Photo of Katie A Saraiva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
Katie A Saraiva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
I utilize an electic approach to help my patients, consisting of: expressive therapies , CBT ( cognitive behavorial therapy), DBT ( dialectal behavioral therapy), play therapy and EMDR.
I have vast experience in working with adults, families, children and adolscents. I am dedicated to providing people with the support and guidance they need to achieve goals, learn coping mechansims and invest in leading an overall healthy lifestyle for your mind, body and spirit. I have experience working with miltary members/families, ADHD, behavioral issues in children, anxiety, depression, bipolar, life transitions, grief, trauma, Autism and several other areas.
I utilize an electic approach to help my patients, consisting of: expressive therapies , CBT ( cognitive behavorial therapy), DBT ( dialectal behavioral therapy), play therapy and EMDR.
I have vast experience in working with adults, families, children and adolscents. I am dedicated to providing people with the support and guidance they need to achieve goals, learn coping mechansims and invest in leading an overall healthy lifestyle for your mind, body and spirit. I have experience working with miltary members/families, ADHD, behavioral issues in children, anxiety, depression, bipolar, life transitions, grief, trauma, Autism and several other areas.
(401) 309-0892 View (401) 309-0892
Photo of Sheila C Poirier, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Sheila C Poirier
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
Waitlist for new clients
Expressive Therapy is a specialization tool that I utilize in therapy sessions by introducing art, creative writing, music, movement, drama and play to help individuals express themselves more effectively and without judgment.
"Trust The Process" is my professional mantra in which I help people through the therapeutic healing process in an expressive and non-intrusive style. I been in the behavioral health field for 27 years and I am still highly energized, empathetic and compassionate about my profession and the people I serve. Using traditional talk therapy as well as DBT and Expressive therapy modalities I focus on mindfulness, wellness and strength-based practices to empower people to be active and motivated for change, acceptance and letting go of the past which is holding back the healing today.
Expressive Therapy is a specialization tool that I utilize in therapy sessions by introducing art, creative writing, music, movement, drama and play to help individuals express themselves more effectively and without judgment.
"Trust The Process" is my professional mantra in which I help people through the therapeutic healing process in an expressive and non-intrusive style. I been in the behavioral health field for 27 years and I am still highly energized, empathetic and compassionate about my profession and the people I serve. Using traditional talk therapy as well as DBT and Expressive therapy modalities I focus on mindfulness, wellness and strength-based practices to empower people to be active and motivated for change, acceptance and letting go of the past which is holding back the healing today.
(401) 372-2325 View (401) 372-2325
Photo of Dana Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
Dana Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CGS
Verified Verified
Barrington, RI 02806
It can be lonely and scary to navigate the darkness we feel after experiencing adversity, trauma, and issues with mental health. People who have experienced grief, loss, abuse, etc. often feel a sense of confusion and disconnection from their own identity. My intention as a therapist specializing in trauma is to meet you where you are and guide you safely through your unique healing journey. My office is a judgement free zone where you can unpack anything. Everybody deserves to find their way back to themselves, their light, their voice, and their wellness. It is an honor and a privilege to sit with you for this process.
It can be lonely and scary to navigate the darkness we feel after experiencing adversity, trauma, and issues with mental health. People who have experienced grief, loss, abuse, etc. often feel a sense of confusion and disconnection from their own identity. My intention as a therapist specializing in trauma is to meet you where you are and guide you safely through your unique healing journey. My office is a judgement free zone where you can unpack anything. Everybody deserves to find their way back to themselves, their light, their voice, and their wellness. It is an honor and a privilege to sit with you for this process.
(401) 240-2978 View (401) 240-2978
Photo of Kenneth Patterson, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Kenneth Patterson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
I have a history working with adults, children, couples and families. I enjoy working with a diverse population. Change is inevitable in life however how one moves through it is up to the individual. Behavior is changeable but only by the person that has the behavior not by his/her partner, parent, friend etc.
I have a history working with adults, children, couples and families. I enjoy working with a diverse population. Change is inevitable in life however how one moves through it is up to the individual. Behavior is changeable but only by the person that has the behavior not by his/her partner, parent, friend etc.
