Photo of Kristen Baroni, MS, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Baroni
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am Perinatal Mental Health certified (birth and related things) and I'm under supervision to become a Registered Play Therapist.
Hi, my name is Kristen (she/her). Life is full of unexpected challenges, regardless of what path we are on. Sometimes, these challenges become more than we can handle by ourselves. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey of life. I strive to provide a space where we can work together and safely deconstruct your stresses and alter them to fit better with you on your journey. I hope to give you the tools to access your bravery and strength that I know is in there so that you never give up on yourself.
I am Perinatal Mental Health certified (birth and related things) and I'm under supervision to become a Registered Play Therapist.
Hi, my name is Kristen (she/her). Life is full of unexpected challenges, regardless of what path we are on. Sometimes, these challenges become more than we can handle by ourselves. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey of life. I strive to provide a space where we can work together and safely deconstruct your stresses and alter them to fit better with you on your journey. I hope to give you the tools to access your bravery and strength that I know is in there so that you never give up on yourself.
(337) 201-9438 View (337) 201-9438
Photo of Gidget Fields, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gidget Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. My clinical experience has been working with children and adolescents, providing individual, family, and play therapy. I also have extensive experience and specialized training in working with young children (zero to five). My clinical focus with children supports my belief that by fostering healthy social and emotional development and strengthening child-caregiver relationships, clients can and will begin to experience positive change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. My clinical experience has been working with children and adolescents, providing individual, family, and play therapy. I also have extensive experience and specialized training in working with young children (zero to five). My clinical focus with children supports my belief that by fostering healthy social and emotional development and strengthening child-caregiver relationships, clients can and will begin to experience positive change.
(225) 351-9908 View (225) 351-9908
Photo of Kara Elizabeth Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Elizabeth Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crowley, LA 70526
She is trained in Thera play, Play Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Principles, and Cognitive Behavorial Therapy (CBT).
Kara Clark is a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience in adoption, mental health, marital and family relationships, and addiction. Kara values a holistic approach from an attachment and trauma perspective while utilizing different modalities of therapy to meet the needs of her clients.
She is trained in Thera play, Play Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Principles, and Cognitive Behavorial Therapy (CBT).
Kara Clark is a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience in adoption, mental health, marital and family relationships, and addiction. Kara values a holistic approach from an attachment and trauma perspective while utilizing different modalities of therapy to meet the needs of her clients.
(337) 415-4566 View (337) 415-4566
Photo of Elizabeth Beu Bourgeois - NOLA Art Therapy and Counseling, LLC, MS, ATR-BC, LPC, Art Therapist
NOLA Art Therapy and Counseling, LLC
Art Therapist, MS, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
We have 5 other clinicians on staff including three other art therapists and counselors, a clinical social worker, and a counselor who utilizes talk, art, sandtray and play.
Sometimes extra help and support are needed to successfully navigate through the challenging and difficult situations that arise in life. By seeking therapy, you will receive our support while we work as a team to better understand your challenging life situations. If you make a commitment to change and work on improving yourself and your situation, therapy can give you the tools you need to face future life challenges. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a highly personalized approach made to meet the needs of each individual client and/or family to help them achieve personal growth.
We have 5 other clinicians on staff including three other art therapists and counselors, a clinical social worker, and a counselor who utilizes talk, art, sandtray and play.
Sometimes extra help and support are needed to successfully navigate through the challenging and difficult situations that arise in life. By seeking therapy, you will receive our support while we work as a team to better understand your challenging life situations. If you make a commitment to change and work on improving yourself and your situation, therapy can give you the tools you need to face future life challenges. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a highly personalized approach made to meet the needs of each individual client and/or family to help them achieve personal growth.
(504) 273-7851 View (504) 273-7851
Photo of B. Gerard Woodrich, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
B. Gerard Woodrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70118
I utilize Reality-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing while employing positive strategies to exemplify emotional resilience.
