Play Therapy in Murray County, OK

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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Oklahoma below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Emily Carr, Pre-Licensed Professional in Murray County, OK
Emily Carr
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMFT-C
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
In sessions, expect talk therapy, art activities, play activities, and humor when appropriate.
- Not currently accepting clients - As humans, we are all doing the best we can with what we have and what we know. Still, life is challenging and can be difficult to manage especially when we are feeling stuck. This stuck-ness impacts our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and even our behaviors. Therapy is the safe place to pause and evaluate how we grow into being our best selves. You deserve to feel and live as your best self for you and those you love. My role is to walk alongside you in the discovery of what healing/growing looks like for you.
In sessions, expect talk therapy, art activities, play activities, and humor when appropriate.
- Not currently accepting clients - As humans, we are all doing the best we can with what we have and what we know. Still, life is challenging and can be difficult to manage especially when we are feeling stuck. This stuck-ness impacts our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and even our behaviors. Therapy is the safe place to pause and evaluate how we grow into being our best selves. You deserve to feel and live as your best self for you and those you love. My role is to walk alongside you in the discovery of what healing/growing looks like for you.
(405) 873-6682 View (405) 873-6682
Photo of Elizabeth D Weingart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murray County, OK
Elizabeth D Weingart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73003
I provide individual therapy for men, women, and children as well as family and play therapy.
My name is Liz Weingart and I have been working with adults, children, and families for over 25 years. I began my career as a home-based family therapist working to keep at risk children in their homes. This position allowed me the opportunity to work with children with a wide range of diagnoses, such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depressive Disorders, various Anxiety Disorders, and Aspergers Disorder. While working with adolescents and young adults, I have provided treatment for suicidal ideation, self-mutilating behaviors, and eating disorders.
I provide individual therapy for men, women, and children as well as family and play therapy.
My name is Liz Weingart and I have been working with adults, children, and families for over 25 years. I began my career as a home-based family therapist working to keep at risk children in their homes. This position allowed me the opportunity to work with children with a wide range of diagnoses, such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depressive Disorders, various Anxiety Disorders, and Aspergers Disorder. While working with adolescents and young adults, I have provided treatment for suicidal ideation, self-mutilating behaviors, and eating disorders.
(405) 295-7832 View (405) 295-7832
Photo of Lisa Jacobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murray County, OK
Lisa Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73013
I use traditional methods of talk therapy as well as play therapy and sand tray therapy to address emotional and behavioral issues.
Therapy for Children, Teens, Young Adults, and Women. Are you or your family struggling and feel like it’s just too much to handle alone? Are you concerned about your child’s mood or behavior? Are you a teen or young adult who is battling anxiety or feeling like everyone else has it all figured out? Are you struggling with finding balance or being able to juggle it all? Together we will make a plan to empower you to find healing and reach your specific goals. I provide a safe space with support and guidance to enhance well-being, improve relationships, and grow into your true authentic self.
I use traditional methods of talk therapy as well as play therapy and sand tray therapy to address emotional and behavioral issues.
Therapy for Children, Teens, Young Adults, and Women. Are you or your family struggling and feel like it’s just too much to handle alone? Are you concerned about your child’s mood or behavior? Are you a teen or young adult who is battling anxiety or feeling like everyone else has it all figured out? Are you struggling with finding balance or being able to juggle it all? Together we will make a plan to empower you to find healing and reach your specific goals. I provide a safe space with support and guidance to enhance well-being, improve relationships, and grow into your true authentic self.
(405) 289-8525 View (405) 289-8525
Photo of Vernon Nelson Butler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Murray County, OK
Vernon Nelson Butler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lawton, OK 73505
Experimental therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, assertiveness training, play therapy, marriage & couples therapy, individual therapy, breathing, and relaxation techniques are all tools I employ to help the client achieve their goals.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I've been practicing counseling for 6 years. After graduating from Cameron in 1998 with a Bachelor of Business I spent 15 years as a manager in retail. I began my military career in 1983, and after 25 years of service and 2 deployments in the US Army, I enrolled in Cameron University's psychology department in August 2012 with the goal of supporting my community as a counselor.
