Photo of Emily Kallay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Emily Kallay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MEd
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
I offer a wide variety of feminist theory based, client centered treatments incorporating play, art, and sand tray techniques, as well as Narrative and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based approach to talk therapy.
I have over a decade of professional experience working within the LGBTQ+ community, with specialized skills for kids, adolescents, adults, or families who are navigating a gender journey, a kinky relationship, a non-monogamous connection, sex as employment, as well as many other beautiful different ways we live our lives.
I offer a wide variety of feminist theory based, client centered treatments incorporating play, art, and sand tray techniques, as well as Narrative and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based approach to talk therapy.
I have over a decade of professional experience working within the LGBTQ+ community, with specialized skills for kids, adolescents, adults, or families who are navigating a gender journey, a kinky relationship, a non-monogamous connection, sex as employment, as well as many other beautiful different ways we live our lives.
(410) 469-8674 View (410) 469-8674
Photo of Grace Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Grace Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I also provide play therapy to children who are struggling with emotional and behavioral regulation related to anxiety, autism, and trauma.
I specialize in working with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, OCD, and trauma. In addition to this, I specialize in working with people of all ages who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation. Through gender affirming care, I hope to validate and empower you to feel comfortable being your truest self. As a therapist, I tailor my practice and treatment approach to each individual and family, while working to meet my clients where they are. I believe that providing a safe and welcoming space for my clients is essential to the therapeutic process, and promotes emotional growth and change.
I also provide play therapy to children who are struggling with emotional and behavioral regulation related to anxiety, autism, and trauma.
I specialize in working with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, OCD, and trauma. In addition to this, I specialize in working with people of all ages who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation. Through gender affirming care, I hope to validate and empower you to feel comfortable being your truest self. As a therapist, I tailor my practice and treatment approach to each individual and family, while working to meet my clients where they are. I believe that providing a safe and welcoming space for my clients is essential to the therapeutic process, and promotes emotional growth and change.
(443) 232-1698 View (443) 232-1698
Photo of Emily Angerhofer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Emily Angerhofer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
Utilizing a mix of therapeutic techniques such as expressive arts, play, acceptance and mindfulness practices, and more, I meet my clients where they are, and support them along their journey.
Stressed, overwhelmed, about to lose your $%&?! Whether parenting, existing in the world as neuro-spicy, trying to navigate relationships, processing global tragedy, juggling multiple roles, I can relate and am here for you. My practice is inclusive, anti-racist, and I'm passionate about healing generational curses. Therapy with me is a judgement-free zone. We'll go at your pace, trusting your own wisdom and experiences. I love supporting the full family system: couples, families, and individuals across the lifespan. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or sorting through past trauma, compassion and openness will guide us.
Utilizing a mix of therapeutic techniques such as expressive arts, play, acceptance and mindfulness practices, and more, I meet my clients where they are, and support them along their journey.
Stressed, overwhelmed, about to lose your $%&?! Whether parenting, existing in the world as neuro-spicy, trying to navigate relationships, processing global tragedy, juggling multiple roles, I can relate and am here for you. My practice is inclusive, anti-racist, and I'm passionate about healing generational curses. Therapy with me is a judgement-free zone. We'll go at your pace, trusting your own wisdom and experiences. I love supporting the full family system: couples, families, and individuals across the lifespan. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or sorting through past trauma, compassion and openness will guide us.
(410) 220-6947 View (410) 220-6947
Photo of Tesha N Tinsley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Tesha N Tinsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21229
I am trained and experienced in providing psychotherapy in multiple modalities such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Refresh Wellness and Behavioral Health is an outpatient, private counseling practice offering comprehensive services to meet the needs of those seeking a holistic approach to mental health care. We provide therapeutic services to individuals, families, adolescents, and couples with compassion and respect for unique situations. There is no need to continue suffering in silence! Help is available! Refresh Wellness may be your answer to relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and other disorders. No matter what the problem is, I look forward to working with you.
I am trained and experienced in providing psychotherapy in multiple modalities such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Refresh Wellness and Behavioral Health is an outpatient, private counseling practice offering comprehensive services to meet the needs of those seeking a holistic approach to mental health care. We provide therapeutic services to individuals, families, adolescents, and couples with compassion and respect for unique situations. There is no need to continue suffering in silence! Help is available! Refresh Wellness may be your answer to relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and other disorders. No matter what the problem is, I look forward to working with you.
(410) 618-4528 View (410) 618-4528
Photo of Jeanne M Deignan-Kosmides Ms Ncc C-Iayt E-Ryt, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Jeanne M Deignan-Kosmides Ms Ncc C-Iayt E-Ryt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC , E-RYT, C-IAYT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
Each therapy session is influenced by experience with natural healing, ayurveda, homeopathy, yoga and mindfulness meditation, play/sandtray therapy, guided relaxation and imagery.
