612-9129
Photo of Danni E Lee, Pre-Licensed Professional in Louisville, KY
Danni E Lee
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
I believe in the healing power of creativity, openness, and play.
Hello there! I help children, teens, and parents overcome mental health struggles and provide parents with tools to better connect with their children. Raising children can be very difficult. You may feel like you have done everything you can and still feel stuck. Together, we can embark on a journey of healing and connection to help meet the needs, goals, and freedom your family is craving.
I believe in the healing power of creativity, openness, and play.
Hello there! I help children, teens, and parents overcome mental health struggles and provide parents with tools to better connect with their children. Raising children can be very difficult. You may feel like you have done everything you can and still feel stuck. Together, we can embark on a journey of healing and connection to help meet the needs, goals, and freedom your family is craving.
(502) 427-7561 View (502) 427-7561
Photo of Barbara Hedspeth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Barbara Hedspeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40206
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in the use of sand tray and play therapy with children.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders and mild to moderate OCD, as well as trauma and depression. My experience tells me that these conditions are highly treatable with the right approach. My primary method is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is a proven evidence based treatment for these problems. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Cognitive Processing Therapy for the treatment of trauma. My style is direct, supportive and goal oriented with emphasis on what the client wants to work on. I use humor as well!
I am trained in the use of sand tray and play therapy with children.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders and mild to moderate OCD, as well as trauma and depression. My experience tells me that these conditions are highly treatable with the right approach. My primary method is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is a proven evidence based treatment for these problems. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Cognitive Processing Therapy for the treatment of trauma. My style is direct, supportive and goal oriented with emphasis on what the client wants to work on. I use humor as well!
(502) 385-2488 View (502) 385-2488
Photo of Phoenix Fowler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Phoenix Fowler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40206
Phoenix also utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy, expressive techniques, play, and mindfulness to assist children in their therapeutic journey.
Phoenix Fowler, LCSW, graduated from the University of Louisville where she received her Master’s of Science in Social Work. Before completing her Masters, Phoenix attended Bellarmine University where she double majored in Art and Psychology. Phoenix has experience working with children in various settings including hospitals, refugee and immigrant resettlement agencies, and in the public school system. Phoenix’s approach to therapy can be described as creative, playful, and supportive. Phoenix completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2022 and now utilizes yoga, breathwork and mindfulness in her sessions.
Phoenix also utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy, expressive techniques, play, and mindfulness to assist children in their therapeutic journey.
Phoenix Fowler, LCSW, graduated from the University of Louisville where she received her Master’s of Science in Social Work. Before completing her Masters, Phoenix attended Bellarmine University where she double majored in Art and Psychology. Phoenix has experience working with children in various settings including hospitals, refugee and immigrant resettlement agencies, and in the public school system. Phoenix’s approach to therapy can be described as creative, playful, and supportive. Phoenix completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2022 and now utilizes yoga, breathwork and mindfulness in her sessions.
(502) 842-4107 x6 View (502) 842-4107 x6
Photo of Maria R Maupin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Louisville, KY
Maria R Maupin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSSW, MSCFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
I believe in the healing power of creativity, openness, and play.
Many of us find ourselves vowing to raise our children without the pain we experienced in our own childhoods. Despite this deep commitment to ending destructive family cycles, we may find ourselves repeating old patterns with our own partners and children. We may have lost touch with our own inner child and creative center along the way. With the right healing, support, and new tools for our toolbox, we can become the individuals, partners, and parents that we want to be.
I believe in the healing power of creativity, openness, and play.
Many of us find ourselves vowing to raise our children without the pain we experienced in our own childhoods. Despite this deep commitment to ending destructive family cycles, we may find ourselves repeating old patterns with our own partners and children. We may have lost touch with our own inner child and creative center along the way. With the right healing, support, and new tools for our toolbox, we can become the individuals, partners, and parents that we want to be.
