Play Therapy in Hornell, NY

Photo of Mariann Fontaine, Counselor in Hornell, NY
Mariann Fontaine
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hornell, NY 14843
Waitlist for new clients
I am a New York Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and I enjoy working with a variety of people and problems because I believe everyone is unique in their own way and therefore also needs individualized treatment modalities. I utilize interventions including EMDR, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Family and Couples Therapy, Play Therapy and others. If you are ready to start creating positive change in your life and need support in doing so, I'd love to be the one to help you reach your goals.
I am a New York Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and I enjoy working with a variety of people and problems because I believe everyone is unique in their own way and therefore also needs individualized treatment modalities. I utilize interventions including EMDR, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Family and Couples Therapy, Play Therapy and others. If you are ready to start creating positive change in your life and need support in doing so, I'd love to be the one to help you reach your goals.
(607) 523-3855 View (607) 523-3855
Photo of Jillian L Forman, LMHC, NCC, PLLC, Counselor in Hornell, NY
Jillian L Forman, LMHC, NCC, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, PLLC
Verified Verified
Hornell, NY 14843
As a Licensed Mental Heath Counselor, I join with each individual to offer person-centered, trauma-informed interventions to enable each person an opportunity to come closer to creating a life filled with well-being, balance and positive growth. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities enables me to support the individuals' strengths as they take positive steps toward solutions needed to deal with challenges successfully. I am passionate about my work with helping children, adolescents, teens and families heal from the stressors and negative experiences during difficult times in their lives.
As a Licensed Mental Heath Counselor, I join with each individual to offer person-centered, trauma-informed interventions to enable each person an opportunity to come closer to creating a life filled with well-being, balance and positive growth. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities enables me to support the individuals' strengths as they take positive steps toward solutions needed to deal with challenges successfully. I am passionate about my work with helping children, adolescents, teens and families heal from the stressors and negative experiences during difficult times in their lives.
(607) 258-9264 View (607) 258-9264
Photo of Jennifer Rose Johnson, Counselor in Hornell, NY
Jennifer Rose Johnson
Counselor, LMHC, CADDCT, CDP
Verified Verified
Hornell, NY 14843
I believe that life is a journey; one that is not always easy and shouldn't be traveled alone. If you're ready to take your own journey through healing and understanding, I am here to walk with you at Compass Counseling. I am a very person centered therapist who caters each session to your personal circumstances. I believe that none of us can fit in the same box and my counseling style reflects being able to adapt to that concept. My approach is warm and empathetic with emphasis on connecting to who you are and working with you in your journey through use of mindfulness, CBT, solution focused therapy, & at times Reiki.
I believe that life is a journey; one that is not always easy and shouldn't be traveled alone. If you're ready to take your own journey through healing and understanding, I am here to walk with you at Compass Counseling. I am a very person centered therapist who caters each session to your personal circumstances. I believe that none of us can fit in the same box and my counseling style reflects being able to adapt to that concept. My approach is warm and empathetic with emphasis on connecting to who you are and working with you in your journey through use of mindfulness, CBT, solution focused therapy, & at times Reiki.
(607) 383-4213 View (607) 383-4213

Online Therapists

Photo of Shurmatz Counseling LCSW PC in Hornell, NY
Shurmatz Counseling LCSW PC
LCSWR
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14221
We get that! We offer authentic connection to therapists who are trained in evidence based practices, including ACT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
You haven’t felt good for months. You can’t get out of your head and your thoughts are constantly racing. Your feelings are in the driver’s seat of your life instead of you. You feel like no one understands, and you’re all alone. All you want to do is change this! Yet you feel so restless, you can't be still or concentrate on one thing for very long. We want to offer you hope that it doesn't have to stay this way. It’s possible to feel whole and alive again. Your nightmares don’t have to haunt you into the day. You can have peace and connection, with yourself and with others. Your joy and energy for life aren’t gone forever.
We get that! We offer authentic connection to therapists who are trained in evidence based practices, including ACT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
You haven’t felt good for months. You can’t get out of your head and your thoughts are constantly racing. Your feelings are in the driver’s seat of your life instead of you. You feel like no one understands, and you’re all alone. All you want to do is change this! Yet you feel so restless, you can't be still or concentrate on one thing for very long. We want to offer you hope that it doesn't have to stay this way. It’s possible to feel whole and alive again. Your nightmares don’t have to haunt you into the day. You can have peace and connection, with yourself and with others. Your joy and energy for life aren’t gone forever.