Best way to make an appointment is through my website. Hello, thank you for visiting my page. Therapy is a very intimate yet necessary process in order to change negative dynamics in life. I approach therapy through engagement and fostering relationships. My approach is conversational, positive, and process based. I cater to individuals struggling with the realities of their life. Whether its stress from work or relationships, bullying at school, trauma from assault, or anxiety from your environment; I will assist you with processing those issues while strengthening your esteem and perspective.
I utilize Reality-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing while employing positive strategies to exemplify emotional resilience.
Best way to make an appointment is through my website. Hello, thank you for visiting my page. Therapy is a very intimate yet necessary process in order to change negative dynamics in life. I approach therapy through engagement and fostering relationships. My approach is conversational, positive, and process based. I cater to individuals struggling with the realities of their life. Whether its stress from work or relationships, bullying at school, trauma from assault, or anxiety from your environment; I will assist you with processing those issues while strengthening your esteem and perspective.
(504) 226-8313 View (504) 226-8313
Photo of Katie Gilmore, MHS, LPC, RPT, Counselor
Katie Gilmore
Counselor, MHS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70006
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor at Behavioral Health and Human Development. I work with children and adolescents who experience behavioral challenges, defiant behavior, adjustment, low self esteem, learning differences, and challenging peer relations. I have experience as a school counselor, consultant, and behavioral interventionist. I offer Parent Child Interaction Therapy, individual sessions, school consultation, and social skills groups. My counseling approach comes from cognitive-behavioral, non- directive, and play based approaches.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor at Behavioral Health and Human Development. I work with children and adolescents who experience behavioral challenges, defiant behavior, adjustment, low self esteem, learning differences, and challenging peer relations. I have experience as a school counselor, consultant, and behavioral interventionist. I offer Parent Child Interaction Therapy, individual sessions, school consultation, and social skills groups. My counseling approach comes from cognitive-behavioral, non- directive, and play based approaches.
(504) 294-7288 View (504) 294-7288
Photo of Kelly Murray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
I pull from a multitude of theories in my practice including cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and play therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to providing a space of acceptance, honesty, and care throughout the therapeutic process. It is my greatest privilege to be someone my client shares their story with.
I pull from a multitude of theories in my practice including cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and play therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to providing a space of acceptance, honesty, and care throughout the therapeutic process. It is my greatest privilege to be someone my client shares their story with.
(225) 529-0747 View (225) 529-0747
Photo of Duane Williams, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Duane Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Shreveport, LA 71101
Williams is trained in various evidence-based treatment modalities, including TF-CBT, CPT, CBT, DBT, EMDR, TBRI Practitioner, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Grief, Marriage and Family, Duluth DAIP, Play Therapy, and Anger Management.
Duane Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the Louisiana LPC Board and a Board Approved Supervisor of Provisional LPCs. He is also licensed in the states of Texas and Georgia, with the licensing board in each state. He has over 20 years of professional experience providing therapy in various settings, including office, home and community-based, and virtual. He empathizes with the emotional and developmental needs of individuals and families. Clients develop emotional regulation skills to cope with life stressors including anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, couple relationships, and child/family conflicts.
Williams is trained in various evidence-based treatment modalities, including TF-CBT, CPT, CBT, DBT, EMDR, TBRI Practitioner, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Grief, Marriage and Family, Duluth DAIP, Play Therapy, and Anger Management.
Duane Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the Louisiana LPC Board and a Board Approved Supervisor of Provisional LPCs. He is also licensed in the states of Texas and Georgia, with the licensing board in each state. He has over 20 years of professional experience providing therapy in various settings, including office, home and community-based, and virtual. He empathizes with the emotional and developmental needs of individuals and families. Clients develop emotional regulation skills to cope with life stressors including anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, couple relationships, and child/family conflicts.
(318) 814-9048 View (318) 814-9048
Photo of Krystyn Bourg, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Krystyn Bourg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chalmette, LA 70043
I enjoy helping my children, adolescents, and young adults work through their anxiety, ADHD, ASD, anger management, behavioral issues, and depression. I view counseling from a person-centered approach, while utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy to address each client’s unique goals.