(502) 289-5726 View (502) 289-5726
Photo of Kelly Fleischer, Art Therapist in Louisville, KY
Kelly Fleischer
Art Therapist, MEd, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40205
I am an experienced art therapist with a passion for guiding children 5+, teens, and young adults on a journey of self-discovery and healing through art, talk therapy and other expressive modalities such as movement, play, and mindfulness. Clients can expect a safe and nurturing space to explore their emotions, thoughts, and challenges. These clients may be grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-expression, or communication difficulties.
I am an experienced art therapist with a passion for guiding children 5+, teens, and young adults on a journey of self-discovery and healing through art, talk therapy and other expressive modalities such as movement, play, and mindfulness. Clients can expect a safe and nurturing space to explore their emotions, thoughts, and challenges. These clients may be grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-expression, or communication difficulties.
(502) 317-1268 View (502) 317-1268
Photo of Catherine Leigh Stone-Hahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Catherine Leigh Stone-Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40217
I specialize in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy, Couples Therapy and Solution -Focused Therapies.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience working with a diverse range of clients. I use Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients cope with a myriad of things, include chronic issues, as they both teach coping skills and aid in adapting to situations that are immutable. ACT helps clients learn how to cope with difficult emotions: once a client is able to process the idea that thoughts and feelings are affected by the events they experience, the people they meet and the environment they live in, they are better able to learn how to manage emotions.
I specialize in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy, Couples Therapy and Solution -Focused Therapies.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience working with a diverse range of clients. I use Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients cope with a myriad of things, include chronic issues, as they both teach coping skills and aid in adapting to situations that are immutable. ACT helps clients learn how to cope with difficult emotions: once a client is able to process the idea that thoughts and feelings are affected by the events they experience, the people they meet and the environment they live in, they are better able to learn how to manage emotions.
(502) 747-1397 View (502) 747-1397
Photo of Lena Kline, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Louisville, KY
Lena Kline
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40218
I also am a nurturing parenting facilitator and I am certified in play therapy/creative therapies.
The mind matters. How you feel, what you think, and what you are experiencing all contribute to your overall life experience. I feel as a LPCC-S my role in working beside my clients is to provide understanding, hope, and improved functioning and feeling.
I also am a nurturing parenting facilitator and I am certified in play therapy/creative therapies.
The mind matters. How you feel, what you think, and what you are experiencing all contribute to your overall life experience. I feel as a LPCC-S my role in working beside my clients is to provide understanding, hope, and improved functioning and feeling.
(502) 628-4174 View (502) 628-4174
Photo of Suzette Turner-Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Suzette Turner-Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT/S, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223  (Online Only)
Art, Play and creative methods of communication are conducted in a safe, comfortable and supportive atmosphere.
People consult with a therapist for a positive connection and to problem solve troubles. Therapy is a very special journey, and I will help you to be successful with that process. I am a goal-oriented, accepting therapist working from a strength-based perspective focusing on what clients wish to accomplish at their own pace. Many individuals are looking for effective coping/communication skills, as well as understanding of feelings associated with specific life changes. Clients find it beneficial to receive direction identifying their unhelpful beliefs and replace them with healthier ways of thinking to improve their life quality.
Art, Play and creative methods of communication are conducted in a safe, comfortable and supportive atmosphere.
People consult with a therapist for a positive connection and to problem solve troubles. Therapy is a very special journey, and I will help you to be successful with that process. I am a goal-oriented, accepting therapist working from a strength-based perspective focusing on what clients wish to accomplish at their own pace. Many individuals are looking for effective coping/communication skills, as well as understanding of feelings associated with specific life changes. Clients find it beneficial to receive direction identifying their unhelpful beliefs and replace them with healthier ways of thinking to improve their life quality.
(502) 354-8911 View (502) 354-8911
Photo of Jan Rudd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Louisville, KY
Jan Rudd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Hello! I specialize in working with young adults, children and women, as well as those in the LGBTQ+ community. In-person when working with children, I utilize Play Therapy, Expressive therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe in letting your child express themselves so they can heal from anxiety, depression, or trauma. I will create a safe space for them to learn to share their inner most thoughts and feelings. I often work with parents alongside their children so they can journey with us and learn helpful parenting techniques.
