Therapists in Missouri
Tanya L Crews
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63017
I USE A PLAY THERAPY APPROACH WITH CHILDREN WITH A STATE OF THE ART PLAYROOM.
HAVING BEEN A TEACHER, COACH, AND A POLICE OFFICER GIVES ME A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE INTO CLIENT ISSUES. I LOOK AT LIFE AS A BALANCING ACT AND TRY TO HELP CLIENTS ACHIEVE THAT HEALTHY BALANCE WITH LIFE-SKILLS THEY CAN CONTINUE TO USE ONCE OUR TIME TOGETHER IS COMPLETE. I HAVE 30+ YEARS OF COUNSELING EXPERIENCE AND LOVE MY WORK. I WORK HARD AND PLAY HARD AND TRY TO MOTIVATE CLIENTS TO DO THE SAME SO THEY CAN ACHIEVE THEIR LIFE GOALS.
I USE A PLAY THERAPY APPROACH WITH CHILDREN WITH A STATE OF THE ART PLAYROOM.
HAVING BEEN A TEACHER, COACH, AND A POLICE OFFICER GIVES ME A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE INTO CLIENT ISSUES. I LOOK AT LIFE AS A BALANCING ACT AND TRY TO HELP CLIENTS ACHIEVE THAT HEALTHY BALANCE WITH LIFE-SKILLS THEY CAN CONTINUE TO USE ONCE OUR TIME TOGETHER IS COMPLETE. I HAVE 30+ YEARS OF COUNSELING EXPERIENCE AND LOVE MY WORK. I WORK HARD AND PLAY HARD AND TRY TO MOTIVATE CLIENTS TO DO THE SAME SO THEY CAN ACHIEVE THEIR LIFE GOALS.
Kati Cranmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, MO 63090
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and am certified in EMDR.
When you are struggling with the complications that come with PTSD, trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, or behavioral issues for yourself (or your child, it can be so hard to gain perspective. All your life experiences can make it hard to see your way through your current season. You may feel lost, alone, and struggling to know what to do next. Having a warm and inviting environment can help you (and/or your child) feel more grounded and able do the work needed to get through and learn to flourish. Through our therapeutic relationship, I can help you navigate through your struggles in order to live your life in full bloom.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and am certified in EMDR.
When you are struggling with the complications that come with PTSD, trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, or behavioral issues for yourself (or your child, it can be so hard to gain perspective. All your life experiences can make it hard to see your way through your current season. You may feel lost, alone, and struggling to know what to do next. Having a warm and inviting environment can help you (and/or your child) feel more grounded and able do the work needed to get through and learn to flourish. Through our therapeutic relationship, I can help you navigate through your struggles in order to live your life in full bloom.
Brittney Herman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
Stacy L Stegeman-Conley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SHRM-CP, PHR
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, MO 65109
I utilize scientifically proven techniques, and I specialize in Play Therapy.
Talking to a therapist is hard; all those emotions are difficult, and being strong all the time for those around you is exhausting. I get it, and I want to make it easier for you. I use interactive techniques that do not leave you sitting on the couch, staring, and not knowing what to say. You came looking at this site for a reason; I believe the reason is that you have suffered long enough and are ready to make a change. Change is scary; you are not alone. I'll be there with you as you make the change. Give me a call.
I utilize scientifically proven techniques, and I specialize in Play Therapy.
Talking to a therapist is hard; all those emotions are difficult, and being strong all the time for those around you is exhausting. I get it, and I want to make it easier for you. I use interactive techniques that do not leave you sitting on the couch, staring, and not knowing what to say. You came looking at this site for a reason; I believe the reason is that you have suffered long enough and are ready to make a change. Change is scary; you are not alone. I'll be there with you as you make the change. Give me a call.
Susan Johnson Professional Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65803
I have many hours of Play Therapy training, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused ( good for PTSD), anxiety/depression, Cognitive Behavioral, MIndfulness, Expressive Arts, and much more.
