Photo of Emily S Lowenfels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Emily S Lowenfels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morganville, NJ 07751
I am also a huge proponent of play therapy.
My ideal client is person who has been experiencing some difficulties understanding and or manipulating through their environment. Perhaps this client needs a group to work overcome shyness and learn to speak up for themselves or perhaps this client misreads social situations. My ideal clients range from 3-35. I service struggling parents/families and teens/young adults/adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and self-care. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be offering teletherapy sessions as an option to any individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to this ever evolving health crisis.
I am also a huge proponent of play therapy.
My ideal client is person who has been experiencing some difficulties understanding and or manipulating through their environment. Perhaps this client needs a group to work overcome shyness and learn to speak up for themselves or perhaps this client misreads social situations. My ideal clients range from 3-35. I service struggling parents/families and teens/young adults/adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and self-care. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be offering teletherapy sessions as an option to any individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to this ever evolving health crisis.
(973) 287-4706 View (973) 287-4706
Photo of Michele R Kleiman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Michele R Kleiman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morganville, NJ 07751
My approach to therapy considers that the mind and body are integral parts of a whole being. Achieving balance between these parts is an important component of the healing process and my goal is to help clients achieve this stability. Anxiety and depression can be unbearable and sometimes immobilizing; relationship problems can weaken our capacity for experiencing happiness; death, divorce and trauma can leave us hopeless and empty. My therapeutic approach strives to help client's emotional wounds heal in order to regain inner peace and improve personal growth.
My approach to therapy considers that the mind and body are integral parts of a whole being. Achieving balance between these parts is an important component of the healing process and my goal is to help clients achieve this stability. Anxiety and depression can be unbearable and sometimes immobilizing; relationship problems can weaken our capacity for experiencing happiness; death, divorce and trauma can leave us hopeless and empty. My therapeutic approach strives to help client's emotional wounds heal in order to regain inner peace and improve personal growth.
(732) 402-0379 View (732) 402-0379
Photo of Micki Frazier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Micki Frazier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morganville, NJ 07751
Life can be challenging; getting help doesn't have to be. Balancing family, work/school, and personal relationships can be a daily struggle. Trying to make the time to care for one's self can be difficult. Sometimes we need an objective person to help navigate us through these struggles so that we can see more clearly and reach our true potential. I believe that each one of us holds the answers to our own questions and we just need a quiet, safe environment to access that part of us. I am honored to be that person for my clients.
Life can be challenging; getting help doesn't have to be. Balancing family, work/school, and personal relationships can be a daily struggle. Trying to make the time to care for one's self can be difficult. Sometimes we need an objective person to help navigate us through these struggles so that we can see more clearly and reach our true potential. I believe that each one of us holds the answers to our own questions and we just need a quiet, safe environment to access that part of us. I am honored to be that person for my clients.
(908) 332-8917 View (908) 332-8917

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jill Berlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Jill Berlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I utilize many different treatment approaches including EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, play therapy and Sandtray therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified School Social Worker with a Master's degree from Widener University and additional post graduate training focused on the needs of children. Throughout my career, I have worked with children and their families in group homes, partial care programming, wrap around services, and as a School Social Worker. I take pride in creating a safe, warm and nurturing environment for clients to explore their experiences.
I utilize many different treatment approaches including EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, play therapy and Sandtray therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified School Social Worker with a Master's degree from Widener University and additional post graduate training focused on the needs of children. Throughout my career, I have worked with children and their families in group homes, partial care programming, wrap around services, and as a School Social Worker. I take pride in creating a safe, warm and nurturing environment for clients to explore their experiences.
(848) 252-1350 View (848) 252-1350
Photo of Stephanie L Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganville, NJ
Stephanie L Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
Stephanie is certified in both Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and trained in play therapy.
When you have experienced a trauma, developed uncontrollable anxiety, have a child who is overwhelmingly oppositional, or anything in between, it can feel extremely isolating. That is why we are here at Sullivan Counseling Services. No one should ever feel alone when they are going through a difficult time and may need an outside source to help guide them in the right direction. Our goal is to help each person who comes to therapy gain motivation and move in a positive direction to better their current situation.
