Photo of Jeffrey Crouch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Jeffrey Crouch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I provide play therapy.
We are all going through stressful times in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. I will be available in the office or phone zoom for new and existing clients. I take all insurances and eaps . I help people of all ages (individuals & couples) with anxiety and depression. My clients have told me that I provide a relaxed and caring atmosphere. I understand that it can be a difficult step to come to therapy; I will help you feel comfortable. I provide a free consultation (no co-pay for your first meeting with me). I will work closely with you to set goals so you can start feeling better quickly. I also work with children and teens.
I provide play therapy.
We are all going through stressful times in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. I will be available in the office or phone zoom for new and existing clients. I take all insurances and eaps . I help people of all ages (individuals & couples) with anxiety and depression. My clients have told me that I provide a relaxed and caring atmosphere. I understand that it can be a difficult step to come to therapy; I will help you feel comfortable. I provide a free consultation (no co-pay for your first meeting with me). I will work closely with you to set goals so you can start feeling better quickly. I also work with children and teens.
(443) 687-8093 View (443) 687-8093
Photo of Melissa Schnaar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Melissa Schnaar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
I utilize expressive therapies such as play, sand and art to provide alternative forms of communication and expression.
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. I use an integrative approach in working with children, utilizing a variety of therapeutic methods that are developmentally appropriate and child-centered. I strive to understand the child or adolescent's individual needs and seek to develop a trusting relationship in a safe environment that allows clients to freely and safely express themselves. I understand that when a child is struggling the whole family is affected and work with parents to better understand their children and identify ways to help the family system work better for everyone.
I utilize expressive therapies such as play, sand and art to provide alternative forms of communication and expression.
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. I use an integrative approach in working with children, utilizing a variety of therapeutic methods that are developmentally appropriate and child-centered. I strive to understand the child or adolescent's individual needs and seek to develop a trusting relationship in a safe environment that allows clients to freely and safely express themselves. I understand that when a child is struggling the whole family is affected and work with parents to better understand their children and identify ways to help the family system work better for everyone.
(443) 616-2820 View (443) 616-2820
Photo of Sarah Aleem, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Sarah Aleem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I believe in empowering my clients to discover their inner strengths. Therapy is a journey in self exploration, self awareness and change. I use a multicultural perspective to inform my clinical practice. I offer tele-health services to my clients accessibility to care .Self pay clients can expect an appointment within 24 hours. My sessions use mindfulness, practicing self regulation, cognitive restructuring, imago skills, play therapy and many other techniques that are relevant to a client's treatment plan. I am available to my clients between sessions via text and secure video chatting. I offer financial therapy.
I believe in empowering my clients to discover their inner strengths. Therapy is a journey in self exploration, self awareness and change. I use a multicultural perspective to inform my clinical practice. I offer tele-health services to my clients accessibility to care .Self pay clients can expect an appointment within 24 hours. My sessions use mindfulness, practicing self regulation, cognitive restructuring, imago skills, play therapy and many other techniques that are relevant to a client's treatment plan. I am available to my clients between sessions via text and secure video chatting. I offer financial therapy.
(410) 336-4668 View (410) 336-4668
Photo of Anthony Der, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Columbia, MD
Anthony Der
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I specialize in using CBT and play therapy when working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
Availability is 3pm or earlier. Over the past 10 years, I have worked with a diverse population of children, families, and young adults in inpatient, outpatient and school settings. Clients with learning disabilities, trauma, anxiety/depression and ADHD symptoms are some of the many clients I have served in the past. My therapy style focuses on being thorough, client-centered, and efficient through the use of eclectic, evidence based therapy methods. I assist with achieving my client's self created goals with the use of parenting tips and techniques for children, and a diverse set of coping mechanisms for teenage and adult clients.
I specialize in using CBT and play therapy when working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
Availability is 3pm or earlier. Over the past 10 years, I have worked with a diverse population of children, families, and young adults in inpatient, outpatient and school settings. Clients with learning disabilities, trauma, anxiety/depression and ADHD symptoms are some of the many clients I have served in the past. My therapy style focuses on being thorough, client-centered, and efficient through the use of eclectic, evidence based therapy methods. I assist with achieving my client's self created goals with the use of parenting tips and techniques for children, and a diverse set of coping mechanisms for teenage and adult clients.
(443) 963-3439 View (443) 963-3439
Photo of Wellbrook Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Wellbrook Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045  (Online Only)
Waibogha holds a certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment, from the Institute for Advanced Psychotherapy Training and Education and a Sandtray Therapy Certificate from The Canadian Association of Play Therapy.
