Photo of Birgitta Hellberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
Birgitta Hellberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kamas, UT 84036
Birgitta Cuneo Hellberg is a License Clinical Social Worker of 13 years of experience. She provides compassionate, patient-centered care for children, teens and families who are struggling with mental health issues. She holds specialized training in evidenced-based play therapy, trauma-informed therapy, DBT, EMDR, TFCBT, parent-child attachment, CBT and Child-centered approaches. It is her goal to make you feel seen, heard, understood, and that we care about you, your family, and your situation. She assist children and families in resolving difficulties and achieving a greater sense of well-being.
Birgitta Cuneo Hellberg is a License Clinical Social Worker of 13 years of experience. She provides compassionate, patient-centered care for children, teens and families who are struggling with mental health issues. She holds specialized training in evidenced-based play therapy, trauma-informed therapy, DBT, EMDR, TFCBT, parent-child attachment, CBT and Child-centered approaches. It is her goal to make you feel seen, heard, understood, and that we care about you, your family, and your situation. She assist children and families in resolving difficulties and achieving a greater sense of well-being.
(435) 292-8073 View (435) 292-8073
Photo of Pepper Elliot, Psychological Associate in Kamas, UT
Pepper Elliot
Psychological Associate, ACMHC, LSC
Verified Verified
Kamas, UT 84036
I'm a passionate advocate for mental health, personal growth, and development. I work from an existential base, also narrative, exposure, person-centered, and family systems theories. I appreciate the power of individual stories, every person is an expert on their own life and story, I love working as a team to find positive forward movement in all types of life situations. Each individual is unique, I love being on a learning and self-discovery journey with my clients as they navigate personal healing and growth.
I'm a passionate advocate for mental health, personal growth, and development. I work from an existential base, also narrative, exposure, person-centered, and family systems theories. I appreciate the power of individual stories, every person is an expert on their own life and story, I love working as a team to find positive forward movement in all types of life situations. Each individual is unique, I love being on a learning and self-discovery journey with my clients as they navigate personal healing and growth.
(435) 220-5486 View (435) 220-5486
Photo of Acceptance Counseling, Counselor in Kamas, UT
Acceptance Counseling
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kamas, UT 84036
My focus is on helping those in need to find peace, motivation, a new way of thinking, direction, and joy. I work with most client issues but my specialties include: couples, anxiety, addiction, domestic violence, anger, marriage and relationship conflicts, teenager struggles, family dynamics, depression, and weight management.
My focus is on helping those in need to find peace, motivation, a new way of thinking, direction, and joy. I work with most client issues but my specialties include: couples, anxiety, addiction, domestic violence, anger, marriage and relationship conflicts, teenager struggles, family dynamics, depression, and weight management.
(435) 210-6476 View (435) 210-6476
Photo of Liza Sanderson, Counselor in Kamas, UT
Liza Sanderson
Counselor, PsyD, CMHC, NCSP, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kamas, UT 84036  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the connection that derives our humanity. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, tailoring interventions to meet these needs, and challenging individuals to make changes that ultimately lead to the development of a life in which they feel they can thrive.
As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the connection that derives our humanity. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, tailoring interventions to meet these needs, and challenging individuals to make changes that ultimately lead to the development of a life in which they feel they can thrive.
(801) 666-2524 View (801) 666-2524

Online Therapists

Photo of Meg Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
Meg Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
If you are looking for a therapist with an empathetic and non-judgmental presence who honors the innate wisdom of children, is fluent in the language of play, and supports healing with curiosity and humor, I would love to hear from you.
Welcome! I’m Meg, an LCSW with a passion for helping kids and teens grow towards their most fulfilled, secure, and authentic selves. Growing up is hard for everyone, but I’ve found that many of the youth that come to see me have had a harder time than most finding a consistent feeling of safety and belonging in the world. Much of my experience has come from working with those who identify as neurodivergent or LGBTQ+, those diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, or other disabilities, those who have experienced developmental/complex trauma, and those struggling with anxiety, attachment, or self-image.
If you are looking for a therapist with an empathetic and non-judgmental presence who honors the innate wisdom of children, is fluent in the language of play, and supports healing with curiosity and humor, I would love to hear from you.
Welcome! I’m Meg, an LCSW with a passion for helping kids and teens grow towards their most fulfilled, secure, and authentic selves. Growing up is hard for everyone, but I’ve found that many of the youth that come to see me have had a harder time than most finding a consistent feeling of safety and belonging in the world. Much of my experience has come from working with those who identify as neurodivergent or LGBTQ+, those diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, or other disabilities, those who have experienced developmental/complex trauma, and those struggling with anxiety, attachment, or self-image.
