Play Therapy in Bethesda, MD
Dara Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In my practice I use combination of talk, play and relaxation training to meet your specific needs.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult decision and a brave choice. In my practice, I work with my clients to build upon strengths that already exist to help you gain the skills to reach their fullest potential. I would like to help you have the opportunity to create meaningful change in your daily lives. I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, individuals and their families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, and learning challenges. I have experience advocating for clients in the form of working with teachers, participating in IEP meetings, and educating the community.
In my practice I use combination of talk, play and relaxation training to meet your specific needs.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult decision and a brave choice. In my practice, I work with my clients to build upon strengths that already exist to help you gain the skills to reach their fullest potential. I would like to help you have the opportunity to create meaningful change in your daily lives. I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, individuals and their families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, and learning challenges. I have experience advocating for clients in the form of working with teachers, participating in IEP meetings, and educating the community.
Joshua O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
My modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Skills Training, Systems Theory, Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Psychoeducation.
Couples, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC Affirming Care; ENM, Polyamory and Kink-Aware Therapy, Sex & Intimacy; Eating Disorders; Teen Identity Formation; Communication Issues; Family of Origin Issues; Anxiety; Depression; Life Transitions & Adjustment; Substance Use Disorder
My modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Skills Training, Systems Theory, Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Psychoeducation.
Couples, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC Affirming Care; ENM, Polyamory and Kink-Aware Therapy, Sex & Intimacy; Eating Disorders; Teen Identity Formation; Communication Issues; Family of Origin Issues; Anxiety; Depression; Life Transitions & Adjustment; Substance Use Disorder
Poole Counseling Group LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817 (Online Only)
We address challenging behaviors in children through PCIT and Filial Play Therapy.
You care deeply for your family, but the ongoing stress, the sleepless nights, and the emotional ups and downs are wearing you thin. It's not just about dealing with tantrums or navigating teen drama; it's the weight of knowing that your well-being directly impacts your family's happiness. You're not just looking for a quick fix; you're looking for a lasting change.You want a harmonious home where everyone feels heard, understood, and supported. Your aim is to foster positive behavior in your children, improve communication within your family, and to develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress and emotional challenges.
We address challenging behaviors in children through PCIT and Filial Play Therapy.
You care deeply for your family, but the ongoing stress, the sleepless nights, and the emotional ups and downs are wearing you thin. It's not just about dealing with tantrums or navigating teen drama; it's the weight of knowing that your well-being directly impacts your family's happiness. You're not just looking for a quick fix; you're looking for a lasting change.You want a harmonious home where everyone feels heard, understood, and supported. Your aim is to foster positive behavior in your children, improve communication within your family, and to develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress and emotional challenges.
Rebecca Whitmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I use contemporary modalities based in neuroscience including; EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, Gestalt, Mindfulness, and Somatic Intervention.
We overcome difficulties, adjust to changes, and manage difficult emotions best when we do not have to go at it alone. I offer a supportive partnership to help you identify your goals and build capacity to experience joy, compassionate self regard, and healthy rewarding relationships. I have over 35 years of experience helping children, couples, adults, and parents who may be feeling stuck, alone, sad, anxious, or unable to find the forward motion to reach goals for well being. Together we can create a safe space to address difficult emotions, and identify resources and habits that support resiliency and wellness.
I use contemporary modalities based in neuroscience including; EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, Gestalt, Mindfulness, and Somatic Intervention.
We overcome difficulties, adjust to changes, and manage difficult emotions best when we do not have to go at it alone. I offer a supportive partnership to help you identify your goals and build capacity to experience joy, compassionate self regard, and healthy rewarding relationships. I have over 35 years of experience helping children, couples, adults, and parents who may be feeling stuck, alone, sad, anxious, or unable to find the forward motion to reach goals for well being. Together we can create a safe space to address difficult emotions, and identify resources and habits that support resiliency and wellness.
Amy Pelletier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
Amy has completed training in expressive and play therapies and in using CBT to treat mood and anxiety disorders.