I enjoy helping my children, adolescents, and young adults work through their anxiety, ADHD, ASD, anger management, behavioral issues, and depression. I view counseling from a person-centered approach, while utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy to address each client’s unique goals.
(504) 370-2566 View (504) 370-2566
Photo of Ami Rene Pappion, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ami Rene Pappion
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
I am a dedicated and imaginative therapist specializing in working with children, adolescents and families. With a deep passion for nurturing young minds, I integrates client-centered therapy with play therapy and expressive modalities to create a dynamic and supportive therapeutic environment. I hold a Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health and have experience in helping children navigate their emotions and challenges through innovative approaches. By centering therapy around each child's unique needs and interests, I fosters a safe space where children feel valued and understood.
I am a dedicated and imaginative therapist specializing in working with children, adolescents and families. With a deep passion for nurturing young minds, I integrates client-centered therapy with play therapy and expressive modalities to create a dynamic and supportive therapeutic environment. I hold a Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health and have experience in helping children navigate their emotions and challenges through innovative approaches. By centering therapy around each child's unique needs and interests, I fosters a safe space where children feel valued and understood.
(504) 474-6887 View (504) 474-6887
Photo of Myiesha Beard, LPC-S, NCC, LMHP, CAMS-II, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Myiesha Beard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, LMHP, CAMS-II, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zachary, LA 70791
The purpose of therapy is to restore the client to a healthy state of life by helping to remove barriers that may hinder this process. I specialize in the mental health care of children, adults, couples and families. My services include individual, group, marriage counseling and family therapy. Parent training, workshops, play therapy and prevention groups are also offered. I have twenty years experience working within the field of mental health. I utilize a number of therapeutic techniques and interventions that are tailored to the the client. I'm an Independent Assessor, Clinical Supervisor, mentor and coaching consultant.
The purpose of therapy is to restore the client to a healthy state of life by helping to remove barriers that may hinder this process. I specialize in the mental health care of children, adults, couples and families. My services include individual, group, marriage counseling and family therapy. Parent training, workshops, play therapy and prevention groups are also offered. I have twenty years experience working within the field of mental health. I utilize a number of therapeutic techniques and interventions that are tailored to the the client. I'm an Independent Assessor, Clinical Supervisor, mentor and coaching consultant.
(225) 570-4999 View (225) 570-4999
Photo of Sam Rink, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sam Rink
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70503
While grief is a major focus of mine, we are not limited to working with somatic approaches, incorporating nature/ play/art in sessions, and/or simply creating a therapeutic space that is right for you! I am flexible and accommodating to your needs of support.
Welcome! As your counselor, my greatest goal is to help create safety in the therapy room that extends to your body and mind. I am a creative soul with passion in art, nature, and somatic approaches! You may have been to therapy before, (or not) and you may want to try something new. I am queer-allied and diversity justice-allied. It is important to me that you feel accepted unconditionally here. I look forward to meeting with you!
While grief is a major focus of mine, we are not limited to working with somatic approaches, incorporating nature/ play/art in sessions, and/or simply creating a therapeutic space that is right for you! I am flexible and accommodating to your needs of support.
Welcome! As your counselor, my greatest goal is to help create safety in the therapy room that extends to your body and mind. I am a creative soul with passion in art, nature, and somatic approaches! You may have been to therapy before, (or not) and you may want to try something new. I am queer-allied and diversity justice-allied. It is important to me that you feel accepted unconditionally here. I look forward to meeting with you!
(337) 201-9320 View (337) 201-9320
Photo of Ellie Johnson, MS, LPC , RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC , RPT
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70119
Whether it's individual play therapy, family sessions, or personal growth for adults, I'm here for you.
