Photo of Abbie Spear, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, 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 Mindful Springs Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Mindful Springs Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
Our Seattle- based staff therapists have specializations in play therapy, trauma therapy (via Brainspotting and EMDR) and ketamine therapy.
Have you tried other therapists but did not seem to connect? Our staff bring mindfulness and cutting-edge healing opportunities so you have access to the deepest healing possible. From ketamine therapy to brainspotting to play therapy, the Mindful Springs Counseling staff are trained and certified in many different areas to meet the needs of our clients without bias or judgement. We want our clients to heal, move forward and transform their lives in the safest space possible, while offering real opportunity for healing and recovery.
Our Seattle- based staff therapists have specializations in play therapy, trauma therapy (via Brainspotting and EMDR) and ketamine therapy.
Have you tried other therapists but did not seem to connect? Our staff bring mindfulness and cutting-edge healing opportunities so you have access to the deepest healing possible. From ketamine therapy to brainspotting to play therapy, the Mindful Springs Counseling staff are trained and certified in many different areas to meet the needs of our clients without bias or judgement. We want our clients to heal, move forward and transform their lives in the safest space possible, while offering real opportunity for healing and recovery.
(206) 761-1344 View (206) 761-1344
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 Jon Huerta Therapy, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jon Huerta Therapy
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I have experience and specialize working with the queer community, youth, as well as trauma survivors by using nature therapy, somatic mindfulness, and play therapy.
Life experiences and social systems affect the way we embody ourselves and relate to others and our environment. By exploring alongside youth (6-17) and adults of all genders, relationship styles, and identities, I help you mend the relationship with yourselves and aid you to further trust in your innate strengths and wisdom. By doing so, your capacity to thrive grows outwardly and inwardly. In working together, we will have the safe space to explore your needs, beliefs, stories, and experiences to help heal your mind, body, and social connections.
I have experience and specialize working with the queer community, youth, as well as trauma survivors by using nature therapy, somatic mindfulness, and play therapy.
Life experiences and social systems affect the way we embody ourselves and relate to others and our environment. By exploring alongside youth (6-17) and adults of all genders, relationship styles, and identities, I help you mend the relationship with yourselves and aid you to further trust in your innate strengths and wisdom. By doing so, your capacity to thrive grows outwardly and inwardly. In working together, we will have the safe space to explore your needs, beliefs, stories, and experiences to help heal your mind, body, and social connections.
(206) 752-2821 View (206) 752-2821
Photo of Erika Falit-Baiamonte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Erika Falit-Baiamonte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
In my work with children, I utilize play therapy, as children usually do not express their feelings directly but do so figuratively though their play.
I have over 20 years of experience providing therapy and support to those who struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal and family conflicts, job related stress, behavioral issues in children, parenting concerns and the impact of trauma, illness and life transitions. I am particularly interested in supporting families in their relationships with one another and I believe in encouraging choices that are nurturing to all family members.
In my work with children, I utilize play therapy, as children usually do not express their feelings directly but do so figuratively though their play.
I have over 20 years of experience providing therapy and support to those who struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal and family conflicts, job related stress, behavioral issues in children, parenting concerns and the impact of trauma, illness and life transitions. I am particularly interested in supporting families in their relationships with one another and I believe in encouraging choices that are nurturing to all family members.
(206) 922-8274 View (206) 922-8274
Photo of Cooper Stodden (They)(Them) - Village Witch Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Cooper Stodden (They)(Them) - Village Witch Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
Currently accepting new clients. I offer nature-based therapy (I work outside!) to LGBTQ+ witches, pagans, and other practitioners of earth-based spirituality of all ages. My work is supporting folx to grow self-esteem, co/self-regulation, compassion & belonging. I use the tools of nature-based therapy and magical/spiritual practice. These include ritual, divination, spell-work, song, mindfulness, and movement. I support clients in connecting with elements, nature, ancestors, and other guides. I help people access healing through connection with nature, parts work, family systems therapy, healing internalized oppression & play.
Currently accepting new clients. I offer nature-based therapy (I work outside!) to LGBTQ+ witches, pagans, and other practitioners of earth-based spirituality of all ages. My work is supporting folx to grow self-esteem, co/self-regulation, compassion & belonging. I use the tools of nature-based therapy and magical/spiritual practice. These include ritual, divination, spell-work, song, mindfulness, and movement. I support clients in connecting with elements, nature, ancestors, and other guides. I help people access healing through connection with nature, parts work, family systems therapy, healing internalized oppression & play.
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Photo of Danielle Gonzales, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Danielle Gonzales
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
I offer Play Therapy for children and parent support.
Are you looking for help with your child’s difficult behaviors, emotional struggles, and support through life changes? Are you a parent that feels uncertain or overwhelmed and needs some support? Do you need space to uncover the insights you hold within and strengthen your relationship with your self, child, or family? 