Amy has over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings, including outpatient mental health, school-based, and private practice. She is dedicated to helping children and families navigate life’s challenges. Amy’s approach to therapy involves creating a safe and supportive environment for her clients where she uses cognitive behavioral therapy and play therapy techniques to help clients experiencing a range difficulties, including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, and behavior issues.
Amy has completed training in expressive and play therapies and in using CBT to treat mood and anxiety disorders.
Amy has over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings, including outpatient mental health, school-based, and private practice. She is dedicated to helping children and families navigate life’s challenges. Amy’s approach to therapy involves creating a safe and supportive environment for her clients where she uses cognitive behavioral therapy and play therapy techniques to help clients experiencing a range difficulties, including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, and behavior issues.
Stacy Steiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I strive to use an approach that best meets the needs of the client including, Art and Play Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Client Centered, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and their families. My areas of specialty are ADHD, OCD, self-esteem building, social skills, depression, and anxiety. Establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship is vital to effective treatment, which I work to strengthen from the very first session by developing trust and a safe environment for honest discussion.
I strive to use an approach that best meets the needs of the client including, Art and Play Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Client Centered, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and their families. My areas of specialty are ADHD, OCD, self-esteem building, social skills, depression, and anxiety. Establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship is vital to effective treatment, which I work to strengthen from the very first session by developing trust and a safe environment for honest discussion.
Marissa Post
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I create a welcoming and safe space for clients to share and learn about themselves through the use of play, art, mindfulness, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with young children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and family transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
I create a welcoming and safe space for clients to share and learn about themselves through the use of play, art, mindfulness, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with young children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and family transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
Alondra Perez
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
At Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist that focuses on providing a safe and culturally sensitive space. I believe in empowering my clients to achieve their goals and full potential through an integrative approach. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered, Child Centered and Prescriptive Play Therapy, and Relational-cultural Therapy. I work with issues related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, substance use, trauma, behavior issues, and life transitions.
At Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist that focuses on providing a safe and culturally sensitive space. I believe in empowering my clients to achieve their goals and full potential through an integrative approach. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered, Child Centered and Prescriptive Play Therapy, and Relational-cultural Therapy. I work with issues related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, substance use, trauma, behavior issues, and life transitions.
Stephanie Prigal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize Non-Directive Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy and Theraplay as well as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of meeting the client and family where they are at and building a connection through trust and understanding. I have experience working with children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, socialization and attention deficit disorder. When working with adolescents or adults, I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness.
I utilize Non-Directive Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy and Theraplay as well as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of meeting the client and family where they are at and building a connection through trust and understanding. I have experience working with children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, socialization and attention deficit disorder. When working with adolescents or adults, I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness.
Samantha Congdon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814 (Online Only)
I specialize in Narrative, Art/Play, Trauma Informed Care, etc.
I am Sam Congdon, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist providing teletherapy in the states of Maryland, Virginia and California. My speciality is with adolescents, teens, young adults, and college students. I also have experience with adults, couples and families utilizing a collaborative approach to fit each client's individual needs. I grew up in California and went to school at the California State University of Chico, where I received my Bachelors of Art in Psychology, and Master's of Science in Marriage Family Therapy. My goal is to help you, be your best you.
I specialize in Narrative, Art/Play, Trauma Informed Care, etc.
I am Sam Congdon, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist providing teletherapy in the states of Maryland, Virginia and California. My speciality is with adolescents, teens, young adults, and college students. I also have experience with adults, couples and families utilizing a collaborative approach to fit each client's individual needs. I grew up in California and went to school at the California State University of Chico, where I received my Bachelors of Art in Psychology, and Master's of Science in Marriage Family Therapy. My goal is to help you, be your best you.
Melissa Melendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I specialize in using interventions including play therapy, psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and much more!.
Hi! I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depressive disorders, grieving, self-esteem, social skills, and relationship issues. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds and strive to incorporate cultural competence in my therapeutic practice. I believe it’s crucial to provide psychotherapy and preventative services to clients from diverse backgrounds who may be unaware of potential warning signs and risk factors associated with mental health disorders.
