Play Therapy in Crofton, MD

Kimberly M Brooks, Ph.D. & Associates, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
I provide assessment and treatment of very young children,including play therapy.
Hello and thank you for considering my practice. I am a clinical psychologist with specialized training and experience in the assessment and treatment of children birth-5 years of age. In addition, I provide treatment of women who are experiencing postpartum anxiety and/or depression. Although I have a specialty in this area I am also trained to provide treatment for adults with a variety of difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life transition issues, etc.
I provide assessment and treatment of very young children,including play therapy.
Hello and thank you for considering my practice. I am a clinical psychologist with specialized training and experience in the assessment and treatment of children birth-5 years of age. In addition, I provide treatment of women who are experiencing postpartum anxiety and/or depression. Although I have a specialty in this area I am also trained to provide treatment for adults with a variety of difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life transition issues, etc.
(301) 979-7830 View (301) 979-7830
Photo of David Kellner, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Crofton, MD
David Kellner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
My therapy with children (often play therapy) and adolescents involves the family system in addressing compliance, anxiety, depression, trauma, attention, impulsivity, academic under performance and behavioral concerns.
Henri Nouwen says, "real care means the willingness to help each other in making our brokenness into the gateway to joy." Perhaps it is the broken pieces of your life that have brought you to this page - broken relationships, broken dreams or just feeling broken. In this you are not alone, but it is my firm conviction that the broken pieces that are strewn about you can become the very material needed in creating wholeness and peace.
My therapy with children (often play therapy) and adolescents involves the family system in addressing compliance, anxiety, depression, trauma, attention, impulsivity, academic under performance and behavioral concerns.
Henri Nouwen says, "real care means the willingness to help each other in making our brokenness into the gateway to joy." Perhaps it is the broken pieces of your life that have brought you to this page - broken relationships, broken dreams or just feeling broken. In this you are not alone, but it is my firm conviction that the broken pieces that are strewn about you can become the very material needed in creating wholeness and peace.
(443) 205-4399 View (443) 205-4399
Photo of Maddy Masters, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Crofton, MD
Maddy Masters
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LGADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
Dandelions are often considered weeds and a nuisance, but did you know that dandelions are one of the first flowers to pop up after a long winter? They are capable of growing in the most dark and difficult of places with little nourishment. When they are ready to die, they make sure to send their seedlings off in the wind to have a fresh start. We are often like these plants when in need of help. We feel like weeds and bothersome, but when given the opportunity we can be hidden gems waiting to shine. Revitalize yourself!
Dandelions are often considered weeds and a nuisance, but did you know that dandelions are one of the first flowers to pop up after a long winter? They are capable of growing in the most dark and difficult of places with little nourishment. When they are ready to die, they make sure to send their seedlings off in the wind to have a fresh start. We are often like these plants when in need of help. We feel like weeds and bothersome, but when given the opportunity we can be hidden gems waiting to shine. Revitalize yourself!
(240) 226-3661 View (240) 226-3661
Photo of Jessica Unger, Counselor in Crofton, MD
Jessica Unger
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! My goal is to provide a safe and judgment free space that allows my clients to feel comfortable expressing their inner thoughts and challenges. I want to create a partnership where I am able to empower my clients to develop skills in order to manage their symptoms and be successful in their goals. I can help with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, life stressors, or self-esteem. Overall, I strive to help people find the skills to handle life challenges confidently and independently.
Welcome! My goal is to provide a safe and judgment free space that allows my clients to feel comfortable expressing their inner thoughts and challenges. I want to create a partnership where I am able to empower my clients to develop skills in order to manage their symptoms and be successful in their goals. I can help with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, life stressors, or self-esteem. Overall, I strive to help people find the skills to handle life challenges confidently and independently.
(410) 844-6272 View (410) 844-6272
Photo of Imani Consulting--Karen Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crofton, MD
Imani Consulting--Karen Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(301) 850-1541 View (301) 850-1541
Photo of Linda Fiesta, Counselor in Crofton, MD
Linda Fiesta
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
LifePsycle Counseling specializes in addressing the needs of adult individuals, children (beginning age 5), families and elder clients as they are faced with issues associated with personal life transition, various types of loss and recovery. Typical clients are seeking support for stress management, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and personal / professional growth, including life and interview coaching. In addition to having raised three successful children with my husband, I bring background experience as a classroom teacher, success in corporate business and clinical mental health counseling.
LifePsycle Counseling specializes in addressing the needs of adult individuals, children (beginning age 5), families and elder clients as they are faced with issues associated with personal life transition, various types of loss and recovery. Typical clients are seeking support for stress management, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and personal / professional growth, including life and interview coaching. In addition to having raised three successful children with my husband, I bring background experience as a classroom teacher, success in corporate business and clinical mental health counseling.