(716) 325-6034 View (716) 325-6034
Photo of Rebecca Barrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hornell, NY
Rebecca Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14625
By utilizing creative and expressive techniques, including play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and experiential dynamic psychotherapies, I am able to work collaboratively to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual client and enhance their overall emotional and behavioral well-being.
Making the choice to begin your therapeutic journey can be a difficult one. I consider it a privilege to share in that journey with you. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I am committed to creating a supportive environment where you can explore, grow, and thrive. I specialize in working with children and young adults (ages 3 to 21) navigate the unique challenges that they might be facing, with the goal to provide a safe space for young minds to express themselves, develop coping skills, and build resilience.
By utilizing creative and expressive techniques, including play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and experiential dynamic psychotherapies, I am able to work collaboratively to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual client and enhance their overall emotional and behavioral well-being.
Making the choice to begin your therapeutic journey can be a difficult one. I consider it a privilege to share in that journey with you. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I am committed to creating a supportive environment where you can explore, grow, and thrive. I specialize in working with children and young adults (ages 3 to 21) navigate the unique challenges that they might be facing, with the goal to provide a safe space for young minds to express themselves, develop coping skills, and build resilience.
(585) 206-2553 View (585) 206-2553
Photo of Melissa Almendinger, Psychologist in Hornell, NY
Melissa Almendinger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Victor, NY 14564
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens, young adults and parents who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma or other behavioral challenges. I have experience working with individuals ages two through early adulthood. I value working collaboratively with my clients and their families to create positive changes in their lives and in their homes. I primarily work through cognitive-behavioral, family systems and play based approaches. Thank you for considering me to provide therapy for you and/or your family.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens, young adults and parents who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma or other behavioral challenges. I have experience working with individuals ages two through early adulthood. I value working collaboratively with my clients and their families to create positive changes in their lives and in their homes. I primarily work through cognitive-behavioral, family systems and play based approaches. Thank you for considering me to provide therapy for you and/or your family.
(585) 382-1833 View (585) 382-1833
Photo of Tara Benson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hornell, NY
Tara Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14226
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR and play therapy, and will provide a safe place to help promote healing.
Being a parent has its own set of challenges; when you add your child’s behavioral, and or emotional challenges on top, it can become overwhelming for both your family, and your child. It is ok to feel overwhelmed and at the brink of exhaustion. I get this and is here to assist your child, and family work through these challenges; by helping to strengthen your child’s overall well-being.
I am trained in EMDR and play therapy, and will provide a safe place to help promote healing.
Being a parent has its own set of challenges; when you add your child’s behavioral, and or emotional challenges on top, it can become overwhelming for both your family, and your child. It is ok to feel overwhelmed and at the brink of exhaustion. I get this and is here to assist your child, and family work through these challenges; by helping to strengthen your child’s overall well-being.
(716) 317-1564 View (716) 317-1564
Photo of Bright Hope Counseling, Mental Health Counselor in Hornell, NY
Bright Hope Counseling
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oswego, NY 13126  (Online Only)
I specialize in Child Centered Play Therapy but work with every age population.
I firmly believe that in the darkest of places there can be Radiant Light and Bright Hope. Whether you or your child are struggling with a new diagnosis, working through trauma, wanting to set boundaries for a healthier self, or are in need of coping strategies for every day life, I am committed to walking through each step in the journey with you.
I specialize in Child Centered Play Therapy but work with every age population.
I firmly believe that in the darkest of places there can be Radiant Light and Bright Hope. Whether you or your child are struggling with a new diagnosis, working through trauma, wanting to set boundaries for a healthier self, or are in need of coping strategies for every day life, I am committed to walking through each step in the journey with you.
(315) 509-3893 View (315) 509-3893
Photo of Kristen Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hornell, NY
Kristen Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brighton, NY 14620
With children, I utilize play therapy techniques, while integrating components of art and talk therapy.