(401) 489-7724 View (401) 489-7724
Photo of Stephanie Palazzo Healing In Motion Counseling, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Stephanie Palazzo Healing In Motion Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
Sometimes we may lose our way on the winding road life sets forth. Stephanie holds faith that every individual can embrace their ability to change, grow & recover. Perhaps it may not be easy to admit we might benefit from the support of another to help us regain strength. Someone to listen, provide feedback, validation, insight & education can help to regain control & improve lives. We may seek another to listen to where we are at in our lives, without judgment, biases & preconceived notions. Sharing details of our lives is a display of bravery. Stephanie is sensitive of hesitations to seek help & hopes to provide comfort.
Sometimes we may lose our way on the winding road life sets forth. Stephanie holds faith that every individual can embrace their ability to change, grow & recover. Perhaps it may not be easy to admit we might benefit from the support of another to help us regain strength. Someone to listen, provide feedback, validation, insight & education can help to regain control & improve lives. We may seek another to listen to where we are at in our lives, without judgment, biases & preconceived notions. Sharing details of our lives is a display of bravery. Stephanie is sensitive of hesitations to seek help & hopes to provide comfort.
(401) 561-3272 View (401) 561-3272
Photo of Elise Arruda Laorenza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Barrington, RI
Elise Arruda Laorenza
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
Not accepting new clients
I am an experienced play, trauma, and multicultural therapist who implements positively-minded therapeutic approaches with children, adolescents, families and couples, as well as individuals.
*Currently not accepting new clients* My training includes a doctorate degree in Developmental Psychology and the license in Mental Health Counseling with over 15 years experience working with children and families in public schools, Brown University, and Hospital settings. We will work collaboratively to set priorities for positive change and meet you and your family where you are at while also integrating research based approaches. I am committed the belief that individuals and families generate positive change when given an effective set of knowledge and tools.
I am an experienced play, trauma, and multicultural therapist who implements positively-minded therapeutic approaches with children, adolescents, families and couples, as well as individuals.
*Currently not accepting new clients* My training includes a doctorate degree in Developmental Psychology and the license in Mental Health Counseling with over 15 years experience working with children and families in public schools, Brown University, and Hospital settings. We will work collaboratively to set priorities for positive change and meet you and your family where you are at while also integrating research based approaches. I am committed the belief that individuals and families generate positive change when given an effective set of knowledge and tools.
(401) 200-3848 View (401) 200-3848
Photo of Amy Murphy, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Amy Murphy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new clients. We are all on a journey of growth and change. Are you feeling as though you need to change to create balance in your life? Reaching out for help takes courage and resilience. In my practice I strive to create a genuine, safe, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship with clients based in trust, empowerment, and compassion. My approach is holistic, incorporating mind and body to gain the tools to create more peace in your life. We all have the strength to make positive change in our lives, we may need support, and guidance in recognizing those strengths.
Currently not accepting new clients. We are all on a journey of growth and change. Are you feeling as though you need to change to create balance in your life? Reaching out for help takes courage and resilience. In my practice I strive to create a genuine, safe, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship with clients based in trust, empowerment, and compassion. My approach is holistic, incorporating mind and body to gain the tools to create more peace in your life. We all have the strength to make positive change in our lives, we may need support, and guidance in recognizing those strengths.
(401) 246-8556 View (401) 246-8556

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nancy R Guertin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
Nancy R Guertin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, RI 02809
I also have experience providing play therapy with younger children who are experiencing emotional dysregulation or other developmental issues.
I have 25+ years working in the field of mental health with children, adolescents, and adults. My wide range of experiences provides me with the knowledge and skills to help people through difficult times in their lives and guide them through the challenges, and sometimes, difficult transitions and adjustments. My job is to provide clients with new skills that empower them to look at their issues from a new perspective and empower them to engage in a change process.
I also have experience providing play therapy with younger children who are experiencing emotional dysregulation or other developmental issues.
I have 25+ years working in the field of mental health with children, adolescents, and adults. My wide range of experiences provides me with the knowledge and skills to help people through difficult times in their lives and guide them through the challenges, and sometimes, difficult transitions and adjustments. My job is to provide clients with new skills that empower them to look at their issues from a new perspective and empower them to engage in a change process.