Stephanie is certified in both Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and trained in play therapy.
When you have experienced a trauma, developed uncontrollable anxiety, have a child who is overwhelmingly oppositional, or anything in between, it can feel extremely isolating. That is why we are here at Sullivan Counseling Services. No one should ever feel alone when they are going through a difficult time and may need an outside source to help guide them in the right direction. Our goal is to help each person who comes to therapy gain motivation and move in a positive direction to better their current situation.
(732) 627-2912 View (732) 627-2912
Photo of Children's Wellness & Developmental Center, Art Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Children's Wellness & Developmental Center
Art Therapist, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
She received her MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Art & Play Therapy.
Is someone you know struggling with mental health issues, behavioral or emotional difficulties, are you feeling frustrated or overwhelmed? You don't have to do this alone. Jennifer Lawrence, MA, LPC, ATR-BC is a licensed professional counselor, board certified registered art therapist, and certified yoga teacher who has 30 years experience as an educator and therapist. She has supported littles to elders, exploring how to identify barriers to thriving and living an amazing life. Her goals in treatment are experimenting with tools for regulating the body and mind, which then allows one to tap into creative solutions.
She received her MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Art & Play Therapy.
Is someone you know struggling with mental health issues, behavioral or emotional difficulties, are you feeling frustrated or overwhelmed? You don't have to do this alone. Jennifer Lawrence, MA, LPC, ATR-BC is a licensed professional counselor, board certified registered art therapist, and certified yoga teacher who has 30 years experience as an educator and therapist. She has supported littles to elders, exploring how to identify barriers to thriving and living an amazing life. Her goals in treatment are experimenting with tools for regulating the body and mind, which then allows one to tap into creative solutions.
(732) 847-2453 View (732) 847-2453
Photo of Jennifer DiMarco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganville, NJ
Jennifer DiMarco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
For children and young adolescents, this will be done through play therapy techniques.
Are you currently struggling with raising your child or teen? Do you have difficulty communicating with your child/teen? Does your child/teen have difficulty with regulating emotions? Are you noticing heightened anxiety and/or depression in your child/teen? Is your child/teen having difficulty in school or struggling with sexual/gender identity? Has your child/teen experienced a traumatic event? Is your child/teen struggling with understanding and/or accepting their neurodivergent traits? If you’ve answered yes to at least one of these questions, I’m here to help.
For children and young adolescents, this will be done through play therapy techniques.
Are you currently struggling with raising your child or teen? Do you have difficulty communicating with your child/teen? Does your child/teen have difficulty with regulating emotions? Are you noticing heightened anxiety and/or depression in your child/teen? Is your child/teen having difficulty in school or struggling with sexual/gender identity? Has your child/teen experienced a traumatic event? Is your child/teen struggling with understanding and/or accepting their neurodivergent traits? If you’ve answered yes to at least one of these questions, I’m here to help.
(732) 517-7691 View (732) 517-7691
Photo of Ivy Horan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Ivy Horan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize different techniques such as CBT, DBT, somatic, narrative and play therapy to create personal safety, improve emotional regulation.
Do you ever find yourself being overwhelmed with your feelings? Does it seem like the peanut gallery in your mind is never silent - is it always ready with a judgmental comment? Do you find yourself tired, overwhelmed and stressed? It is possible for children, adolescents, and adults to be able to learn to feel their feelings and not be overwhelmed by them. For you to learn how to tame the peanut gallery of your mind and improve your sense of being in control of your thoughts and emotions. To build the skills to reduce feeling tired, overwhelmed and stressed. Your can become integrated and whole.
I utilize different techniques such as CBT, DBT, somatic, narrative and play therapy to create personal safety, improve emotional regulation.
Do you ever find yourself being overwhelmed with your feelings? Does it seem like the peanut gallery in your mind is never silent - is it always ready with a judgmental comment? Do you find yourself tired, overwhelmed and stressed? It is possible for children, adolescents, and adults to be able to learn to feel their feelings and not be overwhelmed by them. For you to learn how to tame the peanut gallery of your mind and improve your sense of being in control of your thoughts and emotions. To build the skills to reduce feeling tired, overwhelmed and stressed. Your can become integrated and whole.
