Photo of Shoshana Wortman, Psychologist in Blue Bell, PA
Shoshana Wortman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
I am skilled in a variety of approaches: cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systems or relational therapies as well as art and play strategies.
There are many experiences in one’s life that can lead to anxiety, sadness, or feeling alone. If you or your loved one are struggling with these feelings associated with change, infertility, grief/loss, family discord, or internal pressures, I will provide empathic guidance towards coping and healing. Together we will address your struggles, build on your strengths, improve your understanding, and discover better ways to cope. I can connect with you through a variety of strategies. Together, we will peel back the layers of thoughts and feelings, and identify ways to explore, cope, communicate, and heal.
I am skilled in a variety of approaches: cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systems or relational therapies as well as art and play strategies.
There are many experiences in one’s life that can lead to anxiety, sadness, or feeling alone. If you or your loved one are struggling with these feelings associated with change, infertility, grief/loss, family discord, or internal pressures, I will provide empathic guidance towards coping and healing. Together we will address your struggles, build on your strengths, improve your understanding, and discover better ways to cope. I can connect with you through a variety of strategies. Together, we will peel back the layers of thoughts and feelings, and identify ways to explore, cope, communicate, and heal.
(267) 481-7729 View (267) 481-7729
Photo of Jenna R Giagnacova, Licensed Professional Counselor in Blue Bell, PA
Jenna R Giagnacova
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
I use Structural Family, Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral, & Play Therapy, & Mindfulness techniques, to help individuals, families, & couples resolve conflicts & learn new, more positive patterns of living.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and have been working in mental health since 2008. I began my work in a preschool partial hospitalization program and a community outpatient program with children, adults, and families. I have also worked as a Family Based Services (FBS) therapist and director. I co-founded Conshohocken Counseling Services in 2012 and have been enjoying providing clients with assistance in their life journeys since then.
I use Structural Family, Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral, & Play Therapy, & Mindfulness techniques, to help individuals, families, & couples resolve conflicts & learn new, more positive patterns of living.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and have been working in mental health since 2008. I began my work in a preschool partial hospitalization program and a community outpatient program with children, adults, and families. I have also worked as a Family Based Services (FBS) therapist and director. I co-founded Conshohocken Counseling Services in 2012 and have been enjoying providing clients with assistance in their life journeys since then.
(610) 422-3676 View (610) 422-3676
Photo of Julie Agresta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Julie Agresta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Life is often full of demands on time, energy and resources that can take a toll on our physical and emotional well being. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families to cope with these demands while also helping them identify their strengths and potential so that they may achieve a more balanced, fulfilling and enjoyable life.
Life is often full of demands on time, energy and resources that can take a toll on our physical and emotional well being. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families to cope with these demands while also helping them identify their strengths and potential so that they may achieve a more balanced, fulfilling and enjoyable life.
(215) 660-3595 View (215) 660-3595
Photo of Kelly Haines, Pre-Licensed Professional in Blue Bell, PA
Kelly Haines
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Immediate In-person and telehealth openings! I am a Master's Level Therapist with experience working in school settings with adolescents, teenagers, and parents. I am very passionate about mental health and normalizing going to therapy! I take on a person-centered approach, where my goal is to create a welcoming environment where you feel heard, respected, and validated. I have experience working with those dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship issues, and self-image/identity.
Immediate In-person and telehealth openings! I am a Master's Level Therapist with experience working in school settings with adolescents, teenagers, and parents. I am very passionate about mental health and normalizing going to therapy! I take on a person-centered approach, where my goal is to create a welcoming environment where you feel heard, respected, and validated. I have experience working with those dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship issues, and self-image/identity.
(484) 897-7453 View (484) 897-7453
Photo of Victoria Geppert in Blue Bell, PA
Victoria Geppert
MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic philosophy really lies in the belief that the client is the expert of their lives and I am walking beside them to help create safety. Once they feel safe in all their uncomfortable places, we can begin to be curious about the experiences of life. We can begin to fill those spaces with healthy energy and love. The journey can be arduous and it can also be fun. This is why I am here. To be with you through it all.
My therapeutic philosophy really lies in the belief that the client is the expert of their lives and I am walking beside them to help create safety. Once they feel safe in all their uncomfortable places, we can begin to be curious about the experiences of life. We can begin to fill those spaces with healthy energy and love. The journey can be arduous and it can also be fun. This is why I am here. To be with you through it all.
