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 Mariana Boden, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Mariana Boden
Counselor, MAEd, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
When seeing children/teens, I often incorporate play and creative expression.
Mental health struggles can make it challenging for anyone to enjoy their life fully. It is my passion to support others in finding healing in whatever way that feels right and useful for them. I believe in creating a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for therapy, in which each client can show up as they are. I have extensive training and experience with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and I also have a lot of experience (clinical and personal) working with neurodiverse individuals, particularly with ADHD.
When seeing children/teens, I often incorporate play and creative expression.
Mental health struggles can make it challenging for anyone to enjoy their life fully. It is my passion to support others in finding healing in whatever way that feels right and useful for them. I believe in creating a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for therapy, in which each client can show up as they are. I have extensive training and experience with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and I also have a lot of experience (clinical and personal) working with neurodiverse individuals, particularly with ADHD.
(206) 309-8212 View (206) 309-8212
Photo of Kelsie Bliss Therapy, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Kelsie Bliss Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
I hold certifications in art and play therapy, trauma informed care and heart math.
As of 12/15/23 I am currently taking new patients via Zoom. Late afternoon and evening appointments available.
I hold certifications in art and play therapy, trauma informed care and heart math.
As of 12/15/23 I am currently taking new patients via Zoom. Late afternoon and evening appointments available.
(206) 222-1827 View (206) 222-1827
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 Madeleine Bloch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Madeleine Bloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
When working with children, I utilize art therapy, play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy, mindfulness, and emotional regulation techniques.
Hello! Welcome to therapy. I’m Madeleine. If you are seeking therapy, you may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family/relationship issues, or perhaps you just need someone to talk to without fear of being judged. I use a collaborative approach and believe that you are the expert in your own life. We will work together to identify any patterns of behavior that you feel are interfering with your life, discuss the ways your family, environment, and society may be reinforcing these, and develop the skills to alter or cope with these patterns more effectively.
When working with children, I utilize art therapy, play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy, mindfulness, and emotional regulation techniques.
Hello! Welcome to therapy. I’m Madeleine. If you are seeking therapy, you may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family/relationship issues, or perhaps you just need someone to talk to without fear of being judged. I use a collaborative approach and believe that you are the expert in your own life. We will work together to identify any patterns of behavior that you feel are interfering with your life, discuss the ways your family, environment, and society may be reinforcing these, and develop the skills to alter or cope with these patterns more effectively.
(206) 208-7081 View (206) 208-7081
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 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 Suenia Villagerardo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Suenia Villagerardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I use clay, drawing, writing, movement, dance and sand play to access deep feelings.
Virtual Sessions Only. I work well with anyone who seeks therapy and is ready to work on themselves. I have worked with about every population, culture and age group. Issues that I am best suited to treating include a wide variety of disorders, childhood trauma, addictions, domestic violence, parenting/bonding/interpersonal relationships. I certified in EMDR and expressive arts therapy. I like to offer different forms of expression to my clients in the healing arts. I also give plenty of skill building tools and homework so clients can maximize their progress outside of the weekly sessions. I speak Spanish fluently.
I use clay, drawing, writing, movement, dance and sand play to access deep feelings.
Virtual Sessions Only. I work well with anyone who seeks therapy and is ready to work on themselves. I have worked with about every population, culture and age group. Issues that I am best suited to treating include a wide variety of disorders, childhood trauma, addictions, domestic violence, parenting/bonding/interpersonal relationships. I certified in EMDR and expressive arts therapy. I like to offer different forms of expression to my clients in the healing arts. I also give plenty of skill building tools and homework so clients can maximize their progress outside of the weekly sessions. I speak Spanish fluently.