(401) 396-5356 View (401) 396-5356
Photo of RI Home Based Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
RI Home Based Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809
Are you facing challenges in parenting, relationships, dealing with trauma, or navigating anxiety triggers? I have a deep understanding of these issues, drawn from my personal experiences. I’m passionate about helping others manage and overcome them. I love working with children, teenagers, & couples. I enjoy drawing children & adolescents in with play & art therapy. These creative approaches help them to express themselves & foster a strong therapeutic bond between us. I guide couples to move from distress, distance, or contention to a place of renewed closeness & intimacy.
Are you facing challenges in parenting, relationships, dealing with trauma, or navigating anxiety triggers? I have a deep understanding of these issues, drawn from my personal experiences. I’m passionate about helping others manage and overcome them. I love working with children, teenagers, & couples. I enjoy drawing children & adolescents in with play & art therapy. These creative approaches help them to express themselves & foster a strong therapeutic bond between us. I guide couples to move from distress, distance, or contention to a place of renewed closeness & intimacy.
(401) 416-4192 View (401) 416-4192
Photo of Gabrielle J Dworkin, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Gabrielle J Dworkin
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, RPT, GC-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02904
A little bit about me... I am a Registered Play Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in RI/MA, Certified Grief Counselor and recently became certified as a Facilitator of the Broken Bowl Technique. I attended the Expressive Arts Institute at Salve Regina University. I am a former Board Member of the New England Association for Play Therapy. I see clients ages 2-12 individually, but do involve family members. I am in the office weekdays. I am NOT accepting any court involved cases requiring contact with: lawyers/GAL/DCYF/and court letters, as well as those that require a higher level of care due to safety issues.
A little bit about me... I am a Registered Play Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in RI/MA, Certified Grief Counselor and recently became certified as a Facilitator of the Broken Bowl Technique. I attended the Expressive Arts Institute at Salve Regina University. I am a former Board Member of the New England Association for Play Therapy. I see clients ages 2-12 individually, but do involve family members. I am in the office weekdays. I am NOT accepting any court involved cases requiring contact with: lawyers/GAL/DCYF/and court letters, as well as those that require a higher level of care due to safety issues.
(401) 331-1244 View (401) 331-1244
Photo of Vivian Ng, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Vivian Ng
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906  (Online Only)
Additionally, Vivian utilizes affect-regulation strategies and play therapy with children, as well as parent-skills training and psycho-education with parents.
Vivian Ng is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Rhode Island with over 10 years of experience working with children, adults, and families in community and school-based settings. She approaches her clients with an eagerness to listen and learn their stories. As her clients allow, she walks into their spaces of hopelessness and distress to sit with those feelings, and she navigates her clients to a place of measurable change. The goal is long-term empowerment. The approach is relational and collaborative.
Additionally, Vivian utilizes affect-regulation strategies and play therapy with children, as well as parent-skills training and psycho-education with parents.
Vivian Ng is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Rhode Island with over 10 years of experience working with children, adults, and families in community and school-based settings. She approaches her clients with an eagerness to listen and learn their stories. As her clients allow, she walks into their spaces of hopelessness and distress to sit with those feelings, and she navigates her clients to a place of measurable change. The goal is long-term empowerment. The approach is relational and collaborative.
(401) 373-4199 View (401) 373-4199
Photo of Jeffrey D Berthiaume, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Jeffrey D Berthiaume
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903
I am a Licensed Child and Family Behavioral Therapist and received my Master's from New England College. I have been working with children, couples and families for over 18 years. I have spent the past 16 years using Behavioral Play Therapy with Preschool children, as well as with families utilizing a variety of treatment modalities which include Family Systems and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Issues I have years of experience treating both ADHD and ODD in young children. Over my eighteen years of experience, I have developed an unrelenting passion to help my clients achieve their personal goals.
I am a Licensed Child and Family Behavioral Therapist and received my Master's from New England College. I have been working with children, couples and families for over 18 years. I have spent the past 16 years using Behavioral Play Therapy with Preschool children, as well as with families utilizing a variety of treatment modalities which include Family Systems and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Issues I have years of experience treating both ADHD and ODD in young children. Over my eighteen years of experience, I have developed an unrelenting passion to help my clients achieve their personal goals.
