Photo of Jonathan Vander Schuur, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Jonathan Vander Schuur
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
(833) 232-4735 View (833) 232-4735
Photo of CradleStone, LLC , Counselor in Anacortes, WA
CradleStone, LLC
Counselor, MS, MAC, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Are you alone and feeling no support? Is your teenager struggling to be part of your family? Whether your teen is acting out through high-risk behaviors or isolating through technology, your family is probably feeling the strain. When you aren't sure how to help your teen or what they truly need, it can feel overwhelming and hopeless. I'm here to support you, your teen, and your family so you can move through your challenges together. Individuals seeking help with depressive or anxious feelings can find solutions through me as well.
Are you alone and feeling no support? Is your teenager struggling to be part of your family? Whether your teen is acting out through high-risk behaviors or isolating through technology, your family is probably feeling the strain. When you aren't sure how to help your teen or what they truly need, it can feel overwhelming and hopeless. I'm here to support you, your teen, and your family so you can move through your challenges together. Individuals seeking help with depressive or anxious feelings can find solutions through me as well.
(360) 614-2842 View (360) 614-2842
Photo of Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, SUDP, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
(360) 219-9635 View (360) 219-9635
Photo of Denise Miller, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Denise Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Waitlist for new clients
I take a holistic approach to counseling, with an emphasis on mind, body and spirit in relationship to self and others. I specialize in trauma informed practices utilizing modalities such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, and family systems therapy.I am a Children's Mental Health Therapist and a Minority Mental Health Therapist with experience working with Native American, Hispanic and African American and LGBTQ populations.
I take a holistic approach to counseling, with an emphasis on mind, body and spirit in relationship to self and others. I specialize in trauma informed practices utilizing modalities such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, and family systems therapy.I am a Children's Mental Health Therapist and a Minority Mental Health Therapist with experience working with Native American, Hispanic and African American and LGBTQ populations.
(360) 233-8085 View (360) 233-8085
Photo of Abcde L. K. Matias, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Abcde L. K. Matias
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
Hi all, I'm accepting new clients as of March 1st, 2024. I believe everyone has a voice that matters, and I want to hear your story. Therapy can be challenging and enjoyable however the process unfolds, I will be there for the journey. I’m here to help guide you on what you think is important and provide useful tools along the way. Specializing in adolescents, adult counseling, and couples counseling through telehealth, other counseling specializations are available as well. Also, I'm currently facilitating an ongoing open Women's Support Group via telehealth.
Hi all, I'm accepting new clients as of March 1st, 2024. I believe everyone has a voice that matters, and I want to hear your story. Therapy can be challenging and enjoyable however the process unfolds, I will be there for the journey. I’m here to help guide you on what you think is important and provide useful tools along the way. Specializing in adolescents, adult counseling, and couples counseling through telehealth, other counseling specializations are available as well. Also, I'm currently facilitating an ongoing open Women's Support Group via telehealth.
(360) 504-4825 View (360) 504-4825
Photo of Elizabeth Ellis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Elizabeth Ellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
I became a therapist because I saw the importance of sharing our stories without fear of judgment. It’s because of this understanding that I strive to create a space for you to feel safe to be your true self no matter where you are in your mental health journey. When working together, we will focus on your individual needs and goals–these could include anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, or trauma just to name a few. Overall, my goal is to provide support in whatever area you're seeking therapy for.
I became a therapist because I saw the importance of sharing our stories without fear of judgment. It’s because of this understanding that I strive to create a space for you to feel safe to be your true self no matter where you are in your mental health journey. When working together, we will focus on your individual needs and goals–these could include anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, or trauma just to name a few. Overall, my goal is to provide support in whatever area you're seeking therapy for.
(360) 502-7312 View (360) 502-7312

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Clarity Counseling-Joan Forest LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Clarity Counseling-Joan Forest LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, I, C, S, W
Verified Verified
La Conner, WA 98257
Each client has unique circumstances, challenges and goals, and I adapt my treatment to best fit the particular needs of the individual, couple or family. I am experienced in helping clients with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and marital problems. I am currently seeing children age five and up, teens and adults. My office is located in Greenbank, WA, and I provide telehealth as well as in person therapy.