(385) 442-7890 View (385) 442-7890
Photo of Ellen S Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
Ellen S Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
I work with adults, children and teens using sandtray therapy, play therapy, and a variety of creative expression modalities.
I love helping adults, children, teens, and their parents successfully navigate life’s challenges. My primary focus is on creating a safe space for people to process their struggles and discover and build on their strengths. I believe that people have what they need to thrive inside of them and my purpose is to help them access that through talk and play. I am familiar with and trained in using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I work with adults, children and teens using sandtray therapy, play therapy, and a variety of creative expression modalities.
I love helping adults, children, teens, and their parents successfully navigate life’s challenges. My primary focus is on creating a safe space for people to process their struggles and discover and build on their strengths. I believe that people have what they need to thrive inside of them and my purpose is to help them access that through talk and play. I am familiar with and trained in using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(385) 595-5410 View (385) 595-5410
Photo of Lynette Beard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
Lynette Beard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spanish Fork, UT 84660
I use a variety of evidenced-based therapy models to assist you in your healing journey including: EMDR, IFS, TF-CBT, DBT strategies, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, expressive arts and strengths-based therapy.
I believe each person is unique and has great worth. Whether you are at the beginning of your healing journey, somewhere in the middle or towards the end, finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I am here to support, encourage, validate, explore and discover with you. Life can be stressful and can also feed us lies, doubts and bring a concoction of unpleasant emotions. I am here to walk alongside you as you rediscover yourself and work through past trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, self worth or whatever struggles you are currently dealing with. I also specialize in working with children to help them through these struggles.
I use a variety of evidenced-based therapy models to assist you in your healing journey including: EMDR, IFS, TF-CBT, DBT strategies, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, expressive arts and strengths-based therapy.
I believe each person is unique and has great worth. Whether you are at the beginning of your healing journey, somewhere in the middle or towards the end, finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I am here to support, encourage, validate, explore and discover with you. Life can be stressful and can also feed us lies, doubts and bring a concoction of unpleasant emotions. I am here to walk alongside you as you rediscover yourself and work through past trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, self worth or whatever struggles you are currently dealing with. I also specialize in working with children to help them through these struggles.
(801) 516-3928 View (801) 516-3928
Photo of Journey Family Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Kamas, UT
Journey Family Counseling
Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
At my practice we are focused on helping you and your loved ones find the growth and healing we all know you can achieve. Our therapists are clinically trained professionals prepared to support adults, teens, and children on their Journey. Children are supported by evidence based Child Centered Play Therapy in one of our dedicated play therapy offices. Play therapy has been shown to help with behavior, anxiety, ADHD, depression, grief/loss and challenges due to significant life changes.
At my practice we are focused on helping you and your loved ones find the growth and healing we all know you can achieve. Our therapists are clinically trained professionals prepared to support adults, teens, and children on their Journey. Children are supported by evidence based Child Centered Play Therapy in one of our dedicated play therapy offices. Play therapy has been shown to help with behavior, anxiety, ADHD, depression, grief/loss and challenges due to significant life changes.
(385) 438-3444 View (385) 438-3444
Photo of Jake Andreason, Counselor in Kamas, UT
Jake Andreason
Counselor, DHA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
South Jordan, UT 84095
I offer specialties in play therapy treating all different age groups.
I work with children, teens, and adults. Much of my clinical works focuses more on helping the person, not on giving a label. Hope and trust are crucial in working with a therapist. Finding the right fit, the right type of experience, and the right connection is what builds this hope.
I offer specialties in play therapy treating all different age groups.
I work with children, teens, and adults. Much of my clinical works focuses more on helping the person, not on giving a label. Hope and trust are crucial in working with a therapist. Finding the right fit, the right type of experience, and the right connection is what builds this hope.
(385) 217-6198 View (385) 217-6198
Photo of Stephanie Snuffer, Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Kamas, UT
Stephanie Snuffer
Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
South Jordan, UT 84095
Waitlist for new clients
Change can come in many ways including through education, behavior, mindfulness, play therapy, art therapy, movement, and stories.
“I was born in a cross-fire hurricane” is a line from the song Jumpin Jack Flash by “The Rolling Stones,” but it is also what life can feel like when we are distressed, anxious, depressed, or unsettled. Working as a teacher, I observed first-hand the increasing sadness, anxiety, overwhelm and disconnection that students, parents, and teachers were experiencing. This can happen for a variety of reasons. Seeing the need for more support was my motivation for becoming a therapist. I believe you deserve to be your best self and sometimes you might need a little help and mentoring to get there.
Change can come in many ways including through education, behavior, mindfulness, play therapy, art therapy, movement, and stories.