(215) 440-6043 View (215) 440-6043
Photo of Kim Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Kim Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy services. My practice focuses on helping families, couples and individuals to improve inter-personal relationships, connection, communication and moods related to those relationships. I am successful in assisting clients with gaining insight that helps them cope with life transitions, creating healthy boundaries and experiencing satisfying relationships.
Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy services. My practice focuses on helping families, couples and individuals to improve inter-personal relationships, connection, communication and moods related to those relationships. I am successful in assisting clients with gaining insight that helps them cope with life transitions, creating healthy boundaries and experiencing satisfying relationships.
(215) 559-9647 View (215) 559-9647
Photo of Eric Robert Mitchell, Psychologist in Blue Bell, PA
Eric Robert Mitchell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Those working with Neurodiversity Consultants have been serving the neurodiverse individuals for decades. Created to address the growing need for lifespan support to neurodiverse individuals (including those who identify on the autism spectrum), Neurodiversity Consultants seeks to increase access to high-quality specialized services from experienced consultants, sometimes augmenting current services where applicable to optimize outcomes. With access to a variety of consultants, Neurodiversity Consultants is able to flexibly provide myriad services. Visit us at www.NeurodiversityConsultants.com
Those working with Neurodiversity Consultants have been serving the neurodiverse individuals for decades. Created to address the growing need for lifespan support to neurodiverse individuals (including those who identify on the autism spectrum), Neurodiversity Consultants seeks to increase access to high-quality specialized services from experienced consultants, sometimes augmenting current services where applicable to optimize outcomes. With access to a variety of consultants, Neurodiversity Consultants is able to flexibly provide myriad services. Visit us at www.NeurodiversityConsultants.com
(215) 839-1218 View (215) 839-1218
Photo of Madeline E. Hoch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Madeline E. Hoch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Not accepting new clients
I use Play-Family therapy to foster communication, emotional connection and deep healing while reducing non-desired family interactions and behaviors.
Many people come to me because they have anxiety, relationship difficulties, or are worried about their child's behavior or mood. I offer therapeutic space for individuals, children, families and couples, that centralizes social-cultural factors; intergenerational patterns; attachment needs; and emotional responsiveness to help clients grow and heal.
I use Play-Family therapy to foster communication, emotional connection and deep healing while reducing non-desired family interactions and behaviors.
Many people come to me because they have anxiety, relationship difficulties, or are worried about their child's behavior or mood. I offer therapeutic space for individuals, children, families and couples, that centralizes social-cultural factors; intergenerational patterns; attachment needs; and emotional responsiveness to help clients grow and heal.
(215) 382-6680 x7050 View (215) 382-6680 x7050

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of reNEW YOU Counseling and Wellness LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Blue Bell, PA
reNEW YOU Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
Treatment modalities include but are not limited to: Play Therapy, CBT, EMDR, DBT, TF-CBT, Trauma Art Therapy.
There is help for you, your child, teen, young adult, and family! We passionately serve all of our clients with the goal to help them reach their highest potential. We believe in early intervention and supporting people through their feelings, thoughts, transitions, and adversities as early as possible in order to reduce the onset of more serious psychopathology in later years. We also believe in compassionately supporting the family system and educating parents on childhood development, parenting strategies, healthier ways to manage their own emotions, breaking generational trauma, and learn healthier communication and connection.
Treatment modalities include but are not limited to: Play Therapy, CBT, EMDR, DBT, TF-CBT, Trauma Art Therapy.
There is help for you, your child, teen, young adult, and family! We passionately serve all of our clients with the goal to help them reach their highest potential. We believe in early intervention and supporting people through their feelings, thoughts, transitions, and adversities as early as possible in order to reduce the onset of more serious psychopathology in later years. We also believe in compassionately supporting the family system and educating parents on childhood development, parenting strategies, healthier ways to manage their own emotions, breaking generational trauma, and learn healthier communication and connection.
(504) 372-0954 View (504) 372-0954
Photo of Erika Thompsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Blue Bell, PA
Erika Thompsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAT, ATR-BC, LPC, LPAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conshohocken, PA 19428
The relationship I create with young people through art, play, sand-tray, and conversation helps them to gain self-awareness, increase self-esteem, and improve their self sense of well-being.