Each client has unique circumstances, challenges and goals, and I adapt my treatment to best fit the particular needs of the individual, couple or family. I am experienced in helping clients with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and marital problems. I am currently seeing children age five and up, teens and adults. My office is located in Greenbank, WA, and I provide telehealth as well as in person therapy.
(360) 284-1317 View (360) 284-1317

Online Therapists

Photo of Katelyn Boschert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Katelyn Boschert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98203
I use all types therapeutic modalities to help clients with self-expression, including play, music, art and movement therapy.
I work with adolescents and young adults from the age of 13 providing support in the areas of anxiety, family and school issues, depression, adjustment, authority, and other issues, which are faced in our changing world. I work closely with families from all background, schools, and community to support clients as they gently work through their areas of healing. Also, as an experienced clinician with broad skills in adjustment, I understand the challenges individuals/families face in transition. As your therapist, I will provide deep support and tools for your emotional health and growth.
I use all types therapeutic modalities to help clients with self-expression, including play, music, art and movement therapy.
I work with adolescents and young adults from the age of 13 providing support in the areas of anxiety, family and school issues, depression, adjustment, authority, and other issues, which are faced in our changing world. I work closely with families from all background, schools, and community to support clients as they gently work through their areas of healing. Also, as an experienced clinician with broad skills in adjustment, I understand the challenges individuals/families face in transition. As your therapist, I will provide deep support and tools for your emotional health and growth.
(360) 743-4274 View (360) 743-4274
Photo of Alexandria Scalone, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Alexandria Scalone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
I am a play therapist who specializes in teens and young adults. I empower parents and children of all ages to resolve relationship conflicts, boosting parental confidence in handling children's emotions, while equipping children with vital emotional skills for independent problem-solving, fostering stronger attachment bonds and healthier relationships. Your child may be experiencing anxiety, depression, perfectionist behavior, and stress. Sometimes it's hard to talk about our problems, that's why my therapy sessions are often experiential.
I am a play therapist who specializes in teens and young adults. I empower parents and children of all ages to resolve relationship conflicts, boosting parental confidence in handling children's emotions, while equipping children with vital emotional skills for independent problem-solving, fostering stronger attachment bonds and healthier relationships. Your child may be experiencing anxiety, depression, perfectionist behavior, and stress. Sometimes it's hard to talk about our problems, that's why my therapy sessions are often experiential.
(425) 517-2647 View (425) 517-2647
Photo of Julia L Fay, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Julia L Fay
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am currently Telehealth only. I use a a bio/psycho/social/spiritual approach, Play Therapy and EMDR to help rewire the nervous system so that it can experience states of calmness and heartfelt connection with self and others. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, specifically those struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, worry, grief, & loss. I also specialize in helping kids learn emotional regulation, increase frustration tolerance, overcome behavior problems, & develop secure attachment.
I am currently Telehealth only. I use a a bio/psycho/social/spiritual approach, Play Therapy and EMDR to help rewire the nervous system so that it can experience states of calmness and heartfelt connection with self and others. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, specifically those struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, worry, grief, & loss. I also specialize in helping kids learn emotional regulation, increase frustration tolerance, overcome behavior problems, & develop secure attachment.
(206) 202-5148 View (206) 202-5148
Photo of Chelsea Clemens, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Chelsea Clemens
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tukwila, WA 98188
My joy as a therapist comes from working with kids, teens, and young adults (ages 5-25) who struggle to manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Kids, just like adults struggle to manage their emotions, however, unlike adults, they don’t quite have the developmental skills yet to communicate what they are experiencing. I utilize multiple therapeutic approaches to creatively approach each client and session based on the needs presented. I especially enjoy incorporating art and play into my sessions, which helps build on the normal communicative processes of kids that are not limited by traditional talk therapy.
