Photo of Bryna Talamantez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Bryna Talamantez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Seeing your kid struggle is one of the toughest things to do as a parent or caregiver. Our children cannot always express their thoughts and feelings through words, and this can lead to frustration and confusion for both parent and child. Children express their thoughts and feelings through play and their toys are their words. When we allow children to play alongside therapeutic interventions, children can tell us so much about what is going on in their lives. Whether your child is experiencing grief, sadness, anxiety, anger, or school problems, they deserve some extra help!
Seeing your kid struggle is one of the toughest things to do as a parent or caregiver. Our children cannot always express their thoughts and feelings through words, and this can lead to frustration and confusion for both parent and child. Children express their thoughts and feelings through play and their toys are their words. When we allow children to play alongside therapeutic interventions, children can tell us so much about what is going on in their lives. Whether your child is experiencing grief, sadness, anxiety, anger, or school problems, they deserve some extra help!
(972) 564-8528 View (972) 564-8528
Photo of Erin Carlson, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Erin Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
I facilitate this process with play, arts, sand tray, and talk.
I work with adults and children ages 10 & under who are struggling with difficult emotions and/or challenges like stress, grief, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior problems, attachment issues, parenting, and more. Sometimes we are our own worst enemy and we need a neutral person to help us see things more clearly, and encourage and guide us to where we want to be.
I facilitate this process with play, arts, sand tray, and talk.
I work with adults and children ages 10 & under who are struggling with difficult emotions and/or challenges like stress, grief, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior problems, attachment issues, parenting, and more. Sometimes we are our own worst enemy and we need a neutral person to help us see things more clearly, and encourage and guide us to where we want to be.
(214) 480-4958 View (214) 480-4958
Photo of Destinie Myers in Plano, TX
Destinie Myers
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I primarily work with children and teens, where I enjoy incorporating play and art modalities.
I am so glad you are here because life is not meant to walk alone. I bring a wealth of experience and passion for helping children and adolescents navigate their emotional challenges through the transformative power of play and art therapy. This allows young clients to express themselves, explore their feelings, and develop coping skills in a developmentally appropriate manner. In addition, I feel strongly about supporting parents through parent education, empathy, active listening, and showing compassion to meet you where you are.
I primarily work with children and teens, where I enjoy incorporating play and art modalities.
I am so glad you are here because life is not meant to walk alone. I bring a wealth of experience and passion for helping children and adolescents navigate their emotional challenges through the transformative power of play and art therapy. This allows young clients to express themselves, explore their feelings, and develop coping skills in a developmentally appropriate manner. In addition, I feel strongly about supporting parents through parent education, empathy, active listening, and showing compassion to meet you where you are.
(214) 960-2359 View (214) 960-2359
Photo of Jennifer Milligan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Jennifer Milligan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am trained in Play Therapy and have been coined the Tween/ Teen Whisperer.
Hi! Whether this is your first attempt or your last effort to find help, I am happy you’re here. Having worked in the school setting the last 10 years, I know that times are really tough for our kids. As parents, we may not know how to handle the things our kids go through, or even understand. I want to help by providing a safe and nurturing environment for children and youth to process their emotions and teach them healthy coping skills to get them through life’s difficult times.
I am trained in Play Therapy and have been coined the Tween/ Teen Whisperer.
Hi! Whether this is your first attempt or your last effort to find help, I am happy you’re here. Having worked in the school setting the last 10 years, I know that times are really tough for our kids. As parents, we may not know how to handle the things our kids go through, or even understand. I want to help by providing a safe and nurturing environment for children and youth to process their emotions and teach them healthy coping skills to get them through life’s difficult times.
(214) 609-1647 View (214) 609-1647
Photo of Sarah E Carlson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Sarah E Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, E-RYT, YACEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Sometimes, the smallest steps can lead to the biggest change! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher 200 Hour, and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider. I have been providing services in the DFW area since 2007, including services for children, adults, and families. Through a warm and caring approach, I can help you find within yourself the positive qualities to help you feel empowered. I can help you understand yourself and/or your child more fully, to be ready to face the big and little challenges that life can throw your way.
Sometimes, the smallest steps can lead to the biggest change! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher 200 Hour, and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider. I have been providing services in the DFW area since 2007, including services for children, adults, and families. Through a warm and caring approach, I can help you find within yourself the positive qualities to help you feel empowered. I can help you understand yourself and/or your child more fully, to be ready to face the big and little challenges that life can throw your way.