(908) 365-0950 View (908) 365-0950
Photo of Tara Jogee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganville, NJ
Tara Jogee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincroft, NJ 07738
The Association of Play Therapy defines play therapy as, "the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.
Seeking help and support is often times not an easy thing to do, but my role is to help guide you. I am passionate about my work, and building effective, therapeutic relationships with my clients. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have several years of experience working with children, adolescents and their guardians/families. My experience ranges from hospitalization programs to outpatient settings.
The Association of Play Therapy defines play therapy as, "the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.
Seeking help and support is often times not an easy thing to do, but my role is to help guide you. I am passionate about my work, and building effective, therapeutic relationships with my clients. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have several years of experience working with children, adolescents and their guardians/families. My experience ranges from hospitalization programs to outpatient settings.
(203) 424-2893 View (203) 424-2893
Photo of Lisa F. Ligammari Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Lisa F. Ligammari Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Lisa F. Ligammari, LCSW, Counseling Services & Associates is a group practice which includes 7 female therapists. We work with a diversity of clients and enjoy both play therapy for little ones and talk therapy for adolescents and adults. We can tailor interventions and techniques to help assist you with your goals. With over 20 years of experience and certified in psychodynamic analysis and a certified clinical supervisor, my goal is to offer everyone the best care with the right therapist for you! We all have our specialties and our modalities of treatment techniques! Feel free to call or email for your first appointment!
Lisa F. Ligammari, LCSW, Counseling Services & Associates is a group practice which includes 7 female therapists. We work with a diversity of clients and enjoy both play therapy for little ones and talk therapy for adolescents and adults. We can tailor interventions and techniques to help assist you with your goals. With over 20 years of experience and certified in psychodynamic analysis and a certified clinical supervisor, my goal is to offer everyone the best care with the right therapist for you! We all have our specialties and our modalities of treatment techniques! Feel free to call or email for your first appointment!
(732) 372-4318 View (732) 372-4318
Photo of Lisa Zaffarese, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganville, NJ
Lisa Zaffarese
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
While I utilize many therapeutic interventions, Play Therapy is at the heart of my practice.
Hi! I'm Lisa. I am a National Board Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. Profound Insights serves the various needs of children, adolescents, young adults, parents and families.
While I utilize many therapeutic interventions, Play Therapy is at the heart of my practice.
Hi! I'm Lisa. I am a National Board Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. Profound Insights serves the various needs of children, adolescents, young adults, parents and families.
(732) 515-4160 View (732) 515-4160
Photo of Claudia DiBenedetto, Counselor in Morganville, NJ
Claudia DiBenedetto
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Lincroft, NJ 07738
Claudia DiBenedetto, a devoted Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), has a rich educational background and extensive expertise. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Childhood Studies and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in play therapy/children and families, both from Monmouth University. In addition to a holistic therapeutic approach, Claudia employs various modalities, including child-centered play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems theory, mindfulness-based therapy, psychotherapy, strengths-based therapy, and trauma-focused therapy.
Claudia DiBenedetto, a devoted Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), has a rich educational background and extensive expertise. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Childhood Studies and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in play therapy/children and families, both from Monmouth University. In addition to a holistic therapeutic approach, Claudia employs various modalities, including child-centered play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems theory, mindfulness-based therapy, psychotherapy, strengths-based therapy, and trauma-focused therapy.
(848) 279-8590 View (848) 279-8590
Photo of Laurel Mallon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganville, NJ
Laurel Mallon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, CSC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults, I utilize a strength based approach and creative interventions to connect with each person, child, and/or family in a meaningful way. I have specific training in play therapy and incorporate those techniques as well as other empirically supported modalities into my treatment to produce positive change in a solution oriented style.
Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults, I utilize a strength based approach and creative interventions to connect with each person, child, and/or family in a meaningful way. I have specific training in play therapy and incorporate those techniques as well as other empirically supported modalities into my treatment to produce positive change in a solution oriented style.