Dr. Kimberly Waibogha. received her BSW and MSW from West Virginia University, and her DSW from Rutgers University. Dr. Waibogha has twenty-seven years of professional post-masters experience. She has provided mental health therapy in the in-home setting, inpatient setting, partial inpatient setting, and outpatient setting, Dr. Waibogha has taught in academia, has experience working with addictions, trauma survivors, adults, children, and clients diagnosed with psychosis.
Waibogha holds a certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment, from the Institute for Advanced Psychotherapy Training and Education and a Sandtray Therapy Certificate from The Canadian Association of Play Therapy.
Dr. Kimberly Waibogha. received her BSW and MSW from West Virginia University, and her DSW from Rutgers University. Dr. Waibogha has twenty-seven years of professional post-masters experience. She has provided mental health therapy in the in-home setting, inpatient setting, partial inpatient setting, and outpatient setting, Dr. Waibogha has taught in academia, has experience working with addictions, trauma survivors, adults, children, and clients diagnosed with psychosis.
(443) 241-2375 View (443) 241-2375
Photo of Dr. Joanne Vizzini, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Columbia, MD
Dr. Joanne Vizzini
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
I create and offer training for therapists/educators through Ferentz Institute and formerly CBPS (Play therapy).
I have a dynamic private practice in MD and VA. Virtual ONLY. The most important component of therapy is listening deeply to my clients. I specialize in ANXIETY issues, including GAD, OCD, specific phobias, panic disorder and social anxiety. Other specialties include healing past hurts, such as codependency and addictions for adults; helping families who are separating/divorcing; and, children/adults who struggle with ADD/ADHD and/or learning disabilities. Ages 5 -105 are welcome. I feel privileged to offer support and healing.I'm an out-of-network provider for most insurance companies and can offer some individuals a lowered rate.
I create and offer training for therapists/educators through Ferentz Institute and formerly CBPS (Play therapy).
I have a dynamic private practice in MD and VA. Virtual ONLY. The most important component of therapy is listening deeply to my clients. I specialize in ANXIETY issues, including GAD, OCD, specific phobias, panic disorder and social anxiety. Other specialties include healing past hurts, such as codependency and addictions for adults; helping families who are separating/divorcing; and, children/adults who struggle with ADD/ADHD and/or learning disabilities. Ages 5 -105 are welcome. I feel privileged to offer support and healing.I'm an out-of-network provider for most insurance companies and can offer some individuals a lowered rate.
(443) 499-9150 View (443) 499-9150
Photo of Melissa Houck, Counselor in Columbia, MD
Melissa Houck
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
Play is the natural language for children to explore, express, and experience.
**ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN PERSON OR VIRTUAL** I believe everyone has within them the strength, ability, and desire to fulfill his or her own potential. My job as a therapist is to help you to recognize, find, and unlock your inner strengths through the therapeutic and self-discovery process. If you or a loved one are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, impacted by a recent or prolonged trauma, or are just having difficulty navigating through the daily stresses of life, I can help. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and safe haven environment for your journey of self-discovery and growth. ***Telehealth Available***
Play is the natural language for children to explore, express, and experience.
**ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN PERSON OR VIRTUAL** I believe everyone has within them the strength, ability, and desire to fulfill his or her own potential. My job as a therapist is to help you to recognize, find, and unlock your inner strengths through the therapeutic and self-discovery process. If you or a loved one are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, impacted by a recent or prolonged trauma, or are just having difficulty navigating through the daily stresses of life, I can help. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and safe haven environment for your journey of self-discovery and growth. ***Telehealth Available***
(410) 304-7205 View (410) 304-7205
Photo of Edith B Schatz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Edith B Schatz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
Using play therapy, talk, and movement I work with children and teens to make positive behavioral changes.
Are you worried your child or teen is struggling to make or keep friends? Does your child have a hard time in social situations? Do they seem angry, depressed, or anxious? As a parent, are you unsure how to help? I work with children and teens to help them develop new life and social skills using talk, play therapy, and movement. During therapy your child will learn to better recognize their feelings and develop new coping strategies that will help improve their relationships. My goal is to help your child gain a better understanding of them selves and become more connected with others.
Using play therapy, talk, and movement I work with children and teens to make positive behavioral changes.
Are you worried your child or teen is struggling to make or keep friends? Does your child have a hard time in social situations? Do they seem angry, depressed, or anxious? As a parent, are you unsure how to help? I work with children and teens to help them develop new life and social skills using talk, play therapy, and movement. During therapy your child will learn to better recognize their feelings and develop new coping strategies that will help improve their relationships. My goal is to help your child gain a better understanding of them selves and become more connected with others.
