Play Therapy in Mohegan Lake, NY

Photo of Gabriella Zanne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Gabriella Zanne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mohegan Lake, NY 10547  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) offering services to children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, substance abuse disorders, domestic violence, sexual abuse/ assault, variety of mental health disorders and addressing everyday life challenges.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) offering services to children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, substance abuse disorders, domestic violence, sexual abuse/ assault, variety of mental health disorders and addressing everyday life challenges.
(631) 557-5973 View (631) 557-5973
Photo of Lorin S Woolfe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Lorin S Woolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mohegan Lake, NY 10547
You will get the benefit of a therapist who has over 30 years experience but who still enjoys the challenge of helping every client explore their issues and find the right solutions and strategies for accomplishing them. I am extremely sensitive to diversity and multi-cultural issues, have dealt with clients from many ethnic groups and speak excellent Spanish. I am also very conversant with workplace issues, having also pursued a corporate career and functioned in that environment.
You will get the benefit of a therapist who has over 30 years experience but who still enjoys the challenge of helping every client explore their issues and find the right solutions and strategies for accomplishing them. I am extremely sensitive to diversity and multi-cultural issues, have dealt with clients from many ethnic groups and speak excellent Spanish. I am also very conversant with workplace issues, having also pursued a corporate career and functioned in that environment.
(914) 984-4523 View (914) 984-4523

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carolyn Grosso, Psychologist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Carolyn Grosso
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Bedford Hills, NY 10507
I use a combination of talk, Cognitive-Behavioral, and play therapy, in order to build healthy, social skills.
My practice consists of children ages 3-18 who display emotional and/or behavioral symptoms. The majority of my patient population include children suffering from Anxiety (which can involve Separation Anxiety, Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Depression and other mood-related issues, low self-esteem, Attachment Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-Disorder and behavioral disturbances. Many of the children I work with come in to address socialization issues, either through 1:1 therapy or through my Social Skills Group for Kids. I specialize in diagnostic evaluations and treatment for pediatric populations.
I use a combination of talk, Cognitive-Behavioral, and play therapy, in order to build healthy, social skills.
My practice consists of children ages 3-18 who display emotional and/or behavioral symptoms. The majority of my patient population include children suffering from Anxiety (which can involve Separation Anxiety, Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Depression and other mood-related issues, low self-esteem, Attachment Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-Disorder and behavioral disturbances. Many of the children I work with come in to address socialization issues, either through 1:1 therapy or through my Social Skills Group for Kids. I specialize in diagnostic evaluations and treatment for pediatric populations.
(914) 721-0606 View (914) 721-0606
Photo of Jessi McKenna, Counselor in Mohegan Lake, NY
Jessi McKenna
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Katonah, NY 10536
Hi! I'm Jessi, a licensed psychotherapist in NY and CT. I focus on two different types of primary clients. 1) Young women in their 20s-30s focusing on self exploration, transitions, relationships, communication, anxiety and confidence. 2) Children and their parents with a focus on play therapy/techniques, anxiety and parent training. I believe all our actions are derived from previous life experiences and my goal is to support clients in understanding their actions, while learning tools for self growth in both life and parenting. I currently hold sessions both in person and virtually. My office is located in Westchester NY.
Hi! I'm Jessi, a licensed psychotherapist in NY and CT. I focus on two different types of primary clients. 1) Young women in their 20s-30s focusing on self exploration, transitions, relationships, communication, anxiety and confidence. 2) Children and their parents with a focus on play therapy/techniques, anxiety and parent training. I believe all our actions are derived from previous life experiences and my goal is to support clients in understanding their actions, while learning tools for self growth in both life and parenting. I currently hold sessions both in person and virtually. My office is located in Westchester NY.
(646) 759-2605 View (646) 759-2605
Photo of Marnie Jessica Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Marnie Jessica Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
The style used in my practice is a mix of Natural Creativity and Play Therapy based on a Psychodynamic approach.