Hello...I am mature, compassionate, caring, experienced, and have the ability to truly listen and respond to clients' concerns. I love doing therapy, and work equally well with children and adults. I provide in-home therapy as well as in office, and am a Missouri Medicaid Provider, so therapy for kids ages 3-21 has no copay. I personally have found therapy to be invaluable in getting through the tough times in life, and is nothing to feel ashamed of. Whatever issues you or your family may be having, I would love to help you.
I have many hours of Play Therapy training, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused ( good for PTSD), anxiety/depression, Cognitive Behavioral, MIndfulness, Expressive Arts, and much more.
Hello...I am mature, compassionate, caring, experienced, and have the ability to truly listen and respond to clients' concerns. I love doing therapy, and work equally well with children and adults. I provide in-home therapy as well as in office, and am a Missouri Medicaid Provider, so therapy for kids ages 3-21 has no copay. I personally have found therapy to be invaluable in getting through the tough times in life, and is nothing to feel ashamed of. Whatever issues you or your family may be having, I would love to help you.
Sara McGinnis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116
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 therapist, I enjoy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Through these methods I strive to encourage you to overcome life obstacles, achieve your social/emotional goals, and find joy in every day. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
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 therapist, I enjoy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Through these methods I strive to encourage you to overcome life obstacles, achieve your social/emotional goals, and find joy in every day. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Dr. Ryan Liberati
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, M-RAS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
I specialize in LGBTQ, Men's issues, and Play therapy.
Thank you for your interest. My ideal client is motivated for change and open to exploring more about themselves. I use a more direct style of counseling that heavily incorporates aspects of choice theory, reality therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help my adult clients make real changes in their lives. For children, I utilize evidence-based directive and non-directive play therapy approaches, depending upon the child's unique psychosocial needs.
I specialize in LGBTQ, Men's issues, and Play therapy.
Thank you for your interest. My ideal client is motivated for change and open to exploring more about themselves. I use a more direct style of counseling that heavily incorporates aspects of choice theory, reality therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help my adult clients make real changes in their lives. For children, I utilize evidence-based directive and non-directive play therapy approaches, depending upon the child's unique psychosocial needs.
Silvia Espinosa Ed.s
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
Have you been suffering in silence or struggling with relationships? Know that hope is near. We all have experienced pain that if left untreated, can keep us trapped, inhibiting our ability to enjoy life. There are three main areas that are dear to my heart: play therapy for children who’ve gone through adverse life experiences, marriage counseling for couples experiencing difficulty, and survivors of betrayal trauma: psychological/emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Know that it will take time to heal, courage to face the reality of your experience, and a steady commitment to your own healing.
Have you been suffering in silence or struggling with relationships? Know that hope is near. We all have experienced pain that if left untreated, can keep us trapped, inhibiting our ability to enjoy life. There are three main areas that are dear to my heart: play therapy for children who’ve gone through adverse life experiences, marriage counseling for couples experiencing difficulty, and survivors of betrayal trauma: psychological/emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Know that it will take time to heal, courage to face the reality of your experience, and a steady commitment to your own healing.
Paula Johnson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson City, MO 65109
My additional training as an APT Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Gottman Trained Marriage Therapist, Mediator, Addiction Specialist and Family Therapist provides a unique combination to serve your family.
Hoping to be one step closer on a positive path to growth and well-being? As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you reach your true potential and lead the life YOU choose. I work to understand behavior patterns which may be holding you or your child back from a fulfilling life. When therapy is needed it is this week not weeks after you call. ONE appointment is available DAILY for emergency situations. If YOU need extra support working through challenges, or wish to move in a new life direction, I look forward to working with you and your family. Call or e-mail for an individual, couple, or family appointment today.
My additional training as an APT Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Gottman Trained Marriage Therapist, Mediator, Addiction Specialist and Family Therapist provides a unique combination to serve your family.
Hoping to be one step closer on a positive path to growth and well-being? As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you reach your true potential and lead the life YOU choose. I work to understand behavior patterns which may be holding you or your child back from a fulfilling life. When therapy is needed it is this week not weeks after you call. ONE appointment is available DAILY for emergency situations. If YOU need extra support working through challenges, or wish to move in a new life direction, I look forward to working with you and your family. Call or e-mail for an individual, couple, or family appointment today.