I specialize in using interventions including play therapy, psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and much more!.
Hi! I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depressive disorders, grieving, self-esteem, social skills, and relationship issues. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds and strive to incorporate cultural competence in my therapeutic practice. I believe it’s crucial to provide psychotherapy and preventative services to clients from diverse backgrounds who may be unaware of potential warning signs and risk factors associated with mental health disorders.
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Brittany LaFleur
Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Brittany is a certified Child & Adolescent Trauma Therapist, Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor.
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
Brittany is a certified Child & Adolescent Trauma Therapist, Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor.
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
Carly Garrett Schreiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize CBT, DBT, mindfulness practice, art, play therapy, and psychodynamic approaches in my therapy practice, as I believe therapy should be a holistic treatment approach that is strength-based and flexible for the client.
My core belief in therapeutic practice is that everyone has inherent value and strength, that with the right support, can be harnessed to create positive changes and meaningful growth. Offering a safe place where self-exploration, processing, and healing can be done, I will help you to build insight, resilience through healthy coping skills, and empowerment in reaching your therapeutic goals. Whether it is improving communication, changing behaviors, healing from trauma, or having a consistent and dependable ally in your mental health, I will support you each step of the way.
I utilize CBT, DBT, mindfulness practice, art, play therapy, and psychodynamic approaches in my therapy practice, as I believe therapy should be a holistic treatment approach that is strength-based and flexible for the client.
My core belief in therapeutic practice is that everyone has inherent value and strength, that with the right support, can be harnessed to create positive changes and meaningful growth. Offering a safe place where self-exploration, processing, and healing can be done, I will help you to build insight, resilience through healthy coping skills, and empowerment in reaching your therapeutic goals. Whether it is improving communication, changing behaviors, healing from trauma, or having a consistent and dependable ally in your mental health, I will support you each step of the way.
Amanda Wiggins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LGMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
I use an integrative model with techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Experiential Therapy, & Solution-Focused Therapy.
I work with children, teens, and adults facing stressors such as life transitions, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, blended families, parent child relationships, as well as identity, personal, and relational growth. My training as a MFT has helped me develop a collaborative and systemically informed therapy style. I believe clients are the experts in their own lives, and I can serve as a warm, empathetic and non-judgmental presence to facilitate exploration and self growth.
I use an integrative model with techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Experiential Therapy, & Solution-Focused Therapy.
I work with children, teens, and adults facing stressors such as life transitions, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, blended families, parent child relationships, as well as identity, personal, and relational growth. My training as a MFT has helped me develop a collaborative and systemically informed therapy style. I believe clients are the experts in their own lives, and I can serve as a warm, empathetic and non-judgmental presence to facilitate exploration and self growth.
Jade Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
In my work with children, I am passionate about Child Centered Play Therapy and other play therapy modalities, as well as expressive arts techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
In my work with children, I am passionate about Child Centered Play Therapy and other play therapy modalities, as well as expressive arts techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
Maggie Meyer
Counselor, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I am a proud mom of 3 adult children! Please feel free to learn more about me on my website.
Reaching out for support can be extremely difficult...trust me, I have been there myself! It really is the first step towards unlocking all of life's possibilities and potential to heal and grow. Therapy is a gift and allowing me the ability to experience this transformative journey with you is a gift to me. My goal is to provide a collaborative, safe, and comfortable space where you feel seen, supported, and connected. I believe therapy is nourishment for social, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I use my dietetic background for a holistic approach. Together, we will find a path that works best for you!
In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I am a proud mom of 3 adult children! Please feel free to learn more about me on my website.
Reaching out for support can be extremely difficult...trust me, I have been there myself! It really is the first step towards unlocking all of life's possibilities and potential to heal and grow. Therapy is a gift and allowing me the ability to experience this transformative journey with you is a gift to me. My goal is to provide a collaborative, safe, and comfortable space where you feel seen, supported, and connected. I believe therapy is nourishment for social, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I use my dietetic background for a holistic approach. Together, we will find a path that works best for you!