(469) 698-3590 View (469) 698-3590
Photo of Ryanne Niki Shewchuk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Ryanne Niki Shewchuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
My job is to partner with you and your child to reduce conflict, strengthen family relationships, and help kiddos process big feelings through play therapy, EMDR (trauma) therapy, sandplay, and other interventions.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or at a loss about how to help your child or teen? Perhaps your child’s school has suggested you reach out to a counselor, and you’re not sure where to start, but know that you need some support. If so, I applaud you for taking steps in the right direction to seek professional help for your child. I can help guide you and help you find a way to re-connect with yourself and/or your child. Connection is the key in relationship building. I work best with families and children who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and difficulty coping.
My job is to partner with you and your child to reduce conflict, strengthen family relationships, and help kiddos process big feelings through play therapy, EMDR (trauma) therapy, sandplay, and other interventions.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or at a loss about how to help your child or teen? Perhaps your child’s school has suggested you reach out to a counselor, and you’re not sure where to start, but know that you need some support. If so, I applaud you for taking steps in the right direction to seek professional help for your child. I can help guide you and help you find a way to re-connect with yourself and/or your child. Connection is the key in relationship building. I work best with families and children who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and difficulty coping.
(214) 617-9277 View (214) 617-9277
Photo of Madee Hayes, LPC Associate in Plano, TX
Madee Hayes
LPC Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am formally trained in Play Therapy.
Your child has been bullied, feels overwhelmed easily, and has had difficulty making friends. Your teen may be showing signs of anxiety or depression and are having difficulty feeling confident and capable in their world. You as an adult may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and you just need help making sense of it all.
I am formally trained in Play Therapy.
Your child has been bullied, feels overwhelmed easily, and has had difficulty making friends. Your teen may be showing signs of anxiety or depression and are having difficulty feeling confident and capable in their world. You as an adult may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and you just need help making sense of it all.
(214) 239-4987 View (214) 239-4987
Photo of Sarah Gregory, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Sarah Gregory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I am a trauma informed, EMDR trained, & a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional therapist. I enjoy incorporating games and art therapy in sessions. I am passionate to help people move through emotional/spiritual obstacles so they can live rich lives interpersonally and contribute to their community. A warm, empathetic relationship between a counselor and client provides the context where growth and change can take place. I utilize Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Play Therapy approaches.
I am a trauma informed, EMDR trained, & a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional therapist. I enjoy incorporating games and art therapy in sessions. I am passionate to help people move through emotional/spiritual obstacles so they can live rich lives interpersonally and contribute to their community. A warm, empathetic relationship between a counselor and client provides the context where growth and change can take place. I utilize Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Play Therapy approaches.
(972) 608-3179 View (972) 608-3179
Photo of Megan M Krizan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Megan M Krizan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
As an LPC-Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist - Supervisor, I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families, using play, activity, and talk therapy.
We all wish life’s journey could be an easy one, but the reality is the path is not always smooth. Life can be filled with uncertainty, conflict, and hard choices. No matter what your age, there are times when life can leave you feeling lost. The good news is that this journey does not have to be faced alone. With a focus on compassion, connection, and what is developmentally appropriate, I can provide support and guidance through these challenges. Whether you are an adult, child, teen, parent, or whole family, I am able to help. I consider it a great privilege to be allowed to walk with people on their life's journey.
As an LPC-Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist - Supervisor, I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families, using play, activity, and talk therapy.
We all wish life’s journey could be an easy one, but the reality is the path is not always smooth. Life can be filled with uncertainty, conflict, and hard choices. No matter what your age, there are times when life can leave you feeling lost. The good news is that this journey does not have to be faced alone. With a focus on compassion, connection, and what is developmentally appropriate, I can provide support and guidance through these challenges. Whether you are an adult, child, teen, parent, or whole family, I am able to help. I consider it a great privilege to be allowed to walk with people on their life's journey.
(214) 934-0543 View (214) 934-0543
Photo of Kasey Key, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Kasey Key
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
I apply my specialized training as a Registered Play Therapist to offer a tailored approach that speaks directly to the emotional needs of children and families.
Have you ever found yourself in a moment where everything changes, leaving you to wonder, "What just happened?" Sudden feelings of overwhelm or disconnection are very common. I am dedicated to providing an empathetic, supportive environment where your perspective is met with curiosity, acceptance, and a touch of playfulness. Together, we'll expand the use of emotional language, cultivate healthy ways to express feelings, and start to build a foundation of self compassion, respect, and understanding.
I apply my specialized training as a Registered Play Therapist to offer a tailored approach that speaks directly to the emotional needs of children and families.
Have you ever found yourself in a moment where everything changes, leaving you to wonder, "What just happened?" Sudden feelings of overwhelm or disconnection are very common. I am dedicated to providing an empathetic, supportive environment where your perspective is met with curiosity, acceptance, and a touch of playfulness. Together, we'll expand the use of emotional language, cultivate healthy ways to express feelings, and start to build a foundation of self compassion, respect, and understanding.