I provide compassionate counseling when you are facing mental health challenges - transitions in your life, relationship issues, trauma, grief, personal growth, anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I use a variety of counseling methods & incorporate mindfulness & relaxation into my counseling sessions when appropriate. I hope to bring a broad, warm and unique quality of experience, knowledge and nurturing support to the counseling sessions. I am also a Kripalu senior level yoga teacher, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist and Reiki Master.
Each therapy session is influenced by experience with natural healing, ayurveda, homeopathy, yoga and mindfulness meditation, play/sandtray therapy, guided relaxation and imagery.
I provide compassionate counseling when you are facing mental health challenges - transitions in your life, relationship issues, trauma, grief, personal growth, anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I use a variety of counseling methods & incorporate mindfulness & relaxation into my counseling sessions when appropriate. I hope to bring a broad, warm and unique quality of experience, knowledge and nurturing support to the counseling sessions. I am also a Kripalu senior level yoga teacher, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist and Reiki Master.
(410) 587-0201 View (410) 587-0201
Photo of Victoria Ringo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Victoria Ringo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
Play therapy, storytelling, movement, and sand therapy are among my favorites.
Therapy is about the relationship between therapist and client. It’s a vulnerable and courageous act to embark on a mental health journey, so comfort and sense of connection is a must. I am someone – in life, in work, in relationship – who has a foundation of empathy, a drive to help others, and a strong appreciation for humor. These core values come directly from my Midwestern upbringing, during which I was taught by example to treat all others with kindness and patience. I have a special soft spot for anyone who struggles with anxiety, especially children and adolescents.
Play therapy, storytelling, movement, and sand therapy are among my favorites.
Therapy is about the relationship between therapist and client. It’s a vulnerable and courageous act to embark on a mental health journey, so comfort and sense of connection is a must. I am someone – in life, in work, in relationship – who has a foundation of empathy, a drive to help others, and a strong appreciation for humor. These core values come directly from my Midwestern upbringing, during which I was taught by example to treat all others with kindness and patience. I have a special soft spot for anyone who struggles with anxiety, especially children and adolescents.
(410) 705-7413 View (410) 705-7413
Photo of Lindsey Cheatham, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Lindsey Cheatham
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
Hello & welcome! I’m so glad you are here. I am a queer-identified therapist who is passionate about supporting queer, trans, & gender-diverse youth, adolescents, adults, & families. The majority of clients I see are either in the LGBTQIA+ community or are questioning or exploring parts of their sexual and/or gender-based identities. I help folks who experience depression, anxiety, grief, & trauma process past experiences and make sense of their world. I teach folks coping skills in order to regulate mood, gain self-compassion, radically accept hard truths, and set boundaries in order to build a more aligned life for themselves.
Hello & welcome! I’m so glad you are here. I am a queer-identified therapist who is passionate about supporting queer, trans, & gender-diverse youth, adolescents, adults, & families. The majority of clients I see are either in the LGBTQIA+ community or are questioning or exploring parts of their sexual and/or gender-based identities. I help folks who experience depression, anxiety, grief, & trauma process past experiences and make sense of their world. I teach folks coping skills in order to regulate mood, gain self-compassion, radically accept hard truths, and set boundaries in order to build a more aligned life for themselves.
(443) 963-3569 View (443) 963-3569
Photo of Carr Cares Therapeutic Services, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Carr Cares Therapeutic Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21214
Are you looking for a safe space to express your thoughts? One of my best qualities is actively listening and helping clients process without judgment. I've worked in the mental health field since 2011. I have a unique way of making people feel comfortable and building rapport. I am highly motivated and persistent. Mature, calm and emotionally stable, I am most often praised for my listening, observation skills, and empathy.
Are you looking for a safe space to express your thoughts? One of my best qualities is actively listening and helping clients process without judgment. I've worked in the mental health field since 2011. I have a unique way of making people feel comfortable and building rapport. I am highly motivated and persistent. Mature, calm and emotionally stable, I am most often praised for my listening, observation skills, and empathy.
(410) 846-6072 View (410) 846-6072
Photo of B'MORE Mental Health and Wellness, LLC, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
B'MORE Mental Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
B'MORE Mental Health and Wellness, LLC is a growing private practice in Baltimore. We has several licensed clinicians accepting insurance. Additionally, our pre-licensed clinicians offer therapy at an extremely reduced rate of $50, or less with sliding scale. We offer in-person, virtual and hybrid services.
B'MORE Mental Health and Wellness, LLC is a growing private practice in Baltimore. We has several licensed clinicians accepting insurance. Additionally, our pre-licensed clinicians offer therapy at an extremely reduced rate of $50, or less with sliding scale. We offer in-person, virtual and hybrid services.