Sandhill Counseling & Consultation
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63366
Anxiety * Grief/Loss * Life Transitions * Relationships Adolescent Self-Esteem and Anger Management * Sexual Addiction Recovery Intimacy and Sexuality * ADHD Assessment *Coping with Divorce * Trauma * Mindfulness * Substance Abuse * Family Conflict * Eating Disorders *Smoking Cessation * Spirituality * Healthy Lifestyle Choices * Adolescent Self-Injury *Play Therapy *Pre-Marital Counseling * Nutrition Counseling * Yoga *Art Therapy*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy* Happiness Work.
We are a diverse group of licensed professionals. We are compassionate, knowledgable and honored to work with individuals, couples, and families. We support our clients to discover their own personal grace and agility, their ability to express themselves with integrity and conviction and most importantly to restore their faith in themselves and in their relationships.
Anxiety * Grief/Loss * Life Transitions * Relationships Adolescent Self-Esteem and Anger Management * Sexual Addiction Recovery Intimacy and Sexuality * ADHD Assessment *Coping with Divorce * Trauma * Mindfulness * Substance Abuse * Family Conflict * Eating Disorders *Smoking Cessation * Spirituality * Healthy Lifestyle Choices * Adolescent Self-Injury *Play Therapy *Pre-Marital Counseling * Nutrition Counseling * Yoga *Art Therapy*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy* Happiness Work.
We are a diverse group of licensed professionals. We are compassionate, knowledgable and honored to work with individuals, couples, and families. We support our clients to discover their own personal grace and agility, their ability to express themselves with integrity and conviction and most importantly to restore their faith in themselves and in their relationships.
Linda R Hamill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Florissant, MO 63033
I have Post Masters Education in Counseling Children & in Play Therapy.
My counseling philosophy is person centered, holistic and existential. I believe that - Life is a process of moving towards wholeness.... Our brokenness is the basic human dlemma and each person's story is unique... It is because of this uniqueness that we all encounter different paths.... Empowering clients and helping them to move forward involves many paths also - from cogntive, behavioral, solution focused, humanistic, psychodynamic to marriage & family therapy ... and all are essential in meeting the client "where they are" and helping them to move forward.
I have Post Masters Education in Counseling Children & in Play Therapy.
My counseling philosophy is person centered, holistic and existential. I believe that - Life is a process of moving towards wholeness.... Our brokenness is the basic human dlemma and each person's story is unique... It is because of this uniqueness that we all encounter different paths.... Empowering clients and helping them to move forward involves many paths also - from cogntive, behavioral, solution focused, humanistic, psychodynamic to marriage & family therapy ... and all are essential in meeting the client "where they are" and helping them to move forward.
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Lisa D Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Joseph, MO 64506
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families. I have experience working with clients who are experiencing symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and trauma in a variety of outpatient settings. I utilize a holistic, strengths based approach that combines elements from Neuroscience, Attachment theory, Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral theory, Art and Play therapy. I am now offering Direct Neurofeedback, which offers a drug-free approach to improving brain performance and forming new and enhanced patterns of functioning.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families. I have experience working with clients who are experiencing symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and trauma in a variety of outpatient settings. I utilize a holistic, strengths based approach that combines elements from Neuroscience, Attachment theory, Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral theory, Art and Play therapy. I am now offering Direct Neurofeedback, which offers a drug-free approach to improving brain performance and forming new and enhanced patterns of functioning.
Robert Jason Grant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65807
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Board Certified Telehealth Professional and Life Coach, trainer, author, and university instructor.
I am the owner of the Robert Jason Grant Ed.D AutPlay Therapy Clinic. I am the creator of AutPlay Therapy. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families dealing with a variety of mental health needs. Some of my specializations include addressing the needs of neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults (autism, ADHD, trauma issues, and anxiety and depression struggles). I am neurodiversity affirming and informed and provide individual, family, and group therapy. I provide in-office and telehealth services. I also offer parent training, coaching services, and various trainings for professionals and caregivers.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Board Certified Telehealth Professional and Life Coach, trainer, author, and university instructor.