“I was born in a cross-fire hurricane” is a line from the song Jumpin Jack Flash by “The Rolling Stones,” but it is also what life can feel like when we are distressed, anxious, depressed, or unsettled. Working as a teacher, I observed first-hand the increasing sadness, anxiety, overwhelm and disconnection that students, parents, and teachers were experiencing. This can happen for a variety of reasons. Seeing the need for more support was my motivation for becoming a therapist. I believe you deserve to be your best self and sometimes you might need a little help and mentoring to get there.
(385) 259-7989 View (385) 259-7989
Photo of Brittany Titensor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
Brittany Titensor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woods Cross, UT 84087
I have received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Anxiety Interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, Expressive Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
Life can be challenging. Everyone has struggles, but what can make life even more difficult is coping with mental health issues. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. I am here to help you thrive and live your best life and cope with life's challenges. For more information, please visit my website: supportivepathwaystherapy.com
I have received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Anxiety Interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, Expressive Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
Life can be challenging. Everyone has struggles, but what can make life even more difficult is coping with mental health issues. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. I am here to help you thrive and live your best life and cope with life's challenges. For more information, please visit my website: supportivepathwaystherapy.com
(801) 893-7255 View (801) 893-7255
Photo of Lori Lund, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kamas, UT
Lori Lund
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy, UT 84070
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working with individuals, couples, families, and children for over 20 years. I primarily use a collaborative, strength-based approach to individual, family and couples' therapy, play therapy with children, and when working with diverse populations. I believe that the majority of people have an internal desire and wisdom that directs them toward healing and changing for the better. Similar to our bodies, the brain naturally knows how to heal given the right conditions. I believe that my role as a therapist is to help people tap into the resiliency of the human spirit.
I have been working with individuals, couples, families, and children for over 20 years. I primarily use a collaborative, strength-based approach to individual, family and couples' therapy, play therapy with children, and when working with diverse populations. I believe that the majority of people have an internal desire and wisdom that directs them toward healing and changing for the better. Similar to our bodies, the brain naturally knows how to heal given the right conditions. I believe that my role as a therapist is to help people tap into the resiliency of the human spirit.
(801) 215-9397 View (801) 215-9397
Photo of Erin Parker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kamas, UT
Erin Parker
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
Hello, I'm Erin, a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding you through your journey to healing. With expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders, I offer a warm and approachable space where you can find solace. Drawing from proven techniques like TF-CBT, play therapy, CBT, and mindfulness, I tailor our sessions to your unique journey. Each individual is met with empathy and expertise. Together we will navigate challenges and foster growth and resilience. You are not alone, I am here to listen, understand and guide you toward a brighter path.
Hello, I'm Erin, a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding you through your journey to healing. With expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders, I offer a warm and approachable space where you can find solace. Drawing from proven techniques like TF-CBT, play therapy, CBT, and mindfulness, I tailor our sessions to your unique journey. Each individual is met with empathy and expertise. Together we will navigate challenges and foster growth and resilience. You are not alone, I am here to listen, understand and guide you toward a brighter path.
(801) 810-0340 View (801) 810-0340
Photo of Tiffany Giron, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kamas, UT
Tiffany Giron
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
For children I use Play therapy and am learning more sand tray skills.
“If I am not good to myself, how can I expect anyone else to be good to me?” — Maya Angelou. I believe therapy can heal by providing tools that vary and work differently for each client. I will hold you accountable while showing compassion and being empathetic. I want my clients to “graduate” and not have them tell others they have been seeing their clinician for years. I want to be seen as a person who will not judge others for their past or present. Discussing mutual interests like music, movies, and activities helps us build a rapport easing our discussions with the issues we need to solve for the better life you seek.
For children I use Play therapy and am learning more sand tray skills.
“If I am not good to myself, how can I expect anyone else to be good to me?” — Maya Angelou. I believe therapy can heal by providing tools that vary and work differently for each client. I will hold you accountable while showing compassion and being empathetic. I want my clients to “graduate” and not have them tell others they have been seeing their clinician for years. I want to be seen as a person who will not judge others for their past or present. Discussing mutual interests like music, movies, and activities helps us build a rapport easing our discussions with the issues we need to solve for the better life you seek.
(385) 247-9008 x101 View (385) 247-9008 x101
Photo of Amy R Gibson, Counselor in Kamas, UT
Amy R Gibson
Counselor, MEd , ACMHC
Verified Verified
Riverton, UT 84065
I use research-based methods such as CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I love working with kids, teens, family systems, and parent/child relationships. I have helped clients work through the school system to get the support they need to be successful, including IEPs, 504s, and connections to mental health resources within the school and district. I have worked with teens who have trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I have also worked with school-avoidant behavior, impulse control, and anger management. I am passionate about counseling LGBTQIA+, couples’ intimacy, geriatric, and pre-and post-natal clients.