(831) 265-5618 View (831) 265-5618
Photo of Lauree Akhtar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Lauree Akhtar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
www.paradoxtherapy.com/lauree. It's difficult to find a therapist, especially if you’re a multiply-marginalized individual who must cope with not just day to day stressors, but also the stressors of living within systems of oppression against multiple parts of your identity. If you’re in that situation, you may wish to find a therapist with an amount of lived experience, if only to lessen the burden of “explaining” how these systems affect you, and I’m passionate about helping people like you receive services that will more deeply understand the impacts of your environment on you, even if we do not have the exact same identities.
www.paradoxtherapy.com/lauree. It's difficult to find a therapist, especially if you’re a multiply-marginalized individual who must cope with not just day to day stressors, but also the stressors of living within systems of oppression against multiple parts of your identity. If you’re in that situation, you may wish to find a therapist with an amount of lived experience, if only to lessen the burden of “explaining” how these systems affect you, and I’m passionate about helping people like you receive services that will more deeply understand the impacts of your environment on you, even if we do not have the exact same identities.
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Photo of Maria Boxill, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Maria Boxill
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Are you or someone you care for interested in reigniting your innate capacity for healing and growth? At Inner Refuge Counseling our focused attention to the development of individualized therapeutic frameworks is done in a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment that helps to facilitate a safe guided exploration of self, within the context of social justice discrimination; cultural identity and acceptance; relational; and professional trauma. We work primarily with teenagers and adults (13-65yrs).
Are you or someone you care for interested in reigniting your innate capacity for healing and growth? At Inner Refuge Counseling our focused attention to the development of individualized therapeutic frameworks is done in a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment that helps to facilitate a safe guided exploration of self, within the context of social justice discrimination; cultural identity and acceptance; relational; and professional trauma. We work primarily with teenagers and adults (13-65yrs).
(206) 203-9891 View (206) 203-9891
Photo of Dr. Amaris Espinosa, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Amaris Espinosa
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I encourage new clients to utilize a free 15-20 minute consultation with me to assure that we are a good match to embark on a therapeutic relationship together. Taking the first steps towards help is difficult and takes a great deal of courage. I work with great care and compassion through multiple modalities to provide my clients the most effective therapy for what is overwhelming them. Feeling more peace and understanding, with a clear pathway to a healthier relationship with yourself and others are the results I provide. Services offered are strength-based, evidenced-based, social justice oriented, and support mind-body-spirit.
I encourage new clients to utilize a free 15-20 minute consultation with me to assure that we are a good match to embark on a therapeutic relationship together. Taking the first steps towards help is difficult and takes a great deal of courage. I work with great care and compassion through multiple modalities to provide my clients the most effective therapy for what is overwhelming them. Feeling more peace and understanding, with a clear pathway to a healthier relationship with yourself and others are the results I provide. Services offered are strength-based, evidenced-based, social justice oriented, and support mind-body-spirit.
(970) 458-7287 View (970) 458-7287
Photo of Agate Therapy Group, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Agate Therapy Group
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
It can be a daunting task to start looking for a therapist. Our team specializes in sitting with minors ages 6-17, adults, couples, and families who want to work on a multitude of issues, from stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relational issues. Whether you have been wanting to process big life events for ages or you’ve found yourself in an uncharacteristically difficult time, we’re here to listen without judgment or criticism. You have our attention.
It can be a daunting task to start looking for a therapist. Our team specializes in sitting with minors ages 6-17, adults, couples, and families who want to work on a multitude of issues, from stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relational issues. Whether you have been wanting to process big life events for ages or you’ve found yourself in an uncharacteristically difficult time, we’re here to listen without judgment or criticism. You have our attention.
(206) 594-3021 View (206) 594-3021
Photo of Alina Tovar, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Alina Tovar
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Sometimes life can feel a bit overwhelming and cause you to feel alone. I believe that asking for help takes courage and is a powerful move in making a difference in your life. You do not have to go through the struggles of life alone. I view counseling as a collaborative process, where you are the master of your life, and I am joining along for the ride. I hope we can work together to find the answers you may be looking for within you. I am here to help with any life challenges you may be going through.
