Play Therapy in Cranberry, PA

Photo of Nicki Cardilli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Nicki Cardilli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
I am accepting clients in office/telehealth. With over two decades of experience in the mental health field, I have worked with children, teens and adults individually and with their families. I feel that my background working in inpatient, outpatient, residential and in-home settings enables me to help a variety of clients from all walks of life and backgounds in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. My clinical approach most often includes Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT.) I believe in drawing on individual and family strengths.
I am accepting clients in office/telehealth. With over two decades of experience in the mental health field, I have worked with children, teens and adults individually and with their families. I feel that my background working in inpatient, outpatient, residential and in-home settings enables me to help a variety of clients from all walks of life and backgounds in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. My clinical approach most often includes Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT.) I believe in drawing on individual and family strengths.
(724) 200-8612 View (724) 200-8612
Photo of Jamie Diaz-Smith, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cranberry, PA
Jamie Diaz-Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
Do you struggle with navigating relationships, low stress tolerance, chronic pain or internal fears that affect how you show up for yourself and others? Do you often feel overwhelmed, exhausted, frustrated or lost by just getting through the day? Do you ever question your purpose? Now, more than ever people are struggling to find their place in life. My primary focus is working with people who have experienced narcissistic abuse, disordered eating, and/or depression. I believe people can change through therapy but many don't know where to start. I can point you in the right direction. Therapy within a Christian framework is offered.
Do you struggle with navigating relationships, low stress tolerance, chronic pain or internal fears that affect how you show up for yourself and others? Do you often feel overwhelmed, exhausted, frustrated or lost by just getting through the day? Do you ever question your purpose? Now, more than ever people are struggling to find their place in life. My primary focus is working with people who have experienced narcissistic abuse, disordered eating, and/or depression. I believe people can change through therapy but many don't know where to start. I can point you in the right direction. Therapy within a Christian framework is offered.
(412) 301-9988 View (412) 301-9988
Photo of Sheri J Hindman-Hanley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Sheri J Hindman-Hanley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
Have you lost hope? One of the bravest things you can do is take the first step. It takes courage to ask for help when you feel stuck & out of energy to keep trying. Trust me, you should not give up. If you feel like you’ve tried everything but nothing works, & you’re exhausted from trying - know this - I can help. The stresses of life can be exhausting & overwhelming. You might feel like giving up - don’t! Consider giving me a chance. I can help you climb out of that dark place and take your life back. I am compassionate & well-trained with a history of success using solution-focused approaches. You will immediately feel better!
Have you lost hope? One of the bravest things you can do is take the first step. It takes courage to ask for help when you feel stuck & out of energy to keep trying. Trust me, you should not give up. If you feel like you’ve tried everything but nothing works, & you’re exhausted from trying - know this - I can help. The stresses of life can be exhausting & overwhelming. You might feel like giving up - don’t! Consider giving me a chance. I can help you climb out of that dark place and take your life back. I am compassionate & well-trained with a history of success using solution-focused approaches. You will immediately feel better!
(724) 304-9231 View (724) 304-9231

Online Therapists

Photo of Lauryn Kalka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Lauryn Kalka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
When working to engage young children I utilize art, play, and music therapy techniques in session.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
When working to engage young children I utilize art, play, and music therapy techniques in session.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
(412) 612-2355 View (412) 612-2355
Photo of Robin E Hennessey, Psychologist in Cranberry, PA
Robin E Hennessey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
I received my doctorate in counseling psychology at Chatham University. Throughout my education and training I obtained experience working with individuals of all ages. My work focuses primarily on serving those who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attachment disorders, borderline personality disorder, and behavioral problems. I have received training in multiple forms of individual talk therapy, play therapy, and family therapy. I prioritize viewing each of my clients as a unique individual and I integrate/match elements of various therapeutic styles based on client preferences and needs.
I received my doctorate in counseling psychology at Chatham University. Throughout my education and training I obtained experience working with individuals of all ages. My work focuses primarily on serving those who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attachment disorders, borderline personality disorder, and behavioral problems. I have received training in multiple forms of individual talk therapy, play therapy, and family therapy. I prioritize viewing each of my clients as a unique individual and I integrate/match elements of various therapeutic styles based on client preferences and needs.
(412) 453-8782 View (412) 453-8782
Photo of Alexandra Dimoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Alexandra Dimoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Mars, PA 16046
I have trainings in and utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Person-Centered, mindfulness, play, and family therapies for treating anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive, and autism spectrum disorders with a focus on social skills, healthy relationships, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Accepting new clients! Sometimes our journey requires a detour. It may feel mentally and physically overwhelming. Having someone to help navigate anxiety, depression, uncertainty, relationships, work, and day-to-day life is the first step in helping you reach your final destination. I believe in finding joy in the journey, and the therapeutic relationship is a vital component of the healing process in the journey. Let me help guide you in your journey. I have trainings in and utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Person-Centered, mindfulness, play, and family therapies for treating anxiety, depression, and OCD.