(443) 577-4331 View (443) 577-4331
Photo of Breighone Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(443) 457-9498 View (443) 457-9498
Photo of One Heartt, Inc. Mental Health Services in Baltimore, MD
One Heartt, Inc. Mental Health Services
PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21202
Therapy can be a challenging journey of self awareness and processing. This path becomes increasingly difficulty when you don't feel seen and heard. We are black female identifying mental health providers offering a wide range of mental health services. Our goal is to be a one-stop shop for culturally sensitive mental health treatment for all. Our patients come from a range of backgrounds, and participate in services such as medication management, psychological assessment, therapy, and PRP. At One Heartt, Inc. we specialize in providing holistic healthcare in a soothing indoor/outdoor environment.
Therapy can be a challenging journey of self awareness and processing. This path becomes increasingly difficulty when you don't feel seen and heard. We are black female identifying mental health providers offering a wide range of mental health services. Our goal is to be a one-stop shop for culturally sensitive mental health treatment for all. Our patients come from a range of backgrounds, and participate in services such as medication management, psychological assessment, therapy, and PRP. At One Heartt, Inc. we specialize in providing holistic healthcare in a soothing indoor/outdoor environment.
(410) 936-3361 x1 View (410) 936-3361 x1
Photo of Sophie Sgarlat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Sophie Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
(443) 331-9071 View (443) 331-9071
Photo of Brenna Neimanis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Brenna Neimanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have a waitlist - Welcome to therapy, I’m so happy you are here! My practice is focused on feeling at home within yourself & providing a safe place to explore your whole self through individual, partnered, and/or family therapy. I use an inclusive, holistic approach & understand that each client is a unique individual & is impacted by their experiences, as well as societal structures & norms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, burn-out, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, mood disorders, difficulty coping, family/partner conflict, concerns with self-worth, & those who have experienced trauma.
I currently have a waitlist - Welcome to therapy, I’m so happy you are here! My practice is focused on feeling at home within yourself & providing a safe place to explore your whole self through individual, partnered, and/or family therapy. I use an inclusive, holistic approach & understand that each client is a unique individual & is impacted by their experiences, as well as societal structures & norms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, burn-out, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, mood disorders, difficulty coping, family/partner conflict, concerns with self-worth, & those who have experienced trauma.
(443) 457-9293 View (443) 457-9293
Photo of Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218
Led by one of the top Stress and Anxiety experts in the area Dr. Heidi Schreiber-Pan, Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative (CMHC) has a team of highly rated psychotherapists with the complementary skill set and approaches. Whether you are experiencing work burnout or have a severe anxiety disorder, CMHC has the right therapist for you. In addition to the clinically sound traditional approach, CMHC also offers innovative technics like Nature Informed Therapy, guided mindfulness meditation, yoga for anxiety, art therapy, online telehealth counseling.
Led by one of the top Stress and Anxiety experts in the area Dr. Heidi Schreiber-Pan, Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative (CMHC) has a team of highly rated psychotherapists with the complementary skill set and approaches. Whether you are experiencing work burnout or have a severe anxiety disorder, CMHC has the right therapist for you. In addition to the clinically sound traditional approach, CMHC also offers innovative technics like Nature Informed Therapy, guided mindfulness meditation, yoga for anxiety, art therapy, online telehealth counseling.
(443) 400-7281 View (443) 400-7281
Photo of Lyndsay Soeder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Lyndsay Soeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
We all face experiences that are often difficult, painful, and even traumatic. So many of us face these situations feeling alone, overwhelmed, ashamed, and vulnerable. I believe healing and transformation comes from within, by reconnecting with our inner wisdom, becoming more self-aware, and growing more in self-love and compassion. Pain and vulnerability can also teach us a lot about ourselves and be incredibly healing. If you are struggling with relationship problems, life transitions, depression, anxiety, past traumas, feel stuck, or grieving the loss of a loved one, I can help you face these challenges.
We all face experiences that are often difficult, painful, and even traumatic. So many of us face these situations feeling alone, overwhelmed, ashamed, and vulnerable. I believe healing and transformation comes from within, by reconnecting with our inner wisdom, becoming more self-aware, and growing more in self-love and compassion. Pain and vulnerability can also teach us a lot about ourselves and be incredibly healing. If you are struggling with relationship problems, life transitions, depression, anxiety, past traumas, feel stuck, or grieving the loss of a loved one, I can help you face these challenges.
(707) 741-6065 View (707) 741-6065
Photo of Erin Elizabeth McCarthy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Erin Elizabeth McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
People of all ages and walks of life have felt comfortable opening up in my presence, and many find our work together to be the foundation and structure for new areas of self knowledge and profound emotional growth. I connect with people that are in pain or who have been hurt, people that are confused, overwhelmed or just feeling bad. Through our work, we will facilitate a stronger sense of who you are and a greater ability for relational engagement -- discovering and building a full, desired life. I balance softness and smiles with challenge, deep curiosity and playfulness.