Hello! I specialize in working with young adults, children and women, as well as those in the LGBTQ+ community. In-person when working with children, I utilize Play Therapy, Expressive therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe in letting your child express themselves so they can heal from anxiety, depression, or trauma. I will create a safe space for them to learn to share their inner most thoughts and feelings. I often work with parents alongside their children so they can journey with us and learn helpful parenting techniques.
(502) 251-9180 View (502) 251-9180
Photo of Megan Meyerhoffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Megan Meyerhoffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40205
As a Registered Play Therapist, I use the healing power of play to reduce difficulties in a child's life.
I am fortunate and profoundly grateful to have found my passion (which also happens to be my career) in supporting people across the lifespan - children, teens, adults and families through struggles and challenges due to chronic medical conditions, anxiety, trauma, grief, parenting that our lives and our chaotic world present. I use an eclectic approach rooted in neuroscience and relational neurobiology to meet you where you are with what works for you.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I use the healing power of play to reduce difficulties in a child's life.
I am fortunate and profoundly grateful to have found my passion (which also happens to be my career) in supporting people across the lifespan - children, teens, adults and families through struggles and challenges due to chronic medical conditions, anxiety, trauma, grief, parenting that our lives and our chaotic world present. I use an eclectic approach rooted in neuroscience and relational neurobiology to meet you where you are with what works for you.
(502) 237-5553 View (502) 237-5553
Photo of Victoria Edwards, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Louisville, KY
Victoria Edwards
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Ed S, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40218
I have had extensive training in the nurturing parenting model, child-centered therapy, play therapy, trauma and mindfulness based CBT.
Do you feel lost as a parent? Do you feel as though you didn't have the proper role model(s), or that your kids should have come with a manual? Maybe you feel like everything you do annoys your teenager or your toddler ignores everything you say. Or are you a teen who's tired of feeling misunderstood? Are you ready to develop more efficient communication and conflict resolution skills, so you can be better understood by your friends and family? Either way, you're ready and willing to make changes!
I have had extensive training in the nurturing parenting model, child-centered therapy, play therapy, trauma and mindfulness based CBT.
Do you feel lost as a parent? Do you feel as though you didn't have the proper role model(s), or that your kids should have come with a manual? Maybe you feel like everything you do annoys your teenager or your toddler ignores everything you say. Or are you a teen who's tired of feeling misunderstood? Are you ready to develop more efficient communication and conflict resolution skills, so you can be better understood by your friends and family? Either way, you're ready and willing to make changes!
(502) 273-5986 View (502) 273-5986
Photo of Haley Bosemer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Haley Bosemer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
Waitlist for new clients
I use trauma-informed therapy, EMDR- in training, TFCBT, solution-focused, Cognitive Processing CBT therapy, AFCBT, play therapy, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, that are culturally sensitive with the goal to empower my clients and meet their goals.
Life can be hard, sometimes we need a little support to meet our full potential. Having someone who can get you there may be the missing piece. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ptsd, unresolved trauma, substance use, family conflict or maybe you just need someone to support your journey, I can assist you. You do not have do this alone. I use evidence based practices to enhance your strengths and help decrease your barriers. We will modify a treatment plan together to cater to your specific needs and work towards meeting your goals. You can do this!
I use trauma-informed therapy, EMDR- in training, TFCBT, solution-focused, Cognitive Processing CBT therapy, AFCBT, play therapy, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, that are culturally sensitive with the goal to empower my clients and meet their goals.
Life can be hard, sometimes we need a little support to meet our full potential. Having someone who can get you there may be the missing piece. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ptsd, unresolved trauma, substance use, family conflict or maybe you just need someone to support your journey, I can assist you. You do not have do this alone. I use evidence based practices to enhance your strengths and help decrease your barriers. We will modify a treatment plan together to cater to your specific needs and work towards meeting your goals. You can do this!
