Photo of Andrew Mills, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Andrew Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, PCMSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68102
As a child therapist, I specialize solely in non-directive child centered play therapy.
Hello! I am a child therapist working exclusively with children ages 3-19. I offer parents a FREE one hour consultation prior to beginning therapy with their child. I work with children experiencing symptoms related to difficulty concentrating and focusing, physical and verbal aggression, difficulty with following directions, sadness, anxiousness, low self-esteem, anger, sibling rivalry, jealousy, being bullied, and childhood trauma. My work focuses on addressing concerns the child may be experiencing while keeping the parent/caregiver informed of the child's progress throughout the treatment process.
As a child therapist, I specialize solely in non-directive child centered play therapy.
Hello! I am a child therapist working exclusively with children ages 3-19. I offer parents a FREE one hour consultation prior to beginning therapy with their child. I work with children experiencing symptoms related to difficulty concentrating and focusing, physical and verbal aggression, difficulty with following directions, sadness, anxiousness, low self-esteem, anger, sibling rivalry, jealousy, being bullied, and childhood trauma. My work focuses on addressing concerns the child may be experiencing while keeping the parent/caregiver informed of the child's progress throughout the treatment process.
(402) 685-8468 View (402) 685-8468
Lifespan Counseling Omaha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68114
Our therapists have training in everything from EMDR, Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy to postpartum mental health support.
Come work with the best! Lifespan is a 2024 Best of Omaha winner for our fast responses, excellence in care, and patient experience. Lifespan Counseling Omaha is a trusted mental health group serving Omaha, Nebraska and surrounding areas. Lifespan Counseling serves all ages; children, teens, adults and seniors will find a dedicated group of counselors here to support your goals. Whether you or your family member are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, behavior concerns or need the support of a group - there is help at Lifespan Counseling for all ages.
Our therapists have training in everything from EMDR, Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy to postpartum mental health support.
Come work with the best! Lifespan is a 2024 Best of Omaha winner for our fast responses, excellence in care, and patient experience. Lifespan Counseling Omaha is a trusted mental health group serving Omaha, Nebraska and surrounding areas. Lifespan Counseling serves all ages; children, teens, adults and seniors will find a dedicated group of counselors here to support your goals. Whether you or your family member are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, behavior concerns or need the support of a group - there is help at Lifespan Counseling for all ages.
(402) 227-6782 View (402) 227-6782
Photo of Paige McCoy, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Paige McCoy
Counselor, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68116
I also enjoy utilizing aspects of play and art therapy techniques.
“Daring greatly means the courage to be vulnerable. It means to show up and be seen. To ask for what you need. To talk about how you’re feeling. To have the hard conversations.” - Brene Brown. As a therapist I want to help make the hard conversations a little easier to have. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who may be impacted by symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, perinatal mental health concerns, and substance use. My goal is to help empower my clients to feel confident in being able to utilize healthy coping skills for their current life stressors and mental health symptoms.
I also enjoy utilizing aspects of play and art therapy techniques.
“Daring greatly means the courage to be vulnerable. It means to show up and be seen. To ask for what you need. To talk about how you’re feeling. To have the hard conversations.” - Brene Brown. As a therapist I want to help make the hard conversations a little easier to have. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who may be impacted by symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, perinatal mental health concerns, and substance use. My goal is to help empower my clients to feel confident in being able to utilize healthy coping skills for their current life stressors and mental health symptoms.
(402) 347-2134 View (402) 347-2134
Photo of Joana Valente in Omaha, NE
Joana Valente
MS, PLMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
My primary approaches to therapy are Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused, and I utilize a variety of techniques including Mindfulness, Play therapy, Art therapy and Sand Tray Therapy to meet the needs of each client.
Hi! My name is Joana and I’m so glad to see you here. Just by being here, I already know you are a loving and concerned caregiver. Parenting can be the most fulfilling, yet challenging experience. Being a mama of 3 I know first hand how difficult it can be sometimes. I want you to know you don’t have to do it all alone, in fact, you shouldn’t! I specialize in working with children, adolescents and caregivers dealing with behavioral issues, social skills, anger, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma and changes in the family dynamic.
