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Online Therapists

Photo of Steven Kubacki, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Steven Kubacki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
These include Modern Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Stress Management, Behavioral Medicine, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming), Guided Imagery, Play Therapy, Parental Counseling, Psychodrama, Meditation, and Spiritual Counseling.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
These include Modern Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Stress Management, Behavioral Medicine, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming), Guided Imagery, Play Therapy, Parental Counseling, Psychodrama, Meditation, and Spiritual Counseling.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
(206) 922-8133 View (206) 922-8133
Photo of Seattle Counseling and Wellness, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Seattle Counseling and Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Sometimes life poses challenges, and we need some extra support to get us through. Are you wanting to make improvements in your relationship? Or maybe with yourself? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Depressed? Stuck? Therapists at SCAW bring a diverse range of academic and clinical training to their work with adults, teens, and children (ages 2+). We provide individual and couples counseling, psychological testing, parent training, PCIT, and play therapy.
Sometimes life poses challenges, and we need some extra support to get us through. Are you wanting to make improvements in your relationship? Or maybe with yourself? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Depressed? Stuck? Therapists at SCAW bring a diverse range of academic and clinical training to their work with adults, teens, and children (ages 2+). We provide individual and couples counseling, psychological testing, parent training, PCIT, and play therapy.
(206) 922-4437 View (206) 922-4437
Photo of Karen E. Clark, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Karen E. Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Waitlist for new clients
With children ages 2 through 18, I employ a combined approach, using individual art and play therapy, meetings with parents, and family therapy.
Welcome. In my practice I see individual adults as well as children and families. The essential elements of therapy are compassion and deep understanding. As your therapist, my intention is to meet you where you are and go with you on your journey. My hope is that you will feel safe to express all of what you're feeling, that we can explore these feelings with compassion, and discover what can be understood. I will use my knowledge, training, and all that I've learned from my patients to help you negotiate the crossroads and crisis points in your life.
With children ages 2 through 18, I employ a combined approach, using individual art and play therapy, meetings with parents, and family therapy.
Welcome. In my practice I see individual adults as well as children and families. The essential elements of therapy are compassion and deep understanding. As your therapist, my intention is to meet you where you are and go with you on your journey. My hope is that you will feel safe to express all of what you're feeling, that we can explore these feelings with compassion, and discover what can be understood. I will use my knowledge, training, and all that I've learned from my patients to help you negotiate the crossroads and crisis points in your life.
(206) 673-2197 View (206) 673-2197
Photo of Abbie Spear, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Abbie Spear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I use CBT informed play therapy, supportive therapy and skill building.
Every life is a series of transitions, some of which can feel impossible to navigate. People and families can often feel ‘stuck’ in their current struggles and unable to overcome the challenges and changes they are experiencing. Whether the tough moments are navigating issues in daily life or processing landmark events such as pregnancy or parenthood, the need for support is valid and you don’t have to push through alone. Therapy helps you develop the tools and knowledge needed to bring out your unique strengths and abilities. No matter what age or life stage you are in, healing is possible.
I use CBT informed play therapy, supportive therapy and skill building.
Every life is a series of transitions, some of which can feel impossible to navigate. People and families can often feel ‘stuck’ in their current struggles and unable to overcome the challenges and changes they are experiencing. Whether the tough moments are navigating issues in daily life or processing landmark events such as pregnancy or parenthood, the need for support is valid and you don’t have to push through alone. Therapy helps you develop the tools and knowledge needed to bring out your unique strengths and abilities. No matter what age or life stage you are in, healing is possible.
(206) 558-6597 View (206) 558-6597
Photo of Emotesy Child and Family Counseling Services, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Emotesy Child and Family Counseling Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LISCW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Our clients come to Emotesy because they are struggling with behavioral issues, school problems, difficulties controlling worries, or poor emotion regulation skills. We are a team of providers that enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families. Working collaboratively with clients, Emotesy strives to create shared goals and build skills using play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. We're here to help bring out the best in your child and family. Our clients leave with new strategies to help them navigate behavioral challenges and a renewed sense of hope.