I have trainings in and utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Person-Centered, mindfulness, play, and family therapies for treating anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive, and autism spectrum disorders with a focus on social skills, healthy relationships, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Accepting new clients! Sometimes our journey requires a detour. It may feel mentally and physically overwhelming. Having someone to help navigate anxiety, depression, uncertainty, relationships, work, and day-to-day life is the first step in helping you reach your final destination. I believe in finding joy in the journey, and the therapeutic relationship is a vital component of the healing process in the journey. Let me help guide you in your journey. I have trainings in and utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Person-Centered, mindfulness, play, and family therapies for treating anxiety, depression, and OCD.
(724) 546-5302 View (724) 546-5302
Photo of Teresa I. Otoya-Mcadams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Teresa I. Otoya-Mcadams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
When working with children I also integrate other approaches to therapy such as play and sand tray therapy as well as the use of art.
Hello! Welcome to your healing Journey. My name is Teresa and I have been in practice for almost 20 years. I believe in the importance of creating a therapeutic alliance where clients feel safe and free to explore and learn about themselves without fear of judgment. I understand that at times it can be difficult to take the first step and look for professional help, my personal stance is to empower my clients and guide them so they can find their own answers. I have worked with individuals and families from multiple backgrounds and age groups. I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
When working with children I also integrate other approaches to therapy such as play and sand tray therapy as well as the use of art.
Hello! Welcome to your healing Journey. My name is Teresa and I have been in practice for almost 20 years. I believe in the importance of creating a therapeutic alliance where clients feel safe and free to explore and learn about themselves without fear of judgment. I understand that at times it can be difficult to take the first step and look for professional help, my personal stance is to empower my clients and guide them so they can find their own answers. I have worked with individuals and families from multiple backgrounds and age groups. I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
(412) 899-2714 View (412) 899-2714
Photo of Emily M Kane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Emily M Kane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Time in community play spaces and Montessori education informs my work.
I help people who are building and maintaining their families. I support people from their reproductive health journeys to navigating caregiver challenges with children ages 0-5. I’m experienced in supporting caregivers of multiples (twins, triplets, etc.), medically fragile children, processing whole-family traumatic experiences with young children, and caregiving-driven career pivots. I’ve previously worked in Biometrics Research, Community Mental Health, Tech Operations, and Education. I’m deeply committed to local community service.
Time in community play spaces and Montessori education informs my work.
I help people who are building and maintaining their families. I support people from their reproductive health journeys to navigating caregiver challenges with children ages 0-5. I’m experienced in supporting caregivers of multiples (twins, triplets, etc.), medically fragile children, processing whole-family traumatic experiences with young children, and caregiving-driven career pivots. I’ve previously worked in Biometrics Research, Community Mental Health, Tech Operations, and Education. I’m deeply committed to local community service.
(412) 204-6741 View (412) 204-6741
Photo of Andrea Schachner, Psychologist in Cranberry, PA
Andrea Schachner
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213  (Online Only)
My focus is to work with children and families to form caring and supportive relationships that are solution focused and trauma informed. I work with children and adolescents providing individual therapy, family therapy, psychological and psycho-educational assessments, and consultation. I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy and play interventions in the service of providing a safe environment in which clients can better understand themselves and their relationships in order to foster growth and success.
My focus is to work with children and families to form caring and supportive relationships that are solution focused and trauma informed. I work with children and adolescents providing individual therapy, family therapy, psychological and psycho-educational assessments, and consultation. I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy and play interventions in the service of providing a safe environment in which clients can better understand themselves and their relationships in order to foster growth and success.
(412) 214-8913 View (412) 214-8913
Photo of Robin Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Robin Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16509
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Erie, Pennsylvania. I work with individuals of all ages including children, adolescents and adults. My approach to therapy is prescriptive eclectic with extensive training in Anxiety, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Play Therapy. I specialize in treating a variety of issues related to stress, career/life balance issues, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, depression, and adoption related issues. In addition, I have served for 8 years as Board Member for the Pennsylvania Association for Play Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Erie, Pennsylvania. I work with individuals of all ages including children, adolescents and adults. My approach to therapy is prescriptive eclectic with extensive training in Anxiety, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Play Therapy. I specialize in treating a variety of issues related to stress, career/life balance issues, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, depression, and adoption related issues. In addition, I have served for 8 years as Board Member for the Pennsylvania Association for Play Therapy.