I work with young children ages 2-16 and their families using Creative Play Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy. The areas in which I have worked extensively with children have been Anxiety, Performance Anixiety, Depression, Attention Deficit, Transitional Difficulties, Social Skills, Divorce, Loss, Separation, Anger Managerment and Learning challenges. I conduct individual, family, parent guidance/coparenting and group psychotherapy. I run Divorce, Loss and Social Skills groups for children ages 6-10. I conduct assessments/reports for Family Courts, schools-- CSE, CPSE and a child's readiness for Kindergarten as part of my practice.
The style used in my practice is a mix of Natural Creativity and Play Therapy based on a Psychodynamic approach.
I work with young children ages 2-16 and their families using Creative Play Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy. The areas in which I have worked extensively with children have been Anxiety, Performance Anixiety, Depression, Attention Deficit, Transitional Difficulties, Social Skills, Divorce, Loss, Separation, Anger Managerment and Learning challenges. I conduct individual, family, parent guidance/coparenting and group psychotherapy. I run Divorce, Loss and Social Skills groups for children ages 6-10. I conduct assessments/reports for Family Courts, schools-- CSE, CPSE and a child's readiness for Kindergarten as part of my practice.
(914) 888-2031 View (914) 888-2031
Photo of Barbara Tholfsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Barbara Tholfsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520
Some play with toys to create stories and characters.
You might come for therapy because you've stopped wanting anything and can barely drag yourself out of bed; You might be so worked up about something you can't concentrate or sleep at night; Maybe you don't know what you want or don't want to want what you want. Maybe you cling to relationships that go badly. Maybe you place obstacles in your own way. Maybe you know what you want but are unable to pursue it. Maybe you feel guilty or worry that something terrible will happen. Psychotherapy and/or psychoanalysis can help. For more go to my website: http://www.btholfsenlcsw.com/
Some play with toys to create stories and characters.
You might come for therapy because you've stopped wanting anything and can barely drag yourself out of bed; You might be so worked up about something you can't concentrate or sleep at night; Maybe you don't know what you want or don't want to want what you want. Maybe you cling to relationships that go badly. Maybe you place obstacles in your own way. Maybe you know what you want but are unable to pursue it. Maybe you feel guilty or worry that something terrible will happen. Psychotherapy and/or psychoanalysis can help. For more go to my website: http://www.btholfsenlcsw.com/
(914) 712-8263 View (914) 712-8263
Photo of Vanessa C Andrews, Art Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Vanessa C Andrews
Art Therapist, MA, CCLS, ATR-BC, LCAT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ossining, NY 10562
Please use email for new client inquiries, accepting clients between the hours of 8a-2p only). Children express themselves most naturally through play and art, especially when words are difficult and fail to capture the emotions they may be experiencing. Creative play and art therapy interventions to help children explore therapy in a fun, safe and natural environment. Individual sessions allow children to become comfortable in therapy while exploring the power of play and the creative process.
Please use email for new client inquiries, accepting clients between the hours of 8a-2p only). Children express themselves most naturally through play and art, especially when words are difficult and fail to capture the emotions they may be experiencing. Creative play and art therapy interventions to help children explore therapy in a fun, safe and natural environment. Individual sessions allow children to become comfortable in therapy while exploring the power of play and the creative process.
(518) 520-3373 View (518) 520-3373
Photo of Brendan Twist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Brendan Twist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somers, NY 10589
I'm also trained in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), narrative therapy, and play therapy.
I work with adults, children, and families on issues including depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, addictions, grief, anger, family discord, and workplace distress. My goal is to bring warmth and acceptance to all my sessions and to provide clients with concrete skills that they can use to help solve their problems and live more fulfilling lives. I've worked in a variety of settings, including elementary and high schools, corrections, and employee assistance. In 2021, I launched a private practice.
I'm also trained in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), narrative therapy, and play therapy.
I work with adults, children, and families on issues including depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, addictions, grief, anger, family discord, and workplace distress. My goal is to bring warmth and acceptance to all my sessions and to provide clients with concrete skills that they can use to help solve their problems and live more fulfilling lives. I've worked in a variety of settings, including elementary and high schools, corrections, and employee assistance. In 2021, I launched a private practice.
