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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Andrea Thomas, Counselor in Stewartville, MN
Andrea Thomas
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Rochester, MN 55902
Finding a therapist can be a difficult task that can take a few "tries" before finding a person you feel comfortable with. A therapist should be someone you feel a connection with and believe will fit your personality. As a therapist, I utilize not only my educational experience in this field but also my life experience with mental health difficulties. I can work with individuals facing difficult life stressors and/or mental health disorders that impair life functioning. I can provide faith-based services for those seeking spiritual guidance as well.
Finding a therapist can be a difficult task that can take a few "tries" before finding a person you feel comfortable with. A therapist should be someone you feel a connection with and believe will fit your personality. As a therapist, I utilize not only my educational experience in this field but also my life experience with mental health difficulties. I can work with individuals facing difficult life stressors and/or mental health disorders that impair life functioning. I can provide faith-based services for those seeking spiritual guidance as well.
(507) 400-6021 View (507) 400-6021
Photo of Zumbro Valley Health Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stewartville, MN
Zumbro Valley Health Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LADC, LP, LPCC, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, MN 55904
Zumbro Valley Health Center is a private, non-profit organization that provides mental health, substance use disorder, primary care, and community-based services to SE Minnesota. We offer support and care for adults, children, adolescents, and their families. Zumbro Valley Health Center staff work collaboratively with clients, co-workers and community providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan which addresses the distinct needs of each client, including treatment for psychological, medical, substance use and social issues.
Zumbro Valley Health Center is a private, non-profit organization that provides mental health, substance use disorder, primary care, and community-based services to SE Minnesota. We offer support and care for adults, children, adolescents, and their families. Zumbro Valley Health Center staff work collaboratively with clients, co-workers and community providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan which addresses the distinct needs of each client, including treatment for psychological, medical, substance use and social issues.
(507) 203-2806 View (507) 203-2806
Lea Joner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, MN 55902  (Online Only)
(507) 502-7499 View (507) 502-7499
Photo of Jamie Sulflow, Counselor in Stewartville, MN
Jamie Sulflow
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MN 55902
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the states of Minnesota and Iowa. My ideal client is one who is ready to share their experiences and work together to collaboratively create positive change in their life. I most enjoy working with adults experiencing a variety of life stressors and mental health challenges, with the goal of learning to manage and overcome your personal challenges and creating the life you desire.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the states of Minnesota and Iowa. My ideal client is one who is ready to share their experiences and work together to collaboratively create positive change in their life. I most enjoy working with adults experiencing a variety of life stressors and mental health challenges, with the goal of learning to manage and overcome your personal challenges and creating the life you desire.
(507) 502-0466 View (507) 502-0466

Online Therapists

Photo of Melissa Erickson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Stewartville, MN
Melissa Erickson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayzata, MN 55391
Treatment modalities/ techniques utilized are: ART Therapy (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Discernment Counseling, Person Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Art & Play Therapy for children.
I specialize in working with clients 9 - 65+ years old. Clinical expertise includes 20+ years of experience working with clients who have concerns related to: grief & bereavement, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic abuse, relationship conflict, family conflict due to: separation or divorce, parenting issues, boundaries, unemployment & financial problems, illness or disability of a family member, taking on a caretaker role for a child, and/or parent, or both. Sudden death, long term illness of a family member, and dealing with mental illness within the family system.
Treatment modalities/ techniques utilized are: ART Therapy (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Discernment Counseling, Person Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Art & Play Therapy for children.
I specialize in working with clients 9 - 65+ years old. Clinical expertise includes 20+ years of experience working with clients who have concerns related to: grief & bereavement, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic abuse, relationship conflict, family conflict due to: separation or divorce, parenting issues, boundaries, unemployment & financial problems, illness or disability of a family member, taking on a caretaker role for a child, and/or parent, or both. Sudden death, long term illness of a family member, and dealing with mental illness within the family system.
(763) 284-8698 View (763) 284-8698
Photo of Rachael Belair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stewartville, MN
Rachael Belair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
I value and understand the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship, and work collaboratively with clients to tailor their therapy to meet their unique needs. I have experience with a variety of therapeutic techniques including play therapy, art therapy, solution focused, psychodynamic, ACT, EMDR and CBT.
I value and understand the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship, and work collaboratively with clients to tailor their therapy to meet their unique needs. I have experience with a variety of therapeutic techniques including play therapy, art therapy, solution focused, psychodynamic, ACT, EMDR and CBT.
(612) 688-2129 View (612) 688-2129
Photo of Meghan Keating, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stewartville, MN
Meghan Keating
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
When working with children, I utilize play therapy techniques to engage each child in the therapeutic process.