I am the owner of the Robert Jason Grant Ed.D AutPlay Therapy Clinic. I am the creator of AutPlay Therapy. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families dealing with a variety of mental health needs. Some of my specializations include addressing the needs of neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults (autism, ADHD, trauma issues, and anxiety and depression struggles). I am neurodiversity affirming and informed and provide individual, family, and group therapy. I provide in-office and telehealth services. I also offer parent training, coaching services, and various trainings for professionals and caregivers.
Shara A McGlothan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
I have additional training in EMDR, Play Therapy, and Mediation.
I am here for those that are fed up, tired, lost, misunderstood, disconnected, and hopeless. Here is a place to release your burden and create a new path. You do not have to stay trapped in your confusion. You do not have to continue to shut down or shut out. You do not have to keep hiding. I can guide you into making sense of your experiences. This leads to new perspectives that allow space for making new meaning or finding solutions. Is your home a war zone? Has your spouse become a stranger? Your child out of control? Life unbearable? Let me help you find clarity in your circumstances and tools to move forward. Find your freedom.
I have additional training in EMDR, Play Therapy, and Mediation.
I am here for those that are fed up, tired, lost, misunderstood, disconnected, and hopeless. Here is a place to release your burden and create a new path. You do not have to stay trapped in your confusion. You do not have to continue to shut down or shut out. You do not have to keep hiding. I can guide you into making sense of your experiences. This leads to new perspectives that allow space for making new meaning or finding solutions. Is your home a war zone? Has your spouse become a stranger? Your child out of control? Life unbearable? Let me help you find clarity in your circumstances and tools to move forward. Find your freedom.
LifeArchitect Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFC, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65202
My post-graduate training in play therapy assists me in looking at problems from different perspectives and discovering out-of-the-box problem-solving strategies.
The world has only one YOU, and you were made to SHINE!
Like an athletic coach, I apply my considerable training, experience, and creativity to help you carve out the steps to get from where you are to where you want to be, providing you support, accountability, and structure along the way.
My ideal client is someone willing to do whatever it takes to become everything you are created to be. I provide life coaching to individuals, families, and organizations facing a variety of challenges both in the US and around the world via telephonic and web coaching.
My post-graduate training in play therapy assists me in looking at problems from different perspectives and discovering out-of-the-box problem-solving strategies.
The world has only one YOU, and you were made to SHINE!
Like an athletic coach, I apply my considerable training, experience, and creativity to help you carve out the steps to get from where you are to where you want to be, providing you support, accountability, and structure along the way.
My ideal client is someone willing to do whatever it takes to become everything you are created to be. I provide life coaching to individuals, families, and organizations facing a variety of challenges both in the US and around the world via telephonic and web coaching.
Hope Connections Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CRADC, EMDR, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, MO 65583
We specialize in EMDR for Trauma, Play Therapy-Supervisor and CRADC (Substance Abuse Treatment) and have a Batterer's Intervention Program (BIP).
Hope Connections offers evidence-based treatment to help you reclaim your life. We specialize in depression, anxiety to include trauma induced PTSD, and anger. Additionally, we provide substance abuse counseling. We offer a warm, supportive atmosphere conducive towards healing. Most people who seek consultation want to know the following: How severe is the problem? What caused the problem or symptoms? And, can they change or improve? At Hope Connections, we will assist you in identifying the severity of the problem, help find the source of the problem and guide you towards reclaiming your life. We are your Hope Connection.
We specialize in EMDR for Trauma, Play Therapy-Supervisor and CRADC (Substance Abuse Treatment) and have a Batterer's Intervention Program (BIP).
Hope Connections offers evidence-based treatment to help you reclaim your life. We specialize in depression, anxiety to include trauma induced PTSD, and anger. Additionally, we provide substance abuse counseling. We offer a warm, supportive atmosphere conducive towards healing. Most people who seek consultation want to know the following: How severe is the problem? What caused the problem or symptoms? And, can they change or improve? At Hope Connections, we will assist you in identifying the severity of the problem, help find the source of the problem and guide you towards reclaiming your life. We are your Hope Connection.