(914) 685-8816 View (914) 685-8816
Photo of Eileen M Feliciano, Psychologist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Eileen M Feliciano
Psychologist, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520
I have expertise in engaging adolescents, transitioning young adults to college life, and treating young children in play therapy.
We are all much more simply human than otherwise (Harry Stack Sullivan). I believe that one finds mental health in meaningful, connected relationships with others-our parents, partners, children, friends, siblings, and therapists. I bring warmth, humor, and honesty into my therapeutic work, and act as a support and guide as you work to improve areas of your life that you are inspired to change. I focus on growth and reparation, not pathology. I have a broad range of experience with all ages and ranges of problems, and can offer comprehensive treatment to children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I have expertise in engaging adolescents, transitioning young adults to college life, and treating young children in play therapy.
We are all much more simply human than otherwise (Harry Stack Sullivan). I believe that one finds mental health in meaningful, connected relationships with others-our parents, partners, children, friends, siblings, and therapists. I bring warmth, humor, and honesty into my therapeutic work, and act as a support and guide as you work to improve areas of your life that you are inspired to change. I focus on growth and reparation, not pathology. I have a broad range of experience with all ages and ranges of problems, and can offer comprehensive treatment to children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(646) 490-9933 View (646) 490-9933
Photo of Greg Perlman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Greg Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520
Greg often takes a play therapy approach with children to help strengthen the bond and trust of a child to help reduce barriers in treatment.
Greg is a licensed clinical social worker who treats children, teens, adults, and families. He uses a client-centered, strengths-based approach utilizing aspects of CBT, DBT, and solution-focused treatment. Greg helps his clients challenge negative thinking to foster positive change, assists his clients in providing mindfulness techniques using music and art to reduce stress, and aids his clients in identifying triggers and coping skills to manage emotional distress.
Greg often takes a play therapy approach with children to help strengthen the bond and trust of a child to help reduce barriers in treatment.
Greg is a licensed clinical social worker who treats children, teens, adults, and families. He uses a client-centered, strengths-based approach utilizing aspects of CBT, DBT, and solution-focused treatment. Greg helps his clients challenge negative thinking to foster positive change, assists his clients in providing mindfulness techniques using music and art to reduce stress, and aids his clients in identifying triggers and coping skills to manage emotional distress.
(845) 668-9008 View (845) 668-9008
Photo of Tarren Pagones, Art Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Tarren Pagones
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahopac, NY 10541
I am here to support children, adolescents, young adults and parents who are facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, school conflict (including avoidance), and peer conflict. I am a licensed art therapist who utilizes a combination of psychotherapy, art therapy and/or play therapy to meet my clients needs. I am trained in Attachment Regulation and Competency, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, and Circle of Security. I am here to help foster difficult conversations, be reflective, build self-worth, create or enhance coping skills and improve daily living.
I am here to support children, adolescents, young adults and parents who are facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, school conflict (including avoidance), and peer conflict. I am a licensed art therapist who utilizes a combination of psychotherapy, art therapy and/or play therapy to meet my clients needs. I am trained in Attachment Regulation and Competency, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, and Circle of Security. I am here to help foster difficult conversations, be reflective, build self-worth, create or enhance coping skills and improve daily living.
(845) 516-8232 View (845) 516-8232
Photo of Jenny Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Jenny Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
Besides talk therapy, I weave in mindfulness, deep breathing, trauma-informed yoga, play, and nature-based approaches, including walking sessions in the woods.
I'm glad you've found yourself here. Acknowledging that you need support right now is a tough but necessary first step. Life and relationships can be complex and I find that it is often helpful have a neutral person to offer a listening ear, guidance, and to facilitate a process of gaining more insight about who you are and what you need. My role would be to help you work towards your goals, which may include building self-compassion, identifying and regulating uncomfortable emotions, processing old traumas, changing negative thoughts and patterns, overcoming challenges, strengthening relationships, implementing new coping skills.
Besides talk therapy, I weave in mindfulness, deep breathing, trauma-informed yoga, play, and nature-based approaches, including walking sessions in the woods.
