Photo of Amy Riessland, LISW, LIMHP, LCSW, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Riessland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LISW, LIMHP, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
I am also a Registered Play Therapist so I have specific training for children,tweens, and teens who are struggling in life changes or events also.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. Anxiety, depression, or trauma can all pile up and prevent us from living a fulfilling life. These pieces in life can feel like they are entangling . 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 offer weekend appointments to fit busy schedules better.
I am also a Registered Play Therapist so I have specific training for children,tweens, and teens who are struggling in life changes or events also.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. Anxiety, depression, or trauma can all pile up and prevent us from living a fulfilling life. These pieces in life can feel like they are entangling . 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 offer weekend appointments to fit busy schedules better.
(402) 749-5722 View (402) 749-5722
Photo of Marina Ann Luna, MSW, LISW, LIMHP, CMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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, MS, LIMHP
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
Photo of Lynette Abler, MA, LMHP, Counselor
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 Rebecca Nichols, MS, LMHP, PLADC, Counselor
Rebecca Nichols
Counselor, MS, LMHP, PLADC
Verified Verified
La Vista, NE 68128
I have extensive training in Play Therapy in the individual, family, and group setting.
Have you become increasingly concerned about your child's behavior at home or school? Do you worry that your child is struggling with day to day functioning? Are their behaviors difficult to understand and manage? Does the smallest thing seem to trigger your child? If so, you are not alone. We can work through these issues together. Childhood is a difficult time and creates unique parenting challenges as well. I specialize in working with children and families during these difficult times in order to restore a sense of peace and understanding for not only the child, but the entire family.
I have extensive training in Play Therapy in the individual, family, and group setting.
Have you become increasingly concerned about your child's behavior at home or school? Do you worry that your child is struggling with day to day functioning? Are their behaviors difficult to understand and manage? Does the smallest thing seem to trigger your child? If so, you are not alone. We can work through these issues together. Childhood is a difficult time and creates unique parenting challenges as well. I specialize in working with children and families during these difficult times in order to restore a sense of peace and understanding for not only the child, but the entire family.
(402) 858-9493 View (402) 858-9493
Photo of Laura Jessen, LIMHP, MSE, Counselor
Laura Jessen
Counselor, LIMHP, MSE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68512
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in Emotion Code and Child-Centered Play.
I understand that life presents many challenges. My goal is for my clients to develop peace with themselves, calmness, tranquility, confidence, and strength. I believe if you want to help others heal, love them unconditional.
I have training in Emotion Code and Child-Centered Play.
I understand that life presents many challenges. My goal is for my clients to develop peace with themselves, calmness, tranquility, confidence, and strength. I believe if you want to help others heal, love them unconditional.
(402) 741-6291 View (402) 741-6291
Photo of Rose Kern, MAMT, MT-BC, PLMHP
Rose Kern
MAMT, MT-BC, PLMHP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, NE 68005
Are you frequently finding yourself overwhelmed? Are you struggling to adjust after significant events? Do you find that you are reacting differently than as you would like to in situations? When you reflect on the support you have been given was it found to be less than helpful for you? Are you feeling lost in finding the right support and often leaving drained? If any of this resonates, I am the therapist for you. As your therapist we navigate in creating resiliencies and transforming your skills for living well. I demonstrate to parents and caregivers how to support their children through play, communicating, & personal music.
Are you frequently finding yourself overwhelmed? Are you struggling to adjust after significant events? Do you find that you are reacting differently than as you would like to in situations? When you reflect on the support you have been given was it found to be less than helpful for you? Are you feeling lost in finding the right support and often leaving drained? If any of this resonates, I am the therapist for you. As your therapist we navigate in creating resiliencies and transforming your skills for living well. I demonstrate to parents and caregivers how to support their children through play, communicating, & personal music.
(402) 242-3745 x1 View (402) 242-3745 x1
Photo of Rebecca Dubs, MAE, PLMHP
Rebecca Dubs
Provisional Mental Health Practitioner, MAE, PLMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chadron, NE 69337
Our practice focuses on the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy with individuals ages 5 and up.
Limited, but available openings! My name is Rebecca and I am dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach to therapy is rooted in the principles of unconditional positive regard and the development of a strong therapeutic trust. I believe that every individual deserves to be seen, heard, and valued exactly as they are. As a provisionally licensed mental health practitioner, I can assist individuals process and problem-solve through obstacles they may experience throughout their lives. Call or email to see how I can support you!
Our practice focuses on the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy with individuals ages 5 and up.
Limited, but available openings! My name is Rebecca and I am dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach to therapy is rooted in the principles of unconditional positive regard and the development of a strong therapeutic trust. I believe that every individual deserves to be seen, heard, and valued exactly as they are. As a provisionally licensed mental health practitioner, I can assist individuals process and problem-solve through obstacles they may experience throughout their lives. Call or email to see how I can support you!
(308) 365-2638 View (308) 365-2638
Photo of Jamie Lee Jacobs, MSEd, LIMHP, Counselor
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 Ashley Schrad, LIMHP, LMHC, NCC, RPT, Counselor
Ashley Schrad
Counselor, LIMHP, LMHC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68127
I offer ART, DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy techniques (in school for completing certificate in art therapy).
You have come to the right place to learn the skills needed to function on a daily basis! I am here to help you through the daily stressors, significant traumas, and everyday life to build a healthier life.