My joy as a therapist comes from working with kids, teens, and young adults (ages 5-25) who struggle to manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Kids, just like adults struggle to manage their emotions, however, unlike adults, they don’t quite have the developmental skills yet to communicate what they are experiencing. I utilize multiple therapeutic approaches to creatively approach each client and session based on the needs presented. I especially enjoy incorporating art and play into my sessions, which helps build on the normal communicative processes of kids that are not limited by traditional talk therapy.
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Photo of Phenomenal Play PLLC, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Phenomenal Play PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
My approach is play-based - Play helps us make sense of the world and our experiences, and we can find new meaning and connection with others.
My name is Em Purington (they/them), the therapist behind Phenomenal Play PLLC. Whatever brings you to therapy, I am honored to hold space for you and explore your world with you. I love working with clients of all ages. Together, we will develop a strengths-based plan based on specific needs, goals, strengths, and abilities. I want my clients to feel empowered and in control of what we work on.
My approach is play-based - Play helps us make sense of the world and our experiences, and we can find new meaning and connection with others.
My name is Em Purington (they/them), the therapist behind Phenomenal Play PLLC. Whatever brings you to therapy, I am honored to hold space for you and explore your world with you. I love working with clients of all ages. Together, we will develop a strengths-based plan based on specific needs, goals, strengths, and abilities. I want my clients to feel empowered and in control of what we work on.
(206) 590-6236 View (206) 590-6236
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 Alisha Schafer, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Alisha Schafer
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
My approach is flexible to meet the individual needs of my clients, utilizing person-centered and strengths-based approaches, and incorporating mindfulness, play, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help you reach your goals.
Accepting New Clients... Life can take us on an unexpected journey. Sometimes, that leaves us feeling out of control and overwhelmed. Do you find yourself wishing things could get “back to normal”? Feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression are normal when we’ve experienced trauma, loss, or even a major life transition, but difficult experiences don’t define who we are. I have worked with children and families in a variety of settings and have several years of experience working with children who have experienced trauma. I believe that healing is possible.
My approach is flexible to meet the individual needs of my clients, utilizing person-centered and strengths-based approaches, and incorporating mindfulness, play, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help you reach your goals.
Accepting New Clients... Life can take us on an unexpected journey. Sometimes, that leaves us feeling out of control and overwhelmed. Do you find yourself wishing things could get “back to normal”? Feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression are normal when we’ve experienced trauma, loss, or even a major life transition, but difficult experiences don’t define who we are. I have worked with children and families in a variety of settings and have several years of experience working with children who have experienced trauma. I believe that healing is possible.
(360) 347-9864 View (360) 347-9864
Photo of The Salish Sea Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
The Salish Sea Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
We provide EMDR, CBT, Lifespan Integration, TF-CBT, EFT and Child Centered Play Therapy.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
We provide EMDR, CBT, Lifespan Integration, TF-CBT, EFT and Child Centered Play Therapy.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
(253) 655-2757 View (253) 655-2757
Photo of Liz Ulrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Liz Ulrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
When working with children, these exchanges often take the form of play.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I help individuals with a range of life challenges. I have training and expertise in the areas of anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, parenting support, creative blocks, grief and loss, work/school stress, trauma, and important life transitions. I view therapy as a collaborative process between therapist and client focused on exploring your concerns in an honest, active, and effective manner. Therapy involves sharing your thoughts and feelings, shedding light on and understanding relational and behavioral patterns, and reflecting on how past experiences may impact you now.
When working with children, these exchanges often take the form of play.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I help individuals with a range of life challenges. I have training and expertise in the areas of anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, parenting support, creative blocks, grief and loss, work/school stress, trauma, and important life transitions. I view therapy as a collaborative process between therapist and client focused on exploring your concerns in an honest, active, and effective manner. Therapy involves sharing your thoughts and feelings, shedding light on and understanding relational and behavioral patterns, and reflecting on how past experiences may impact you now.
(207) 387-7757 View (207) 387-7757
Photo of Rina Brown-Ono, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Rina Brown-Ono
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
I am certified in AutPlay Therapy and am in the process of becoming a certified play therapist.
