Photo of Steven Kubacki, Psychologist in Seattle, 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 Sara Jerome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Sara Jerome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Approaches can range from the expressive techniques of play and art therapy to concrete skill-building using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Website: ghostsandangels.org I provide mental health therapy for children ages 0 to 12 experiencing stress, transitions, the effects of trauma, and other emotional and behavioral needs. I work virtually with clients in Washington State using evidence-based practices and creative, child-centered activities. I also offer therapy to parents & caregivers who want to reduce the stress of parenting and increase the connectedness they share with their child. This form of therapy can be particularly supportive to cycle breakers: parents with stress and trauma themselves who are working to change the generational patterns in their families.
Approaches can range from the expressive techniques of play and art therapy to concrete skill-building using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Website: ghostsandangels.org I provide mental health therapy for children ages 0 to 12 experiencing stress, transitions, the effects of trauma, and other emotional and behavioral needs. I work virtually with clients in Washington State using evidence-based practices and creative, child-centered activities. I also offer therapy to parents & caregivers who want to reduce the stress of parenting and increase the connectedness they share with their child. This form of therapy can be particularly supportive to cycle breakers: parents with stress and trauma themselves who are working to change the generational patterns in their families.
(425) 475-3277 View (425) 475-3277
Photo of The Latoria Group, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Seattle, WA
The Latoria Group, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CPCS, NCC, CCTP, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I believe in the power of play.
The most rare and beautiful people of character are those who blossom during times of adversity. My passion is in helping people navigate their complex lives by providing counseling to individuals, families and conducting group counseling for ages six and above. My creative and non-traditional approach to therapy is used to address issues that impact the individual and the family system. I look forward to meeting and helping you traverse the waters of life and become healthier through the process.
I believe in the power of play.
The most rare and beautiful people of character are those who blossom during times of adversity. My passion is in helping people navigate their complex lives by providing counseling to individuals, families and conducting group counseling for ages six and above. My creative and non-traditional approach to therapy is used to address issues that impact the individual and the family system. I look forward to meeting and helping you traverse the waters of life and become healthier through the process.
(404) 491-8361 View (404) 491-8361
Photo of LaShekia Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
LaShekia Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, Post-MA, LMFT-A, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Introducing a dedicated and compassionate guide to navigate through life's challenges. When faced with adversity or feeling trapped in difficult circumstances, I am here to offer unwavering support and accompany you on your path towards healing, freedom, and inner peace. As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate (LMFT-A) in the state of TX and WA, I provide support, guidance, and empowerment to my clients, assisting them in my journey towards long-lasting change, restoration of hope, and living authentically fulfilled lives. Utilizing modalities like CC Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Gottman Method CT.
Introducing a dedicated and compassionate guide to navigate through life's challenges. When faced with adversity or feeling trapped in difficult circumstances, I am here to offer unwavering support and accompany you on your path towards healing, freedom, and inner peace. As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate (LMFT-A) in the state of TX and WA, I provide support, guidance, and empowerment to my clients, assisting them in my journey towards long-lasting change, restoration of hope, and living authentically fulfilled lives. Utilizing modalities like CC Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Gottman Method CT.
(832) 400-6506 View (832) 400-6506
Photo of Amy Barker D'Alessandro, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Amy Barker D'Alessandro
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Amy Barker D'Alessandro, Adoption and Trauma Therapist, offers specialized counseling, coaching, consulting, supervision, and public speaking services. Amy holds a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology, is a fully licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington state, and is trained in Relational Psychotherapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment Focused Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy. She currently works with individuals of all ages, families of all kinds, general counseling clients, and several monthly groups, ongoing retreats, and events.
Amy Barker D'Alessandro, Adoption and Trauma Therapist, offers specialized counseling, coaching, consulting, supervision, and public speaking services. Amy holds a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology, is a fully licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington state, and is trained in Relational Psychotherapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment Focused Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy. She currently works with individuals of all ages, families of all kinds, general counseling clients, and several monthly groups, ongoing retreats, and events.
(206) 661-2566 View (206) 661-2566
Photo of Chelsea Clemens, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Chelsea Clemens
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
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 Melissa Lowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Melissa Lowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
she has experience in trauma, CBT, DBT, Motivation Interviewing, and will be using play therapy as some of her many skills and tools to work with her patients.