(401) 329-9450 View (401) 329-9450
Photo of Tina Leavitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
Tina Leavitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CGS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910
Is it hard coping with daily stressors? My passion is working with children, teens, and families to help them understand and manage their emotions and behaviors in a supportive therapeutic environment. I assist parents and children with working through barriers that affect their everyday life through a warm and collaborative, strength-based approach. I utilize creative interventions to support children/adolescents to enhance their skills including play therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and collaborative/proactive problem-solving.
Is it hard coping with daily stressors? My passion is working with children, teens, and families to help them understand and manage their emotions and behaviors in a supportive therapeutic environment. I assist parents and children with working through barriers that affect their everyday life through a warm and collaborative, strength-based approach. I utilize creative interventions to support children/adolescents to enhance their skills including play therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and collaborative/proactive problem-solving.
(401) 246-8519 View (401) 246-8519
Photo of Deanna Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
Deanna Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
I specialize in using evidence-based treatment modalities tailored to your needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy techniques, Acceptance & Commitment, and Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
Immediate openings! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island. After graduating from Rhode Island College with my Master of Social Work degree, I worked as a School Social Worker providing mental health, social skill, and behavioral support to children and adolescents. I have additional experience providing outpatient therapy within community mental health and supporting individuals facing stressors resulting from crisis, trauma, life transitions, and structural and systematic challenges.
I specialize in using evidence-based treatment modalities tailored to your needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy techniques, Acceptance & Commitment, and Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
Immediate openings! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island. After graduating from Rhode Island College with my Master of Social Work degree, I worked as a School Social Worker providing mental health, social skill, and behavioral support to children and adolescents. I have additional experience providing outpatient therapy within community mental health and supporting individuals facing stressors resulting from crisis, trauma, life transitions, and structural and systematic challenges.
(401) 388-6973 View (401) 388-6973
Photo of Saira I. Qureshi, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Saira I. Qureshi
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903  (Online Only)
Working with children and adolescents brings up various treatment needs and goals in therapy. Through CBT, DBT, MBSR, PCIT, mentalization based therapeutic strategies and educational resources, role-playing, arts and play therapy as well as self-help worksheets, young clients will be able to develop appropriate expressive skills to share their wants and needs. Parents can collaborate in treatment by proactively learning parenting skills to best engage with their children and adolescents by becoming more responsive in establishing and maintaining secure attachment through consistently building on healthy, nurturing relationships.
Working with children and adolescents brings up various treatment needs and goals in therapy. Through CBT, DBT, MBSR, PCIT, mentalization based therapeutic strategies and educational resources, role-playing, arts and play therapy as well as self-help worksheets, young clients will be able to develop appropriate expressive skills to share their wants and needs. Parents can collaborate in treatment by proactively learning parenting skills to best engage with their children and adolescents by becoming more responsive in establishing and maintaining secure attachment through consistently building on healthy, nurturing relationships.
(866) 754-4973 View (866) 754-4973
Photo of Katherine Pescosolido, Counselor in Barrington, RI
Katherine Pescosolido
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02888
Dr. Katherine Pescosolido is a licensed therapist specializing in couples, depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, pregnancy/post-partum issues, grief, health behavior change and parenting. Katherine has experience working with adults and families in a variety of clinical, research and outpatient settings. In her clinical work, she uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy as well as expressive modalities such as play, music, and art.
Dr. Katherine Pescosolido is a licensed therapist specializing in couples, depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, pregnancy/post-partum issues, grief, health behavior change and parenting. Katherine has experience working with adults and families in a variety of clinical, research and outpatient settings. In her clinical work, she uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy as well as expressive modalities such as play, music, and art.
(401) 240-1519 View (401) 240-1519
Photo of The Counseling Center at JCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
The Counseling Center at JCS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02904
Services Include • Individual and Family – In person and/or telehealth • Case management • Ages 3 and up - Specialties include: Seniors, Art Therapy, Child Play therapy, Grief therapy, Trauma-Informed Care.