I'm glad you've found yourself here. Acknowledging that you need support right now is a tough but necessary first step. Life and relationships can be complex and I find that it is often helpful have a neutral person to offer a listening ear, guidance, and to facilitate a process of gaining more insight about who you are and what you need. My role would be to help you work towards your goals, which may include building self-compassion, identifying and regulating uncomfortable emotions, processing old traumas, changing negative thoughts and patterns, overcoming challenges, strengthening relationships, implementing new coping skills.
(845) 251-4058 View (845) 251-4058
Lisa Pelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mount Kisco, NY 10549  (Online Only)
Finding a good match between yourself and a treatment provider is an important, and sometimes anxiety producing part of this process. I am very willing to help you find the right strategy for your needs, work closely at defining goals together and continuing to assess your needs and personal goals throughout the course of our work together.
Finding a good match between yourself and a treatment provider is an important, and sometimes anxiety producing part of this process. I am very willing to help you find the right strategy for your needs, work closely at defining goals together and continuing to assess your needs and personal goals throughout the course of our work together.
(914) 902-8636 View (914) 902-8636
Photo of Alana Millings, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Alana Millings
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, teens, and families. I work with children and teens individually, often incorporating family sessions to help facilitate growth and change. My goal is to strengthen an individual's confidence while enhancing the family bond. I enjoy my work, and I am dedicated to approaching each person with sincerity, respect and honesty, sharing practical rather than theoretical solutions. I intuitively and compassionately support people to find freedom from limiting beliefs, perceptions, and behavior patterns, in order to discover their natural, balanced state of being.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, teens, and families. I work with children and teens individually, often incorporating family sessions to help facilitate growth and change. My goal is to strengthen an individual's confidence while enhancing the family bond. I enjoy my work, and I am dedicated to approaching each person with sincerity, respect and honesty, sharing practical rather than theoretical solutions. I intuitively and compassionately support people to find freedom from limiting beliefs, perceptions, and behavior patterns, in order to discover their natural, balanced state of being.
(347) 848-1480 View (347) 848-1480
Photo of Elena Garcia-Davranova, Licensed Master Social Worker in Mohegan Lake, NY
Elena Garcia-Davranova
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
Mahopac, NY 10541
Mrs. Garcia-Davranova works with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds throughout the life span, including children, pre-teens, adolescents and young adults. She works with people struggling with a variety of presenting concerns, including trauma, grief and loss, familial conflict, parenting, attachment and separation, anxiety and depression, school and behavioral challenges, gender and identity exploration as well as major life transitions. She has over ten years of experience as an early childhood educator and holds certification in crisis intervention counseling.
Mrs. Garcia-Davranova works with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds throughout the life span, including children, pre-teens, adolescents and young adults. She works with people struggling with a variety of presenting concerns, including trauma, grief and loss, familial conflict, parenting, attachment and separation, anxiety and depression, school and behavioral challenges, gender and identity exploration as well as major life transitions. She has over ten years of experience as an early childhood educator and holds certification in crisis intervention counseling.
(332) 248-1317 View (332) 248-1317
Photo of Tara Winter-DiGirolamo Psychotherapist, Creative Arts Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Tara Winter-DiGirolamo Psychotherapist
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, RDT, LCAT
Verified Verified
Katonah, NY 10536
I work with adults and teenagers who are dealing with anxiety, feelings of low self-worth and life transitions. My goal is to make you feel supported, validated and empowered. In addition to talk therapy, Drama Therapy and aspects of Yoga can be added to the session in order to find new ways of releasing internal and external conflicts. Each session will be geared toward a client’s individual needs.
I work with adults and teenagers who are dealing with anxiety, feelings of low self-worth and life transitions. My goal is to make you feel supported, validated and empowered. In addition to talk therapy, Drama Therapy and aspects of Yoga can be added to the session in order to find new ways of releasing internal and external conflicts. Each session will be geared toward a client’s individual needs.