(732) 709-1316 View (732) 709-1316
Photo of Estelle Lewis LCSW Enterprises PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Estelle Lewis LCSW Enterprises PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy is generally ego supportive, cognitive behavioral, psycho dynamic and mindfulness When children are in therapy, play therapy is a soothing tool that children respond to positively.
Hello and welcome to my profile. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, work-related stress, familial conflict, depression or an overall feeling of emotional malaise, please know that I am here to support your travels out of the dark tunnel. Many people suffered social isolation during Covid. Some people continue to lack confidence of "getting back to living" because they aren't sure how to live without fear and uncertainty provoked by Covid. Please know that finding out who you are and what you are capable of will give you the strength to stand tall and feel confident and, most importantly, enjoy your life. Let's talk!
My approach to psychotherapy is generally ego supportive, cognitive behavioral, psycho dynamic and mindfulness When children are in therapy, play therapy is a soothing tool that children respond to positively.
Hello and welcome to my profile. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, work-related stress, familial conflict, depression or an overall feeling of emotional malaise, please know that I am here to support your travels out of the dark tunnel. Many people suffered social isolation during Covid. Some people continue to lack confidence of "getting back to living" because they aren't sure how to live without fear and uncertainty provoked by Covid. Please know that finding out who you are and what you are capable of will give you the strength to stand tall and feel confident and, most importantly, enjoy your life. Let's talk!
(917) 746-1037 View (917) 746-1037
Photo of Kara Zlotnick, Psychologist in Morganville, NJ
Kara Zlotnick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Holmdel, NJ 07733
I work with children, adolescents, young adults and families who want to make their lives happier. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help children and adolescents who are feeling sad, irritable, frustrated, angry, or anxious. Through therapy, I work with families to help children cope with school, social, family, or health problems. In addition to CBT, I incorporate other treatment techniques to best help you and your child (e.g., play therapy, interpersonal therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, family systems, and psychodynamic techniques).
I work with children, adolescents, young adults and families who want to make their lives happier. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help children and adolescents who are feeling sad, irritable, frustrated, angry, or anxious. Through therapy, I work with families to help children cope with school, social, family, or health problems. In addition to CBT, I incorporate other treatment techniques to best help you and your child (e.g., play therapy, interpersonal therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, family systems, and psychodynamic techniques).
(732) 820-3312 View (732) 820-3312
Photo of Katherine Neff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Katherine Neff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holmdel, NJ 07733
I use a variety of approaches in my work including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, sand tray and play therapy.
Raising children can be challenging (to say the least!). As parents, we often encounter situations with our kids or adolescents that we need help navigating. I can help with these challenges. Finding a counselor who is the 'right fit' for your situation and your family is important. My goal is to make this as comfortable as possible. I provide an atmosphere of trust, support and acceptance which will allow you and your child to explore concerns in an emotionally safe environment. I'm happy to consult with you by phone to help determine the next steps your child and family.
I use a variety of approaches in my work including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, sand tray and play therapy.
Raising children can be challenging (to say the least!). As parents, we often encounter situations with our kids or adolescents that we need help navigating. I can help with these challenges. Finding a counselor who is the 'right fit' for your situation and your family is important. My goal is to make this as comfortable as possible. I provide an atmosphere of trust, support and acceptance which will allow you and your child to explore concerns in an emotionally safe environment. I'm happy to consult with you by phone to help determine the next steps your child and family.
(732) 412-3219 View (732) 412-3219
Photo of Cassandra Grod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Cassandra Grod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NJ 07748
I use an eclectic approach of play, somatic, and talk therapies to challenge negative self-talk, improve your self-esteem and embrace the life you want to live unapologetically.
The environment we grow up in can have an enormous impact on the way we view and navigate the world. As a result, we tend to become stuck in this cycle of shame and blame. I am no stranger to generational trauma and my goal is to help you break cycles of self-doubt and negative coping by embracing your most authentic self.