(814) 707-4253 View (814) 707-4253
Photo of Melissa Hollobaugh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Melissa Hollobaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Latrobe, PA 15650
Melissa received her Master’s Degree in Infant Mental Health Counseling from Chatham University. She is a licensed professional counselor. She primarily works with children and adolescents. Melissa uses child-led therapy practices to build rapport and trust in sessions. Melissa has experience with engaging clients in play therapy and attachment based therapy. She has worked with children experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger, and other behavioral/emotions concerns. She enjoys working with children and families to improve the overall wellbeing of the child.
Melissa received her Master’s Degree in Infant Mental Health Counseling from Chatham University. She is a licensed professional counselor. She primarily works with children and adolescents. Melissa uses child-led therapy practices to build rapport and trust in sessions. Melissa has experience with engaging clients in play therapy and attachment based therapy. She has worked with children experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger, and other behavioral/emotions concerns. She enjoys working with children and families to improve the overall wellbeing of the child.
(724) 414-6832 View (724) 414-6832
Photo of Dr. Eldridge & Associates, Psychologist in Cranberry, PA
Dr. Eldridge & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
These modes include family therapy, individual therapy, art and play therapy, EMDR, among other therapeutic approaches.
We are accepting new clients (In-Person and Telehealth). We have a small, welcoming group practice consisting of therapists with many years of experience and a broad range of expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults. Our therapists understand and work with individuals from all walks of life and enjoy assisting them with their mental health goals. Together we develop a treatment plan that best fits our clients’ needs and desires for living a better life. Our office is comfortable and home-like in its furnishings and decor. Our therapists are licensed in Ohio and West Virginia as well as Pennsylvania.
These modes include family therapy, individual therapy, art and play therapy, EMDR, among other therapeutic approaches.
We are accepting new clients (In-Person and Telehealth). We have a small, welcoming group practice consisting of therapists with many years of experience and a broad range of expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults. Our therapists understand and work with individuals from all walks of life and enjoy assisting them with their mental health goals. Together we develop a treatment plan that best fits our clients’ needs and desires for living a better life. Our office is comfortable and home-like in its furnishings and decor. Our therapists are licensed in Ohio and West Virginia as well as Pennsylvania.
(724) 573-3713 View (724) 573-3713
Photo of Psychological Perspectives LLC, Psychologist in Cranberry, PA
Psychological Perspectives LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Our clinicians are trained in ACT, AF-CBT, CBT, Choice Theory, DBT, EMDR, ERP, IBHS Evaluations, TF-CBT, PCIT, and Play Therapy.
Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
Our clinicians are trained in ACT, AF-CBT, CBT, Choice Theory, DBT, EMDR, ERP, IBHS Evaluations, TF-CBT, PCIT, and Play Therapy.
Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
(412) 275-6939 View (412) 275-6939
Photo of Erin LaRue, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Erin LaRue
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moon Township, PA 15108
Waitlist for new clients
For young children, I incorporate play, art, music, movement, and games to connect effectively.
"Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary" (Fred Rogers). Taking care of your mental health is often the hardest but most valuable work you’ll ever do. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling to express themselves in healthy or effective ways, who have been through painful experiences, or who need to find new ways to cope.
For young children, I incorporate play, art, music, movement, and games to connect effectively.
"Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary" (Fred Rogers). Taking care of your mental health is often the hardest but most valuable work you’ll ever do. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling to express themselves in healthy or effective ways, who have been through painful experiences, or who need to find new ways to cope.
(878) 217-8851 View (878) 217-8851
Photo of Sherry Shields, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Sherry Shields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Latrobe, PA 15650
For children, I designed my play therapy rooms to work with children to assist them in working out their problems in how they express themselves the best - through play.
I understand that making the phone call to see a therapist can be a difficult task. I treat each person with care, compassion, and integrity. When I speak with you on the phone for the first time my main goal is to put you at ease and to empower you to continue to move forward giving you support when needed. Life offers so many challenges to us and sometimes we just need a little extra kindness and support from a therapist to move forward and live the life that we know was meant for us and our future.
For children, I designed my play therapy rooms to work with children to assist them in working out their problems in how they express themselves the best - through play.
I understand that making the phone call to see a therapist can be a difficult task. I treat each person with care, compassion, and integrity. When I speak with you on the phone for the first time my main goal is to put you at ease and to empower you to continue to move forward giving you support when needed. Life offers so many challenges to us and sometimes we just need a little extra kindness and support from a therapist to move forward and live the life that we know was meant for us and our future.