Sometimes life can feel a bit overwhelming and cause you to feel alone. I believe that asking for help takes courage and is a powerful move in making a difference in your life. You do not have to go through the struggles of life alone. I view counseling as a collaborative process, where you are the master of your life, and I am joining along for the ride. I hope we can work together to find the answers you may be looking for within you. I am here to help with any life challenges you may be going through.
(206) 752-3697 View (206) 752-3697
Photo of Sara Ramos-Amador, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Sara Ramos-Amador
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98188
Waitlist for new clients
I am an artist/poet turned therapist. My method is to slowly build a therapeutic relationship, uncover strengths, and move toward client-identified treatment goals. I support clients to externalize problematic narratives or inner states they are stuck in through creative mediums. Once clients are resourced and can see, and then interact with their patterns and parts they make changes. Together we discover and incorporate parts of the self that had to go underground due to trauma or oppression. Clients emerge from their work, whole and empowered.
I am an artist/poet turned therapist. My method is to slowly build a therapeutic relationship, uncover strengths, and move toward client-identified treatment goals. I support clients to externalize problematic narratives or inner states they are stuck in through creative mediums. Once clients are resourced and can see, and then interact with their patterns and parts they make changes. Together we discover and incorporate parts of the self that had to go underground due to trauma or oppression. Clients emerge from their work, whole and empowered.
(206) 678-0215 View (206) 678-0215
Photo of Laura Stone, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Laura Stone
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126
Welcome to a space where individuals are empowered to navigate the depths of their experiences and emerge transformed. My clients are artists, writers, adoptees, neurodivergent folx, and others ready to embark on The Work. I provide Tailored Therapy to resolve traumatic stress, nurture attachments, and cultivate ways of being that honor Self. Through IFS, EMDR, Safe & Sound Protocol, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and integration, we co-create a comprehensive approach to healing trauma, developing new ways of being. I also see adopted kids & families, for attachment, trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity, and separation.
Welcome to a space where individuals are empowered to navigate the depths of their experiences and emerge transformed. My clients are artists, writers, adoptees, neurodivergent folx, and others ready to embark on The Work. I provide Tailored Therapy to resolve traumatic stress, nurture attachments, and cultivate ways of being that honor Self. Through IFS, EMDR, Safe & Sound Protocol, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and integration, we co-create a comprehensive approach to healing trauma, developing new ways of being. I also see adopted kids & families, for attachment, trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity, and separation.
(206) 498-9895 View (206) 498-9895
Photo of Maytal Grossman Not Accepting New Clients Now, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Maytal Grossman Not Accepting New Clients Now
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126
Reaching out to ask for help is one of the bravest things you can do. It involves being seen; in our vulnerabilities and in our strengths. It involves holding hope for yourself, your relationship(s), your child, your life. As a clinician, it is my job to hold that hope for you, even when you cannot see it. I believe strongly in client-centered work, which means that I also believe that people are essentially driven towards their own highest good and healing; sometimes it just takes removing the obstacles, which we will identify and face together. My work with individuals, couples, families and children is strongly informed by
Reaching out to ask for help is one of the bravest things you can do. It involves being seen; in our vulnerabilities and in our strengths. It involves holding hope for yourself, your relationship(s), your child, your life. As a clinician, it is my job to hold that hope for you, even when you cannot see it. I believe strongly in client-centered work, which means that I also believe that people are essentially driven towards their own highest good and healing; sometimes it just takes removing the obstacles, which we will identify and face together. My work with individuals, couples, families and children is strongly informed by
(206) 385-3136 View (206) 385-3136
Photo of Darcy Elton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Darcy Elton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Telehealth available in WA, OR, UT, ID, AZ, CO, MA, DC, LA, NM. Moving through a painful transition? Want to make changes in your life? Need to figure out where to go from here and how to get there? Have you ever wondered what experiences in your life impact you the most & how to heal? I'd love to join you on your journey. From navigating big transitions, healing deep hurts to growing into your most meaningful dreams, I’m here to support you with warmth, compassion, and genuineness as well as a decade of experience & specialty training. Trauma informed approach - no problem is too big or small.