My primary approaches to therapy are Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused, and I utilize a variety of techniques including Mindfulness, Play therapy, Art therapy and Sand Tray Therapy to meet the needs of each client.
Hi! My name is Joana and I’m so glad to see you here. Just by being here, I already know you are a loving and concerned caregiver. Parenting can be the most fulfilling, yet challenging experience. Being a mama of 3 I know first hand how difficult it can be sometimes. I want you to know you don’t have to do it all alone, in fact, you shouldn’t! I specialize in working with children, adolescents and caregivers dealing with behavioral issues, social skills, anger, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma and changes in the family dynamic.
(402) 267-9073 View (402) 267-9073
Photo of Ashley Schrad, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Ashley Schrad
Counselor, LIMHP, LMHC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68127
I offer DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy techniques (in school for completing certificate in art therapy).
Are you struggling to find the skills to work through every day stressors? Are you looking for a therapist who will use a different approach? You have come to the right place to learn the skills needed to function on a daily basis!
I offer DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy techniques (in school for completing certificate in art therapy).
Are you struggling to find the skills to work through every day stressors? Are you looking for a therapist who will use a different approach? You have come to the right place to learn the skills needed to function on a daily basis!
(531) 300-1176 View (531) 300-1176
Photo of Corina Maher, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Corina Maher
Counselor, LIMHP, CPC, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68114
Waitlist for new clients
As a certified Parent Educator through Circle of Security, Autism Specialist, and Registered Play Therapist, I have the unique ability to help individuals, children and families overcome significant struggles.
That's it! You've had enough!! Life has dealt you something unlivable and you need help. You can't imagine it being easier, different. For a second, try and imagine someone offering support, guidance, and validation to help you process and overcome those difficult moments. Together we can help ease the tension, reduce the stress, change the helplessness, and move toward a more livable existence. With specialty training I help clients achieve this through various therapy tools, like EMDR, talk therapy, music, Play Therapy and expressive art therapy. You can also find more about me on my website: unityyfs.com.
As a certified Parent Educator through Circle of Security, Autism Specialist, and Registered Play Therapist, I have the unique ability to help individuals, children and families overcome significant struggles.
That's it! You've had enough!! Life has dealt you something unlivable and you need help. You can't imagine it being easier, different. For a second, try and imagine someone offering support, guidance, and validation to help you process and overcome those difficult moments. Together we can help ease the tension, reduce the stress, change the helplessness, and move toward a more livable existence. With specialty training I help clients achieve this through various therapy tools, like EMDR, talk therapy, music, Play Therapy and expressive art therapy. You can also find more about me on my website: unityyfs.com.
(402) 526-5215 View (402) 526-5215
Photo of Rachael Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Rachael Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68137
I am trained in providing play interventions to identify stressors and process trauma experiences.
"Owning your story is the bravest thing you will ever do."- Brené Brown We all have stories, some that we have chosen to create and others that were created for us. Maybe your story is easy, maybe your story is hard, perhaps your story is embarrassing or maybe your story creates feelings of guilt or shame; Whatever the story, whatever chapter you may be in, whatever chapter you may be thinking about opening, I commend your bravery and courage. You do not have to suffer alone.
I am trained in providing play interventions to identify stressors and process trauma experiences.
"Owning your story is the bravest thing you will ever do."- Brené Brown We all have stories, some that we have chosen to create and others that were created for us. Maybe your story is easy, maybe your story is hard, perhaps your story is embarrassing or maybe your story creates feelings of guilt or shame; Whatever the story, whatever chapter you may be in, whatever chapter you may be thinking about opening, I commend your bravery and courage. You do not have to suffer alone.
(402) 415-2062 View (402) 415-2062
Photo of Diana M Shaw, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Diana M Shaw
Counselor, LIMHP, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68114
My practice primarily centers around individuals suffering from anxiety. This can be children struggling to manage changes in their lives, teens overwhelmed with the pressure they are experiencing, or adults struggling to balance responsibilities. I see a fair amount of children with ADHD diagnoses and have worked effectively in utilizing behavioral strategies to aid in symptomology, as well as balancing therapeutic skills with medication. I am trained in trauma and attachment and see children, teens, and adults struggling with these issues. As a trained play therapist, I employ aspects of play therapy with all clients.