Experimental therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, assertiveness training, play therapy, marriage & couples therapy, individual therapy, breathing, and relaxation techniques are all tools I employ to help the client achieve their goals.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I've been practicing counseling for 6 years. After graduating from Cameron in 1998 with a Bachelor of Business I spent 15 years as a manager in retail. I began my military career in 1983, and after 25 years of service and 2 deployments in the US Army, I enrolled in Cameron University's psychology department in August 2012 with the goal of supporting my community as a counselor.
(580) 308-3512 View (580) 308-3512
Photo of Inspire Counseling & Psychological Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Inspire Counseling & Psychological Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LPC-S, RPT-S, CPS
Verified Verified
Durant, OK 74701
Counselors at Inspire have expertise and training working with clients with mental health needs, disabilities, Autism, Blindness, Non Verbal and Assisted Technology. We offer Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, testing and much more. We also work with families, adults, and teens. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Counselors at Inspire have expertise and training working with clients with mental health needs, disabilities, Autism, Blindness, Non Verbal and Assisted Technology. We offer Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, testing and much more. We also work with families, adults, and teens. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
(580) 324-3724 View (580) 324-3724
Photo of Toga Nichole Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Toga Nichole Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
A few types of therapy offered are cbt, solution focused, talk therapy, family therapy, and play therapy.
My ideal client is someone who is open to change and has a clear understanding of their goals for change. They may be struggling with life's burdens and feel lost or unheard and just need a listening ear to have an open honest conversation. The client is the expert in his/her treatment and has the ability to facilitate change that creates confidence and autonomy. Once the client is able to see their strengths rather than their weaknesses, they can then realize their full potential in the counseling process.
A few types of therapy offered are cbt, solution focused, talk therapy, family therapy, and play therapy.
My ideal client is someone who is open to change and has a clear understanding of their goals for change. They may be struggling with life's burdens and feel lost or unheard and just need a listening ear to have an open honest conversation. The client is the expert in his/her treatment and has the ability to facilitate change that creates confidence and autonomy. Once the client is able to see their strengths rather than their weaknesses, they can then realize their full potential in the counseling process.
(405) 784-5657 View (405) 784-5657
Photo of Lindsey Logan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Lindsey Logan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Prague, OK 74864
I use an eclectic approach to counseling, consisting of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered-Therapy, and Play Therapy Techniques, as well as other treatment modalities.
I graduated from East Central University with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I provide services to adults, adolescents, and children from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I enjoy working with people who have been diagnosed with Anxiety Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders such as Autism and ADHD, Depressive Disorders, Trauma and Stress related Disorders such as PTSD, and other mental health related disorders.
I use an eclectic approach to counseling, consisting of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered-Therapy, and Play Therapy Techniques, as well as other treatment modalities.
I graduated from East Central University with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I provide services to adults, adolescents, and children from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I enjoy working with people who have been diagnosed with Anxiety Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders such as Autism and ADHD, Depressive Disorders, Trauma and Stress related Disorders such as PTSD, and other mental health related disorders.
(405) 295-0212 View (405) 295-0212
Photo of Jason Crouch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Jason Crouch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
My approach is rooted in building trust and rapport, creating a space where open communication and exploration can flourish by utilizing multiple approaches including Play and Cognitive-Behavorial Therapy.
I possess a strong passion for working with children, preteens, teenagers, and their families. Difficult struggles including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and anger management problems can affect people of all ages. Regardless of whether these struggles are due in part to trauma, family changes, abuse, or other factors, I help my clients feel more self-assured and help prepare them to succeed on their own. By diving deep into the individual and grasping their unique perspective of the world around them, we can help them on their journey forward. I have immediate openings and would love to work with you and your family.
My approach is rooted in building trust and rapport, creating a space where open communication and exploration can flourish by utilizing multiple approaches including Play and Cognitive-Behavorial Therapy.