Accepting New Patients via telehealth/telemedicince. Seeing children, adults, and families. Those in my practice also can see couples. Melissa Lowe received her Masters in Social Work from Boise State in Idaho and holds an Associate License for Clinical Social Work. As a social worker, Melissa has over 15 years of experience working with children and families. She started out as a nanny before working crisis work in the school, assisting in the prisons, helping families, and at our local hospitals.
she has experience in trauma, CBT, DBT, Motivation Interviewing, and will be using play therapy as some of her many skills and tools to work with her patients.
Accepting New Patients via telehealth/telemedicince. Seeing children, adults, and families. Those in my practice also can see couples. Melissa Lowe received her Masters in Social Work from Boise State in Idaho and holds an Associate License for Clinical Social Work. As a social worker, Melissa has over 15 years of experience working with children and families. She started out as a nanny before working crisis work in the school, assisting in the prisons, helping families, and at our local hospitals.
(253) 366-7771 View (253) 366-7771
Photo of Wan-Ting Hsieh, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Wan-Ting Hsieh
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
I am also certified as a Mental Health Counselor in Taiwan (Certification# 002153), specializing in emotional distress, family conflicts, trauma, stress, self-exploration, adapting to life, personal relationships, etc., and provide services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Through various medium, such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Play Therapy, clients are assisted to understand and express their inner thoughts, hence manage and improve perplexity triggered by emotions and life.
I am also certified as a Mental Health Counselor in Taiwan (Certification# 002153), specializing in emotional distress, family conflicts, trauma, stress, self-exploration, adapting to life, personal relationships, etc., and provide services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Through various medium, such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Play Therapy, clients are assisted to understand and express their inner thoughts, hence manage and improve perplexity triggered by emotions and life.
(206) 432-4278 View (206) 432-4278
Photo of Aspire Behavioral Health, Michelle Newton, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Aspire Behavioral Health, Michelle Newton
Counselor, MA, MFT, LMHC, CMHS, QMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Focus on: communication; couples therapy; family therapy; individual therapy; Trauma & PTSD; anxiety; fear; depression; human sexuality & gender (LGBTQ); sand tray, art and play therapy; skill building for children & adults with Autism and Asperger's; reducing and eliminating explosive episodes & self-harm behaviors; drug & alcohol.
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". With over 18 years in the field, I am an experienced clinician. Challenges in your relationship as a couple, dealing with an explosive child or teenager, depression, anxiety, trauma, and struggling to have a healthier, happier relationship as a couple, family or individual? Here's where you can take your first step. There is hope and things can change. I am a down-to-earth therapist with a warm and caring nature. I provide an empathetic and safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.
Focus on: communication; couples therapy; family therapy; individual therapy; Trauma & PTSD; anxiety; fear; depression; human sexuality & gender (LGBTQ); sand tray, art and play therapy; skill building for children & adults with Autism and Asperger's; reducing and eliminating explosive episodes & self-harm behaviors; drug & alcohol.
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". With over 18 years in the field, I am an experienced clinician. Challenges in your relationship as a couple, dealing with an explosive child or teenager, depression, anxiety, trauma, and struggling to have a healthier, happier relationship as a couple, family or individual? Here's where you can take your first step. There is hope and things can change. I am a down-to-earth therapist with a warm and caring nature. I provide an empathetic and safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.
(360) 633-2300 View (360) 633-2300
Photo of Sheree Price, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Sheree Price
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task. My hope is to provide a safe and comforting environment where you can just be, without the judgment or criticism. I counsel those who identify as women, those who identify as members of LGBTQIA+ community (many of which are one in the same), and teens ages 13-17. My clients have a wide range of concerns including anxiety, trauma, anger, relationship troubles, depression, sexual identity, cultural identity, and self esteem.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task. My hope is to provide a safe and comforting environment where you can just be, without the judgment or criticism. I counsel those who identify as women, those who identify as members of LGBTQIA+ community (many of which are one in the same), and teens ages 13-17. My clients have a wide range of concerns including anxiety, trauma, anger, relationship troubles, depression, sexual identity, cultural identity, and self esteem.
(206) 207-3781 View (206) 207-3781
Photo of Issy Kleiman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Issy Kleiman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98166
Hi there! My name is Israella, but you can call me Issy. I know how crucial finding the right therapist is for your mental health journey. I want to recognize how hard it can be to take the first step. I'm so proud of you. My mission is to provide vital support to couples, families, and individuals of all ages and backgrounds seeking top-tier mental health care in Washington. I empower my clients to gain profound insights into their strengths and weaknesses while developing effective coping mechanisms and communication skills. However, life often presents us with unexpected challenges, leaving us feeling unprepared.