My practice primarily centers around individuals suffering from anxiety. This can be children struggling to manage changes in their lives, teens overwhelmed with the pressure they are experiencing, or adults struggling to balance responsibilities. I see a fair amount of children with ADHD diagnoses and have worked effectively in utilizing behavioral strategies to aid in symptomology, as well as balancing therapeutic skills with medication. I am trained in trauma and attachment and see children, teens, and adults struggling with these issues. As a trained play therapist, I employ aspects of play therapy with all clients.
(531) 202-3810 View (531) 202-3810
Photo of Anne Rosenkranz, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Anne Rosenkranz
Counselor, MS, PLMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
Certifications: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Play Therapy (ongoing), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ongoing), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (ongoing).
I have built a rewarding career helping others and dedicating myself to the kids and families I serve. With nearly a decade of experience, I understand the importance of creating a welcoming environment to facilitate meaningful relationships with both my clients and their families. I have practiced in a variety of settings in various states, including Illinois, Ohio, and now Nebraska. As a licensed school counselor in Illinois I worked with students and families in both middle and high school settings before my family and I moved to Ohio, where I focused on providing social emotional learning in before and afterschool settings.
Certifications: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Play Therapy (ongoing), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ongoing), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (ongoing).
I have built a rewarding career helping others and dedicating myself to the kids and families I serve. With nearly a decade of experience, I understand the importance of creating a welcoming environment to facilitate meaningful relationships with both my clients and their families. I have practiced in a variety of settings in various states, including Illinois, Ohio, and now Nebraska. As a licensed school counselor in Illinois I worked with students and families in both middle and high school settings before my family and I moved to Ohio, where I focused on providing social emotional learning in before and afterschool settings.
(402) 383-5176 View (402) 383-5176
Photo of Anna Wheeler, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Anna Wheeler
Counselor, MA, LMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I am trained in play therapy, Perinatal Mood Disorders, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as Theraplay Level 1.
I understand the anxiety and stresses that life can bring, especially negativing adjustments and change. Through support, there can be profound healing & growth. Navigating childhood, parenting, or the postpartum journey with support can make the greatest impact, knowing you are not alone. I believe individuals need to feel heard, understood, and supported to find healing. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults find their voice through play and believe change can happen when we feel heard, cared for, and understood.
I am trained in play therapy, Perinatal Mood Disorders, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as Theraplay Level 1.
I understand the anxiety and stresses that life can bring, especially negativing adjustments and change. Through support, there can be profound healing & growth. Navigating childhood, parenting, or the postpartum journey with support can make the greatest impact, knowing you are not alone. I believe individuals need to feel heard, understood, and supported to find healing. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults find their voice through play and believe change can happen when we feel heard, cared for, and understood.
(402) 674-6905 View (402) 674-6905
Photo of Pérez Counseling Services, PC, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Pérez Counseling Services, PC
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, RPT
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68127
I am a Registered Play Therapist and trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and enjoy using an eclectic approach with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral interventions .
Does your child struggle to pay attention? Or struggle with depression, anxiety, and isolation? Do you ever ask yourself, "Where to begin?". I'm glad you ask because I've thought about this question a lot. My name is Odalys Pérez and I'm a Spanish-bilingual Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner in Omaha, Nebraska. I'm professionally trained to help your child navigate regular emotional disorders and its symptoms. I've helped hundreds of families conquer hardship over 12 years of professional experience. I partner with organizations throughout Omaha to bring mental health services to schools and families looking for answers
I am a Registered Play Therapist and trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and enjoy using an eclectic approach with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral interventions .
Does your child struggle to pay attention? Or struggle with depression, anxiety, and isolation? Do you ever ask yourself, "Where to begin?". I'm glad you ask because I've thought about this question a lot. My name is Odalys Pérez and I'm a Spanish-bilingual Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner in Omaha, Nebraska. I'm professionally trained to help your child navigate regular emotional disorders and its symptoms. I've helped hundreds of families conquer hardship over 12 years of professional experience. I partner with organizations throughout Omaha to bring mental health services to schools and families looking for answers
(402) 503-3185 View (402) 503-3185
Photo of Mary Byrd, Independent Mental Health Practitioner in Omaha, NE
Mary Byrd
Independent Mental Health Practitioner, LIMHP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
My practice focuses on helping individuals and families utilize healthy coping skills to deal with life situations and mental health related concerns. I focus on issues related to adoption, abuse, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, obsessive compulsive disorder, grief/loss, mood dysregulation, trauma, and impulse control difficulties. I have recently started co-facilitating DBT informed skills groups. I have extensive training in EMDR treatment, cognitive behavioral treatment strategies, and am a registered play therapist.