Healing isn't just about alleviating symptoms; it's about fostering growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. My practice primarily focuses on providing therapy to individuals who are facing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief and loss, stress, and trauma. I provide support to adolescents and adults struggling with self-esteem, family and peer relationship issues, co-dependency, family conflict, and life transitions. Additionally, I am trained in Love and Logic Parenting Curriculum, which encourages parents to minimize power struggles within the parent-child relationships.
When working with children, I utilize play therapy techniques to engage each child in the therapeutic process.
Healing isn't just about alleviating symptoms; it's about fostering growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. My practice primarily focuses on providing therapy to individuals who are facing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief and loss, stress, and trauma. I provide support to adolescents and adults struggling with self-esteem, family and peer relationship issues, co-dependency, family conflict, and life transitions. Additionally, I am trained in Love and Logic Parenting Curriculum, which encourages parents to minimize power struggles within the parent-child relationships.
(952) 522-2056 View (952) 522-2056
Photo of Mj Pearson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stewartville, MN
Mj Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Wayzata, MN 55391
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist, MJ provides play therapy for the pediatric (10 and under) population and has a passion for supporting parental mental health.  MJ believes in the power of parents as the biggest predictors of growth and healing in the lives of their children! When your child senses your presence and connection, they can thrive. Making an investment in your relationship through parent child therapy is a proven way to build resiliency for both you and your child.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist, MJ provides play therapy for the pediatric (10 and under) population and has a passion for supporting parental mental health.  MJ believes in the power of parents as the biggest predictors of growth and healing in the lives of their children! When your child senses your presence and connection, they can thrive. Making an investment in your relationship through parent child therapy is a proven way to build resiliency for both you and your child.
(763) 373-7055 View (763) 373-7055
Photo of Hope Tree Counseling Services Inc., Counselor in Stewartville, MN
Hope Tree Counseling Services Inc.
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hastings, MN 55033
Hope Tree has 4 offices, 2 play therapy rooms for working with children 2-12 and seasonal outdoor spaces.
I have special interest in working with issues of terminal illness, grief loss and transition with children individuals and families. I work with children with attachment, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral issues. I work with women issues surrounding self- esteem and personal growth. I have an extensive background in theater and the arts. I incorporate nature, animals, drama, art and play into my therapies with clients. My work also focuses on treating PTSD and anxiety. I incorporate trauma informed care into my work. I believe healing is possible and I am here to walk the path with my clients to a place of growth and positive change.
Hope Tree has 4 offices, 2 play therapy rooms for working with children 2-12 and seasonal outdoor spaces.
I have special interest in working with issues of terminal illness, grief loss and transition with children individuals and families. I work with children with attachment, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral issues. I work with women issues surrounding self- esteem and personal growth. I have an extensive background in theater and the arts. I incorporate nature, animals, drama, art and play into my therapies with clients. My work also focuses on treating PTSD and anxiety. I incorporate trauma informed care into my work. I believe healing is possible and I am here to walk the path with my clients to a place of growth and positive change.
(763) 296-8162 View (763) 296-8162
Photo of Lynn O'Brien, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stewartville, MN
Lynn O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Le Sueur, MN 56058
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT), I provide a strength-based, solution-focused, and family systems approach for the mental health care of children, adolescents, and adults, including couples and family therapy. I believe in building resilience, nurturing social-emotional well-being, and bringing healing through supporting and understanding the holistic needs of clients. My education includes a doctorate degree in Counselor Education and Supervision from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT), I provide a strength-based, solution-focused, and family systems approach for the mental health care of children, adolescents, and adults, including couples and family therapy. I believe in building resilience, nurturing social-emotional well-being, and bringing healing through supporting and understanding the holistic needs of clients. My education includes a doctorate degree in Counselor Education and Supervision from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
(507) 616-7791 View (507) 616-7791
Photo of Jenny Beall, Counselor in Stewartville, MN
Jenny Beall
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Do you feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? We all have the ability to change our situations or the way we handle them, we just need a little hope. I love coming alongside people who are struggling and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. From coloring and play therapy to exploring the past, challenging beliefs, or sitting with you in your pain--I have a passion for hurting people. I'd love to walk with you through shame and conflict in your life and help you find meaning and hope.
Do you feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? We all have the ability to change our situations or the way we handle them, we just need a little hope. I love coming alongside people who are struggling and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. From coloring and play therapy to exploring the past, challenging beliefs, or sitting with you in your pain--I have a passion for hurting people. I'd love to walk with you through shame and conflict in your life and help you find meaning and hope.