I possess a strong passion for working with children, preteens, teenagers, and their families. Difficult struggles including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and anger management problems can affect people of all ages. Regardless of whether these struggles are due in part to trauma, family changes, abuse, or other factors, I help my clients feel more self-assured and help prepare them to succeed on their own. By diving deep into the individual and grasping their unique perspective of the world around them, we can help them on their journey forward. I have immediate openings and would love to work with you and your family.
(405) 454-7999 View (405) 454-7999
Photo of Amanda (Amy) Summers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Amanda (Amy) Summers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norman, OK 73072
Waitlist for new clients
Amy is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma. She is a Parent-Child Interaction Therapy Certified Practitioner and has attended numerous play therapy trainings. Although Amy has worked with many populations, she has an expertise and passion for working with children, teens, and their families to address emotional and behavioral disorders, divorce reaction, anxiety and depression, suicidal and homicidal ideation, parental alienation and family reunification. Amy conducts parenting and co-parenting classes on various topics. She also enjoys working with the college and young adult population.
Amy is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma. She is a Parent-Child Interaction Therapy Certified Practitioner and has attended numerous play therapy trainings. Although Amy has worked with many populations, she has an expertise and passion for working with children, teens, and their families to address emotional and behavioral disorders, divorce reaction, anxiety and depression, suicidal and homicidal ideation, parental alienation and family reunification. Amy conducts parenting and co-parenting classes on various topics. She also enjoys working with the college and young adult population.
(405) 361-4524 View (405) 361-4524
Photo of U2Excel-N-Life, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
U2Excel-N-Life
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC , RPT
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73162
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a member of American Counseling Association (ACA), a registered Play Therapist (RPT), and have 30 plus years of experience in areas of education.
YES, There IS HOPE! Let’s talk about how we can walk together on your journey toward success, while shedding off some weights referred to as pain, anxiety, fear, depression, loneliness, anger, and insecurity along the path. Yes, there are methods to assist you with gaining strength, wisdom, knowledge, courage, self confidence, setting goals, and coping skills to use along this journey of life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a member of American Counseling Association (ACA), a registered Play Therapist (RPT), and have 30 plus years of experience in areas of education.
YES, There IS HOPE! Let’s talk about how we can walk together on your journey toward success, while shedding off some weights referred to as pain, anxiety, fear, depression, loneliness, anger, and insecurity along the path. Yes, there are methods to assist you with gaining strength, wisdom, knowledge, courage, self confidence, setting goals, and coping skills to use along this journey of life.
(405) 267-4783 View (405) 267-4783
Photo of Sunstone Family Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Sunstone Family Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73114
I use experiential, art, and play therapy, along with parental participation, to help children express themselves and make sense of their own unique worlds.
My approach to therapy involves focusing on the family unit, meeting each individual family member where they’re at while treating them as an important part of the therapeutic process. I do this by treating each family member equally and with compassion. I often get calls from parents asking me to help their child and my response is always the same… “Let's work together to help your kiddo.” Studies show that when parents are involved, kids recover from trauma significantly faster.
I use experiential, art, and play therapy, along with parental participation, to help children express themselves and make sense of their own unique worlds.
My approach to therapy involves focusing on the family unit, meeting each individual family member where they’re at while treating them as an important part of the therapeutic process. I do this by treating each family member equally and with compassion. I often get calls from parents asking me to help their child and my response is always the same… “Let's work together to help your kiddo.” Studies show that when parents are involved, kids recover from trauma significantly faster.
(405) 817-5745 View (405) 817-5745
Photo of Hannah Holcomb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Hannah Holcomb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73120
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping children who are in families going through the tough stuff. I believe children learn and heal best through play. I also enjoy working with adolescents, families, and individual adults. I believe we were created to live in connection with others. The nature of sharing our burdens and hardships with another human who is listening and showing empathy is healing in itself. It is my goal in therapy to create a safe space where you feel heard. We are not promised a life free of hardships but we can journey through it together.