Our clients come to Emotesy because they are struggling with behavioral issues, school problems, difficulties controlling worries, or poor emotion regulation skills. We are a team of providers that enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families. Working collaboratively with clients, Emotesy strives to create shared goals and build skills using play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. We're here to help bring out the best in your child and family. Our clients leave with new strategies to help them navigate behavioral challenges and a renewed sense of hope.
(425) 598-0792 View (425) 598-0792
Photo of Daniel Masler, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Daniel Masler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
Children often relax through play.
I am passionate about helping people make sense of their lives in complicated times. I am an actively involved psychotherapist. I believe in developing a strongly collaborative relationship. With mutual curiosity, we can explore meaningful ways to find relief and make lasting, positive changes. I do psychotherapy with children, teens, families, and adults in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and in Japanese. I also do psychological evaluations for Attention Deficit Disorder.
Children often relax through play.
I am passionate about helping people make sense of their lives in complicated times. I am an actively involved psychotherapist. I believe in developing a strongly collaborative relationship. With mutual curiosity, we can explore meaningful ways to find relief and make lasting, positive changes. I do psychotherapy with children, teens, families, and adults in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and in Japanese. I also do psychological evaluations for Attention Deficit Disorder.
(206) 460-1404 View (206) 460-1404
Photo of Kids and Family Counseling PLLC., Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Kids and Family Counseling PLLC.
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC, BCBA, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duvall, WA 98019
I am invested in the work I do and approach our work with a warm, caring attitude, utilizing research based modalities (CBT, RBT, ACT, ABA, FST and play based interventions.
Empowering children, teens and adults to overcome challenges in their everyday life and help them rediscover their strengths and interpersonal competencies is the focus of my practice. Are you or someone you know, experiencing lack of motivation, facing friendship and self worth challenges, are defiant, aggressive, anxious, depressed, moody and lonely? Is your family in crisis? If so, do give me a call. People come to me for help with mood/ anxiety issues, Autism, ADHD, Anger problems, depression, OCD, PTSD , stress., multicultural and relational issues, social skills support and behavioral, parenting and school based challenges.
I am invested in the work I do and approach our work with a warm, caring attitude, utilizing research based modalities (CBT, RBT, ACT, ABA, FST and play based interventions.
Empowering children, teens and adults to overcome challenges in their everyday life and help them rediscover their strengths and interpersonal competencies is the focus of my practice. Are you or someone you know, experiencing lack of motivation, facing friendship and self worth challenges, are defiant, aggressive, anxious, depressed, moody and lonely? Is your family in crisis? If so, do give me a call. People come to me for help with mood/ anxiety issues, Autism, ADHD, Anger problems, depression, OCD, PTSD , stress., multicultural and relational issues, social skills support and behavioral, parenting and school based challenges.
(425) 549-9710 View (425) 549-9710
Photo of Calial McCarty, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Calial McCarty
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
Experience working in schools and community programs demonstrated art, play and story-telling to be fundamental modalities founded in evidence based systems that are successful foundations for healing.
Working with children, adolescents and families in a wholistic manner is key in support and therapy. I am passionate about working with children, teens, and families who are navigating a neurotypical world through a neurodivergent lens. Finding support, information, and psychotherapy can be a challenge, but I am dedicated to bringing a client-led approach and a place where clients can feel seen and heard. I have had the pleasure of working with community agencies, courts, schools, wrap around services, and other mental health programs. In the therapy space I value client voice, safety and self advocacy.
Experience working in schools and community programs demonstrated art, play and story-telling to be fundamental modalities founded in evidence based systems that are successful foundations for healing.
Working with children, adolescents and families in a wholistic manner is key in support and therapy. I am passionate about working with children, teens, and families who are navigating a neurotypical world through a neurodivergent lens. Finding support, information, and psychotherapy can be a challenge, but I am dedicated to bringing a client-led approach and a place where clients can feel seen and heard. I have had the pleasure of working with community agencies, courts, schools, wrap around services, and other mental health programs. In the therapy space I value client voice, safety and self advocacy.
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Photo of Counseling Centers of North Puget Sound, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Counseling Centers of North Puget Sound
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Woodinville, WA 98077
NOTE: We accept new appointment requests only through our confidential online portal: www.bit.ly/newcounseling. We work with individuals, couples, and families, all ages, and can work with a broad range of issues. We are committed to fostering an environment of safety and respect for people of all beliefs, backgrounds, abilities and lifestyles. We achieve our mission by offering affordable, best practice, behavioral science and faith-integrative offerings. No specific faith practice is required to receive services with us.