My practice focuses on helping individuals and families utilize healthy coping skills to deal with life situations and mental health related concerns. I focus on issues related to adoption, abuse, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, obsessive compulsive disorder, grief/loss, mood dysregulation, trauma, and impulse control difficulties. I have recently started co-facilitating DBT informed skills groups. I have extensive training in EMDR treatment, cognitive behavioral treatment strategies, and am a registered play therapist.
(402) 939-6251 View (402) 939-6251
Photo of Play Therapy Omaha, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Play Therapy Omaha
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
At Play Therapy Omaha, our mission is to provide meaningful change in playful ways. Our highly trained practitioners share a common goal in helping families find hope, healing, & harmony ​by providing specialized therapeutic and psychoeducational services ​for children, adolescents, adults, & families. We believe passionately in the power of play & specialize in mental health services tailored to the unique needs of kids & families. Our skilled mental health therapists work with youth of all ages from early childhood - adolescence, along with offering services for young adults & adults. ​Please visit our website to learn more.
At Play Therapy Omaha, our mission is to provide meaningful change in playful ways. Our highly trained practitioners share a common goal in helping families find hope, healing, & harmony ​by providing specialized therapeutic and psychoeducational services ​for children, adolescents, adults, & families. We believe passionately in the power of play & specialize in mental health services tailored to the unique needs of kids & families. Our skilled mental health therapists work with youth of all ages from early childhood - adolescence, along with offering services for young adults & adults. ​Please visit our website to learn more.
(402) 267-9507 View (402) 267-9507
Photo of Jeannie M Gilinsky, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Jeannie M Gilinsky
Counselor, MS, LMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
I have specialized training in hypnotherapy, EMDR, play therapy, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming and you need someone to talk to. Someone who will listen. Someone who can understand. If you are feeling alone, depressed, angry, or anxious, or if you are struggling in a relationship, I can help you to find the tools you need to resolve your issues, to heal and to live the life you are meant to live..
I have specialized training in hypnotherapy, EMDR, play therapy, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming and you need someone to talk to. Someone who will listen. Someone who can understand. If you are feeling alone, depressed, angry, or anxious, or if you are struggling in a relationship, I can help you to find the tools you need to resolve your issues, to heal and to live the life you are meant to live..
(402) 241-8183 View (402) 241-8183
Photo of Amy Riessland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Amy Riessland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
I am also a Registered Play Therapist so am able to work with very young children who are struggling in life changes or events.
"I enjoy working with individuals and family's of all ages. Anxiety, depression, and or trauma can all pile up and prevent us from living a fulfilling life. These pieces in life can feel like they are entangling or piling up. I can help unravel, sort through and process what life events have come up and find joy for the future by meeting you where you are at this time in life and finding a path".
I am also a Registered Play Therapist so am able to work with very young children who are struggling in life changes or events.
"I enjoy working with individuals and family's of all ages. Anxiety, depression, and or trauma can all pile up and prevent us from living a fulfilling life. These pieces in life can feel like they are entangling or piling up. I can help unravel, sort through and process what life events have come up and find joy for the future by meeting you where you are at this time in life and finding a path".
(402) 749-5722 View (402) 749-5722
Photo of Lynette Abler, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Lynette Abler
Counselor, MA, LMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
She uses CBT; including mindfulness techniques, Play Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy and TF-CBT.
Lynette Abler MA, LMHP is a licensed mental health professional and independent contractor at The Cord; Where Science Meets Connection. She works with children, teens and adults. She works with individuals and families struggling with conflict or past trauma in their life. She uses a nurturing, therapeutic approach with her clients that is very inviting. Her soft demeanor and sense of compassion towards her clients helps to empower them, and helps them through their difficult life experiences. Her sense of empathy and her intuitive nature helps to guide clients to where change is possible, in a nonjudgemental and accepting way.