(718) 395-6137 View (718) 395-6137
Photo of Westchester Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Westchester Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling stressed out or anxious lately? Perhaps you are feeling depressed or having trouble with relationships. Maybe you just want to feel more fulfilled in life. You might be worried about your adolescent. Maybe you've been told by your child's school that his/her behavior is out of control or that he/she seems depressed. Perhaps they are being bullied, cutting themselves or suffering from low self-esteem. My name is Alison Varianides and I am the Founder of Westchester Psychotherapy- a Private Group Practice specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults.
Have you been feeling stressed out or anxious lately? Perhaps you are feeling depressed or having trouble with relationships. Maybe you just want to feel more fulfilled in life. You might be worried about your adolescent. Maybe you've been told by your child's school that his/her behavior is out of control or that he/she seems depressed. Perhaps they are being bullied, cutting themselves or suffering from low self-esteem. My name is Alison Varianides and I am the Founder of Westchester Psychotherapy- a Private Group Practice specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults.
(914) 806-7376 View (914) 806-7376
Photo of The Lighthouse Retreat & Wellness Center in Mohegan Lake, NY
The Lighthouse Retreat & Wellness Center
LCSW, RM
Verified Verified
Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567
We are a group of licensed professionals who are here to help by offering a variety of counseling services. We believe that connecting with the right therapist is essential for therapeutic success. Our practitioners have diverse personal and professional experiences to create authentic connections and develop individually-tailored solutions. We offer services for all ages at all life stages including Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Life Stage Transitions, Relationship Issues, Trauma and more.
We are a group of licensed professionals who are here to help by offering a variety of counseling services. We believe that connecting with the right therapist is essential for therapeutic success. Our practitioners have diverse personal and professional experiences to create authentic connections and develop individually-tailored solutions. We offer services for all ages at all life stages including Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Life Stage Transitions, Relationship Issues, Trauma and more.
(914) 380-3440 View (914) 380-3440
Photo of Lauren Jukofsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Lauren Jukofsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baldwin Place, NY 10505  (Online Only)
Most of us encounter life challenges that can become unmanageable, its important to know that you are not alone. Congratulations on taking your first step towards emotional empowerment! This step is usually one of the hardest as it means that you have been thinking about making changes, probably for quite some time, and are finally ready. It takes a lot of courage to do that! It helps to know that you have a trusted and objective professional who has worked in clinical settings with individuals in crisis, chronic health illnesses, hematology/oncology, adolescent medicine, mental health, medical and bereavement.
Most of us encounter life challenges that can become unmanageable, its important to know that you are not alone. Congratulations on taking your first step towards emotional empowerment! This step is usually one of the hardest as it means that you have been thinking about making changes, probably for quite some time, and are finally ready. It takes a lot of courage to do that! It helps to know that you have a trusted and objective professional who has worked in clinical settings with individuals in crisis, chronic health illnesses, hematology/oncology, adolescent medicine, mental health, medical and bereavement.
(516) 604-5190 View (516) 604-5190
Photo of Head In The Right Direction Counseling Svcs PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mohegan Lake, NY
Head In The Right Direction Counseling Svcs PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MFT, LMHC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Garrison, NY 10524
We are here to help. We have been helping people learn how to make the changes they want since 2008. Feeling lost in life? Increasingly anxious? Relationship woes? Worried about your child or teen? You are not alone. There are other people out here going through the same things too. This is temporary. Please reach out to us. You can call our front desk, email, or reach us through chat or message through our website. A licensed therapist will get back to you. We are in network with most insurance plans, so hopefully that helps you make this important decision easier.
We are here to help. We have been helping people learn how to make the changes they want since 2008. Feeling lost in life? Increasingly anxious? Relationship woes? Worried about your child or teen? You are not alone. There are other people out here going through the same things too. This is temporary. Please reach out to us. You can call our front desk, email, or reach us through chat or message through our website. A licensed therapist will get back to you. We are in network with most insurance plans, so hopefully that helps you make this important decision easier.
(845) 393-0341 View (845) 393-0341

See more therapy options for Mohegan Lake

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.