(651) 314-1575 View (651) 314-1575
Photo of Rachel Nester, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Stewartville, MN
Rachel Nester
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC, RPT, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I am a Registered Play Therapist, Endorsed Infant Mental Health Specialist, Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and hold a certificate in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health from the University of Minnesota.
Hi! My name is Rachel and I'm the owner of Nesting Connections, LLC. My ideal client would be children between the ages of birth to 18, caregivers, or teachers seeking reflective consultation. Reasons caregivers have requested my services include: anxiety, depression, hoarding, excessive lying, attachment concerns, selective mutism, defiance, suicidal ideation, self-harming, bullying, social skills, foster care/adoption, truancy, grief, family discord, developmental concerns, and most frequently-trauma. I also enjoy providing prenatal therapy to process bonding with baby.
I am a Registered Play Therapist, Endorsed Infant Mental Health Specialist, Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and hold a certificate in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health from the University of Minnesota.
Hi! My name is Rachel and I'm the owner of Nesting Connections, LLC. My ideal client would be children between the ages of birth to 18, caregivers, or teachers seeking reflective consultation. Reasons caregivers have requested my services include: anxiety, depression, hoarding, excessive lying, attachment concerns, selective mutism, defiance, suicidal ideation, self-harming, bullying, social skills, foster care/adoption, truancy, grief, family discord, developmental concerns, and most frequently-trauma. I also enjoy providing prenatal therapy to process bonding with baby.
(952) 260-3195 View (952) 260-3195
Photo of Aurora Psychological Services, Psychologist in Stewartville, MN
Aurora Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
Aurora recognizes the important roles that relationships, experiences, and beliefs play in our daily lives. Our family and childhood influence our personal development; however, they are not the only determinants of who we become. We are not static beings but live in a state of constant flux, continuing to grow and having the capacity to choose change. Sometimes, changes may feel unwanted, scary or overwhelming. We may struggle in adjusting to them, or feel stuck in old patterns of responding that no longer work for us. Aurora adopts a client-centered approach and values all aspects of a person's physical, mental, and social world.
Aurora recognizes the important roles that relationships, experiences, and beliefs play in our daily lives. Our family and childhood influence our personal development; however, they are not the only determinants of who we become. We are not static beings but live in a state of constant flux, continuing to grow and having the capacity to choose change. Sometimes, changes may feel unwanted, scary or overwhelming. We may struggle in adjusting to them, or feel stuck in old patterns of responding that no longer work for us. Aurora adopts a client-centered approach and values all aspects of a person's physical, mental, and social world.
(651) 419-3971 x3 View (651) 419-3971 x3
Photo of Laura J Lofy, Psychologist in Stewartville, MN
Laura J Lofy
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
If you are the parent of an adopted child who is having a hard time, I would be honored to support you on your parenting journey, help your child through play therapy, and/or facilitate connection through attachment-focused family therapy.
If you, your child, or your teenager are struggling, I would like to lend some support. I am passionate about helping individuals who are experiencing symptoms associated with developmental or interpersonal trauma, stress and anxiety, depression, developmental differences, or other mental health challenges. I take a person-centered and attachment-oriented approach to personal growth, believing that if I create a safe space and offer unconditional, nonjudgmental support, you will naturally move toward health and healing.
If you are the parent of an adopted child who is having a hard time, I would be honored to support you on your parenting journey, help your child through play therapy, and/or facilitate connection through attachment-focused family therapy.
If you, your child, or your teenager are struggling, I would like to lend some support. I am passionate about helping individuals who are experiencing symptoms associated with developmental or interpersonal trauma, stress and anxiety, depression, developmental differences, or other mental health challenges. I take a person-centered and attachment-oriented approach to personal growth, believing that if I create a safe space and offer unconditional, nonjudgmental support, you will naturally move toward health and healing.
(763) 600-7509 View (763) 600-7509
Photo of Katie L Isham, Psychologist in Stewartville, MN
Katie L Isham
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
If you want to get technical, I pull from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Art & Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), & Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), just to name a few.
When life hands you lemons...get a therapist! Are you feeling stressed, stuck, lonely, or out of control? How about feeling overwhelmed with a life decision or change? Maybe you've recently experienced a breakup or are having troubles in your relationship and don't know how to communicate your needs. Do you have concerns about your child's mental health and need some more support? My mission is to empower women, children and families by providing welcoming and accessible therapy services with respect, hard work, and a bit of humor!
If you want to get technical, I pull from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Art & Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), & Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), just to name a few.
When life hands you lemons...get a therapist! Are you feeling stressed, stuck, lonely, or out of control? How about feeling overwhelmed with a life decision or change? Maybe you've recently experienced a breakup or are having troubles in your relationship and don't know how to communicate your needs. Do you have concerns about your child's mental health and need some more support? My mission is to empower women, children and families by providing welcoming and accessible therapy services with respect, hard work, and a bit of humor!