Erika has an extensive range of clinical experience with clients of all ages in inpatient and outpatient psychiatry settings. She has spent the last five years focusing and deepening her clinical understanding of the specific needs of children and adolescents. While studying in Grad school, combining her love of art and psychology, she quickly understood the powerful & positive impact Art Therapy has on those struggling with life stressors and mental illness. Erika believes that art has the inherent ability to heal and that everyone has potential for change and can achieve emotional well-being using art making and creativity.
The relationship I create with young people through art, play, sand-tray, and conversation helps them to gain self-awareness, increase self-esteem, and improve their self sense of well-being.
Erika has an extensive range of clinical experience with clients of all ages in inpatient and outpatient psychiatry settings. She has spent the last five years focusing and deepening her clinical understanding of the specific needs of children and adolescents. While studying in Grad school, combining her love of art and psychology, she quickly understood the powerful & positive impact Art Therapy has on those struggling with life stressors and mental illness. Erika believes that art has the inherent ability to heal and that everyone has potential for change and can achieve emotional well-being using art making and creativity.
(484) 214-2658 x490 View (484) 214-2658 x490
Photo of Kimberly A. Gilles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Kimberly A. Gilles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Montgomeryville, PA 18936
You will believe in the " Power of Play" when you see the healing that occurs.
Welcome to my practice! I currently have a wait list of 3 months.I work with children from 5 years old to the dear elderly population. I have a specialty in Play Therapy and I am only one of a few Registered Play Therapists in Bucks County. I hold an MSW degree, and have a graduate certificate from Temple University in Play Therapy.Play Therapy can help with behavioral issues, abuse, social skills, school issues, phobias, abandonment, grief, trauma, divorce, crisis, self injurious behaviors, low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, depression and grief just to mention a few areas.
You will believe in the " Power of Play" when you see the healing that occurs.
Welcome to my practice! I currently have a wait list of 3 months.I work with children from 5 years old to the dear elderly population. I have a specialty in Play Therapy and I am only one of a few Registered Play Therapists in Bucks County. I hold an MSW degree, and have a graduate certificate from Temple University in Play Therapy.Play Therapy can help with behavioral issues, abuse, social skills, school issues, phobias, abandonment, grief, trauma, divorce, crisis, self injurious behaviors, low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, depression and grief just to mention a few areas.
(215) 337-2063 View (215) 337-2063
Photo of Therapy for Kids, Licensed Professional Counselor in Blue Bell, PA
Therapy for Kids
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
As a parent, it can be difficult to know if or why your child is struggling. For younger kids, behavioral issues such as tantrums, extreme shyness, aggression, defiance, social or school issues are actually signs of anxiety, depression, grief, or low self esteem. We work with kids ages 5 and up, using play therapy and other engaging techniques to connect with your child on their level. Similarly, for adolescents, too mental health struggles can be dismissed as "teen angst." We work with adolescents ages 10-19 struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, ADHD, eating disorders, self esteem and more.
As a parent, it can be difficult to know if or why your child is struggling. For younger kids, behavioral issues such as tantrums, extreme shyness, aggression, defiance, social or school issues are actually signs of anxiety, depression, grief, or low self esteem. We work with kids ages 5 and up, using play therapy and other engaging techniques to connect with your child on their level. Similarly, for adolescents, too mental health struggles can be dismissed as "teen angst." We work with adolescents ages 10-19 struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, ADHD, eating disorders, self esteem and more.
(484) 734-1712 View (484) 734-1712
Photo of Rosalie Marion Jacobs in Blue Bell, PA
Rosalie Marion Jacobs
MEd, BCB
Verified Verified
Chalfont, PA 18914
When working with children, I may incorporate, art therapy, play therpay, movement therapy, relaxaton skills, puppetry, desensitization skills, stress/anger management, biofeedback, behavioral learning skills, coping skills training and supportive psychotherapy as well as other creative therapeutic techniques will which help the client back to a comfort level of emotionality.