Rebecca O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817 (Online Only)
We'll employ a blend of therapeutic techniques suited to your child's needs and developmental stage, from play therapy that allows for expressive exploration to cognitive-behavioral strategies that teach effective coping skills.
I specialize in supporting children through their struggles with anxiety, depression, and the unique challenges of neurodiversity, while simultaneously providing their parents with the understanding and tools they need to foster a supportive, nurturing environment at home. Watching your child struggle with these challenges can leave you feeling helpless, searching for ways to help them feel safer, understood, and happier in their own skin. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand to your child, helping them navigate their feelings and the world around them with more ease and confidence.
We'll employ a blend of therapeutic techniques suited to your child's needs and developmental stage, from play therapy that allows for expressive exploration to cognitive-behavioral strategies that teach effective coping skills.
I specialize in supporting children through their struggles with anxiety, depression, and the unique challenges of neurodiversity, while simultaneously providing their parents with the understanding and tools they need to foster a supportive, nurturing environment at home. Watching your child struggle with these challenges can leave you feeling helpless, searching for ways to help them feel safer, understood, and happier in their own skin. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand to your child, helping them navigate their feelings and the world around them with more ease and confidence.
Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing, LLC Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
We offer more than play therapy, we are a healing center.
Here at Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center, our clinicians provide integrative, customized psychotherapy services to children, teens, adults, caregivers, and families in English and in Spanish. We strive to hold safe space and form authentic connections during your growth and healing journey. There is power in asking for and accepting help and our team of clinicians is here to help you heal from the inside out.
We offer more than play therapy, we are a healing center.
Here at Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center, our clinicians provide integrative, customized psychotherapy services to children, teens, adults, caregivers, and families in English and in Spanish. We strive to hold safe space and form authentic connections during your growth and healing journey. There is power in asking for and accepting help and our team of clinicians is here to help you heal from the inside out.
Michael Stahly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Drawing on my experience as a martial arts instructor and a grounding in play therapy, I take a creative, non-directive approach that works well for many kids and families.
I specialize in helping people grapple with existential concerns, often related to grief, loss, and finding a path in life. I work well with people who are disillusioned with the world today and who struggle to reconcile their values with the tasks of daily living, as well as those who have suffered significant losses need help to find their footing once more and to reengage in their altered lives. I do not structure sessions, teach skills, or assign homework.
Drawing on my experience as a martial arts instructor and a grounding in play therapy, I take a creative, non-directive approach that works well for many kids and families.
I specialize in helping people grapple with existential concerns, often related to grief, loss, and finding a path in life. I work well with people who are disillusioned with the world today and who struggle to reconcile their values with the tasks of daily living, as well as those who have suffered significant losses need help to find their footing once more and to reengage in their altered lives. I do not structure sessions, teach skills, or assign homework.
Anna White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CFTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814 (Online Only)
Through individual, family, and play therapy, you and your family can feel healthy, empowered, and connected.
Among families, kids, adults, and couples alike, feeling healthy, happy, connected, and confident can be hard. For so many people and families today, the pressures of the world, fast changes in life, and challenging or traumatic experiences interrupt the connections we wish to have. Maybe for you or your family, this means more and more conflicts, feeling alone and unsupported, being unsure how to make things better, or not knowing what you want or need. Whether you feel lost and disconnected, frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, scared, or lonely, there are ways to restore your feelings of connection, purpose, confidence, and direction.
Through individual, family, and play therapy, you and your family can feel healthy, empowered, and connected.
Among families, kids, adults, and couples alike, feeling healthy, happy, connected, and confident can be hard. For so many people and families today, the pressures of the world, fast changes in life, and challenging or traumatic experiences interrupt the connections we wish to have. Maybe for you or your family, this means more and more conflicts, feeling alone and unsupported, being unsure how to make things better, or not knowing what you want or need. Whether you feel lost and disconnected, frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, scared, or lonely, there are ways to restore your feelings of connection, purpose, confidence, and direction.
See more therapy options for Bethesda
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Bethesda
- Beltsville
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- North Bethesda
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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.