For more than 50 years, The Counseling Center at JCS in Providence has offered hope and help to anyone facing life challenges. As a multidisciplinary team, we have decades of experience providing mental health services in both community and private practice settings. We provide counseling services to seniors, adults, adolescents, children, and families with a wide range of concerns, including, but not limited to: feeling overwhelmed or stressed, depressed mood, panic or anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, adjusting to life transitions and developmental stages, identity development, trauma recovery, etc.
Services Include • Individual and Family – In person and/or telehealth • Case management • Ages 3 and up - Specialties include: Seniors, Art Therapy, Child Play therapy, Grief therapy, Trauma-Informed Care.
For more than 50 years, The Counseling Center at JCS in Providence has offered hope and help to anyone facing life challenges. As a multidisciplinary team, we have decades of experience providing mental health services in both community and private practice settings. We provide counseling services to seniors, adults, adolescents, children, and families with a wide range of concerns, including, but not limited to: feeling overwhelmed or stressed, depressed mood, panic or anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, adjusting to life transitions and developmental stages, identity development, trauma recovery, etc.
(401) 583-6142 View (401) 583-6142
Photo of Dale Belluscio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
Dale Belluscio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
In my practice I use art/play and sand therapy for the children.
I have many years experience working with a wide age range from 3 to 90 yrs old. I believe in helping my clients find a sense of empowerment within. i believe everyone can be supported and helped in working with their mental illness and emotional issues. I create a warm, comfortable and safe environment for all of my clients. I offer day, evening and Saturday appointments, therefore there is usually not a wait list. I have worked with non profit agencies, the federal probation program, and in a group practice. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, ADHD, PTSD, trauma and many other diagnoses.
In my practice I use art/play and sand therapy for the children.
I have many years experience working with a wide age range from 3 to 90 yrs old. I believe in helping my clients find a sense of empowerment within. i believe everyone can be supported and helped in working with their mental illness and emotional issues. I create a warm, comfortable and safe environment for all of my clients. I offer day, evening and Saturday appointments, therefore there is usually not a wait list. I have worked with non profit agencies, the federal probation program, and in a group practice. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, ADHD, PTSD, trauma and many other diagnoses.
(401) 305-2128 View (401) 305-2128
Photo of Monique Sisson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Barrington, RI
Monique Sisson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906  (Online Only)
I utilize a comprehensive and collaborative approach that may encompass play, narrative, art, client-centered therapy, strengths-based therapy, play-based interventions, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a queer-identifying (they/them) person of color, and a masters-level social work student intern in my last year of field placement. I am an activist and social justice-oriented individual. I have 6 years of experience working with children, youth, and guardians. I have worked with adolescence and families who have gone through major life transitions, children on the autism spectrum, ADHD, and adults with disabilities. My approach to therapy aligns with my core values, assisting individuals in their life journey with honor and consideration, and acknowledging that each person holds the authority on their own unique experiences.
I utilize a comprehensive and collaborative approach that may encompass play, narrative, art, client-centered therapy, strengths-based therapy, play-based interventions, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a queer-identifying (they/them) person of color, and a masters-level social work student intern in my last year of field placement. I am an activist and social justice-oriented individual. I have 6 years of experience working with children, youth, and guardians. I have worked with adolescence and families who have gone through major life transitions, children on the autism spectrum, ADHD, and adults with disabilities. My approach to therapy aligns with my core values, assisting individuals in their life journey with honor and consideration, and acknowledging that each person holds the authority on their own unique experiences.
(339) 215-1833 View (339) 215-1833
Photo of Jody Vieira, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, RI
Jody Vieira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I have worked with children, families and adults for the last 23 years. I have a passion for working with individuals that are struggling with concerns related to anxiety, depression and life stressors. I have worked extensively with children as well as adults and enjoy working with individuals and families to build healthy communication skills between family members.
Hello! I have worked with children, families and adults for the last 23 years. I have a passion for working with individuals that are struggling with concerns related to anxiety, depression and life stressors. I have worked extensively with children as well as adults and enjoy working with individuals and families to build healthy communication skills between family members.
(401) 307-4239 View (401) 307-4239

See more therapy options for Barrington


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.