Photo of Lynette Abler, Counselor in Nebraska
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 Jenna Dey, Independent Mental Health Practitioner in Nebraska
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
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 Kitty Betty Johnson, Counselor in Nebraska
Kitty Betty Johnson
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
Gothenburg, NE 69138
I am very fond of the arts and creativity, so sessions not only include conversing, but also play, art and music therapy, story-telling, empty chair techniques and gestalt "action therapy.
At times, everyone needs a refuge from the storm, a comforting and safe place to unload, and inspiration to move ahead. I empathize with you, as I have faced and overcome many of the same battles as you. Many of us struggle with traumatic events in our lives that are overwhelming. Many of us have addictions that cause chaos and destruction. We want to rise above these issues and find peace. We can do this, together. Cada persona, tarde o temprano, necesita un refugio, un lugar seguro donde se puede desahogarse. Aqui esta el lugar, conmigo. Yo entiendo sus batallas porque yo he luchado y superado muchos de los mismos problemas.
I am very fond of the arts and creativity, so sessions not only include conversing, but also play, art and music therapy, story-telling, empty chair techniques and gestalt "action therapy.
At times, everyone needs a refuge from the storm, a comforting and safe place to unload, and inspiration to move ahead. I empathize with you, as I have faced and overcome many of the same battles as you. Many of us struggle with traumatic events in our lives that are overwhelming. Many of us have addictions that cause chaos and destruction. We want to rise above these issues and find peace. We can do this, together. Cada persona, tarde o temprano, necesita un refugio, un lugar seguro donde se puede desahogarse. Aqui esta el lugar, conmigo. Yo entiendo sus batallas porque yo he luchado y superado muchos de los mismos problemas.
(308) 270-6374 View (308) 270-6374
Photo of Marina Ann Luna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nebraska
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 Carol Starner, LLC, Counselor in Nebraska
Carol Starner, LLC
Counselor, LIMHP, RPTS
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68506
I am a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor.
I have been honored to have had the privilege of working with both adults and children for the past 15 years. I believe we all possess and deserve the ability to find a sense of peace, harmony and happiness in life. I have been privileged to work with amazing adults and children and welcome the opportunity to walk beside you in your journey. I am here to assist, empower and advocate for you. If you have been thinking about making changes in your life take the next step and contact me.
I am a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor.
I have been honored to have had the privilege of working with both adults and children for the past 15 years. I believe we all possess and deserve the ability to find a sense of peace, harmony and happiness in life. I have been privileged to work with amazing adults and children and welcome the opportunity to walk beside you in your journey. I am here to assist, empower and advocate for you. If you have been thinking about making changes in your life take the next step and contact me.
(720) 726-1451 View (720) 726-1451
Photo of Jamie Lee Jacobs, Counselor in Nebraska
Jamie Lee Jacobs
Counselor, MSEd, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Falls City, NE 68355
My approach may utilize mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and psychotherapy.
As your therapist, a graduate of UNK's master's program with an emphasis in community counseling, I will provide a safe environment for any individual or groups (i.e., mental health, substance abuse, families). It is in this capacity that you can begin the journey of collaboration to overcome and begin living a holistic life. The scope of 15 plus years of experience ranges across a multiple spectrum that includes but not limited to, families, couples, drug courts, school settings, anger management, and military consultant. The needs of the client will determine the individualized integrated therapeutic approach.
My approach may utilize mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and psychotherapy.
As your therapist, a graduate of UNK's master's program with an emphasis in community counseling, I will provide a safe environment for any individual or groups (i.e., mental health, substance abuse, families). It is in this capacity that you can begin the journey of collaboration to overcome and begin living a holistic life. The scope of 15 plus years of experience ranges across a multiple spectrum that includes but not limited to, families, couples, drug courts, school settings, anger management, and military consultant. The needs of the client will determine the individualized integrated therapeutic approach.
(404) 975-1967 View (404) 975-1967
Photo of Olivia Christensen (Faubel), Counselor in Nebraska
Olivia Christensen (Faubel)
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, PLADC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68504
You are not alone, We can do this together. This is a tough time to endure life alone, sometimes you need someone to sit, listen and just be present with you. I am committed to working with children (0-12), Adolescents (13-18) and families to create positive change, joy and healthier relationships. I am dedicated to helping children through traumatic experiences utilizing Play Therapy techniques. I also devote much of my time with Child Parent Psychotherapy to create joy within parent and child relationships and building secure attachments. We can work together in creating an individualized plan for treatment goals and techniques.