People of all ages and walks of life have felt comfortable opening up in my presence, and many find our work together to be the foundation and structure for new areas of self knowledge and profound emotional growth. I connect with people that are in pain or who have been hurt, people that are confused, overwhelmed or just feeling bad. Through our work, we will facilitate a stronger sense of who you are and a greater ability for relational engagement -- discovering and building a full, desired life. I balance softness and smiles with challenge, deep curiosity and playfulness.
(202) 796-7585 View (202) 796-7585
Photo of Urban Institute of Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Urban Institute of Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
Living at the intersectionality of one or more marginalized identities is to live a life with the constant necessity to protect your space, affirm your worth, and embrace intentionality in your day-to-day living experience. It also requires the intentional avoidance of internalized self-hatred, expected assimilation, and hypervigilance for your safety in efforts to live a life full of purpose, peace, and inner-fulfillment. Society's intentional assault to the body and mind has damaged individual and collective wellness and resulted in the separation from ones true identity. It is time to reconnect, rediscover, & heal.
Living at the intersectionality of one or more marginalized identities is to live a life with the constant necessity to protect your space, affirm your worth, and embrace intentionality in your day-to-day living experience. It also requires the intentional avoidance of internalized self-hatred, expected assimilation, and hypervigilance for your safety in efforts to live a life full of purpose, peace, and inner-fulfillment. Society's intentional assault to the body and mind has damaged individual and collective wellness and resulted in the separation from ones true identity. It is time to reconnect, rediscover, & heal.
(443) 775-2179 View (443) 775-2179
Photo of In Bloom Mental Health Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
In Bloom Mental Health Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21212
We are so glad you’re here. Maybe you’re here because you are feeling overwhelmed, paralyzed by physical symptoms of anxiety, depressed, alone, or questioning your identity or sexual orientation. Or maybe you are struggling with something else, like taking up space, speaking up or setting boundaries in your relationships. At In Bloom Mental Health Counseling, we provide modern, individualized and evidence-based therapy to adults and adolescents in person and virtually in Maryland as well as virtually throughout New York.
We are so glad you’re here. Maybe you’re here because you are feeling overwhelmed, paralyzed by physical symptoms of anxiety, depressed, alone, or questioning your identity or sexual orientation. Or maybe you are struggling with something else, like taking up space, speaking up or setting boundaries in your relationships. At In Bloom Mental Health Counseling, we provide modern, individualized and evidence-based therapy to adults and adolescents in person and virtually in Maryland as well as virtually throughout New York.
(443) 446-4718 View (443) 446-4718
Photo of Sydney Armitage, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Sydney Armitage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
Thank you for making the choice to seek help. I know how hard it can be and would be honored to be a part of this next step. Life brings us a lot of changes and challenges that may be difficult to navigate. Perhaps you need help understanding how to cope with your anxiety in certain situations or daily life. Maybe you’re going through a difficult transition. Or maybe something just feels off, and you want to explore what you’re experiencing in a safe place. My hope is that therapy will take you from a place of distress to a place of believing in your strengths and being kind to yourself.
Thank you for making the choice to seek help. I know how hard it can be and would be honored to be a part of this next step. Life brings us a lot of changes and challenges that may be difficult to navigate. Perhaps you need help understanding how to cope with your anxiety in certain situations or daily life. Maybe you’re going through a difficult transition. Or maybe something just feels off, and you want to explore what you’re experiencing in a safe place. My hope is that therapy will take you from a place of distress to a place of believing in your strengths and being kind to yourself.
(240) 541-5906 View (240) 541-5906
Photo of Tanory Ateek, Pre-Licensed Professional in Baltimore, MD
Tanory Ateek
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, MA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
I'm Tanory (she/they) & I am an EMDR and Somatic Experiencing trained therapist. I love working collaboratively with people who want to feel more whole, purposeful & alive in their lives. I work in creative, relational & evidence-based ways to help you transform a variety of issues. I specialize in working with any mental health issue that may be tied to trauma or complex trauma. The therapy techniques used do not require the retelling/re-experiencing of trauma to heal. Your natural inner strength will become more available to support you through whatever life brings, as we work gently and curiously with your unique nervous system.
I'm Tanory (she/they) & I am an EMDR and Somatic Experiencing trained therapist. I love working collaboratively with people who want to feel more whole, purposeful & alive in their lives. I work in creative, relational & evidence-based ways to help you transform a variety of issues. I specialize in working with any mental health issue that may be tied to trauma or complex trauma. The therapy techniques used do not require the retelling/re-experiencing of trauma to heal. Your natural inner strength will become more available to support you through whatever life brings, as we work gently and curiously with your unique nervous system.
(443) 227-4928 View (443) 227-4928
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.