I believe that a safe and accepting therapeutic relationship is necessary to process difficult experiences and rediscover the wisdom held within ourselves—no matter our age. I help children, parents, and women regain joy, uncover confidence, feel seen, and find insights that lead to desired changes.
I offer Play Therapy for children and parent support.
Are you looking for help with your child’s difficult behaviors, emotional struggles, and support through life changes? Are you a parent that feels uncertain or overwhelmed and needs some support? Do you need space to uncover the insights you hold within and strengthen your relationship with your self, child, or family? 
I believe that a safe and accepting therapeutic relationship is necessary to process difficult experiences and rediscover the wisdom held within ourselves—no matter our age. I help children, parents, and women regain joy, uncover confidence, feel seen, and find insights that lead to desired changes.
(206) 316-8500 View (206) 316-8500
Photo of Andi Eberhardt, Counselor in Seattle, 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 Brian Cruess, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Brian Cruess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122
Approaches include CBT, relaxation techniques, and Play Therapy for children.
We all find ourselves in circumstances at one time or another that call for adjusting to change or making decisions, whether it's charting a path through grief and loss, developmental transitions, job loss, recovering from trauma or the challenges of parenting. Therapy can be helpful in sorting through confusing thoughts and feelings, gaining insight, establishing a course of action amongst different choices, and building confidence through experiencing a deeper understanding of yourself, all in the context of a caring relationship.
Approaches include CBT, relaxation techniques, and Play Therapy for children.
We all find ourselves in circumstances at one time or another that call for adjusting to change or making decisions, whether it's charting a path through grief and loss, developmental transitions, job loss, recovering from trauma or the challenges of parenting. Therapy can be helpful in sorting through confusing thoughts and feelings, gaining insight, establishing a course of action amongst different choices, and building confidence through experiencing a deeper understanding of yourself, all in the context of a caring relationship.
(206) 496-0381 View (206) 496-0381
Photo of Alexandria Scalone, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, 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 Amanda Fowler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Amanda Fowler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with teens and young adults, spanning ages 13 to 35. With extensive expertise in assisting neurodivergent individuals and those within the LGBTQ+ community, I welcome anyone seeking care through creative or somatic methodologies. Employing a holistic therapeutic approach, my methods integrate cognitive and somatic interventions, drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Synergetic Play Therapy, Cognitive Processing, Polyvagal Therapy, and Mindfulness. It is my fervent commitment to empower every individual I work with, ensuring they feel
I enjoy working with teens and young adults, spanning ages 13 to 35. With extensive expertise in assisting neurodivergent individuals and those within the LGBTQ+ community, I welcome anyone seeking care through creative or somatic methodologies. Employing a holistic therapeutic approach, my methods integrate cognitive and somatic interventions, drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Synergetic Play Therapy, Cognitive Processing, Polyvagal Therapy, and Mindfulness. It is my fervent commitment to empower every individual I work with, ensuring they feel
(206) 672-1072 View (206) 672-1072
Photo of Alex Credgington, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Alex Credgington
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I work with Seattle's busy professionals and families to provide therapy that targets stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting challenges, child behavioral issues, and more. I work from a systemic perspective to understand the many roles you play in your life, as well as the influences of the past through a psychodynamic lens. My goal is to help you understand the root of your challenges, strengthen your mindset and resolve, and help you feel healthier and happier. Let's talk.
I work with Seattle's busy professionals and families to provide therapy that targets stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting challenges, child behavioral issues, and more. I work from a systemic perspective to understand the many roles you play in your life, as well as the influences of the past through a psychodynamic lens. My goal is to help you understand the root of your challenges, strengthen your mindset and resolve, and help you feel healthier and happier. Let's talk.
(206) 333-7277 View (206) 333-7277
Photo of Yi-An Lo Burleson, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Yi-An Lo Burleson
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Use of CBT, DBT, family theories as well as play therapy expands my abilities to provide integrated solution-focused and exploration-oriented therapy.
I believe that everyone can explore internally and foster potential to create a brighter outlook of life. Through open-minded and non-judgmental collaboration, I work with many individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal, family dynamic issues, career concerns, trauma, grief, parenting, and body image issues. Almost 20 years of experience, I assist children, adults, families, and couples exploring self-understanding, identifying emotional and behavioral patterns, develop new perspectives and emotion and stress management skills, making meaningful interpersonal connections, and making career decisions.
Use of CBT, DBT, family theories as well as play therapy expands my abilities to provide integrated solution-focused and exploration-oriented therapy.
I believe that everyone can explore internally and foster potential to create a brighter outlook of life. Through open-minded and non-judgmental collaboration, I work with many individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal, family dynamic issues, career concerns, trauma, grief, parenting, and body image issues. Almost 20 years of experience, I assist children, adults, families, and couples exploring self-understanding, identifying emotional and behavioral patterns, develop new perspectives and emotion and stress management skills, making meaningful interpersonal connections, and making career decisions.