Larson Counseling Services, LLC
Psychologist, MEd, Psychol, LPC
Verified Verified
Blue Springs, MO 64015
I am trained in multiple modalities from CBT, to PLAY THERAPY to Family Systems, Solution Focused and EMDR for trauma recovery.
Life can be challenging, especially in our fast-paced transient society. I work with adults, teens, and children of all ages. I specialize in Marriage Conflict and Parent-Child conflict with a large portion of my business devoted to adolescents. From Social Anxiety, to ADHD and chronic depression. I am trained in PLAY THERAPY, EMDR, Veteran's Deployment Psychology, CBT and much more. "Friendly, but professional," describes how most clients see me. I love what I do and look forward to working with you.
I am trained in multiple modalities from CBT, to PLAY THERAPY to Family Systems, Solution Focused and EMDR for trauma recovery.
Life can be challenging, especially in our fast-paced transient society. I work with adults, teens, and children of all ages. I specialize in Marriage Conflict and Parent-Child conflict with a large portion of my business devoted to adolescents. From Social Anxiety, to ADHD and chronic depression. I am trained in PLAY THERAPY, EMDR, Veteran's Deployment Psychology, CBT and much more. "Friendly, but professional," describes how most clients see me. I love what I do and look forward to working with you.
Tyler Z. Tooley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, C-APT
Verified Verified
Weldon Spring, MO 63304
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a certified AutPlay Therapist (C-APT), and I am pursuing my Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential.
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I specialize in working with individuals (of all ages) who are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, gifted, etc.) and I often work with children and teens who are in foster care or are adopted. I offer individual and family/couple sessions, play therapy, and I often integrate technology, including video and computer games, iPads, and virtual reality (VR), into sessions. To learn more about Gaming Therapy, visit my website!
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a certified AutPlay Therapist (C-APT), and I am pursuing my Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential.
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I specialize in working with individuals (of all ages) who are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, gifted, etc.) and I often work with children and teens who are in foster care or are adopted. I offer individual and family/couple sessions, play therapy, and I often integrate technology, including video and computer games, iPads, and virtual reality (VR), into sessions. To learn more about Gaming Therapy, visit my website!
Sharon Cantrell-Brush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
I am a LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) and I am also credentialed as a Registered Play Therapist & Play Therapist Supervisor.
The core of my practice is assisting individuals and families to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with success and purpose. To provide guidance on supporting those with mental health symptoms, behavioral and emotional disorders and trauma to be able to thrive. To help identify negative communication patterns and strengthen communication with others. I provide an assortment of parenting ideas to help families live together with a better understanding and appreciation of each other. I draw from Dr. Garry Landreth, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Dr. Fay & Dr. Cline, Love & Logic, and Dr. Phelan with 1-2-3 Magic.
I am a LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) and I am also credentialed as a Registered Play Therapist & Play Therapist Supervisor.
The core of my practice is assisting individuals and families to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with success and purpose. To provide guidance on supporting those with mental health symptoms, behavioral and emotional disorders and trauma to be able to thrive. To help identify negative communication patterns and strengthen communication with others. I provide an assortment of parenting ideas to help families live together with a better understanding and appreciation of each other. I draw from Dr. Garry Landreth, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Dr. Fay & Dr. Cline, Love & Logic, and Dr. Phelan with 1-2-3 Magic.
Vonita Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
I'm committed to the restoration of families and our community. I am a member of the American Counseling Association, Association for Play Therapy, International Association of Addictions & Offender Counselors, Association of Missouri Mediators and the Professional Mediation Association. I counsel all populations from ages 3 to 81 and employ an integrated modality approach. My practice includes child therapy, couples & relationship counseling, family counseling and individual counseling. I am also certified in Prepare/Enrich, a marital and premarital counseling course.
I'm committed to the restoration of families and our community. I am a member of the American Counseling Association, Association for Play Therapy, International Association of Addictions & Offender Counselors, Association of Missouri Mediators and the Professional Mediation Association. I counsel all populations from ages 3 to 81 and employ an integrated modality approach. My practice includes child therapy, couples & relationship counseling, family counseling and individual counseling. I am also certified in Prepare/Enrich, a marital and premarital counseling course.
See more therapy options for Missouri
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.