(866) 744-6537 View (866) 744-6537
Photo of Kristie Abbs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Kristie Abbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
I work with ages 3-80 + and am experienced in Applied Behavioral Analysis, Cognitive Restructuring, Trauma Based Practices, Play Therapy, and other modalities based on clients' needs.
I am very excited to have an opportunity to work with you to overcome your struggles and meet the goals that you want to achieve. My work with you and your loved ones will encompass exploring emotions, behaviors, experiences, and your needs. Over my 18 years of practice in the mental health field and doctoral level training, I have learned how to assist individuals, couples, groups, children, and families in learning essential skills to improve and grow, leading them to changes that have positively impacted their lives.
I work with ages 3-80 + and am experienced in Applied Behavioral Analysis, Cognitive Restructuring, Trauma Based Practices, Play Therapy, and other modalities based on clients' needs.
I am very excited to have an opportunity to work with you to overcome your struggles and meet the goals that you want to achieve. My work with you and your loved ones will encompass exploring emotions, behaviors, experiences, and your needs. Over my 18 years of practice in the mental health field and doctoral level training, I have learned how to assist individuals, couples, groups, children, and families in learning essential skills to improve and grow, leading them to changes that have positively impacted their lives.
(724) 204-2280 View (724) 204-2280
Photo of Elizabeth Jane Frontz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Elizabeth Jane Frontz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Penfield, PA 15849
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years experience with all age groups and various diverse populations. I provide mental health and behavioral health services to children and their families. I provide couples counseling and marital counseling as well as co-parenting counseling that are mandated or not by the court. I am trauma certified and have extensive experience in this area and in various evidenced based therapies such as EMDR, ACT, CPT, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, etc. I utilize various modalities as well as help people cope with their problem areas.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years experience with all age groups and various diverse populations. I provide mental health and behavioral health services to children and their families. I provide couples counseling and marital counseling as well as co-parenting counseling that are mandated or not by the court. I am trauma certified and have extensive experience in this area and in various evidenced based therapies such as EMDR, ACT, CPT, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, etc. I utilize various modalities as well as help people cope with their problem areas.
(814) 389-2511 View (814) 389-2511
Photo of Kayla Elizabeth Moore in Cranberry, PA
Kayla Elizabeth Moore
LBS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
I believe in utilizing play therapy as well as expressive art therapy when working with adolescents.
I am a board-certified behavioral analyst who has worked in the field for the past 6 years providing intensive behavioral health services to a wide variety of clients. I have worked within the home and school settings with clients to aide in their success within the least restrictive environment. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults, with Autism spectrum disorder as well as many other behavioral and emotional disorders. I work closely with clients and their families to address environmental and emotional concerns that could be impacting daily living.
I believe in utilizing play therapy as well as expressive art therapy when working with adolescents.
I am a board-certified behavioral analyst who has worked in the field for the past 6 years providing intensive behavioral health services to a wide variety of clients. I have worked within the home and school settings with clients to aide in their success within the least restrictive environment. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults, with Autism spectrum disorder as well as many other behavioral and emotional disorders. I work closely with clients and their families to address environmental and emotional concerns that could be impacting daily living.
(724) 907-0884 View (724) 907-0884
Photo of Ellie Mental Health-Wexford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Ellie Mental Health-Wexford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Ellie as a number of talented therapists with various expertise including EMDR, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Trauma, Loss, Play Therapy, Relationship Counseling, and more!.
Ellie Mental Health in Wexford, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Ellie as a number of talented therapists with various expertise including EMDR, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Trauma, Loss, Play Therapy, Relationship Counseling, and more!.
Ellie Mental Health in Wexford, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(724) 414-6539 View (724) 414-6539
Photo of Melissa Pilarski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Melissa Pilarski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001
Clients will feel a sense of caring and unconditional positive regard when in session with me. I recognize there is a delicate balance between being an empathetic listener and expert coach of skills; I hope to bring a collaborative approach to our work together. Clients have told me they feel supported by me without feeling that I have an “agenda” for them. I am most passionate about supporting individual adults through relational concerns, attachment issues, traumatic experiences, and symptoms of anxiety/depression. I also enjoy working with children and their parents utilizing play therapy interventions.
Clients will feel a sense of caring and unconditional positive regard when in session with me. I recognize there is a delicate balance between being an empathetic listener and expert coach of skills; I hope to bring a collaborative approach to our work together. Clients have told me they feel supported by me without feeling that I have an “agenda” for them. I am most passionate about supporting individual adults through relational concerns, attachment issues, traumatic experiences, and symptoms of anxiety/depression. I also enjoy working with children and their parents utilizing play therapy interventions.
(412) 668-1314 View (412) 668-1314

Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Cranberry

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Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.