Allow me to help you over those hurdles that life puts in our paths. Let me assist you to an emotionally healthy lifestyle where you can enjoy life to it's fullest ! I treat individuals, couples, and families. My specialty is working with children, teens and adults, who are transitioning through their lives, and those who may be suffering from anxiety, and panic disorder, when road blocks interfere with life's journeys. I am a Psychoeducational Therapist/ Behavioral Specialist and a Certified Biofeedback Specialist; and have been practicing with successful outcomes for over 35+ years.
When working with children, I may incorporate, art therapy, play therpay, movement therapy, relaxaton skills, puppetry, desensitization skills, stress/anger management, biofeedback, behavioral learning skills, coping skills training and supportive psychotherapy as well as other creative therapeutic techniques will which help the client back to a comfort level of emotionality.
Allow me to help you over those hurdles that life puts in our paths. Let me assist you to an emotionally healthy lifestyle where you can enjoy life to it's fullest ! I treat individuals, couples, and families. My specialty is working with children, teens and adults, who are transitioning through their lives, and those who may be suffering from anxiety, and panic disorder, when road blocks interfere with life's journeys. I am a Psychoeducational Therapist/ Behavioral Specialist and a Certified Biofeedback Specialist; and have been practicing with successful outcomes for over 35+ years.
(215) 392-2282 View (215) 392-2282
Photo of Brianna Haffner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Blue Bell, PA
Brianna Haffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Conshohocken, PA 19428
Are you concerned about your child, but not sure how to help them? Are you worried they may not open up in traditional talk therapy? As an art therapist, I may be able to help. I specialize in working with school-aged children and their families, and believe parents and caregivers play a pivotal role in their child’s healing. I work to help kids understand their challenges and feelings, as well as develop strategies to overcome and cope with them. I also offer parent sessions to help you best support your child and help them practice the skills they learn in session.
Are you concerned about your child, but not sure how to help them? Are you worried they may not open up in traditional talk therapy? As an art therapist, I may be able to help. I specialize in working with school-aged children and their families, and believe parents and caregivers play a pivotal role in their child’s healing. I work to help kids understand their challenges and feelings, as well as develop strategies to overcome and cope with them. I also offer parent sessions to help you best support your child and help them practice the skills they learn in session.
(610) 345-8103 View (610) 345-8103
Photo of Helping Hands Family ABA Therapy - Bethesda MD in Blue Bell, PA
Helping Hands Family ABA Therapy - Bethesda MD
Verified Verified
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
HHF Bethesda uses a child-led and play-based version of ABA Therapy for our clients.
Helping Hands Family in Bethesda, MD use the American Medical Association-endorsed Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practice to help children with autism reach life-changing milestones. This therapy’s approach explores each child’s unique learning process and mixes in behavior theory, while factoring in the effects that surrounding environments have on a child’s behavior.
HHF Bethesda uses a child-led and play-based version of ABA Therapy for our clients.
Helping Hands Family in Bethesda, MD use the American Medical Association-endorsed Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practice to help children with autism reach life-changing milestones. This therapy’s approach explores each child’s unique learning process and mixes in behavior theory, while factoring in the effects that surrounding environments have on a child’s behavior.
(267) 323-4906 View (267) 323-4906
Photo of Emily Britcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Emily Britcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
My therapeutic approaches are collective and draw from the following evidenced based theories: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Presently offering supervision and accepting new clients! I work with adolescents, teens and college-age students/emerging adults who are struggling with anxiety, parental separation/divorce, ADHD, depression, self-harm, life transitions and self-esteem. I also support parents who have children with a mental health and/or behavioral health diagnoses. My goal is to support these caretakers in having a safe space to process their feelings, manage stressors and identify strengths that can support them in meeting the needs of their child but also working to take care and support themselves in a healthy way.
My therapeutic approaches are collective and draw from the following evidenced based theories: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Presently offering supervision and accepting new clients! I work with adolescents, teens and college-age students/emerging adults who are struggling with anxiety, parental separation/divorce, ADHD, depression, self-harm, life transitions and self-esteem. I also support parents who have children with a mental health and/or behavioral health diagnoses. My goal is to support these caretakers in having a safe space to process their feelings, manage stressors and identify strengths that can support them in meeting the needs of their child but also working to take care and support themselves in a healthy way.
(484) 246-8665 View (484) 246-8665
Photo of Jillian Sharp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Jillian Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Audubon, PA 19403  (Online Only)
Certified in play therapy, I have an in depth understanding of child development and parent/child relationships, as well as how our past can impact and shape us.