NOTE: We accept new appointment requests only through our confidential online portal: www.bit.ly/newcounseling. We work with individuals, couples, and families, all ages, and can work with a broad range of issues. We are committed to fostering an environment of safety and respect for people of all beliefs, backgrounds, abilities and lifestyles. We achieve our mission by offering affordable, best practice, behavioral science and faith-integrative offerings. No specific faith practice is required to receive services with us.
(844) 931-2787 View (844) 931-2787
Summit Health Management, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
(253) 215-8451 View (253) 215-8451
Photo of Sarah Waymouth, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Sarah Waymouth
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
I approach my counseling with a belief that all children and young people have the potential to make positive change for themselves and for the world around them. I adapt my therapeutic approach to the client but often utilize strength-based counseling, positive talk therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to encourage personal growth while I coach and help guide the way. I believe counseling has the power to change the direction of your life, by developing techniques, skills, and perspective that builds confidence and creates social emotional growth that lasts a lifetime.
I approach my counseling with a belief that all children and young people have the potential to make positive change for themselves and for the world around them. I adapt my therapeutic approach to the client but often utilize strength-based counseling, positive talk therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to encourage personal growth while I coach and help guide the way. I believe counseling has the power to change the direction of your life, by developing techniques, skills, and perspective that builds confidence and creates social emotional growth that lasts a lifetime.
(206) 429-4285 View (206) 429-4285
Photo of Neupathway LLC (Maribel Aheran) , Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Neupathway LLC (Maribel Aheran)
Counselor, EdD, LCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tukwila, WA 98188
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
(425) 310-4057 View (425) 310-4057
Photo of Centered Mind Counseling - Sammamish Location, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Centered Mind Counseling - Sammamish Location
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, ARNP, LICSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sammamish, WA 98075
Centered Mind Counseling Services, offers counseling, nutrition, and medication management services for individuals, couples & families. In-Person or Telehealth Video Sessions are available. We have a wide range of clinical expertise, more specialty treatment areas to help you, and an expanded availability of services. We are committed to working with you or your child to create the long-lasting changes you desire. Call or text us at (425) 269-3277. Together, we can determine how we can help you!
Centered Mind Counseling Services, offers counseling, nutrition, and medication management services for individuals, couples & families. In-Person or Telehealth Video Sessions are available. We have a wide range of clinical expertise, more specialty treatment areas to help you, and an expanded availability of services. We are committed to working with you or your child to create the long-lasting changes you desire. Call or text us at (425) 269-3277. Together, we can determine how we can help you!
(425) 269-3277 View (425) 269-3277
Photo of Steven Katz, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Steven Katz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with makes the work of therapy easier and more productive. I try to help recognize and name the solutions which thankfully have helped us deal with the troubling events we have made it through. But those solutions- such as avoidance, doing too much for others and too little for ourselves, or over-focusing on work- can become entrenched and now get in the way of feeling at ease or fulfilled. Learning and trying new solutions helps us step away from these patterns. Let's see if we can accomplish something together.
Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with makes the work of therapy easier and more productive. I try to help recognize and name the solutions which thankfully have helped us deal with the troubling events we have made it through. But those solutions- such as avoidance, doing too much for others and too little for ourselves, or over-focusing on work- can become entrenched and now get in the way of feeling at ease or fulfilled. Learning and trying new solutions helps us step away from these patterns. Let's see if we can accomplish something together.
(206) 759-2818 View (206) 759-2818
Photo of LightHeart Psychological Associates, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
LightHeart Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Securely request an appointment on our website: tinyurl.com/LHA-AppointmentRequest LightHeart provides therapy, medication management & assessment for children, adolescents & adults. We provide individual, family, and couples therapy. We work with all variety of concerns, including acute and chronic depression and anxiety, abuse & trauma, LGBTQ issues, conflicted relationships, & personality disorders. We also have experience working successfully with child behavioral problems.
