Therapists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Julie Gowen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Julie Gowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
I utilize a variety of tools for creative expression, including: art, journal, play therapy and visualization exercises.
Looking to connect mind, body, and spirit in your personal life and relationships? Then you've come to the right place. My ideal client is one who is ready to make positive changes in his/her life and will work collaboratively to achieve stated goals. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Areas of interest include play therapy, adolescent therapy and premarital counseling.
I utilize a variety of tools for creative expression, including: art, journal, play therapy and visualization exercises.
Looking to connect mind, body, and spirit in your personal life and relationships? Then you've come to the right place. My ideal client is one who is ready to make positive changes in his/her life and will work collaboratively to achieve stated goals. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Areas of interest include play therapy, adolescent therapy and premarital counseling.
(210) 853-0322 View (210) 853-0322
Photo of Marivel Tijerina, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in San Antonio, TX
Marivel Tijerina
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78254
Through a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy and play therapy techniques, I believe in tailoring sessions to meet the unique needs of each of my clients.
Thank you for taking the first step in searching for a therapist. I am committed to guiding children and teens through life's difficulties, challenging emotions, and fostering positive change. I have 9 years of combined experience as a certified school counselor and licensed professional counselor associate in working with children and teens dealing with anxiety, school issues, ADHD, and depression. My approach is warm, empathetic, and collaborative, aiming to create a safe space for expression, exploration of thoughts and emotions, and growth.
Through a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy and play therapy techniques, I believe in tailoring sessions to meet the unique needs of each of my clients.
Thank you for taking the first step in searching for a therapist. I am committed to guiding children and teens through life's difficulties, challenging emotions, and fostering positive change. I have 9 years of combined experience as a certified school counselor and licensed professional counselor associate in working with children and teens dealing with anxiety, school issues, ADHD, and depression. My approach is warm, empathetic, and collaborative, aiming to create a safe space for expression, exploration of thoughts and emotions, and growth.
(210) 941-2615 View (210) 941-2615
Photo of Corazoncitos Alegres Counseling and Play Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Corazoncitos Alegres Counseling and Play Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78247
Are you concerned about your child's behavior? Do you think you might need help and don't know where to start? Have your children experienced life changes and you would like them to develop healthy coping skills? At Corazoncitos Alegres we offer counseling and play therapy for children as well as parental support.
¿Le preocupa la conducta de su hijo? ¿Cree que necesita ayuda y no sabe dónde encontrarla? ¿Está buscando orientación para manejar cambios que han ocurrido en la vida de su niño, ya sean como resultado del desarrollo normal de la edad o por situaciones en el medio que le rodea? En Corazoncitos Alegres ofrecemos consejería infantil en español a través de la terapia de juego. Nos especializamos en niños de edad temprana, preescolar y primaria y ayudamos a padres que necesitan recursos para continuar dando lo mejor de sí en la ardua tarea de la crianza. Llame ahora para conocer más sobre nuestros servicios de consejería en español.
Are you concerned about your child's behavior? Do you think you might need help and don't know where to start? Have your children experienced life changes and you would like them to develop healthy coping skills? At Corazoncitos Alegres we offer counseling and play therapy for children as well as parental support.
¿Le preocupa la conducta de su hijo? ¿Cree que necesita ayuda y no sabe dónde encontrarla? ¿Está buscando orientación para manejar cambios que han ocurrido en la vida de su niño, ya sean como resultado del desarrollo normal de la edad o por situaciones en el medio que le rodea? En Corazoncitos Alegres ofrecemos consejería infantil en español a través de la terapia de juego. Nos especializamos en niños de edad temprana, preescolar y primaria y ayudamos a padres que necesitan recursos para continuar dando lo mejor de sí en la ardua tarea de la crianza. Llame ahora para conocer más sobre nuestros servicios de consejería en español.
(210) 571-7645 View (210) 571-7645
Photo of Monica Pinzon, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Monica Pinzon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78257
She uses different modalities as needed including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, art therapy, and play therapy, among other specialties.
Monica Pinzon is a Licensed Professional Counselor that has developed experience helping families with generational trauma, cultural issues, youth-specific trauma, challenges as an immigrant, life adjustments, and family conflict. Monica is an immigrant who has a strong understanding of the impact that life adjustments can have on a person's mental health and overall sense of well-being. She is able to connect with youth easily and utilizes unconditional positive regard with all her clients. Monica completed her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
She uses different modalities as needed including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, art therapy, and play therapy, among other specialties.
Monica Pinzon is a Licensed Professional Counselor that has developed experience helping families with generational trauma, cultural issues, youth-specific trauma, challenges as an immigrant, life adjustments, and family conflict. Monica is an immigrant who has a strong understanding of the impact that life adjustments can have on a person's mental health and overall sense of well-being. She is able to connect with youth easily and utilizes unconditional positive regard with all her clients. Monica completed her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
(830) 971-0992 View (830) 971-0992
Photo of Rachel Saenz, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Rachel Saenz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
I also have experience providing child-centered play therapy for children who have experienced trauma.