I work with a diverse range of people from across the lifespan, focusing on the neurodivergent population from different cultural backgrounds. I use a culturally competent and strengths-based approach in therapy. I can help you find who you are as a person and communicate your needs with others. I am here to support your journey.
I am certified in AutPlay Therapy and am in the process of becoming a certified play therapist.
I work with a diverse range of people from across the lifespan, focusing on the neurodivergent population from different cultural backgrounds. I use a culturally competent and strengths-based approach in therapy. I can help you find who you are as a person and communicate your needs with others. I am here to support your journey.
(425) 217-3715 View (425) 217-3715
Photo of Janny Ho @ Olympia Therapy , Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Janny Ho @ Olympia Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
I use a strength-based approach and utilize different modalities such as Psychodynamic Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
As a experienced bicultural Asian therapist from an immigrant family, I am passionate to help clients and provide culturally sensitive care that considers the unique experiences and challenges that clients have while highlighting strengths and talents. I also worked as an school teacher for over ten years because I loved working with students. Now I am happy as a mental health therapist to further facilitate healing and growth for both adults' and children's mental health and see them improve in their work, school and/or relationships. My office for in person is at Bellevue/Redmond. Best way to contact please click (Email us) tab
I use a strength-based approach and utilize different modalities such as Psychodynamic Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
As a experienced bicultural Asian therapist from an immigrant family, I am passionate to help clients and provide culturally sensitive care that considers the unique experiences and challenges that clients have while highlighting strengths and talents. I also worked as an school teacher for over ten years because I loved working with students. Now I am happy as a mental health therapist to further facilitate healing and growth for both adults' and children's mental health and see them improve in their work, school and/or relationships. My office for in person is at Bellevue/Redmond. Best way to contact please click (Email us) tab
(425) 629-8071 View (425) 629-8071
Photo of Andi Eberhardt, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Andi Eberhardt
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
With young clients, I utilize play therapy.
I currently hold a Washington State Associate License in Mental Health Counseling after receiving my Master’s in Counseling from Central Washington University. Prior to this I received a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Western Washington University. My primary work in therapy has been with children and teens, though I have also spent a great deal of time working with adults of all ages in individual and couples counseling. My main areas of focus include adjustment issues/life transitions, mood and anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, attachment issues, family issues, identity issues, family trauma, parenting, and mindfulness.
With young clients, I utilize play therapy.
I currently hold a Washington State Associate License in Mental Health Counseling after receiving my Master’s in Counseling from Central Washington University. Prior to this I received a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Western Washington University. My primary work in therapy has been with children and teens, though I have also spent a great deal of time working with adults of all ages in individual and couples counseling. My main areas of focus include adjustment issues/life transitions, mood and anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, attachment issues, family issues, identity issues, family trauma, parenting, and mindfulness.
(206) 222-6603 View (206) 222-6603
Photo of Rachael Blair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Rachael Blair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
My therapeutic practice incorporates evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play, Art and Expressive Therapies, Narrative Therapy and others.
I have a passion for working with young adults 18-35 and adolescents 13 and older, who are exploring their identities and trying to create their place in the world. Whether this includes healing past trauma, increasing coping skills or changing relational patterns, our work together can address a variety of topics, like increasing healthy coping strategies for anxiety and depression, breaking the cycle of perfectionism and self-judgment, increasing self-compassion, LGBTQIA+ identity exploration, family of origin issues and learning how to set healthy boundaries in relationships.
My therapeutic practice incorporates evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play, Art and Expressive Therapies, Narrative Therapy and others.
I have a passion for working with young adults 18-35 and adolescents 13 and older, who are exploring their identities and trying to create their place in the world. Whether this includes healing past trauma, increasing coping skills or changing relational patterns, our work together can address a variety of topics, like increasing healthy coping strategies for anxiety and depression, breaking the cycle of perfectionism and self-judgment, increasing self-compassion, LGBTQIA+ identity exploration, family of origin issues and learning how to set healthy boundaries in relationships.
(206) 222-9712 View (206) 222-9712
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.