I am passionate about helping children who are in families going through the tough stuff. I believe children learn and heal best through play. I also enjoy working with adolescents, families, and individual adults. I believe we were created to live in connection with others. The nature of sharing our burdens and hardships with another human who is listening and showing empathy is healing in itself. It is my goal in therapy to create a safe space where you feel heard. We are not promised a life free of hardships but we can journey through it together.
(405) 645-5214 View (405) 645-5214
Photo of Instilling Hope, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Murray County, OK
Instilling Hope, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT-S, TBRI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Waitlist for new clients
Play therapy is most important to me, I believe that play is the way that children express themselves and make sense of their on world and begin to heal though their therapy play experiences.
My personal philosophy regarding therapy is to focus on the family unit and meet each individual member of the family where they are and treat them as an important part of the therapy. Parents often call me and state they need help for their child and my first response is to treat the child but consider the whole family unit as a part of the therapy treatment plan. Meeting the individual needs of the client is of the utmost importance.
Play therapy is most important to me, I believe that play is the way that children express themselves and make sense of their on world and begin to heal though their therapy play experiences.
My personal philosophy regarding therapy is to focus on the family unit and meet each individual member of the family where they are and treat them as an important part of the therapy. Parents often call me and state they need help for their child and my first response is to treat the child but consider the whole family unit as a part of the therapy treatment plan. Meeting the individual needs of the client is of the utmost importance.
(405) 896-3569 View (405) 896-3569
Photo of Katelyn Lamb-Swanigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murray County, OK
Katelyn Lamb-Swanigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
While predominately practicing play therapy, I also utilize techniques from narrative, art, and solutions-focused therapies as well as TBRI.
Limited openings for clients! What our kids experience and learn in their early years becomes the way they live in and make sense of the world. From family conflict, grief, divorce, or adoption to mental health or school challenges, I believe in the healing power of making children feel heard, known, and valued. It is a privilege to be with families in their parenting journey - however and wherever it is going. From toddlers to pre-teens, I enjoy working with kids of all ages, identities, and needs.
While predominately practicing play therapy, I also utilize techniques from narrative, art, and solutions-focused therapies as well as TBRI.
Limited openings for clients! What our kids experience and learn in their early years becomes the way they live in and make sense of the world. From family conflict, grief, divorce, or adoption to mental health or school challenges, I believe in the healing power of making children feel heard, known, and valued. It is a privilege to be with families in their parenting journey - however and wherever it is going. From toddlers to pre-teens, I enjoy working with kids of all ages, identities, and needs.
(405) 817-4237 View (405) 817-4237
Photo of Braiden Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Braiden Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Shawnee, OK 74804
Additionally, Braiden has completed level I of the Gottman Method training and has received additional training in IFS therapy and play therapy, as well as in an evidence-based approach for identification and intervention of co-dependency and narcissism.
Braiden Green is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Southern Nazarene University. She has been working in behavioral health for more than five years, beginning as a Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Specialist and Case Manager. As a therapist, Braiden has received specific training in treatment practices for a variety of childhood and adolescent, as well as adult mental health care needs.
Additionally, Braiden has completed level I of the Gottman Method training and has received additional training in IFS therapy and play therapy, as well as in an evidence-based approach for identification and intervention of co-dependency and narcissism.
Braiden Green is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Southern Nazarene University. She has been working in behavioral health for more than five years, beginning as a Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Specialist and Case Manager. As a therapist, Braiden has received specific training in treatment practices for a variety of childhood and adolescent, as well as adult mental health care needs.
(405) 652-0090 View (405) 652-0090
Photo of Natalie Cleverdon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Murray County, OK
Natalie Cleverdon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73013
I have training in Play Therapy, EMDR, CBT and Emotion Focused Therapy, among other approaches that I use when working with children, adolescents, families and couples.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, lonely, hurt, angry or confused, then you are taking a brave step in the direction of change. Whether you are experiencing marital strain, family stress or conflict, uncertainty in parenting or just need a safe place to sort through your thoughts and feelings, I am here to help. I love this work and I'm honored to hear your story and walk alongside you as you take steps toward more joy, peace and stability in your life.