(703) 270-0929 View (703) 270-0929
Photo of Mollye Kellman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Mollye Kellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
Are you in search of a steadfast ally for your mental and emotional health, one who sticks by you no matter what? Seize the chance to attain mental clarity and unearth a deep-seated sense of life’s direction. Striving for a harmonious life often comes with its fair share of obstacles, and finding equilibrium is rarely straightforward. In such times, having someone to help chart the course can play a pivotal role in bringing about life-altering shifts. I am committed to nurturing your ability to meet personal challenges head-on, honing the skills needed to realize your ambitions.
Are you in search of a steadfast ally for your mental and emotional health, one who sticks by you no matter what? Seize the chance to attain mental clarity and unearth a deep-seated sense of life’s direction. Striving for a harmonious life often comes with its fair share of obstacles, and finding equilibrium is rarely straightforward. In such times, having someone to help chart the course can play a pivotal role in bringing about life-altering shifts. I am committed to nurturing your ability to meet personal challenges head-on, honing the skills needed to realize your ambitions.
(410) 453-8051 View (410) 453-8051
Photo of Jaime Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Jaime Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045  (Online Only)
I use play therapy techniques with children and teach mindfulness to all clients using meditation and creativity.
Your therapist should be someone you trust and feel comfortable talking with. I work hard to create a safe and inviting environment for my clients. I have worked in the mental health field for over seven years, serving children, adolescents, and adults in community and school-based settings. I have experience working with clients who are dealing with ADHD, trauma, grief, school-related issues, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, and other emotional and behavioral struggles.
I use play therapy techniques with children and teach mindfulness to all clients using meditation and creativity.
Your therapist should be someone you trust and feel comfortable talking with. I work hard to create a safe and inviting environment for my clients. I have worked in the mental health field for over seven years, serving children, adolescents, and adults in community and school-based settings. I have experience working with clients who are dealing with ADHD, trauma, grief, school-related issues, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, and other emotional and behavioral struggles.
(443) 251-4338 View (443) 251-4338
Photo of Crystal Waters Counseling Centers, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Columbia, MD
Crystal Waters Counseling Centers, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21046
My name is Diane Brumfield and I am a psychotherapist and owner of Crystal Waters Counseling Centers, LLC in Columbia, Maryland. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a nationally certified school counselor with over 20 years of experience. I provide counseling for adults, children, adolescents, and families. Throughout my career, I have worked in private practice and school settings providing individual, group and family therapy. I also offer educational consulting services for families in need of assistance through the IEP process or are in need of behavioral and academic support from their school system.
My name is Diane Brumfield and I am a psychotherapist and owner of Crystal Waters Counseling Centers, LLC in Columbia, Maryland. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a nationally certified school counselor with over 20 years of experience. I provide counseling for adults, children, adolescents, and families. Throughout my career, I have worked in private practice and school settings providing individual, group and family therapy. I also offer educational consulting services for families in need of assistance through the IEP process or are in need of behavioral and academic support from their school system.
(443) 251-4280 View (443) 251-4280
Photo of Adult Columbia Personal Therapy/Career Counseling, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Columbia, MD
Adult Columbia Personal Therapy/Career Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
Take charge of your life...manage communications, thinking, emotions, behaviors and goals! When you and I meet in session, it will be a unique experience designed to meet what works for your needs and goals. I view each person in a holistic framework that encompasses cognitive, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects. The goal of our work together is to achieve a sense of balance in your life where all aspects of you are working together in harmony to achieve wellness. My training and experience encompass an eclectic approach that combines the newest research and time tested theories, strategies, and techniques.
Take charge of your life...manage communications, thinking, emotions, behaviors and goals! When you and I meet in session, it will be a unique experience designed to meet what works for your needs and goals. I view each person in a holistic framework that encompasses cognitive, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects. The goal of our work together is to achieve a sense of balance in your life where all aspects of you are working together in harmony to achieve wellness. My training and experience encompass an eclectic approach that combines the newest research and time tested theories, strategies, and techniques.
(301) 683-5296 View (301) 683-5296
Photo of Sandra Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Sandra Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
Sandra is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia and Maryland. For the last decade, she has been advocating for individuals and families struggling with mental health concerns. She has provided therapeutic services to a diverse array of individuals of all ages, primarily focused on childhood trauma. Through her work, she is committed to helping people overcome eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other similar stressors that affect all of us at some time in our lives.
Sandra is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia and Maryland. For the last decade, she has been advocating for individuals and families struggling with mental health concerns. She has provided therapeutic services to a diverse array of individuals of all ages, primarily focused on childhood trauma. Through her work, she is committed to helping people overcome eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other similar stressors that affect all of us at some time in our lives.