Hello, my name is Rachel Saenz. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and I'm passionate about helping people of all ages with bereavement and grief. I help clients through their grief journey and help them move through their grief while also providing a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings. The majority of my practice focuses on grief/bereavement, trauma/PTSD and C-PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and prenatal and postpartum issues. My approaches include person centered therapy and CBT.
I also have experience providing child-centered play therapy for children who have experienced trauma.
Hello, my name is Rachel Saenz. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and I'm passionate about helping people of all ages with bereavement and grief. I help clients through their grief journey and help them move through their grief while also providing a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings. The majority of my practice focuses on grief/bereavement, trauma/PTSD and C-PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and prenatal and postpartum issues. My approaches include person centered therapy and CBT.
(210) 903-5842 View (210) 903-5842
Photo of Dixie White, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Dixie White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
However, modalities used in treatment may include CBT, mindfulness-based approaches, play therapy techniques, expressive arts, and Gestalt techniques.
Are you looking for ways to connect with your existing strengths while gaining awareness and insight into your thoughts and feelings? Do you seek finding meaning within your unique experience in the world? Do you just need a compassionate yet pragmatic sounding board to help you reflect upon who you are? Know that your choice to be open to therapy is the first step in real, positive change in your life. The desire to do what it takes to lead a more balanced, harmonious internal and external life is the most important trait in finding success with therapy.
However, modalities used in treatment may include CBT, mindfulness-based approaches, play therapy techniques, expressive arts, and Gestalt techniques.
Are you looking for ways to connect with your existing strengths while gaining awareness and insight into your thoughts and feelings? Do you seek finding meaning within your unique experience in the world? Do you just need a compassionate yet pragmatic sounding board to help you reflect upon who you are? Know that your choice to be open to therapy is the first step in real, positive change in your life. The desire to do what it takes to lead a more balanced, harmonious internal and external life is the most important trait in finding success with therapy.
(210) 864-1814 View (210) 864-1814
Photo of Tracy Mazloum , Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Tracy Mazloum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Our attachment wounds heal within the safety of a supportive, judgment-free environment. I am a registered play therapist and I work with children ages 5-10. I also work with adults utilizing modalities such as Sandtray and EMDR. My focus with adults is complex trauma and family of origin issues.
Our attachment wounds heal within the safety of a supportive, judgment-free environment. I am a registered play therapist and I work with children ages 5-10. I also work with adults utilizing modalities such as Sandtray and EMDR. My focus with adults is complex trauma and family of origin issues.
(210) 985-3478 View (210) 985-3478
Photo of Candiss Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Candiss Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260  (Online Only)
Play and Art Therapy allows a child to express themselves.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
Play and Art Therapy allows a child to express themselves.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
(210) 405-2891 View (210) 405-2891
Photo of Faryn Miller in San Antonio, TX
Faryn Miller
LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
I draw upon multiple interventions, including the therapeutic aspects of sand, art, and play to address emotional, behavioral, and relational issues.
Hello! My name is Faryn Miller and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You deserve to make yourself a priority and focus on your mental health. I would love to join you on your journey to become the most at peace, and best version of yourself possible.
I draw upon multiple interventions, including the therapeutic aspects of sand, art, and play to address emotional, behavioral, and relational issues.
Hello! My name is Faryn Miller and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You deserve to make yourself a priority and focus on your mental health. I would love to join you on your journey to become the most at peace, and best version of yourself possible.
(210) 940-3164 View (210) 940-3164
Photo of Elvia Obregon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Elvia Obregon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT, PN1, IFSLv2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78257  (Online Only)
I utilize Somatic Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy techniques.
Hello-Hola! It’s great to have you join me in this platform. Are you feeling all over the place, are your goals not coming to a fruition or maybe you have reached a plateau in your life? I’ve been there before and it doesn’t feel good. You are at the right place and my hope is that you find what you are looking for. I am usually invited to work with other therapists, business owners, high-achieving women and college students who are facing a life change, burn-out, relationship conflict or perhaps just need a safe space to grow in “Self” awareness/compassion and get some clarity in this season.
I utilize Somatic Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy techniques.
Hello-Hola! It’s great to have you join me in this platform. Are you feeling all over the place, are your goals not coming to a fruition or maybe you have reached a plateau in your life? I’ve been there before and it doesn’t feel good. You are at the right place and my hope is that you find what you are looking for. I am usually invited to work with other therapists, business owners, high-achieving women and college students who are facing a life change, burn-out, relationship conflict or perhaps just need a safe space to grow in “Self” awareness/compassion and get some clarity in this season.