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Photo of Bee Cook, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Bee Cook
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
I also utilize somatic techniques, parts work, and play and art therapy for children.
My ideal clients are children, teens and adults seeking greater self-understanding and inner wholeness. For kids, I help with big emotions, social struggles, learning differences and managing life changes. Teens come to me for identity development, relationships, school pressures, family issues and mood disorders. Adults see me for anxiety, trauma, personal growth and chronic health challenges. Their goals are to feel understood, express themselves, gain tools to relate healthier with themselves and others and rewrite old narratives that hold them back.
I also utilize somatic techniques, parts work, and play and art therapy for children.
My ideal clients are children, teens and adults seeking greater self-understanding and inner wholeness. For kids, I help with big emotions, social struggles, learning differences and managing life changes. Teens come to me for identity development, relationships, school pressures, family issues and mood disorders. Adults see me for anxiety, trauma, personal growth and chronic health challenges. Their goals are to feel understood, express themselves, gain tools to relate healthier with themselves and others and rewrite old narratives that hold them back.
(206) 531-7470 View (206) 531-7470
Photo of Michelle Schneider, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Michelle Schneider
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Welcome. As a family therapist, I am passionate about coming alongside families to support them through the the more difficult moments of life. I work with children of all ages and their families to improve issues of anxiety, depression, family conflict, trauma, attachment, tantrums and more. I also work with parents to help support finding their confidence in parenting and self, as often parenting can feel like your entire identity, we work to find balance to give space to all the pieces of you. I help create change through play, art, conversation, and connection with caregivers.
Welcome. As a family therapist, I am passionate about coming alongside families to support them through the the more difficult moments of life. I work with children of all ages and their families to improve issues of anxiety, depression, family conflict, trauma, attachment, tantrums and more. I also work with parents to help support finding their confidence in parenting and self, as often parenting can feel like your entire identity, we work to find balance to give space to all the pieces of you. I help create change through play, art, conversation, and connection with caregivers.
(206) 552-8307 View (206) 552-8307
Photo of Jen Mccormick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Jen Mccormick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
My job is to provide a safe space for them to play and express themselves in a creative manner.
Hello- I am not taking new clients until September 2023. Thank you for taking a look at my profile. Choosing to engage in therapy is an opportunity for growth and change. In my practice, I strive to meet you where you are and help illuminate your path a bit. The focus of my therapeutic work is within the relationship and the belief in your autonomy and ability to empower yourself. With trust and respect, we can work together to explore areas of your life that may need a fresh perspective. Speciality areas include traumatic loss, transition, depression, and family relationship struggles with children, adolescents, and adults.
My job is to provide a safe space for them to play and express themselves in a creative manner.
Hello- I am not taking new clients until September 2023. Thank you for taking a look at my profile. Choosing to engage in therapy is an opportunity for growth and change. In my practice, I strive to meet you where you are and help illuminate your path a bit. The focus of my therapeutic work is within the relationship and the belief in your autonomy and ability to empower yourself. With trust and respect, we can work together to explore areas of your life that may need a fresh perspective. Speciality areas include traumatic loss, transition, depression, and family relationship struggles with children, adolescents, and adults.
(206) 203-3945 View (206) 203-3945
Photo of Karla T Mancero, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Karla T Mancero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
I utilize play and expressive art therapy approaches which meet a child where they are at in their stage of growth and healing.
I enjoy helping children learn to self regulate and express their feelings and experiences through play and the therapeutic relationship. Children in my office will be given a safe space to be themselves and express all the parts of themselves that they bring in the room. I will work with parents on linking goals with growth and attunement for their child. Together we will collaborate on the best way to help your child heal in the areas that they are struggling to process and understand better.
I utilize play and expressive art therapy approaches which meet a child where they are at in their stage of growth and healing.
I enjoy helping children learn to self regulate and express their feelings and experiences through play and the therapeutic relationship. Children in my office will be given a safe space to be themselves and express all the parts of themselves that they bring in the room. I will work with parents on linking goals with growth and attunement for their child. Together we will collaborate on the best way to help your child heal in the areas that they are struggling to process and understand better.
(206) 312-1764 View (206) 312-1764
Photo of Julia L Fay, Counselor in Seattle, 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 Stephen Plotz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Stephen Plotz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I specialize in using Play Therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Associate (LMFTA) in WA. I received my Master’s Degree in Couples and Family Therapy & a Play Therapy Certificate from Antioch University Seattle. I currently have limited availability, reach out to me using this form: hipaa.jotform.com/230046103107034
I specialize in using Play Therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Associate (LMFTA) in WA. I received my Master’s Degree in Couples and Family Therapy & a Play Therapy Certificate from Antioch University Seattle. I currently have limited availability, reach out to me using this form: hipaa.jotform.com/230046103107034
Photo of Karen E. Clark, Psychologist in Seattle, 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
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.