Accepting new clients! Telehealth available in WA, OR, UT, ID, AZ, CO, MA, DC, LA, NM. Moving through a painful transition? Want to make changes in your life? Need to figure out where to go from here and how to get there? Have you ever wondered what experiences in your life impact you the most & how to heal? I'd love to join you on your journey. From navigating big transitions, healing deep hurts to growing into your most meaningful dreams, I’m here to support you with warmth, compassion, and genuineness as well as a decade of experience & specialty training. Trauma informed approach - no problem is too big or small.
(206) 203-7295 View (206) 203-7295
Photo of Hayden Hamilton, MD, Sealevel Pllc in Seattle, WA
Hayden Hamilton, MD, Sealevel Pllc
MD, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
I work with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, issues of personal identity (race/gender/sexuality orientation), and life transitions (relational/ academic/professional). Navigating into the depths of who we are reveals we are so much more than what we sense at the surface. Having support on our journey can allow us to develop tolerance for our full range of emotions, gain awareness of what we feel in our bodies, discover new insights into past events, expand our ability to discuss fears, increase empathy for ourselves, experience more meaningful relationships.
I work with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, issues of personal identity (race/gender/sexuality orientation), and life transitions (relational/ academic/professional). Navigating into the depths of who we are reveals we are so much more than what we sense at the surface. Having support on our journey can allow us to develop tolerance for our full range of emotions, gain awareness of what we feel in our bodies, discover new insights into past events, expand our ability to discuss fears, increase empathy for ourselves, experience more meaningful relationships.
(206) 737-1027 View (206) 737-1027
Photo of Ann MacLean, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Ann MacLean
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Are you feeling stuck? What's getting in the way of living a satisfying life, one with heart and meaning? You may be coming to therapy because of a new development or something very old, you may not even know what it is. You may also be adding to your burden by judging your self unfairly. But there is hope, therapy can usher in exciting transformation. When we can embrace the gifts that come with challenges, old fears lose their power. I deeply enjoy helping clients explore/work through difficulties with the purpose of breaking old patterns and intentionally creating a new path forward. Healing and growth is possible for you too.
Are you feeling stuck? What's getting in the way of living a satisfying life, one with heart and meaning? You may be coming to therapy because of a new development or something very old, you may not even know what it is. You may also be adding to your burden by judging your self unfairly. But there is hope, therapy can usher in exciting transformation. When we can embrace the gifts that come with challenges, old fears lose their power. I deeply enjoy helping clients explore/work through difficulties with the purpose of breaking old patterns and intentionally creating a new path forward. Healing and growth is possible for you too.
(206) 683-4275 View (206) 683-4275
Photo of Mare Cressman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Mare Cressman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Embarking on your healing journey may seem daunting, so congratulations on taking the first crucial step! Whether you're a person navigating postpartum challenges, a parent dealing with a child's intense emotions, a teenager navigating complexities, or an adult coping with trauma and change, I am confident in my ability to help healing. My commitment lies in creating and maintaining a secure environment to foster a trusting relationship that supports growth and healing. I am here to meet you at your current point in the journey, collaborating with you to craft a personalized therapeutic experience.
Embarking on your healing journey may seem daunting, so congratulations on taking the first crucial step! Whether you're a person navigating postpartum challenges, a parent dealing with a child's intense emotions, a teenager navigating complexities, or an adult coping with trauma and change, I am confident in my ability to help healing. My commitment lies in creating and maintaining a secure environment to foster a trusting relationship that supports growth and healing. I am here to meet you at your current point in the journey, collaborating with you to craft a personalized therapeutic experience.
(206) 451-2717 View (206) 451-2717
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.