As a registered play therapist my passion lies in working with children and caregivers to unlock their fullest potential and leaning in to their most authentic selves . Employing a unique blend of child-centered play therapy and synergetic play therapy, I integrate insights from neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology. This approach allows me to deeply connect with children while providing parents with a scientific understanding of their child's behaviors. My goal is to create a safe space for self-expression and exploration, fostering empowerment and resilience for both children and their caregivers.
Whether it's individual play therapy, family sessions, or personal growth for adults, I'm here for you.
As a registered play therapist my passion lies in working with children and caregivers to unlock their fullest potential and leaning in to their most authentic selves . Employing a unique blend of child-centered play therapy and synergetic play therapy, I integrate insights from neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology. This approach allows me to deeply connect with children while providing parents with a scientific understanding of their child's behaviors. My goal is to create a safe space for self-expression and exploration, fostering empowerment and resilience for both children and their caregivers.
(504) 370-9850 View (504) 370-9850
Photo of Dr. Jeanie Woolledge, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jeanie Woolledge
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70053  (Online Only)
These include Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Gestalt, Adlerian & Play Therapy.
Seeking counseling is the first step for positive change, growth & healing and supports wellness in whatever area needing healing. It is a process that begins with a single step and a commitment to change. While everyone can benefit from counseling, usually the healthiest people seek counseling because they realize when they need help. From children having difficulties at school or home to people who want to become stronger and empowered, Dr. Woolledge's gentle, intuitive and creative style can help move you beyond feeling hopeless to the success you desire. Dr. Woolledge also specializes in Bariatric Solutions pre- and post-op.
These include Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Gestalt, Adlerian & Play Therapy.
Seeking counseling is the first step for positive change, growth & healing and supports wellness in whatever area needing healing. It is a process that begins with a single step and a commitment to change. While everyone can benefit from counseling, usually the healthiest people seek counseling because they realize when they need help. From children having difficulties at school or home to people who want to become stronger and empowered, Dr. Woolledge's gentle, intuitive and creative style can help move you beyond feeling hopeless to the success you desire. Dr. Woolledge also specializes in Bariatric Solutions pre- and post-op.
(504) 602-9379 View (504) 602-9379
Photo of Rachel A. Foreman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel A. Foreman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70503
When working with children, I utilize play and art therapies according to developmental levels.
We accept United Healthcare and Louisiana Healthcare Connections Medicaid (up to 18 years of age).
When working with children, I utilize play and art therapies according to developmental levels.
We accept United Healthcare and Louisiana Healthcare Connections Medicaid (up to 18 years of age).
(337) 522-7296 View (337) 522-7296
Photo of Ann Daigle Acadian Counseling Center, MS, PLPC
Ann Daigle Acadian Counseling Center
MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70508
As a child & family therapist, I approach counseling with a mix of play, cognitive-behavioral, & strength-based perspectives.
You have made it here & are taking the first step toward a more fulfilling life for yourself or someone you care about. In life, we all have struggles & need a non-judgmental, safe space to process. I provide mental health support to children & adolescents as they go through everything that life may offer them. I am here to assist through life transitions so that my clients can truly thrive in the present & be set up for success in the future. You may be searching for guidance while experiencing behavioral issues at home or school. You might have concerns about your child’s mood or behaviors that hinders their overall wellbeing.
As a child & family therapist, I approach counseling with a mix of play, cognitive-behavioral, & strength-based perspectives.
You have made it here & are taking the first step toward a more fulfilling life for yourself or someone you care about. In life, we all have struggles & need a non-judgmental, safe space to process. I provide mental health support to children & adolescents as they go through everything that life may offer them. I am here to assist through life transitions so that my clients can truly thrive in the present & be set up for success in the future. You may be searching for guidance while experiencing behavioral issues at home or school. You might have concerns about your child’s mood or behaviors that hinders their overall wellbeing.