(443) 681-6618 View (443) 681-6618
Photo of JMJ Healthcare Services, LLC in Crofton, MD
JMJ Healthcare Services, LLC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Here at JMJ Healthcare Services, we offer a multiple range of psychotherapy and counseling services with over 6 licensed clinical therapists. We give our patients a variety of options to choose from with specialists that will address their direct needs and concerns. We also offer medication management along with psychotherapy, TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy and a multiple range of mental health testing, all in one location! That is why we are your #1 stop for all your mental health needs.
Here at JMJ Healthcare Services, we offer a multiple range of psychotherapy and counseling services with over 6 licensed clinical therapists. We give our patients a variety of options to choose from with specialists that will address their direct needs and concerns. We also offer medication management along with psychotherapy, TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy and a multiple range of mental health testing, all in one location! That is why we are your #1 stop for all your mental health needs.
(240) 650-5625 View (240) 650-5625
Photo of Syretta R James, Psychologist in Crofton, MD
Syretta R James
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
--NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS---PROVIDING REFERRALS TO HER COLLEAGUES IN OFFICE--TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE Dr. James is a Board Certified Licensed Psychologist serving children, adolescents, and adults in the outpatient clinic.
--NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS---PROVIDING REFERRALS TO HER COLLEAGUES IN OFFICE--TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE Dr. James is a Board Certified Licensed Psychologist serving children, adolescents, and adults in the outpatient clinic.
(410) 734-2068 View (410) 734-2068
Photo of Francesca Ingrid Brooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crofton, MD
Francesca Ingrid Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
My ideal client is someone who is diagnosed with anxiety disorder. These symptoms develop in childhood and are still present through adulthood if not treated. Individuals need to face their fears with the support of a therapist. By trying to remain calm, without becoming overly anxious or having a panic attack. My goal as a therapist is to help them build their self-confidence so they can control their fears and feel secure. I work with clients to remain calm and practice breathing techniques. I build empathy with my clients by explaining that they are not alone in their struggles.
My ideal client is someone who is diagnosed with anxiety disorder. These symptoms develop in childhood and are still present through adulthood if not treated. Individuals need to face their fears with the support of a therapist. By trying to remain calm, without becoming overly anxious or having a panic attack. My goal as a therapist is to help them build their self-confidence so they can control their fears and feel secure. I work with clients to remain calm and practice breathing techniques. I build empathy with my clients by explaining that they are not alone in their struggles.
(410) 914-1289 View (410) 914-1289
Photo of Couples & Family Institute of MPB Group, Inc, Marriage & Family Therapist in Crofton, MD
Couples & Family Institute of MPB Group, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
I serve as the Program Director for the Couples & Family Institute. I envisioned & created the Couples & Family Institute in 2018, a program that focuses on providing comprehensive and systemic care for families & couples. My love & respect for the importance of happy families, positioned myself to share this passion with MPB Group for the last 10 + years. I have a team of highly motivated therapists who wish to help heal couples & families with their challenging relational dynamics. The team has expertise in depression, anxiety, ADHD, pre-marital, divorce. blended families, and trauma.
I serve as the Program Director for the Couples & Family Institute. I envisioned & created the Couples & Family Institute in 2018, a program that focuses on providing comprehensive and systemic care for families & couples. My love & respect for the importance of happy families, positioned myself to share this passion with MPB Group for the last 10 + years. I have a team of highly motivated therapists who wish to help heal couples & families with their challenging relational dynamics. The team has expertise in depression, anxiety, ADHD, pre-marital, divorce. blended families, and trauma.
(667) 230-5781 View (667) 230-5781
Photo of Christie Chorbajian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Crofton, MD
Christie Chorbajian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, DBT-C
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I establish a therapeutic relationship where clients learn to communicate and advocate for themselves in relationships with others. I teach clients skills to increase self-awareness and expand ways of responding to chronic stressors. These skills fall under the following themes: emotional regulation, distress management, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. In my work with clients, I reinforce choices that are connected to clients' value systems in order to stay motivated and working toward their personal goals.
I establish a therapeutic relationship where clients learn to communicate and advocate for themselves in relationships with others. I teach clients skills to increase self-awareness and expand ways of responding to chronic stressors. These skills fall under the following themes: emotional regulation, distress management, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. In my work with clients, I reinforce choices that are connected to clients' value systems in order to stay motivated and working toward their personal goals.
(410) 914-1338 View (410) 914-1338

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Naomi Weller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crofton, MD
Naomi Weller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My specialty is helping children who have experienced trauma, using play therapy, narrative therapy, and trauma-focused CBT.