(763) 265-6192 View (763) 265-6192
Photo of Libby Dunnigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stewartville, MN
Libby Dunnigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
We all have unique experiences that shape our perspectives. I believe that through self-awareness and vulnerability, we can all grow to become more resilient and confident individuals. As a licensed clinical therapist, I will guide you through the therapeutic process and empower you with the skills to feel more in control in your life. I’ll help you build a toolbox of coping strategies to find what works best for you. I have a client-centered, collaborative style that draws techniques from a variety of therapy modalities including (but not limited to): CBT, Psychodynamic, DBT, Solution-focused, Strength-based, and Play Therapy.
We all have unique experiences that shape our perspectives. I believe that through self-awareness and vulnerability, we can all grow to become more resilient and confident individuals. As a licensed clinical therapist, I will guide you through the therapeutic process and empower you with the skills to feel more in control in your life. I’ll help you build a toolbox of coping strategies to find what works best for you. I have a client-centered, collaborative style that draws techniques from a variety of therapy modalities including (but not limited to): CBT, Psychodynamic, DBT, Solution-focused, Strength-based, and Play Therapy.
(720) 782-2241 View (720) 782-2241
Photo of Kendra Snyder Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stewartville, MN
Kendra Snyder Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
We incorporate depth-oriented, attachment, and existential therapies, and utilizes play, experiential interventions, EMDR, mindfulness, creativity, as well as insight and awareness to help foster healing.
At Kendra Snyder Therapy & Associates, our therapists specialize in supporting those who have been touched by adoption, grief, loss, trauma, and hurt from religion, as well as people who desire increased connection, to explore personal identity, and to find an authentic belief system or spirituality. We create an open and inviting space for others to engage in deep introspective reflection that helps foster creativity, authenticity, and expansion.
We incorporate depth-oriented, attachment, and existential therapies, and utilizes play, experiential interventions, EMDR, mindfulness, creativity, as well as insight and awareness to help foster healing.
At Kendra Snyder Therapy & Associates, our therapists specialize in supporting those who have been touched by adoption, grief, loss, trauma, and hurt from religion, as well as people who desire increased connection, to explore personal identity, and to find an authentic belief system or spirituality. We create an open and inviting space for others to engage in deep introspective reflection that helps foster creativity, authenticity, and expansion.
(720) 726-1416 View (720) 726-1416
Photo of Dr. Tanya Holthus, Psychologist in Stewartville, MN
Dr. Tanya Holthus
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, RPT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55424
Waitlist for new clients
Some of these modalities include parental coaching, Filial Play Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and AIR Network.
Hi. I know you're ready for this. I see most everyone for most everything. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and specialize in healing trauma and helping people with many types of issues, including post-traumatic stress, attachment/connection, sexual/physical/emotional abuse, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I am most passionate about helping people overcome relationships involving narcissistic abuse and strengthening parent-child relationships. I also have a special place in my heart for people suffering with fertility issues.
Some of these modalities include parental coaching, Filial Play Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and AIR Network.
Hi. I know you're ready for this. I see most everyone for most everything. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and specialize in healing trauma and helping people with many types of issues, including post-traumatic stress, attachment/connection, sexual/physical/emotional abuse, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I am most passionate about helping people overcome relationships involving narcissistic abuse and strengthening parent-child relationships. I also have a special place in my heart for people suffering with fertility issues.
(952) 260-9896 View (952) 260-9896
Photo of FamilyMeans, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stewartville, MN
FamilyMeans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LICSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
Many of our clinicians have specialized in additional areas such as: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
Many of our clinicians have specialized in additional areas such as: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
(833) 624-0402 View (833) 624-0402
Photo of Tania A Beck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stewartville, MN
Tania A Beck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jordan, MN 55352
I also have advanced studies and experience in marriage and family systems, as well as play therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of everyday life? Would you like to get beyond your past and/or resolve current struggles? I acknowledge that it takes a lot of courage to pursue therapy, and to take that first step. I would like to come alongside you and support your healing journey, and the path to rediscovering yourself. My therapeutic style is to hold space for a collaborative conversation, and approach each session with curiosity.
I also have advanced studies and experience in marriage and family systems, as well as play therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of everyday life? Would you like to get beyond your past and/or resolve current struggles? I acknowledge that it takes a lot of courage to pursue therapy, and to take that first step. I would like to come alongside you and support your healing journey, and the path to rediscovering yourself. My therapeutic style is to hold space for a collaborative conversation, and approach each session with curiosity.
(952) 234-6303 View (952) 234-6303
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.