You are not alone, We can do this together. This is a tough time to endure life alone, sometimes you need someone to sit, listen and just be present with you. I am committed to working with children (0-12), Adolescents (13-18) and families to create positive change, joy and healthier relationships. I am dedicated to helping children through traumatic experiences utilizing Play Therapy techniques. I also devote much of my time with Child Parent Psychotherapy to create joy within parent and child relationships and building secure attachments. We can work together in creating an individualized plan for treatment goals and techniques.
(402) 279-4598 View (402) 279-4598
Photo of Ashley Schrad, Counselor in Nebraska
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 Amy Riessland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nebraska
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 Lisa Vogel, Counselor in Nebraska
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 Rachael Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nebraska
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 Linda J Dubs-Cerny, Counselor in Nebraska
Linda J Dubs-Cerny
Counselor, LICSW, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Seward, NE 68434
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive therapies (Play Therapy, Art Therapy), Family Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy.
Life is full of changes and challenges! The prospect of finding a therapist can prove to be a difficult task for anyone. I am an experienced therapist, and while children and families have been my main focus, I have experience working with individuals of all ages. I enjoy providing therapy for people experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, family issues, adoption, and other life adjustments and disruptions.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive therapies (Play Therapy, Art Therapy), Family Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy.
Life is full of changes and challenges! The prospect of finding a therapist can prove to be a difficult task for anyone. I am an experienced therapist, and while children and families have been my main focus, I have experience working with individuals of all ages. I enjoy providing therapy for people experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, family issues, adoption, and other life adjustments and disruptions.
(402) 923-8309 View (402) 923-8309
Photo of Jackie Marcum, Counselor in Nebraska
Jackie Marcum
Counselor, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68124  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a Registered Play Therapist.
I enjoy using my knowledge of human development and family systems to serve my clients' unique needs. In addition, my experience with children, adults and families helps to cultivate an environment of growth for my clients. I give unconditional regard to all of my clients, and walk with them on their individual journeys. Personal growth can sometimes be uncomfortable, but I assure you, you do not have to experience it alone. Going through discomfort is part of the growth process, and you will be stronger because of it! My hope is that each person I work with will gain insight from guided self-exploration and goal setting.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a Registered Play Therapist.
I enjoy using my knowledge of human development and family systems to serve my clients' unique needs. In addition, my experience with children, adults and families helps to cultivate an environment of growth for my clients. I give unconditional regard to all of my clients, and walk with them on their individual journeys. Personal growth can sometimes be uncomfortable, but I assure you, you do not have to experience it alone. Going through discomfort is part of the growth process, and you will be stronger because of it! My hope is that each person I work with will gain insight from guided self-exploration and goal setting.
(402) 415-2493 View (402) 415-2493
Photo of Jea Theis Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nebraska
Jea Theis Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LIMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68124
Now accepting new telehealth clients. "Your present circumstances do not determine where you will go, they merely determine where you have been " - Nido Qubein. I am so glad you are here. I believe in a strengths-based approach that honors the experiences and unique aspects of you. I have received specialized training in EMDR, Brainspotting, Expressive Arts Therapies, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-child Interaction Therapy, Reflective Practice and Compassion Fatigue. I seek to create the most supportive and effective environment for your desired change.
Now accepting new telehealth clients. "Your present circumstances do not determine where you will go, they merely determine where you have been " - Nido Qubein. I am so glad you are here. I believe in a strengths-based approach that honors the experiences and unique aspects of you. I have received specialized training in EMDR, Brainspotting, Expressive Arts Therapies, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-child Interaction Therapy, Reflective Practice and Compassion Fatigue. I seek to create the most supportive and effective environment for your desired change.
(402) 875-5219 View (402) 875-5219
Photo of Angie Lyon, Independent Mental Health Practitioner in Nebraska
Angie Lyon
Independent Mental Health Practitioner, LIMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grand Island, NE 68801
Waitlist for new clients
My greatest strength within the therapy world is trauma and crisis intervention. I'm trained in several evidence-based therapeutic interventions to help with common emotional stressors including, trauma, depression, and anxiety. However, I also believe in a wellness approach to treatment as we can never separate the "mind" from the body. I'm passionate about awareness and taking a pro-active approach to treatment that includes an integrated component in working with your healthcare team in order to create a treatment plan that is based on your goals with the support of your "team."