Hi there! My name is Israella, but you can call me Issy. I know how crucial finding the right therapist is for your mental health journey. I want to recognize how hard it can be to take the first step. I'm so proud of you. My mission is to provide vital support to couples, families, and individuals of all ages and backgrounds seeking top-tier mental health care in Washington. I empower my clients to gain profound insights into their strengths and weaknesses while developing effective coping mechanisms and communication skills. However, life often presents us with unexpected challenges, leaving us feeling unprepared.
(206) 745-4691 x102 View (206) 745-4691 x102
Photo of Jodi Boone, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jodi Boone
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, CAP, MNPL, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I believe the therapy space is a sacred space, where you are supported, listened to, and seen. Healing is a journey, and it involves engaging more than our minds and our thoughts. Healing happens somatically as well, in our bodies. This is why I am also deeply interested in being with what you are feeling physically and emotionally. In therapy, it's essential to tend to our whole being, every part of ourselves - physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
I believe the therapy space is a sacred space, where you are supported, listened to, and seen. Healing is a journey, and it involves engaging more than our minds and our thoughts. Healing happens somatically as well, in our bodies. This is why I am also deeply interested in being with what you are feeling physically and emotionally. In therapy, it's essential to tend to our whole being, every part of ourselves - physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
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Photo of Heather Diaz, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Heather Diaz
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I view therapy as an opportunity to recognize the strengths of each person, the uniqueness of each story, and to find ways to use those strengths to create change and growth. I enjoy having the chance to walk alongside people through all types of challenges and triumphs as a willing listener who can provide empathy, a non-judgmental view on current and past experiences, and support to work towards meeting goals.
I view therapy as an opportunity to recognize the strengths of each person, the uniqueness of each story, and to find ways to use those strengths to create change and growth. I enjoy having the chance to walk alongside people through all types of challenges and triumphs as a willing listener who can provide empathy, a non-judgmental view on current and past experiences, and support to work towards meeting goals.
(425) 584-5179 View (425) 584-5179
Photo of Glenn King, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Glenn King
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
Choosing to see a counselor is a courageous step full of possibility. If you have found yourself feeling stuck, pursuing counseling can restore balance and bring lasting change. I take the time to get to know a client's individual needs and work to form a collaborative partnership to gain insight and achieve goals. Most clients find my approach to be strong on empathy and helpful in identifying underlying causes for current struggles. I work well with clients who are looking to process through difficult feelings and gain perspective on themselves. I invite your questions and look forward to the possibility of working together.
Choosing to see a counselor is a courageous step full of possibility. If you have found yourself feeling stuck, pursuing counseling can restore balance and bring lasting change. I take the time to get to know a client's individual needs and work to form a collaborative partnership to gain insight and achieve goals. Most clients find my approach to be strong on empathy and helpful in identifying underlying causes for current struggles. I work well with clients who are looking to process through difficult feelings and gain perspective on themselves. I invite your questions and look forward to the possibility of working together.
(206) 745-4711 View (206) 745-4711
Photo of Quynh Dinh, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Quynh Dinh
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98155  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping individuals gain insight into the way they perceive and interact with their world. My hope is that through this self-awareness, my clients feel more empowered to face the challenging demands of their lives. As a first generation Asian-American, I can relate to the challenges that many clients face when having to navigate a new set of rules and culture. My passion includes helping clients define their identities, cope with physical, emotional and psychological changes, and adjust to the demands of peers, school, and society.
I am passionate about helping individuals gain insight into the way they perceive and interact with their world. My hope is that through this self-awareness, my clients feel more empowered to face the challenging demands of their lives. As a first generation Asian-American, I can relate to the challenges that many clients face when having to navigate a new set of rules and culture. My passion includes helping clients define their identities, cope with physical, emotional and psychological changes, and adjust to the demands of peers, school, and society.
(206) 258-7562 View (206) 258-7562
Photo of Rachael Coccia, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Rachael Coccia
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
Life is complex and there is rarely a single issue that brings someone to therapy. From struggling with identity and purpose in life to contemplating the meaning and nature of death, human existence is challenging and often painful. These existential givens are further burdened by experiences of trauma, oppression, terminal illness, grief, and the climate crisis. In this harsh world it seems easier to hide our vulnerabilities and find ways to escape, avoid, or numb our feelings - often losing ourselves in the process. Loneliness and fear can keep us trapped in toxic cycles, but we aren't meant to struggle alone.