(214) 393-5980 View (214) 393-5980
Photo of Jillissa Cooper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Jillissa Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Counseling has been Jillissa's passion for years. She specializes in, but is not limited to, issues including: marriage and family, relationship dynamics, boundary issues, adolescent and children's issues, and woman's issues such as eating disorders, depression, anger, anxiety, divorce care, singleness, grief, bitterness, identity and significance issues and mood disorders. She also works with clients struggling with anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Adjustment Disorders. Jillissa's philosophy of counseling is the integration of Christianity and psychology, and her counseling methods include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Psychoeducation, and Child Play Therapy.
Counseling has been Jillissa's passion for years. She specializes in, but is not limited to, issues including: marriage and family, relationship dynamics, boundary issues, adolescent and children's issues, and woman's issues such as eating disorders, depression, anger, anxiety, divorce care, singleness, grief, bitterness, identity and significance issues and mood disorders. She also works with clients struggling with anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Adjustment Disorders. Jillissa's philosophy of counseling is the integration of Christianity and psychology, and her counseling methods include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Psychoeducation, and Child Play Therapy.
(972) 200-3409 View (972) 200-3409
Photo of Nicky Richardson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Nicky Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, RPT™
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with various treatment modalities such as Play Therapy, Attachment-based therapies, Mindfulness, Sandtray, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I believe every person has a unique way of looking at the world, and sometimes we all need a little help finding a common language to connect with others. We all strive for something, and my goal as a counselor is to help you figure out what is working for you and replace what no longer serves you. Although I can provide resources and a new perspective, I believe you are the expert on your own story. I tailor my treatment style to your individual needs and aim to populate your coping skills "toolbox" with the tools that work best for you as we work toward your goals.
I have experience with various treatment modalities such as Play Therapy, Attachment-based therapies, Mindfulness, Sandtray, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I believe every person has a unique way of looking at the world, and sometimes we all need a little help finding a common language to connect with others. We all strive for something, and my goal as a counselor is to help you figure out what is working for you and replace what no longer serves you. Although I can provide resources and a new perspective, I believe you are the expert on your own story. I tailor my treatment style to your individual needs and aim to populate your coping skills "toolbox" with the tools that work best for you as we work toward your goals.
(469) 414-9538 View (469) 414-9538
Photo of Alyssa West, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Alyssa West
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I have specialized training utilizing play therapy, activity therapy, EMDR, and expressive arts.
I recognize how overwhelming the process towards healing can be whether for yourself or a loved one. Together, I can help you through the process, as we work on fostering self-esteem, a greater sense of self, and the healthy coping skills needed to navigate life’s challenges. I believe that counseling is a collaborative process where we work on healing and allowing the whole self to thrive in whatever way is best tailored towards your individual needs.
I have specialized training utilizing play therapy, activity therapy, EMDR, and expressive arts.
I recognize how overwhelming the process towards healing can be whether for yourself or a loved one. Together, I can help you through the process, as we work on fostering self-esteem, a greater sense of self, and the healthy coping skills needed to navigate life’s challenges. I believe that counseling is a collaborative process where we work on healing and allowing the whole self to thrive in whatever way is best tailored towards your individual needs.
(214) 496-5278 View (214) 496-5278
Photo of Jennifer Jenkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Jennifer Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I am also a Licensed Counselor Supervisor and Registered Play Therapy Supervisor. I earned my Masters of Science degree at the University of North Texas, and received advanced training in Play Therapy, Expressive Arts and Filial Therapy. I have more than 18 years of experience working with children and families. I specialize in working with Preschool age children and their parents to address concerns regarding emotional and social development and behavioral issues while enhancing the parent-child relationship. I am also passionate about working with pre-adolescents and adolescents. Counseling in adolescence is beneficial to facilitate healthy coping skills and self-expression. I also specialize in addressing the psycho-therapeutic needs of individuals with eating disorders, women with postpartum depression, and families who have experienced the death of a loved one.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I am also a Licensed Counselor Supervisor and Registered Play Therapy Supervisor. I earned my Masters of Science degree at the University of North Texas, and received advanced training in Play Therapy, Expressive Arts and Filial Therapy. I have more than 18 years of experience working with children and families. I specialize in working with Preschool age children and their parents to address concerns regarding emotional and social development and behavioral issues while enhancing the parent-child relationship. I am also passionate about working with pre-adolescents and adolescents. Counseling in adolescence is beneficial to facilitate healthy coping skills and self-expression. I also specialize in addressing the psycho-therapeutic needs of individuals with eating disorders, women with postpartum depression, and families who have experienced the death of a loved one.