I offer ART, DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy techniques (in school for completing certificate in art therapy).
You have come to the right place to learn the skills needed to function on a daily basis! I am here to help you through the daily stressors, significant traumas, and everyday life to build a healthier life.
(531) 300-1176 View (531) 300-1176
Mary B Lutz-Priefert
Counselor, MA, LMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68134
I have over 35 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I have significant experience treating trauma and sexual abuse with all age groups. I get excited working with people who have experienced trauma and seeing them become the people they were meant to be. I am trained in EMDR, Play Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and DBT. I work with clients who experience depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or those experiencing stress in their lives.
I have over 35 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I have significant experience treating trauma and sexual abuse with all age groups. I get excited working with people who have experienced trauma and seeing them become the people they were meant to be. I am trained in EMDR, Play Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and DBT. I work with clients who experience depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or those experiencing stress in their lives.
(402) 656-6985 View (402) 656-6985
Photo of Heather Wilkie, LIMHP, Counselor
Heather Wilkie
Counselor, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68127
I'm passionate about working with children and adolescents who are struggling with mental and emotional health difficulties. With a background in psychology and a heart dedicated to making a positive difference in young lives, I am eager to offer compassionate support and guidance to children and their families. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where young minds feel empowered to explore their emotions, express themselves freely, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Through a combination of evidence-based techniques, play therapy, and
I'm passionate about working with children and adolescents who are struggling with mental and emotional health difficulties. With a background in psychology and a heart dedicated to making a positive difference in young lives, I am eager to offer compassionate support and guidance to children and their families. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where young minds feel empowered to explore their emotions, express themselves freely, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Through a combination of evidence-based techniques, play therapy, and
(402) 256-6579 View (402) 256-6579
Photo of Play Therapy Omaha - Play Therapy Omaha, Counselor
Play Therapy Omaha
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
It takes courage to ask for help; we applaud​ you for taking the first step! We believe strongly at Play Therapy Omaha that a trusting & respectful relationship is key to getting the most out of therapy.
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.
It takes courage to ask for help; we applaud​ you for taking the first step! We believe strongly at Play Therapy Omaha that a trusting & respectful relationship is key to getting the most out of therapy.
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 Corina Maher, LIMHP, CPC, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Corina Maher
Counselor, LIMHP, CPC, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68114
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.
**UNCOMMON SLOTS NOW AVAILABLE, LIMITED TIME** Tired of the shit? Frustrated with what life has to offer? Of course you are! You’re tired of the same ol’ same ol’. It’s time you stood up and kicked life in the ass versus being the one getting kicked. With my help you can learn how to process and overcome this dumpster fire of experiences. Let’s reduce your tension, eliminate stress, overcome the despair and helplessness, and get you living the life you want to live. With my specialty training in EMDR, IFS, and Play Therapy we can do this together. 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.
**UNCOMMON SLOTS NOW AVAILABLE, LIMITED TIME** Tired of the shit? Frustrated with what life has to offer? Of course you are! You’re tired of the same ol’ same ol’. It’s time you stood up and kicked life in the ass versus being the one getting kicked. With my help you can learn how to process and overcome this dumpster fire of experiences. Let’s reduce your tension, eliminate stress, overcome the despair and helplessness, and get you living the life you want to live. With my specialty training in EMDR, IFS, and Play Therapy we can do this together. Find more about me on my website: unityyfs.com.
(402) 526-5215 View (402) 526-5215
Photo of Carol Starner - Carol Starner, LLC, LIMHP, RPTS, Counselor
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 Diana M Shaw, LIMHP, RPT, Counselor
Diana M Shaw
Counselor, LIMHP, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68114
A big part of my practice centers around serving those 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.
A big part of my practice centers around serving those 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 Paige McCoy, LIMHP, LADC, Counselor
Paige McCoy
Counselor, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68116
I also enjoy using aspects of play and art therapy techniques in sessions.
“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. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with perinatal or postnatal concerns, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, substance use concerns or negative life experiences to get to the root of their current challenges so they can find relief and experience long term change.
I also enjoy using aspects of play and art therapy techniques in sessions.
“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. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with perinatal or postnatal concerns, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, substance use concerns or negative life experiences to get to the root of their current challenges so they can find relief and experience long term change.
(402) 347-2134 View (402) 347-2134
Photo of Linda J Dubs-Cerny, LICSW, LIMHP, Counselor
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, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Jackie Marcum
Counselor, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68124
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 Christine Erickson, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Christine Erickson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68522  (Online Only)
When working with children I use a combination of art and play to help them feel happy and capable.
Everyone needs help at times, and that’s okay. I have several years experience working with individuals dealing with chronic anxiety, chronic depression, complex trauma, and issues related to neurodiversity. I’ve worked with girls at the end of high school transitioning to college, as well as adults of multiple genders. I also have many years working with children in different settings, many of whom dealt with multiple diagnoses. Some of these issues include ADHD, OCD, autism, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
When working with children I use a combination of art and play to help them feel happy and capable.
Everyone needs help at times, and that’s okay. I have several years experience working with individuals dealing with chronic anxiety, chronic depression, complex trauma, and issues related to neurodiversity. I’ve worked with girls at the end of high school transitioning to college, as well as adults of multiple genders. I also have many years working with children in different settings, many of whom dealt with multiple diagnoses. Some of these issues include ADHD, OCD, autism, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(435) 238-4514 View (435) 238-4514
1
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.