My greatest strength within the therapy world is trauma and crisis intervention. I'm trained in several evidence-based therapeutic interventions to help with common emotional stressors including, trauma, depression, and anxiety. However, I also believe in a wellness approach to treatment as we can never separate the "mind" from the body. I'm passionate about awareness and taking a pro-active approach to treatment that includes an integrated component in working with your healthcare team in order to create a treatment plan that is based on your goals with the support of your "team."
(308) 303-3255 View (308) 303-3255
Photo of Duol Wuow Rut, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nebraska
Duol Wuow Rut
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LIMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68508
I strongly believe that therapy should not be limited to addressing immediate issues, but should also focus on long-term growth and fulfillment. In my practice, I encourage my clients to explore their goals and aspirations and work towards leading more fulfilling lives. By identifying their values and strengths, they can make meaningful changes and create a life that aligns with their true selves. If you or someone you know needs support, I am here to help. Whether you are struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, I want to support you on your path to a more fulfilling life.
I strongly believe that therapy should not be limited to addressing immediate issues, but should also focus on long-term growth and fulfillment. In my practice, I encourage my clients to explore their goals and aspirations and work towards leading more fulfilling lives. By identifying their values and strengths, they can make meaningful changes and create a life that aligns with their true selves. If you or someone you know needs support, I am here to help. Whether you are struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, I want to support you on your path to a more fulfilling life.
(531) 233-2591 View (531) 233-2591
Photo of Kyle Wockenfuss, Counselor in Nebraska
Kyle Wockenfuss
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, CPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68512
I am Kyle Wockenfuss, a licensed mental health practitioner in the state of Nebraska and I am pleased you are considering taking control of your wellness. I firmly believe we all have the capacity to have a healthy, meaningful, and satisfying life regardless of the challenges we sometimes encounter. For these reasons, among others, I became a professional counselor and educator. I have worked in a variety of placements, including college-counseling centers, inpatient services, and in private practice.
I am Kyle Wockenfuss, a licensed mental health practitioner in the state of Nebraska and I am pleased you are considering taking control of your wellness. I firmly believe we all have the capacity to have a healthy, meaningful, and satisfying life regardless of the challenges we sometimes encounter. For these reasons, among others, I became a professional counselor and educator. I have worked in a variety of placements, including college-counseling centers, inpatient services, and in private practice.
(531) 208-1295 View (531) 208-1295
Photo of Elizabeth (Betsy) Ann Funk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nebraska
Elizabeth (Betsy) Ann Funk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, LCSW, MPA, REAT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68124
As a Clinician and Registered Expressive Arts Therapist, I am blessed to be in a line of work which focuses on helping people feel better about themselves and their lives. I work with young people as well as adults and their families. I can address trauma, peer issues, family conflicts, behavioral problems, sexually reactive behaviors, depression, social skills and assertiveness issues. I can work with schools as needed and have experience with the court system. Treatment modalities include EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT, CPP, Circle of Security Parenting and psychotherapy. Together we will determine the best course of treatment for you.
As a Clinician and Registered Expressive Arts Therapist, I am blessed to be in a line of work which focuses on helping people feel better about themselves and their lives. I work with young people as well as adults and their families. I can address trauma, peer issues, family conflicts, behavioral problems, sexually reactive behaviors, depression, social skills and assertiveness issues. I can work with schools as needed and have experience with the court system. Treatment modalities include EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT, CPP, Circle of Security Parenting and psychotherapy. Together we will determine the best course of treatment for you.
(402) 507-4943 View (402) 507-4943
Photo of Melisa Barnes, Counselor in Nebraska
Melisa Barnes
Counselor, MA, LMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I have worked with clients of all ages for 15+ years. Being able to trust and be open and honest with your therapist is the most important factor in choosing a counselor and maintaining a therapuetic, helpful relationship. My strengths are building open, relationships with my clients while working together towards achieving goals. Life is all about growth and change, which isn't always easy or comfortable. My commitment as a therapist is to provide a compassionate environment that offers unconditional acceptance and support where an individual, couple, or family can make positive changes while developing lifelong effective coping skills.
I have worked with clients of all ages for 15+ years. Being able to trust and be open and honest with your therapist is the most important factor in choosing a counselor and maintaining a therapuetic, helpful relationship. My strengths are building open, relationships with my clients while working together towards achieving goals. Life is all about growth and change, which isn't always easy or comfortable. My commitment as a therapist is to provide a compassionate environment that offers unconditional acceptance and support where an individual, couple, or family can make positive changes while developing lifelong effective coping skills.
(402) 509-8666 View (402) 509-8666
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.