I seek to create a trusted space where individuals can be themselves, speak their minds, and explore aspects of their past or present that they find difficult. I support children, adolescents, and young adults, along with their family members, to address a variety of challenges. My therapeutic philosophy is relationally driven, trauma-informed, and flexible; we will collaboratively work to develop support that is right for you or your child.
With children, I utilize play therapy techniques, while integrating components of art and talk therapy.
I seek to create a trusted space where individuals can be themselves, speak their minds, and explore aspects of their past or present that they find difficult. I support children, adolescents, and young adults, along with their family members, to address a variety of challenges. My therapeutic philosophy is relationally driven, trauma-informed, and flexible; we will collaboratively work to develop support that is right for you or your child.
(585) 460-3787 View (585) 460-3787
Photo of Kristin Condie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hornell, NY
Kristin Condie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Binghamton, NY 13905
I take an eclectic approach to treatment, including CBT, TF-CBT, play therapy techniques, mindfulness training, family therapy, etc.
I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds. My goal is to help individuals and families regain a feeling of hope. Life can get better and I can help them get there. My background includes working in clinics, schools, nursing homes, and retirement communities. I incorporate a variety of skills to meet each individual/family's specific needs. My experience and training allow me to work with grief, trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, developmental stages, transitions, LGBTQ+ community members, diverse populations, coping with illness, and more.
I take an eclectic approach to treatment, including CBT, TF-CBT, play therapy techniques, mindfulness training, family therapy, etc.
I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds. My goal is to help individuals and families regain a feeling of hope. Life can get better and I can help them get there. My background includes working in clinics, schools, nursing homes, and retirement communities. I incorporate a variety of skills to meet each individual/family's specific needs. My experience and training allow me to work with grief, trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, developmental stages, transitions, LGBTQ+ community members, diverse populations, coping with illness, and more.
(607) 544-6742 View (607) 544-6742
Photo of Kathryn Mason, Counselor in Hornell, NY
Kathryn Mason
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Manlius, NY 13104
NOTE: Currently accepting In-Home and Remote Child Therapy referrals. Welcome! I offer a welcoming place for your child to explore a wide range of issues, learn to process and explore emotions and build upon skills. I engage in children's natural play language to unpack and examine a child’s strong feelings with the goal of helping all children build on their strengths and develop resiliency . I also use other modalities such as art, story telling, and mindfulness to teach coping tools, and help children understand their internal world. Together we will co-create a creative and productive therapeutic experience.
NOTE: Currently accepting In-Home and Remote Child Therapy referrals. Welcome! I offer a welcoming place for your child to explore a wide range of issues, learn to process and explore emotions and build upon skills. I engage in children's natural play language to unpack and examine a child’s strong feelings with the goal of helping all children build on their strengths and develop resiliency . I also use other modalities such as art, story telling, and mindfulness to teach coping tools, and help children understand their internal world. Together we will co-create a creative and productive therapeutic experience.
(845) 506-8065 View (845) 506-8065
Photo of Katie Park Counseling & Coaching, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hornell, NY
Katie Park Counseling & Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPA
Verified Verified
Fairport, NY 14450
Hiya parents/guardians, I want to make you and your child/teen/tween feel at safe with me. I provide kindness, empathy, and gentle nudging to overcome challenges associated with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, conflict, bullying/harassment, trauma associated with: child sexual abuse, domestic violence and custody issues, family conflict. I believe in a healthy mix of talk, art, and play psychotherapy for my kiddos in my office. Can't come to me? I'll come to you virtually (I can't guarantee my furry friends won't make an appearance -wink wink). Kiddos love my sand tray and teens enjoy the mini zen garden. Welcome to my office!
Hiya parents/guardians, I want to make you and your child/teen/tween feel at safe with me. I provide kindness, empathy, and gentle nudging to overcome challenges associated with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, conflict, bullying/harassment, trauma associated with: child sexual abuse, domestic violence and custody issues, family conflict. I believe in a healthy mix of talk, art, and play psychotherapy for my kiddos in my office. Can't come to me? I'll come to you virtually (I can't guarantee my furry friends won't make an appearance -wink wink). Kiddos love my sand tray and teens enjoy the mini zen garden. Welcome to my office!