Life is complex and there is rarely a single issue that brings someone to therapy. From struggling with identity and purpose in life to contemplating the meaning and nature of death, human existence is challenging and often painful. These existential givens are further burdened by experiences of trauma, oppression, terminal illness, grief, and the climate crisis. In this harsh world it seems easier to hide our vulnerabilities and find ways to escape, avoid, or numb our feelings - often losing ourselves in the process. Loneliness and fear can keep us trapped in toxic cycles, but we aren't meant to struggle alone.
(425) 873-8921 View (425) 873-8921
Photo of Eric Lichter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Eric Lichter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
I am a licensed psychotherapist in the state of Washington. I work with adults, couples and teens who are at a place in their life where they are wanting or needing to make a change, but sometimes not sure how to go about it. My approach encourages clients to take responsibility for their lives but also helps to uncover what obstacles have gotten in the way of them feeling powerful, happy, and in charge of their direction in life.
I am a licensed psychotherapist in the state of Washington. I work with adults, couples and teens who are at a place in their life where they are wanting or needing to make a change, but sometimes not sure how to go about it. My approach encourages clients to take responsibility for their lives but also helps to uncover what obstacles have gotten in the way of them feeling powerful, happy, and in charge of their direction in life.
(206) 504-3752 View (206) 504-3752
Photo of Rj Solomon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Rj Solomon
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
The path to healing is not one-size-fits-all or linear. Regardless of who you are, we're all out here just trying to be human. The decision to seek help is not an easy one, but my calling is to make the process feel safe, approachable, and welcomed. My goal is to be your mirror and witness to your story. I hope to create a collaborative and safe space to address your needs, achieve your goals, and bring peace and contentment to your whole self.
The path to healing is not one-size-fits-all or linear. Regardless of who you are, we're all out here just trying to be human. The decision to seek help is not an easy one, but my calling is to make the process feel safe, approachable, and welcomed. My goal is to be your mirror and witness to your story. I hope to create a collaborative and safe space to address your needs, achieve your goals, and bring peace and contentment to your whole self.
(206) 207-3642 View (206) 207-3642
Photo of Nicholas S. Sciarrone, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Nicholas S. Sciarrone
Counselor, LMHC, MHP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, self esteem, SUD, and struggles related to life transitions. I help clients find the solid ground they need to support forward movement and a more positive trajectory. I begin by working with clients in developing a deeper understanding of themselves to arm them with the knowledge necessary to address their problems and make changes necessary to develop more adaptive coping strategies and improve the quality of their lives. I am non-judgmental and work to create a space in which clients can freely explore, uncover, and accept themselves more fully to live fuller, more meaningful lives.
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, self esteem, SUD, and struggles related to life transitions. I help clients find the solid ground they need to support forward movement and a more positive trajectory. I begin by working with clients in developing a deeper understanding of themselves to arm them with the knowledge necessary to address their problems and make changes necessary to develop more adaptive coping strategies and improve the quality of their lives. I am non-judgmental and work to create a space in which clients can freely explore, uncover, and accept themselves more fully to live fuller, more meaningful lives.
(206) 502-0894 View (206) 502-0894
Photo of Aylee Welch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Aylee Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
Traditional psychotherapy works toward congruence in a persons thinking, emotions, actions, and life choices. Body-oriented therapy understands that the body is also profoundly affected by our life experiences. Identifying and releasing attitudes and old images held in our physical structure adds an important component to therapy. This promotes lasting change, allowing for free flow of life energy from within us so we can more fully realize our life, our joy. I am also founder of the Seattle School of Body-Psychotherapy, and enterprise of Body-Psychotherapy of Seattle.
Traditional psychotherapy works toward congruence in a persons thinking, emotions, actions, and life choices. Body-oriented therapy understands that the body is also profoundly affected by our life experiences. Identifying and releasing attitudes and old images held in our physical structure adds an important component to therapy. This promotes lasting change, allowing for free flow of life energy from within us so we can more fully realize our life, our joy. I am also founder of the Seattle School of Body-Psychotherapy, and enterprise of Body-Psychotherapy of Seattle.
(206) 745-4956 View (206) 745-4956

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.