I am licensed as an LCSW-C, serve as Clinical Director at Ellie Mental Health, and also see clients of all ages, races, and sexual orientation. I have been licensed and providing mental health services for thirty years and have a philosophy of support, encouragement, and team work with both staff and clients.
My specialty is helping children who have experienced trauma, using play therapy, narrative therapy, and trauma-focused CBT.
I am licensed as an LCSW-C, serve as Clinical Director at Ellie Mental Health, and also see clients of all ages, races, and sexual orientation. I have been licensed and providing mental health services for thirty years and have a philosophy of support, encouragement, and team work with both staff and clients.
(410) 936-6991 View (410) 936-6991
Photo of The Collective Healing Center, Counselor in Crofton, MD
The Collective Healing Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arnold, MD 21012
We collaborate with our clients to create an individualized plan using a blend of therapeutic approaches, such as play therapy, expressive arts, nature-informed therapy and more.
The Collective Healing Center is an evidence-based private practice that provides trauma-informed mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. Our clinical staff is especially trained to work in individual, couples, or family therapy formats. We specialize in the areas of children and families, trauma, attachment disruptions, perinatal and postpartum mental health, life transitions, gender diversity, and sexual orientation. Our clinicians have ample familiarity with trauma-related issues and symptoms such as self-injury, dissociation, eating concerns, grief and sexual behaviors.
We collaborate with our clients to create an individualized plan using a blend of therapeutic approaches, such as play therapy, expressive arts, nature-informed therapy and more.
The Collective Healing Center is an evidence-based private practice that provides trauma-informed mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. Our clinical staff is especially trained to work in individual, couples, or family therapy formats. We specialize in the areas of children and families, trauma, attachment disruptions, perinatal and postpartum mental health, life transitions, gender diversity, and sexual orientation. Our clinicians have ample familiarity with trauma-related issues and symptoms such as self-injury, dissociation, eating concerns, grief and sexual behaviors.
(410) 632-6097 View (410) 632-6097
Photo of Nerd Adventure Therapy 20, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crofton, MD
Nerd Adventure Therapy 20
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20715
Do you relate to the world through your Nerdy interests? Do you love to watch anime, play video games, or play tabletop role-playing games? Do you feel that being a Nerd/Geek is part of who you are and how you cope with the world? If this sounds like you, whether you are a teen or just young at heart, my practice is for you! I incorporate Geek and Nerd culture into both my individual therapy and my group therapy! I believe that nerdy interests can help us make sense of the world just like music or art. I treat both individual clients as well as run Therapeauticallly Applied- Role Playing Game Social Skills groups!
Do you relate to the world through your Nerdy interests? Do you love to watch anime, play video games, or play tabletop role-playing games? Do you feel that being a Nerd/Geek is part of who you are and how you cope with the world? If this sounds like you, whether you are a teen or just young at heart, my practice is for you! I incorporate Geek and Nerd culture into both my individual therapy and my group therapy! I believe that nerdy interests can help us make sense of the world just like music or art. I treat both individual clients as well as run Therapeauticallly Applied- Role Playing Game Social Skills groups!
(410) 443-0177 View (410) 443-0177
Photo of Victoria Ringo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crofton, MD
Victoria Ringo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
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 Adam J. Freitag, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crofton, MD
Adam J. Freitag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
I also have experience in play therapy for all ages, SFT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and use the Gottman approach with couples.
There comes a time when all of us need help finding the path forward. Sometimes we need a "reality check." Sometimes we just need someone to listen without judgment. Regardless of what therapist you decide on, you deserve nothing less than the latest treatment models backed by rigorous research. For years, I have helped clients from all walks of life bringing a wide range of challenges, including difficulties with productivity, impulsivity, extreme mood changes, anxiety, marriage/relationship problems, and more. I treat adults, couples, and families, and maintain a safe space to openly discuss gender identity and sexual orientation.
I also have experience in play therapy for all ages, SFT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and use the Gottman approach with couples.
There comes a time when all of us need help finding the path forward. Sometimes we need a "reality check." Sometimes we just need someone to listen without judgment. Regardless of what therapist you decide on, you deserve nothing less than the latest treatment models backed by rigorous research. For years, I have helped clients from all walks of life bringing a wide range of challenges, including difficulties with productivity, impulsivity, extreme mood changes, anxiety, marriage/relationship problems, and more. I treat adults, couples, and families, and maintain a safe space to openly discuss gender identity and sexual orientation.