(210) 971-4478 View (210) 971-4478
Photo of Yvonne Briones Elias, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Yvonne Briones Elias
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
I am a clinical psychologist with experience over twenty plus years providing family, couples, and individual counseling, play therapy, psychological assessment, and bilingual (English/Spanish) services to a client base spanning from young children to adolescents and adults. My extensive experience as a clinician and diagnostician includes working with ADHD, trauma, PTSD, anxiety based problems, depression, relational concerns, sports related concerns, and anger management, contributing to my approach to counseling grounded in the premise that the therapeutic relationship is essential in gaining meaning and resolving the conflicts that arise within our human experience.
I am a clinical psychologist with experience over twenty plus years providing family, couples, and individual counseling, play therapy, psychological assessment, and bilingual (English/Spanish) services to a client base spanning from young children to adolescents and adults. My extensive experience as a clinician and diagnostician includes working with ADHD, trauma, PTSD, anxiety based problems, depression, relational concerns, sports related concerns, and anger management, contributing to my approach to counseling grounded in the premise that the therapeutic relationship is essential in gaining meaning and resolving the conflicts that arise within our human experience.
(210) 598-5195 View (210) 598-5195
Photo of Roberta M. Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in San Antonio, TX
Roberta M. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
Counseling and therapy can provide new hope, helping clients discover or redefine the path to achieving goals and bringing deeper meaning to their lives. Roberta believes that each person is unique, with individual purposes and gifts. She works well with individuals, children, adolescents and families, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other integrative therapeutic techniques from a holistic perspective. Roberta has done extensive postgraduate work in art therapy and often utilizes expressive arts therapies and play therapy to help clients work through difficulties and trauma.
Counseling and therapy can provide new hope, helping clients discover or redefine the path to achieving goals and bringing deeper meaning to their lives. Roberta believes that each person is unique, with individual purposes and gifts. She works well with individuals, children, adolescents and families, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other integrative therapeutic techniques from a holistic perspective. Roberta has done extensive postgraduate work in art therapy and often utilizes expressive arts therapies and play therapy to help clients work through difficulties and trauma.
(210) 985-9082 View (210) 985-9082
Photo of Belinda Arriaga, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Belinda Arriaga
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Waitlist for new clients
I have additional training in cognitive processing therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder, sand play, & play therapy.
I am a bi-iterate and bicultural psychotherapist that specializes on problems that affect the individual/couple/family when generations within the household have contrasting cultural understandings. When working with individuals, couples, and families, I explore cultural differences and values to find the strengths and the coping tools. I have also worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have experience in many areas, including trauma, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, multigenerational family conflict, couples counseling, life transitions, chronic pain, and grief.
I have additional training in cognitive processing therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder, sand play, & play therapy.
I am a bi-iterate and bicultural psychotherapist that specializes on problems that affect the individual/couple/family when generations within the household have contrasting cultural understandings. When working with individuals, couples, and families, I explore cultural differences and values to find the strengths and the coping tools. I have also worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have experience in many areas, including trauma, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, multigenerational family conflict, couples counseling, life transitions, chronic pain, and grief.
(210) 941-4395 View (210) 941-4395
Photo of Diane Dunn Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Diane Dunn Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? If these issues are getting to be more than you can handle alone, reach out for help from an impartial, empathetic person who can listen and help you develop healthy coping skills, set reachable goals, and improve communication with family, friends and colleagues. I specialize in counseling children, adolescents and their families, using a holistic approach that looks at the whole person, their family, their environment, and their needs. I offer individual or family therapy, incorporating client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior therapy, and play therapy. Certified health coach, also integrate wellness techniques.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? If these issues are getting to be more than you can handle alone, reach out for help from an impartial, empathetic person who can listen and help you develop healthy coping skills, set reachable goals, and improve communication with family, friends and colleagues. I specialize in counseling children, adolescents and their families, using a holistic approach that looks at the whole person, their family, their environment, and their needs. I offer individual or family therapy, incorporating client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior therapy, and play therapy. Certified health coach, also integrate wellness techniques.
(210) 816-4168 View (210) 816-4168
Photo of Anna Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Anna Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
I have experience working with individuals, families, & couples, but most of my experience is in working with teenagers. I utilize different theories and techniques, and work to develop age appropriate treatment plans, objectives, and goals in order to help the individual and their family to overcome their difficulties, and reach their optimal potential. In working with children, I utilize play therapy, which allows for children to use their natural language of play to express themselves, and to work through their problems. Let's work together towards your future! E-mail me today at annawongtherapy@gmail.com.
I have experience working with individuals, families, & couples, but most of my experience is in working with teenagers. I utilize different theories and techniques, and work to develop age appropriate treatment plans, objectives, and goals in order to help the individual and their family to overcome their difficulties, and reach their optimal potential. In working with children, I utilize play therapy, which allows for children to use their natural language of play to express themselves, and to work through their problems. Let's work together towards your future! E-mail me today at annawongtherapy@gmail.com.