(585) 648-5756 View (585) 648-5756
Photo of Whole Wellness Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hornell, NY
Whole Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850
I am a newly certified AutPlay Therapist and I love utilizing play during sessions with children and families.
I believe that focusing on mental and emotional well-being is essential to overall health and life satisfaction. I take a special interest in working with individuals and families navigating anxiety and neurodivergent diagnoses, such as Selective Mutism, ADHD, and Autism. Psychoeducation, including mindfulness practices, can help individuals develop personal coping skills and can help families negotiate difficult times
I am a newly certified AutPlay Therapist and I love utilizing play during sessions with children and families.
I believe that focusing on mental and emotional well-being is essential to overall health and life satisfaction. I take a special interest in working with individuals and families navigating anxiety and neurodivergent diagnoses, such as Selective Mutism, ADHD, and Autism. Psychoeducation, including mindfulness practices, can help individuals develop personal coping skills and can help families negotiate difficult times
(607) 652-6558 View (607) 652-6558
Photo of Stephanie Geter, Psychologist in Hornell, NY
Stephanie Geter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
I provide individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and play therapy.
Finding the right therapist is the first step to your 'New Beginning'. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I provide a caring, professional environment informed by 20 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I look forward to meeting with you.
I provide individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and play therapy.
Finding the right therapist is the first step to your 'New Beginning'. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I provide a caring, professional environment informed by 20 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I look forward to meeting with you.
(585) 287-2426 View (585) 287-2426
Photo of Andrea Pierce, Counselor in Hornell, NY
Andrea Pierce
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Seneca, NY 14224
My common approaches are therapeutic play, and solution focused- trauma informed based practices.
As a provider, my goal is to create a safe space to allow children, teens and young adults, the opportunity to be open to the therapy process. Trusting that therapy is a learning experience and trust that you'll be guided during this journey. With understanding that this journey may not always be easy, parents will be given the space to express their concerns, and learn tools, to assist with their child.
My common approaches are therapeutic play, and solution focused- trauma informed based practices.
As a provider, my goal is to create a safe space to allow children, teens and young adults, the opportunity to be open to the therapy process. Trusting that therapy is a learning experience and trust that you'll be guided during this journey. With understanding that this journey may not always be easy, parents will be given the space to express their concerns, and learn tools, to assist with their child.
(716) 466-9320 View (716) 466-9320
Photo of Brooke Park in Hornell, NY
Brooke Park
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsville, NY 14221
In sessions I draw from my training in TF-CBT, DBT, ERP, Family Based Therapy for Eating Disorders, ACT, IFS, and play therapy techniques.
Are you or your child struggling with an eating disorder? I can provide the support and guidance you need as well as finding the right resources. I focus on helping people overcome disordered eating, harsh self-criticism, and deep-seated shame. As a therapist who embraces neurodiversity, I understand that everyone has their own ways of coping with life's challenges. My aim is to create a safe and trusting space where you can take control of your recovery and become the architect of your own healing journey.
In sessions I draw from my training in TF-CBT, DBT, ERP, Family Based Therapy for Eating Disorders, ACT, IFS, and play therapy techniques.
Are you or your child struggling with an eating disorder? I can provide the support and guidance you need as well as finding the right resources. I focus on helping people overcome disordered eating, harsh self-criticism, and deep-seated shame. As a therapist who embraces neurodiversity, I understand that everyone has their own ways of coping with life's challenges. My aim is to create a safe and trusting space where you can take control of your recovery and become the architect of your own healing journey.
(716) 321-5461 View (716) 321-5461
Photo of Amy Mack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hornell, NY
Amy Mack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104
As a registered play therapist, I am dedicated to working with younger clients from a place that incorporates play, attachment, and neuroscience together.
Hello and welcome! Whether you’re seeking counseling for yourself or your child, I am here to help. I specialize in counseling for adults & children. I am a trauma responsive therapist, whose approach is grounded in the understanding the science of connection and that the brain has the capacity to change and heal. I understand that the process of internalizing someone who is safe, connected, and coregulated, leads to growth in regulation. My goal is to create a therapeutic relationship and environment in which goodness and worth are reflected, as well as support you as the client, to cultivate the same experiences in your own life.