(667) 206-3815 View (667) 206-3815
Photo of Breakthrough Therapeutic Concepts, LLC, Psychologist in Crofton, MD
Breakthrough Therapeutic Concepts, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144
Our therapeutic staff brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with various treatment modalities such as, but not limited to, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Reality Therapy, Rogerian therapy, Play therapy and other approaches.
BTConcepts is a group private, practice located in Anne Arundel County. We believe that every client, regardless of age, ethnicity/race, religion/spirituality, clinical presentation, or any cultural difference deserves to heard, respected and understood. At BTConcepts, we strive to uphold therapeutic values such as empathy, genuineness and respect, in the work that we do with our clients. As our client, we want you to feel a part of your therapeutic journey and empowered to continue the work once therapy has ended. It is important that you recognize that "YOU" are the pilot behind the wheel called life, and that we are your co-pilot! If you are stuck? Searching for answers? Desiring clarity? We can help!
Our therapeutic staff brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with various treatment modalities such as, but not limited to, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Reality Therapy, Rogerian therapy, Play therapy and other approaches.
BTConcepts is a group private, practice located in Anne Arundel County. We believe that every client, regardless of age, ethnicity/race, religion/spirituality, clinical presentation, or any cultural difference deserves to heard, respected and understood. At BTConcepts, we strive to uphold therapeutic values such as empathy, genuineness and respect, in the work that we do with our clients. As our client, we want you to feel a part of your therapeutic journey and empowered to continue the work once therapy has ended. It is important that you recognize that "YOU" are the pilot behind the wheel called life, and that we are your co-pilot! If you are stuck? Searching for answers? Desiring clarity? We can help!
(667) 303-2983 View (667) 303-2983
Photo of Mollye Kellman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crofton, MD
Mollye Kellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146
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 Children at Play, LLC, Occupational Therapist in Crofton, MD
Children at Play, LLC
Occupational Therapist, MS, OTRL
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Children at Play provides therapy to help improve gross motor skills, fine motor skills, motor planning/coordination, self-regulation, attention, and sensory regulation.
Children at Play, LLC offers pediatric occupational therapy services for children with a variety of needs. We offer FREE consultations and screenings to help you determine if we are the best fit for your family.
Children at Play provides therapy to help improve gross motor skills, fine motor skills, motor planning/coordination, self-regulation, attention, and sensory regulation.
Children at Play, LLC offers pediatric occupational therapy services for children with a variety of needs. We offer FREE consultations and screenings to help you determine if we are the best fit for your family.
(443) 218-6515 View (443) 218-6515
Photo of Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Crofton, MD
Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CFC, BCTMH
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
we offer various models of therapy such as: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, solution focused, life coaching, Gestalt, Gottman, and many other formal and informal techniques.
Anne Arundel Counseling is a highly recognized and regarded MD State Certified provider offering six convenient locations throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington areas (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Edgewater, Bowie, Stevensville & Centreville). We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of licensed and experiences psychological, psycho therapeutic and clinical specialists. We are dedicated to the well-being of each client and empowering them to achieve in a warm, supportive and inviting environment. For additional information please visit our website at: www.annearundelcounseling.com To schedule with on one of our experienced male or female providers, please call our office to speak with any one of our administrative staff members: Allison O'Hanlon, Client Coordinator, Michele Kline, Office Manager or Connie Thomas, Practice Manager. Our administrative staff will complete an informal screening to have you scheduled with the most appropriate clinician for your area of need. They will also answer any questions you may have regarding the counseling process, AAC, your clinician or any other related item. Lastly, they will take any insurance or EAP information to perform the billing as appropriate. We look forward to hearing from you and ensure your counseling experience is positive and beneficial.
we offer various models of therapy such as: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, solution focused, life coaching, Gestalt, Gottman, and many other formal and informal techniques.
Anne Arundel Counseling is a highly recognized and regarded MD State Certified provider offering six convenient locations throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington areas (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Edgewater, Bowie, Stevensville & Centreville). We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of licensed and experiences psychological, psycho therapeutic and clinical specialists. We are dedicated to the well-being of each client and empowering them to achieve in a warm, supportive and inviting environment. For additional information please visit our website at: www.annearundelcounseling.com To schedule with on one of our experienced male or female providers, please call our office to speak with any one of our administrative staff members: Allison O'Hanlon, Client Coordinator, Michele Kline, Office Manager or Connie Thomas, Practice Manager. Our administrative staff will complete an informal screening to have you scheduled with the most appropriate clinician for your area of need. They will also answer any questions you may have regarding the counseling process, AAC, your clinician or any other related item. Lastly, they will take any insurance or EAP information to perform the billing as appropriate. We look forward to hearing from you and ensure your counseling experience is positive and beneficial.
(410) 415-1851 View (410) 415-1851
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.