Many clients have told me that they were nervous to start therapy but they are so glad they did. I practice a person centered approach where we explore your struggles, thoughts and feelings without judgement. I believe in connecting on a human level; in building trust through listening, deep understanding, and humor. Together, we will identify and work to change the things holding you back. We will discuss healthier ways to cope, communicate, and resolve conflicts. If you have been struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, low self esteem, major life changes, or parenting challenges, I'd love to help you thrive.
Certified in play therapy, I have an in depth understanding of child development and parent/child relationships, as well as how our past can impact and shape us.
Many clients have told me that they were nervous to start therapy but they are so glad they did. I practice a person centered approach where we explore your struggles, thoughts and feelings without judgement. I believe in connecting on a human level; in building trust through listening, deep understanding, and humor. Together, we will identify and work to change the things holding you back. We will discuss healthier ways to cope, communicate, and resolve conflicts. If you have been struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, low self esteem, major life changes, or parenting challenges, I'd love to help you thrive.
(215) 515-8045 View (215) 515-8045
Photo of Bridget McElroy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Bridget McElroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Narberth, PA 19072
I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, play therapy (directive and non-directive), and narrative therapy during my sessions, adapting to the unique needs and preferences of each client.
My therapeutic approach is strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming. My primary focus is working with autistic and other neurodivergent children (age 4 and up), teens, and young adults as they navigate a world that can be confusing and complex. I also work with individuals with anxiety, depression, sensory processing differences, executive functioning challenges, and divergent ways of communicating and socializing. In particular, I have significant experience supporting teens and young adults as they transition to adulthood, helping them navigate this daunting but exciting time in their lives.
I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, play therapy (directive and non-directive), and narrative therapy during my sessions, adapting to the unique needs and preferences of each client.
My therapeutic approach is strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming. My primary focus is working with autistic and other neurodivergent children (age 4 and up), teens, and young adults as they navigate a world that can be confusing and complex. I also work with individuals with anxiety, depression, sensory processing differences, executive functioning challenges, and divergent ways of communicating and socializing. In particular, I have significant experience supporting teens and young adults as they transition to adulthood, helping them navigate this daunting but exciting time in their lives.
(267) 641-9318 View (267) 641-9318
Photo of Nicole Cash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Nicole Cash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
I use play therapy with young children.
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and family relationships. EMDR is one of many tools that I use to help people to heal from past experiences and deal with overwhelming emotions. I am a licensed clinical social worker who provides individual and family therapy. I have experience with all ages, from young children to older adults. In addition to therapy, I provide supervision to therapists who are seeking licensure or to those who are licensed but seeking additional support.
I use play therapy with young children.
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and family relationships. EMDR is one of many tools that I use to help people to heal from past experiences and deal with overwhelming emotions. I am a licensed clinical social worker who provides individual and family therapy. I have experience with all ages, from young children to older adults. In addition to therapy, I provide supervision to therapists who are seeking licensure or to those who are licensed but seeking additional support.
(484) 416-8166 View (484) 416-8166
Photo of Kathleen Ann Krol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blue Bell, PA
Kathleen Ann Krol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
Family-Play Therapy combines family therapy, play therapy and parent feedback sessions.
My passion and belief is individuals and families possess their own innate ability to heal when underlying causes are identified and inner resources are strengthened. My family focused approach to treatment views the child/adolescent/adult as part of a family system. The treatment approach I use to best fit your individual or family needs may incorporate sand tray, Family-Play therapy, cognitive behavior techniques, stress-reduction strategies, EMDR, Trauma Art Narrative Therapy and Filial Family Therapy. I provide a safe and supportive environment for children, adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss.
Family-Play Therapy combines family therapy, play therapy and parent feedback sessions.
My passion and belief is individuals and families possess their own innate ability to heal when underlying causes are identified and inner resources are strengthened. My family focused approach to treatment views the child/adolescent/adult as part of a family system. The treatment approach I use to best fit your individual or family needs may incorporate sand tray, Family-Play therapy, cognitive behavior techniques, stress-reduction strategies, EMDR, Trauma Art Narrative Therapy and Filial Family Therapy. I provide a safe and supportive environment for children, adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss.
(215) 488-7271 x1 View (215) 488-7271 x1

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.