(210) 714-1432 View (210) 714-1432
Photo of Lifetime Christian Counselors,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Lifetime Christian Counselors,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
I am prepared to help a variety of individuals who are in need of support and encouragement in the areas of : child play therapy , adult issues , family and couples therapy . I work with a range of client issues : behavioral adjustments , coping , anxiety , domestic violence , depression and grief issues . I approach therapy from a Christian perspective which allows each person to search for their inner source of faith and support . Everyone receives the support to gain the spiritual insights to meet the challenges of life.
I am prepared to help a variety of individuals who are in need of support and encouragement in the areas of : child play therapy , adult issues , family and couples therapy . I work with a range of client issues : behavioral adjustments , coping , anxiety , domestic violence , depression and grief issues . I approach therapy from a Christian perspective which allows each person to search for their inner source of faith and support . Everyone receives the support to gain the spiritual insights to meet the challenges of life.
(210) 903-5603 View (210) 903-5603
Photo of Nisa Vela, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Nisa Vela
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
Nisa believes in talk therapy, and has experience with incorporating music, art, sand tray, and play techniques in sessions with clients.
Nisa has been working in the mental health field with children and adults for 15 years and believes that it is her calling in life, striving to make the counseling experience positive, enriching, and successful. Nisa has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities that have experienced family dysfunction, trauma, abuse, sudden loss, and high anxiety. Nisa can provide the reassurance that counseling will be a significant help for you overall. Nisa believes in educating clients with skills that will assist them in their daily routines.
Nisa believes in talk therapy, and has experience with incorporating music, art, sand tray, and play techniques in sessions with clients.
Nisa has been working in the mental health field with children and adults for 15 years and believes that it is her calling in life, striving to make the counseling experience positive, enriching, and successful. Nisa has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities that have experienced family dysfunction, trauma, abuse, sudden loss, and high anxiety. Nisa can provide the reassurance that counseling will be a significant help for you overall. Nisa believes in educating clients with skills that will assist them in their daily routines.
(210) 942-7701 View (210) 942-7701
Photo of Kandace Sanchez, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Kandace Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228
I utilize different techniques such as grounding techniques, mindfulness, thought challenging, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, child centered play, and more.
Life can be tough, overwhelming, and even at times feel unbearable, whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or having difficulties adjusting to a traumatic life event. You may not have the support you need or the tools to help you navigate through this difficult time. That is where I would like to step in, to walk with you in your journey of healing. I hold a Bachelor degree in psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Guidance, both from Texas A&M San Antonio. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor.
I utilize different techniques such as grounding techniques, mindfulness, thought challenging, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, child centered play, and more.
Life can be tough, overwhelming, and even at times feel unbearable, whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or having difficulties adjusting to a traumatic life event. You may not have the support you need or the tools to help you navigate through this difficult time. That is where I would like to step in, to walk with you in your journey of healing. I hold a Bachelor degree in psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Guidance, both from Texas A&M San Antonio. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor.
(210) 934-0477 View (210) 934-0477
Photo of Henrietta Dominguez, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Henrietta Dominguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
I have satisfied requirements by the Association for Play Therapy.
Thank you for considering me to guide you in your therapeutic process. I am committed to supporting my clients in a therapeutic relationship by implementing professional counseling practices and respectful client service. I work with my clients to establish a healthy mind, body and spirit for needed change, personal growth, and supportive relationships. I empower my clients to focus on their strengths as they explore their potential. In therapy, my clients are mindful of their needs as they reconnect with their true self and explore that which holds them back.
I have satisfied requirements by the Association for Play Therapy.
Thank you for considering me to guide you in your therapeutic process. I am committed to supporting my clients in a therapeutic relationship by implementing professional counseling practices and respectful client service. I work with my clients to establish a healthy mind, body and spirit for needed change, personal growth, and supportive relationships. I empower my clients to focus on their strengths as they explore their potential. In therapy, my clients are mindful of their needs as they reconnect with their true self and explore that which holds them back.
(210) 702-3066 View (210) 702-3066
Photo of Pricilla St John, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Pricilla St John
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Karnes, Wilson, and Bexar County with over 10 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in both the mental health and juvenile settings. I am certified in Trauma-Focused CBT as well as EMDR therapy and have a large amount of experience working with children who have experienced trauma in their lives. Through therapy and play therapy we are able to help overcome these obstacles.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Karnes, Wilson, and Bexar County with over 10 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in both the mental health and juvenile settings. I am certified in Trauma-Focused CBT as well as EMDR therapy and have a large amount of experience working with children who have experienced trauma in their lives. Through therapy and play therapy we are able to help overcome these obstacles.
(210) 741-9727 View (210) 741-9727

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.