As a registered play therapist, I am dedicated to working with younger clients from a place that incorporates play, attachment, and neuroscience together.
Hello and welcome! Whether you’re seeking counseling for yourself or your child, I am here to help. I specialize in counseling for adults & children. I am a trauma responsive therapist, whose approach is grounded in the understanding the science of connection and that the brain has the capacity to change and heal. I understand that the process of internalizing someone who is safe, connected, and coregulated, leads to growth in regulation. My goal is to create a therapeutic relationship and environment in which goodness and worth are reflected, as well as support you as the client, to cultivate the same experiences in your own life.
(315) 322-9372 View (315) 322-9372
Photo of Jennifer Wainman-Sauda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hornell, NY
Jennifer Wainman-Sauda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Baldwinsville, NY 13027
The Family Center offers unique therapies that are proven effective such as: family play therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach, hand in hand parenting, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), and child play therapy.
Welcome to The Family Center. We provide therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and children. We can help you work on any presenting problem such as anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or relationship conflict. We specialize in helping families who have children with ADHD, anxiety, behavioral, and Autism Spectrum Disorders including PDA (Pathological Demand Aviodance). We believe in helping you live fully; happy with yourself, and connected with your partner, child, and family. We currently have 10 skilled licensed therapists on staff.
The Family Center offers unique therapies that are proven effective such as: family play therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach, hand in hand parenting, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), and child play therapy.
Welcome to The Family Center. We provide therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and children. We can help you work on any presenting problem such as anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or relationship conflict. We specialize in helping families who have children with ADHD, anxiety, behavioral, and Autism Spectrum Disorders including PDA (Pathological Demand Aviodance). We believe in helping you live fully; happy with yourself, and connected with your partner, child, and family. We currently have 10 skilled licensed therapists on staff.
(315) 496-1357 View (315) 496-1357
Photo of Catina (Tina) Richardsen, Counselor in Hornell, NY
Catina (Tina) Richardsen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14607
I’m a child therapist specializing in play therapy since 2001. I work with children ages 2-6 with stressors in their life impacting their social-emotional-behavioral development. Young children can show anxiety & depression symptoms related to: parental divorce/conflict, loss of a loved one, abuse (mental, physical, sexual, neglect), adjusting to changes at home & school. I have experience with families in urban, rural, and suburban areas. Contact me today if your child is struggling with anger/worry/fear/sadness at home/school/daycare. I’ll send you a patient information form and we’ll get the process started.
I’m a child therapist specializing in play therapy since 2001. I work with children ages 2-6 with stressors in their life impacting their social-emotional-behavioral development. Young children can show anxiety & depression symptoms related to: parental divorce/conflict, loss of a loved one, abuse (mental, physical, sexual, neglect), adjusting to changes at home & school. I have experience with families in urban, rural, and suburban areas. Contact me today if your child is struggling with anger/worry/fear/sadness at home/school/daycare. I’ll send you a patient information form and we’ll get the process started.
(585) 523-1549 View (585) 523-1549
Photo of Jacquie Chavers, Licensed Master Social Worker in Hornell, NY
Jacquie Chavers
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Lockport, NY 14094
A combination of narrative, play, art or gradual exposure interventions can help your body and mind feel safe again.
Be proud of yourself. If you have found my profile, you have already taken the first step toward helping yourself, this may be the most difficult of them. For the second step, if you're looking for support toward healing past traumas or navigating any symptoms you may not even understand, such as anxiety or depression. If you're tired of "being over dramatic", having nightmares, panic attacks or even, struggling to get out of bed, take that second step. Therapy can be scary, but so can the thought of being stuck in the cycle your body and mind are finding you in now.
A combination of narrative, play, art or gradual exposure interventions can help your body and mind feel safe again.
Be proud of yourself. If you have found my profile, you have already taken the first step toward helping yourself, this may be the most difficult of them. For the second step, if you're looking for support toward healing past traumas or navigating any symptoms you may not even understand, such as anxiety or depression. If you're tired of "being over dramatic", having nightmares, panic attacks or even, struggling to get out of bed, take that second step. Therapy can be scary, but so can the thought of being stuck in the cycle your body and mind are finding you in now.
(716) 341-2129 View (716) 341-2129

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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.