(972) 893-9467 View (972) 893-9467
Photo of Qian 'Mimi' Desmarais, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Qian 'Mimi' Desmarais
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
Thank you for your visit! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, parents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I specialize in play therapy and EMDR trauma counseling. With a set of skills, a sense of humor, and a genuine heart to help, I aim to help achieve your optimal emotional state and self-exploration in a safe environment. I will assist you or your child to instill hope, learn coping skills, manage symptoms, and have a newfound perspective on the path of healing.
Thank you for your visit! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, parents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I specialize in play therapy and EMDR trauma counseling. With a set of skills, a sense of humor, and a genuine heart to help, I aim to help achieve your optimal emotional state and self-exploration in a safe environment. I will assist you or your child to instill hope, learn coping skills, manage symptoms, and have a newfound perspective on the path of healing.
(940) 220-3854 View (940) 220-3854
Photo of Lori Michele Kennedy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Lori Michele Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, Owner
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Expressions Family Counseling is a place for everyone to experience the difference wellness focused therapy can make! What makes us different is a dedication to combining traditional talk therapy with creative arts, play and experiential activities. Our clients love the variety of ways to work on their strengths and struggles. Helping clients express through art, sand and other mediums inspires self-exploration and insight on a deeper level, alleviating the need for the "perfect words" and taking the pressure off of overthinking and anxiety. We love helping clients find the perfect way to harness strengths in order to thrive.
Expressions Family Counseling is a place for everyone to experience the difference wellness focused therapy can make! What makes us different is a dedication to combining traditional talk therapy with creative arts, play and experiential activities. Our clients love the variety of ways to work on their strengths and struggles. Helping clients express through art, sand and other mediums inspires self-exploration and insight on a deeper level, alleviating the need for the "perfect words" and taking the pressure off of overthinking and anxiety. We love helping clients find the perfect way to harness strengths in order to thrive.
(972) 362-1399 View (972) 362-1399
Photo of Kara Schramm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Kara Schramm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
I utilize play therapy, activity therapy, and art therapy techniques.
I believe everyone has the potential to grow and heal and I am committed to helping them succeed. I work with each client where they are at today and create a treatment plan that is unique to them. I utilize cognitive behavioral, solutions focused, and family systems approaches as well as a person-centered orientation. I can provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy depending on each client's needs.
I utilize play therapy, activity therapy, and art therapy techniques.
I believe everyone has the potential to grow and heal and I am committed to helping them succeed. I work with each client where they are at today and create a treatment plan that is unique to them. I utilize cognitive behavioral, solutions focused, and family systems approaches as well as a person-centered orientation. I can provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy depending on each client's needs.
(469) 871-8876 View (469) 871-8876
Photo of Bloom Child Psychology, PLLC, Psychologist in Plano, TX
Bloom Child Psychology, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Stewart provides child and teen counseling, play therapy, and parent training.
Dr. Bonny Stewart is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Specialist in School Psychologist, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. She has advanced specialization working with children and families. Her passion is to help parents find answers and understanding to help their child succeed at home, school, and in all aspects of their lives.
Stewart provides child and teen counseling, play therapy, and parent training.
Dr. Bonny Stewart is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Specialist in School Psychologist, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. She has advanced specialization working with children and families. Her passion is to help parents find answers and understanding to help their child succeed at home, school, and in all aspects of their lives.
(469) 457-4197 View (469) 457-4197
Photo of Chandler Odom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Chandler Odom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Utilizing a variety of techniques, some of Chandler’s favorite are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Play Therapy in her treatment process.
Chandler is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and has worked as a mental health counselor in settings such as inpatient hospitals, community centers, foster care system, and private practice. Chandler specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Self Esteem, Stress, Gender & Identity issues, Grief, Loss, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Relationship Issues, and Foster Care Transitions. She specializes in working with kids, teens, and young adults.
Utilizing a variety of techniques, some of Chandler’s favorite are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Play Therapy in her treatment process.
Chandler is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and has worked as a mental health counselor in settings such as inpatient hospitals, community centers, foster care system, and private practice. Chandler specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Self Esteem, Stress, Gender & Identity issues, Grief, Loss, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Relationship Issues, and Foster Care Transitions. She specializes in working with kids, teens, and young adults.
(214) 817-2089 View (214) 817-2089
Photo of Jacqueline Guardiola, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Jacqueline Guardiola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults, adolescents, and children who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I also have experience in treating Bipolar Disorder and substance use. As an experienced play therapist, I am trained to work with children, focusing on trauma treatment using EMDR. I enjoy involving caregivers in the process through parent-child interaction therapy. My priority is understanding your expectations and helping you achieve your goals.
I specialize in treating adults, adolescents, and children who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I also have experience in treating Bipolar Disorder and substance use. As an experienced play therapist, I am trained to work with children, focusing on trauma treatment using EMDR. I enjoy involving caregivers in the process through parent-child interaction therapy. My priority is understanding your expectations and helping you achieve your goals.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
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.