I have training in Play Therapy, EMDR, CBT and Emotion Focused Therapy, among other approaches that I use when working with children, adolescents, families and couples.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, lonely, hurt, angry or confused, then you are taking a brave step in the direction of change. Whether you are experiencing marital strain, family stress or conflict, uncertainty in parenting or just need a safe place to sort through your thoughts and feelings, I am here to help. I love this work and I'm honored to hear your story and walk alongside you as you take steps toward more joy, peace and stability in your life.
(405) 972-8272 View (405) 972-8272
Photo of Ruth LeFan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Murray County, OK
Ruth LeFan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW-P, MSW U/S
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73108
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily use TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention), as well as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and other play-based therapy techniques.
I serve children, adolescents, and their families, especially those who are affected by trauma, attachment difficulties, and other behavioral and mood regulation issues.
I primarily use TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention), as well as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and other play-based therapy techniques.
I serve children, adolescents, and their families, especially those who are affected by trauma, attachment difficulties, and other behavioral and mood regulation issues.
(405) 267-8494 View (405) 267-8494
Photo of Mollie Hobbs, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Murray County, OK
Mollie Hobbs
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT- C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73120  (Online Only)
Parents/caregivers play an important role in treatment.
May 2024- Now accepting new clients. Virtual/Telehealth Only. Hello! I am glad you are here. Starting therapy can seem overwhelming. Sometimes the hardest part is finding a therapist you can connect with. And I hope I am that therapist for you. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued. I have a passion for working with preteens, teens, and young adults. As a play-based therapist, I understand the value of play for children and adults of all ages. Play creates a safe arena for those to learn about themselves and the world around them.
Parents/caregivers play an important role in treatment.
May 2024- Now accepting new clients. Virtual/Telehealth Only. Hello! I am glad you are here. Starting therapy can seem overwhelming. Sometimes the hardest part is finding a therapist you can connect with. And I hope I am that therapist for you. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued. I have a passion for working with preteens, teens, and young adults. As a play-based therapist, I understand the value of play for children and adults of all ages. Play creates a safe arena for those to learn about themselves and the world around them.
(405) 674-4507 View (405) 674-4507
Photo of Ako Counseling Services.,, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Ako Counseling Services.,
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Warr Acres, OK 73132
I have provided counseling services to a broad spectrum of clients including children, adolescents, and Adults. I strive to help my clients solve their day to day stressors and achieve stability in their lives. My style is warm, flexible, and interactive. I usually use a variety of counseling modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered therapy, play and different forms of art based therapy, family systems therapy etc to suit the unique nature of the problem being worked on and the needs of specific clients.
I have provided counseling services to a broad spectrum of clients including children, adolescents, and Adults. I strive to help my clients solve their day to day stressors and achieve stability in their lives. My style is warm, flexible, and interactive. I usually use a variety of counseling modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered therapy, play and different forms of art based therapy, family systems therapy etc to suit the unique nature of the problem being worked on and the needs of specific clients.
(405) 708-5690 View (405) 708-5690
Photo of Choices for Life Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murray County, OK
Choices for Life Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Waitlist for new clients
We are distinguished by a competitive spirit and a collaborative heart, Choices for Life provides positive change through individual, family group processes and play therapy; we want to work together to achieve your goals.
Let’s be honest, therapy can be intimidating, but you’re ready to take the first step toward healing. We have caring providers whom work with children and adults. Our team works with anger, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, as well as any family/marriage/couple issues. We approach therapy as a partnership and together, we can navigate your journey of healing and self-discovery.
We are distinguished by a competitive spirit and a collaborative heart, Choices for Life provides positive change through individual, family group processes and play therapy; we want to work together to achieve your goals.
Let’s be honest, therapy can be intimidating, but you’re ready to take the first step toward healing. We have caring providers whom work with children and adults. Our team works with anger, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, as well as any family/marriage/couple issues. We approach therapy as a partnership and together, we can navigate your journey of healing and self-discovery.
(405) 351-7298 View (405) 351-7298

See more therapy options for Murray County

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.