(337) 329-8336 View (337) 329-8336
Photo of Melissa Cavanaugh, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Cavanaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70508
Brene Brown once said "Vulnerability is not knowing victory or defeat, it’s understanding the necessity of both; it’s engaging. It’s being all in." I approach a session in this way and I hope to help each client navigate this journey. Whether it is issues with depression, anxiety, family conflict, substance abuse, etc, I hope to help each client reach that balance. I use an eclectic counseling approach to meet the needs of every client. I also see children as young as 4 years of age and aim to help them explore their emotions through their own language.. play. I am currently licensed in Louisiana, Maine, and Washington!
Brene Brown once said "Vulnerability is not knowing victory or defeat, it’s understanding the necessity of both; it’s engaging. It’s being all in." I approach a session in this way and I hope to help each client navigate this journey. Whether it is issues with depression, anxiety, family conflict, substance abuse, etc, I hope to help each client reach that balance. I use an eclectic counseling approach to meet the needs of every client. I also see children as young as 4 years of age and aim to help them explore their emotions through their own language.. play. I am currently licensed in Louisiana, Maine, and Washington!
(337) 408-1041 View (337) 408-1041
Photo of Julie G Galloway, MS, LPC-S, RPT
Julie G Galloway
MS, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70508
Julie has experience using Play Therapy for clients of all ages.
Julie has a strong desire to work with tweens, teens and the adults who support them. She also has a passion for working with caregivers, healthcare professionals and those living with extraordinary circumstances like chronic illnesses or disabilities. Julie supports her clients in their desire to foster healthy relationships by means of empowering her clients to navigate, prioritize and effectively communicate for a maximized healthy life balance. She believes personal growth and development can occur in all individuals open to acceptance and understanding of themselves and others.
Julie has experience using Play Therapy for clients of all ages.
Julie has a strong desire to work with tweens, teens and the adults who support them. She also has a passion for working with caregivers, healthcare professionals and those living with extraordinary circumstances like chronic illnesses or disabilities. Julie supports her clients in their desire to foster healthy relationships by means of empowering her clients to navigate, prioritize and effectively communicate for a maximized healthy life balance. She believes personal growth and development can occur in all individuals open to acceptance and understanding of themselves and others.
(337) 408-1028 View (337) 408-1028
Photo of Annie Bachrach, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Bachrach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
I have training in CBT, DBT, and play therapy, and have a 200-hr yoga teaching certification.
I primarily work with clients aged 15-30 struggling with anxiety and depression, life transitions, social and behavioral issues, and identity development. I have a particular interest in working with college students as they develop greater independence and learn to manage increasing personal and academic responsibilities while also attending to their social and emotional needs.
I have training in CBT, DBT, and play therapy, and have a 200-hr yoga teaching certification.
I primarily work with clients aged 15-30 struggling with anxiety and depression, life transitions, social and behavioral issues, and identity development. I have a particular interest in working with college students as they develop greater independence and learn to manage increasing personal and academic responsibilities while also attending to their social and emotional needs.
(504) 766-3880 View (504) 766-3880
Photo of Morgan Teachworth White, MA, NBCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Teachworth White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NBCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70471
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, certified Aut Play Therapist, and I'm awaiting final approval of my Registered Play Therapist designation.
I love working with clients (2-18) who have ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing Disorders, and other forms of neurodivergence. I use play therapy to connect with them and help them learn about their brains, their emotions, and new, more comfortable ways of expressing themselves and meeting their needs. I also enjoy connecting with parents who feel alone in the unique challenges that come with parenting these children. It can be hard to feel like the challenges are respected and the positives appreciated.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, certified Aut Play Therapist, and I'm awaiting final approval of my Registered Play Therapist designation.
I love working with clients (2-18) who have ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing Disorders, and other forms of neurodivergence. I use play therapy to connect with them and help them learn about their brains, their emotions, and new, more comfortable ways of expressing themselves and meeting their needs. I also enjoy connecting with parents who feel alone in the unique challenges that come with parenting these children. It can be hard to feel like the challenges are respected and the positives appreciated.
(985) 260-8710 View (985) 260-8710
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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.