Securely request an appointment on our website: tinyurl.com/LHA-AppointmentRequest LightHeart provides therapy, medication management & assessment for children, adolescents & adults. We provide individual, family, and couples therapy. We work with all variety of concerns, including acute and chronic depression and anxiety, abuse & trauma, LGBTQ issues, conflicted relationships, & personality disorders. We also have experience working successfully with child behavioral problems.
(206) 752-5362 View (206) 752-5362
Photo of Nicole Nagle in Anacortes, WA
Nicole Nagle
MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Being a human can be hard work! Day-to-day challenges can range from the simply annoying to the downright overwhelming. By providing a safe and supportive environment, I help clients find answers, expand their perspectives, and build healthy habits. Using a mixture of assessment and therapeutic intervention, I am committed to assisting you in achieving your best life… and who knows, maybe we’ll have a little fun along the way!
Being a human can be hard work! Day-to-day challenges can range from the simply annoying to the downright overwhelming. By providing a safe and supportive environment, I help clients find answers, expand their perspectives, and build healthy habits. Using a mixture of assessment and therapeutic intervention, I am committed to assisting you in achieving your best life… and who knows, maybe we’ll have a little fun along the way!
(425) 409-5705 View (425) 409-5705
Photo of Antioch Community Counseling & Psychology Clinic, Mental Health Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Antioch Community Counseling & Psychology Clinic
Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
The Antioch Clinic offers low-fee counseling and assessment services for individuals, couples, and families of all ages. We are open over 40+ hours a week Monday - Friday. We offer a low fee, sliding scale (beginning at $0), based on household income to help all those who are struggling economically.
The Antioch Clinic offers low-fee counseling and assessment services for individuals, couples, and families of all ages. We are open over 40+ hours a week Monday - Friday. We offer a low fee, sliding scale (beginning at $0), based on household income to help all those who are struggling economically.
(206) 268-4840 View (206) 268-4840
Photo of Maribel Aheran, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Maribel Aheran
Counselor, EdD, LCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
(360) 968-6435 View (360) 968-6435
Photo of Dr. Isabel E. Kaufman Forensic Expert/Therapist, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Dr. Isabel E. Kaufman Forensic Expert/Therapist
Counselor, DR, LMHCC, CFC, Forensi, Expert
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229
Through Life Stages: offers an array of services including but not limited to individual, children, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss therapy and conflict resolution. Dr Kaufman uses state of the art Mental Health Assessments. The Assessment includes a comprehensive social history, referral information, diagnostic impression, significant findings, and recommendations for treatment. A thorough Mental Health Evaluation like this is the best way to help yourself, your child, and your family. As a Professional Counselor Isabel E. Kaufman is experienced, knowledgeable and able to help!
Through Life Stages: offers an array of services including but not limited to individual, children, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss therapy and conflict resolution. Dr Kaufman uses state of the art Mental Health Assessments. The Assessment includes a comprehensive social history, referral information, diagnostic impression, significant findings, and recommendations for treatment. A thorough Mental Health Evaluation like this is the best way to help yourself, your child, and your family. As a Professional Counselor Isabel E. Kaufman is experienced, knowledgeable and able to help!
(360) 927-1980 View (360) 927-1980
Photo of Why’s Words Therapy, Nhautrey Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Anacortes, WA
Why’s Words Therapy, Nhautrey Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057
Nhautrey is the owner of Why’s Words Therapy. Nhautrey works with clients between the ages of 3-70 years old, and has worked with clients from various cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds in the form of individual, family, and group therapy. Are you struggling with anxiety? Fighting to get out of that depressive fog? Maybe you are very clear on what your traumas are, or need guidance in figuring out how your traumas have affected you. Have a kid/teen that is struggling? Maybe you just want to see what therapy is all about. Nhautrey is here to help you piece together those aspects of your life and end the stigma of mental health!
Nhautrey is the owner of Why’s Words Therapy. Nhautrey works with clients between the ages of 3-70 years old, and has worked with clients from various cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds in the form of individual, family, and group therapy. Are you struggling with anxiety? Fighting to get out of that depressive fog? Maybe you are very clear on what your traumas are, or need guidance in figuring out how your traumas have affected you. Have a kid/teen that is struggling? Maybe you just want to see what therapy is all about. Nhautrey is here to help you piece together those aspects of your life and end the stigma of mental health!
(206) 385-1411 View (206) 385-1411
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.