She uses CBT; including mindfulness techniques, Play Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy and TF-CBT.
Lynette Abler MA, LMHP is a licensed mental health professional and independent contractor at The Cord; Where Science Meets Connection. She works with children, teens and adults. She works with individuals and families struggling with conflict or past trauma in their life. She uses a nurturing, therapeutic approach with her clients that is very inviting. Her soft demeanor and sense of compassion towards her clients helps to empower them, and helps them through their difficult life experiences. Her sense of empathy and her intuitive nature helps to guide clients to where change is possible, in a nonjudgemental and accepting way.
(402) 913-8491 View (402) 913-8491
Photo of Lisa Vogel, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Lisa Vogel
Counselor, MSEd, ATR-BC, LIMHP, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68134
Ms. Vogel is a nationally certified/licensed counselor and a registered Art Therapist who has extensive experience working in the mental health field. Services include, but are not limited to, assessment, short-term and long-term therapy, EAP, CAP, and eclectic therapy as determined by each individual participating in their sessions. All age groups are accepted as well as individual, couple/marital and family therapy. In addition to the traditional “talk therapy” she has extensive knowledge and experience in various expressive therapies including, art therapy, play therapy, music therapy, bibliotherapy, journaling, etc. Ms. Vogel is fluent in sign language.
Ms. Vogel is a nationally certified/licensed counselor and a registered Art Therapist who has extensive experience working in the mental health field. Services include, but are not limited to, assessment, short-term and long-term therapy, EAP, CAP, and eclectic therapy as determined by each individual participating in their sessions. All age groups are accepted as well as individual, couple/marital and family therapy. In addition to the traditional “talk therapy” she has extensive knowledge and experience in various expressive therapies including, art therapy, play therapy, music therapy, bibliotherapy, journaling, etc. Ms. Vogel is fluent in sign language.
(402) 468-8924 View (402) 468-8924
Photo of Amber Jurgensmeier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Amber Jurgensmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68138
I am a registered play therapist-supervisor (RPT-S).
I am a licensed, independent mental health practitioner specializing in child and adolescent therapy. I am also a licensed alcohol and drug counselor trained to complete juvenile drug and alcohol evaluations. I have worked with at-risk youth for over a decade and have a great deal of knowledge in navigating the juvenile justice system.
I am a registered play therapist-supervisor (RPT-S).
I am a licensed, independent mental health practitioner specializing in child and adolescent therapy. I am also a licensed alcohol and drug counselor trained to complete juvenile drug and alcohol evaluations. I have worked with at-risk youth for over a decade and have a great deal of knowledge in navigating the juvenile justice system.
(402) 718-8451 View (402) 718-8451
Photo of Marina Ann Luna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Marina Ann Luna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, LIMHP, CMSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
Not sure if you are ready to begin your therapeutic experience? Give us a call and receive more information about how therapy works as well as what to expect. I have utilized several different types of therapies (CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, Art Therapy and Play Therapy, EMDR) including groups with the emphasis on your needs.
Not sure if you are ready to begin your therapeutic experience? Give us a call and receive more information about how therapy works as well as what to expect. I have utilized several different types of therapies (CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, Art Therapy and Play Therapy, EMDR) including groups with the emphasis on your needs.
(402) 513-9862 View (402) 513-9862
Photo of Jenna Dey, Independent Mental Health Practitioner in Omaha, NE
Jenna Dey
Independent Mental Health Practitioner, MS, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I have also been trained as a registered play therapist.
Throughout my career, I have provided therapy to individuals and families impacted by trauma, including sexual, physical, emotional abuse and neglect. As a result, I have extensive experience in working with clients who struggle with PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, self harming behavior, relationships, and behavior difficulties. I work primarily with teenagers and adults.
I have also been trained as a registered play therapist.
Throughout my career, I have provided therapy to individuals and families impacted by trauma, including sexual, physical, emotional abuse and neglect. As a result, I have extensive experience in working with clients who struggle with PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, self harming behavior, relationships, and behavior difficulties. I work primarily with teenagers and adults.
(402) 603-6224 View (402) 603-6224
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.