(502) 383-5594 View (502) 383-5594
Photo of Kyle Coma-Thompson, Counselor in Louisville, KY
Kyle Coma-Thompson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
I take an integrative approach to therapy, providing a range of techniques to meet you where you are and draw on your strengths. I have experience assisting children, teens, and adults in group and individual clinical settings. I am trained in EMDR and incorporate elements of Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) along with mindfulness-based forms of treatment such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My work with teens and children frequently applies techniques from Expressive Therapy and Play Therapy.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, providing a range of techniques to meet you where you are and draw on your strengths. I have experience assisting children, teens, and adults in group and individual clinical settings. I am trained in EMDR and incorporate elements of Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) along with mindfulness-based forms of treatment such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My work with teens and children frequently applies techniques from Expressive Therapy and Play Therapy.
(502) 305-5449 View (502) 305-5449
Photo of Sarah Cunningham Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Sarah Cunningham Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
I use and have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, play therapy and expressive therapy techniques.
I work with children, adolescents, families and adults to address a wide range of emotional, behavioral and interpersonal problems such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, trauma, and ADHD. I work with my clients to gain insight, break patterns and thrive. Please check out: www.lifesjourneyky.com/
I use and have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, play therapy and expressive therapy techniques.
I work with children, adolescents, families and adults to address a wide range of emotional, behavioral and interpersonal problems such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, trauma, and ADHD. I work with my clients to gain insight, break patterns and thrive. Please check out: www.lifesjourneyky.com/
(502) 305-3879 View (502) 305-3879
Photo of Kelly Kerr, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Louisville, KY
Kelly Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40214
I love to utilize play and creativity in sessions to engage in emotional release, processing, and understanding.
Every journey starts with a single step – by being here you have taken that first step forward on your path. Sometimes we must re-learn how to think outside of the boxes we've built in life and adapt for the challenges that may come. It can be hard, but I believe you have all the necessary tools to do so with success – and I will help you adapt these tools for all the obstacles you may face along the way. I believe connection is key to success in the therapeutic experience, and I would be honored to create a positive, safe space for connection and success to bloom for you.
I love to utilize play and creativity in sessions to engage in emotional release, processing, and understanding.
Every journey starts with a single step – by being here you have taken that first step forward on your path. Sometimes we must re-learn how to think outside of the boxes we've built in life and adapt for the challenges that may come. It can be hard, but I believe you have all the necessary tools to do so with success – and I will help you adapt these tools for all the obstacles you may face along the way. I believe connection is key to success in the therapeutic experience, and I would be honored to create a positive, safe space for connection and success to bloom for you.
(502) 333-0218 View (502) 333-0218
Photo of Christy L Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Christy L Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, RPTS, CAS
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Play Therapist with over 200 hours of specialized training in play therapy.
My experience includes a wide range of treatment issues for both adults and children. I have experience in treating childhood behavioral issues from ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Depression, Mood Disorders, Developmental Delays, Disruptive behaviors and Oppositional behaviors. I have extensive experience in helping children heal from trauma related issues such as Adjustment Disorder, Divorce, Anxiety, RAD, PTSD, and other Diagnoses resulting from emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have participated in specialized experience and training with the young child population from birth to age 5 and utilize the Ages and Stages Questionnaires to screen for developmental delays in children ages 6 and under.
I am a Registered Play Therapist with over 200 hours of specialized training in play therapy.
My experience includes a wide range of treatment issues for both adults and children. I have experience in treating childhood behavioral issues from ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Depression, Mood Disorders, Developmental Delays, Disruptive behaviors and Oppositional behaviors. I have extensive experience in helping children heal from trauma related issues such as Adjustment Disorder, Divorce, Anxiety, RAD, PTSD, and other Diagnoses resulting from emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have participated in specialized experience and training with the young child population from birth to age 5 and utilize the Ages and Stages Questionnaires to screen for developmental delays in children ages 6 and under.
(502) 804-5492 View (502) 804-5492
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.