(667) 200-3996 View (667) 200-3996
Photo of The Columbia Counseling Center of Maryland, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Columbia, MD
The Columbia Counseling Center of Maryland
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
(443) 247-0097 View (443) 247-0097
Photo of Jan Bracalente Carlson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Jan Bracalente Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I have particular expertise in helping individuals struggling with family and marital discord, school and work difficulties, separation and loss and dealing with chronic illness. Together we will discover your strengths and build resilience. Treatment will be tailored to your particular circumstance and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship will help you move towards your potential. My approach is warm and creative and I hope you will feel supported and respected as an individual and safe in revealing your vulnerabilities. I hope you will feel a sense of hope and possibility throughout the time we will spend together.
I have particular expertise in helping individuals struggling with family and marital discord, school and work difficulties, separation and loss and dealing with chronic illness. Together we will discover your strengths and build resilience. Treatment will be tailored to your particular circumstance and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship will help you move towards your potential. My approach is warm and creative and I hope you will feel supported and respected as an individual and safe in revealing your vulnerabilities. I hope you will feel a sense of hope and possibility throughout the time we will spend together.
(410) 469-1153 x4 View (410) 469-1153 x4
Photo of Kathleen Van Meter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Kathleen Van Meter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.
I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.
View
Photo of Santokh Singh, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Columbia, MD
Santokh Singh
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
** TAKING NEW CLIENTS ** Are you struggling? Do you need support? I’ll work to meet you where you are, no matter what stage of life you’re experiencing. I have experience working with children/adolescents/teens, and I also worked with adults experiencing trauma and a variety of other mental health challenges such as relationship problems, anxiety, and depression. Whatever challenge you’re troubled with, I will work with you by creating a SAFE SPACE. I collaborate with you, assisting you towards your goals. My approach is to listen and understand, and I will work to support you unconditionally, without judgement, and with empathy.
** TAKING NEW CLIENTS ** Are you struggling? Do you need support? I’ll work to meet you where you are, no matter what stage of life you’re experiencing. I have experience working with children/adolescents/teens, and I also worked with adults experiencing trauma and a variety of other mental health challenges such as relationship problems, anxiety, and depression. Whatever challenge you’re troubled with, I will work with you by creating a SAFE SPACE. I collaborate with you, assisting you towards your goals. My approach is to listen and understand, and I will work to support you unconditionally, without judgement, and with empathy.
(410) 724-1255 View (410) 724-1255
Photo of MPB Group, Inc-An Outpatient Mental Health Clinic, Counselor in Columbia, MD
MPB Group, Inc-An Outpatient Mental Health Clinic
Counselor, LCPC, DCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I am the Owner and Compliance Officer at MPB Group Inc - an outpatient mental health clinic in Columbia and Laurel, MD. At this unprecedented time in history, we want to continue to support those in the community in the safest manner. We have a robust telemedicine program whereby clients can engage in therapy and psychiatric services via our HIPAA-compliant online portal. We specialize in the treatment of those with histories of trauma, abuse/neglect. Please check out our website www.mpbhealth.com for more information. Call us at 410-730-2385 to make an appointment.
I am the Owner and Compliance Officer at MPB Group Inc - an outpatient mental health clinic in Columbia and Laurel, MD. At this unprecedented time in history, we want to continue to support those in the community in the safest manner. We have a robust telemedicine program whereby clients can engage in therapy and psychiatric services via our HIPAA-compliant online portal. We specialize in the treatment of those with histories of trauma, abuse/neglect. Please check out our website www.mpbhealth.com for more information. Call us at 410-730-2385 to make an appointment.
(410) 469-6496 View (410) 469-6496
Photo of Urban Institute of Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Urban Institute of Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
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 Laurie McGuire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, MD
Laurie McGuire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Laurie! Do you wish providers would look at you through a whole person lens instead of discussing health and mental health separately? Do you want a provider for your child who is playful and skilled at engaging children? Are you an adult who likes a more personal, connected approach to therapy? Do you have a teen who has had difficulty connecting to other providers? Well look no further! I enjoy using storytelling, videos, and conversation to help clients of all ages improve self-esteem, self-worth and gain a better understanding of sense of self.
Hi there, I'm Laurie! Do you wish providers would look at you through a whole person lens instead of discussing health and mental health separately? Do you want a provider for your child who is playful and skilled at engaging children? Are you an adult who likes a more personal, connected approach to therapy? Do you have a teen who has had difficulty connecting to other providers? Well look no further! I enjoy using storytelling, videos, and conversation to help clients of all ages improve self-esteem, self-worth and gain a better understanding of sense of self.
(410) 680-3750 View (410) 680-3750
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.