I use an eclectic approach of play, somatic, and talk therapies to challenge negative self-talk, improve your self-esteem and embrace the life you want to live unapologetically.
The environment we grow up in can have an enormous impact on the way we view and navigate the world. As a result, we tend to become stuck in this cycle of shame and blame. I am no stranger to generational trauma and my goal is to help you break cycles of self-doubt and negative coping by embracing your most authentic self.
(732) 631-3206 View (732) 631-3206
Photo of Paint the Stars Art Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganville, NJ
Paint the Stars Art Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT, NCC, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
We specialize in Clinical Art Therapy, utilizing additional creative outlets such as play therapy techniques including sand-tray, and traditional psychotherapy techniques.
As dedicated therapists, our top priority is to help you not only achieve greatness but to believe in that greatness as well. Have you tried other counseling options but none have helped? Paint The Stars Art Therapy offers a wide variety of creative outlets to be used alongside traditional psychotherapy in order to help children, teen and adults cope with various issues. We specialize in working with children/teens/college students ages 3-22 and adults 23+ in need of alternatives to talk therapy or those who want something more. We are happy to lend an ear and a paintbrush.
We specialize in Clinical Art Therapy, utilizing additional creative outlets such as play therapy techniques including sand-tray, and traditional psychotherapy techniques.
As dedicated therapists, our top priority is to help you not only achieve greatness but to believe in that greatness as well. Have you tried other counseling options but none have helped? Paint The Stars Art Therapy offers a wide variety of creative outlets to be used alongside traditional psychotherapy in order to help children, teen and adults cope with various issues. We specialize in working with children/teens/college students ages 3-22 and adults 23+ in need of alternatives to talk therapy or those who want something more. We are happy to lend an ear and a paintbrush.
(732) 820-3292 View (732) 820-3292
Photo of Caitlyn Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganville, NJ
Caitlyn Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holmdel, NJ 07733
I have extensive training in sand play therapy, and EMDR which has been proven effective in treating trauma.
I primarily work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in working with childhood trauma, depression, and anxiety. Symptoms may include suicidal thoughts, self-harm, flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, excessive worrying, irritability, temper tantrums, behavioral concerns, etc. I create highly individualized treatment plans to address all of your concerns. I can help you or your child discover new coping skills, inner resources, and solutions to the challenges you or your family are facing.
I have extensive training in sand play therapy, and EMDR which has been proven effective in treating trauma.
I primarily work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in working with childhood trauma, depression, and anxiety. Symptoms may include suicidal thoughts, self-harm, flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, excessive worrying, irritability, temper tantrums, behavioral concerns, etc. I create highly individualized treatment plans to address all of your concerns. I can help you or your child discover new coping skills, inner resources, and solutions to the challenges you or your family are facing.
(848) 235-9552 View (848) 235-9552
Photo of Sheila Franklin Gilstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganville, NJ
Sheila Franklin Gilstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Dance/Movement Therapy and Play Therapy are perfectly suited for children to work through behavioral and emotional issues.
I have been the leading provider of socialization groups for children with ADHD, Anxiety, and Autistic Spectrum Disorder in Monmouth County for the past 20 years. Every child can learn ways to interact positively with other children. By using a combination of play therapy, dance/movement therapy, and cognitive-behavioral strategies in the groups, children learn to be successful with their peers. I offer individual counseling sessions on parenting issues and for those children that need help with selective mutism, anxiety, and specific behavior issues not applicable to the group situation.
Dance/Movement Therapy and Play Therapy are perfectly suited for children to work through behavioral and emotional issues.
I have been the leading provider of socialization groups for children with ADHD, Anxiety, and Autistic Spectrum Disorder in Monmouth County for the past 20 years. Every child can learn ways to interact positively with other children. By using a combination of play therapy, dance/movement therapy, and cognitive-behavioral strategies in the groups, children learn to be successful with their peers. I offer individual counseling sessions on parenting issues and for those children that need help with selective mutism, anxiety, and specific behavior issues not applicable to the group situation.
(732) 479-1113 View (732) 479-1113

See more therapy options for Morganville

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.