I use research-based methods such as CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I love working with kids, teens, family systems, and parent/child relationships. I have helped clients work through the school system to get the support they need to be successful, including IEPs, 504s, and connections to mental health resources within the school and district. I have worked with teens who have trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I have also worked with school-avoidant behavior, impulse control, and anger management. I am passionate about counseling LGBTQIA+, couples’ intimacy, geriatric, and pre-and post-natal clients.
(385) 786-6160 View (385) 786-6160
Photo of Mica Denman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
Mica Denman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midvale, UT 84047
Openings Now! Parenting can feel impossible at times. After living my own postpartum journey, I am passionate about supporting moms and families through early parenthood. Often times parenting brings a whole new set of challenges or reopens old wounds. My goal is to work alongside you to find peace and hope for the future. I also have extensive training as a play therapist. I enjoy working with kids with ADHD, anger or behavioral issues, anxiety and trauma.
Openings Now! Parenting can feel impossible at times. After living my own postpartum journey, I am passionate about supporting moms and families through early parenthood. Often times parenting brings a whole new set of challenges or reopens old wounds. My goal is to work alongside you to find peace and hope for the future. I also have extensive training as a play therapist. I enjoy working with kids with ADHD, anger or behavioral issues, anxiety and trauma.
(385) 380-4238 View (385) 380-4238
Photo of @ Carbajal Counseling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
@ Carbajal Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kaysville, UT 84037
As a therapist I offer a variety of interventions including client centered therapy CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Crisis work, and more.
Hi! I am Lexi Todd, CSW. I have a passion for working with clients who are seeking support and guidance and are motivated for self-growth and healing. I work with children, adolescents, couples, and families to address many types of concerns including; Depression, Anxiety, behavioral issues, emotional regulation, communication, self-esteem, trauma, and identity issues.
As a therapist I offer a variety of interventions including client centered therapy CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Crisis work, and more.
Hi! I am Lexi Todd, CSW. I have a passion for working with clients who are seeking support and guidance and are motivated for self-growth and healing. I work with children, adolescents, couples, and families to address many types of concerns including; Depression, Anxiety, behavioral issues, emotional regulation, communication, self-esteem, trauma, and identity issues.
(385) 219-4774 View (385) 219-4774
Photo of Multicultural Counseling Center (MCC), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
Multicultural Counseling Center (MCC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Jordan, UT 84084
Our services are offered using diverse therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, EMDR, dialectic behavioral.
Nuestros servicios han sido creados para satisfacer las necesidades de la población Latina Hispano hablante, así mismo como la población Americana. Todas nuestras terapeutas hablan español como su lengua nativa y todas somos bilingües. Ofrecemos diferentes modalidades de terapia como individual, de pareja, jóvenes, familias y en grupo. Ofrecemos evaluaciones para casos de inmigración. Si su abogado le ha solicitado que obtenga una evaluación psicológica estamos aquí para ayudarlo con estos servicios. Tenemos una vasta experiencia trabajando con individuos y familias de diversos orígenes culturales y étnicos.
Our services are offered using diverse therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, EMDR, dialectic behavioral.
Nuestros servicios han sido creados para satisfacer las necesidades de la población Latina Hispano hablante, así mismo como la población Americana. Todas nuestras terapeutas hablan español como su lengua nativa y todas somos bilingües. Ofrecemos diferentes modalidades de terapia como individual, de pareja, jóvenes, familias y en grupo. Ofrecemos evaluaciones para casos de inmigración. Si su abogado le ha solicitado que obtenga una evaluación psicológica estamos aquí para ayudarlo con estos servicios. Tenemos una vasta experiencia trabajando con individuos y familias de diversos orígenes culturales y étnicos.
(801) 923-6259 View (801) 923-6259
Photo of Kennedy Demboski - Center For Resilience Leadership, Counselor in Kamas, UT
Kennedy Demboski - Center For Resilience Leadership
Counselor, MA, ACMHC
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84097
I have received training in DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, neurofeedback, play therapy, and ARC.
Appointments Available Now! Focuses on the whole person, not just the issues or problems that may present. I have worked in a variety of roles within the mental health industry in the past 8 years. I have worked in outpatient, residential, and acute settings. I have worked with children and adolescents with a wide variety of mental health concerns, ranging from personality disorders, behavioral disorders, substance use disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, self-harm, trauma, and suicidal/homicidal ideation.
I have received training in DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, neurofeedback, play therapy, and ARC.
Appointments Available Now! Focuses on the whole person, not just the issues or problems that may present. I have worked in a variety of roles within the mental health industry in the past 8 years. I have worked in outpatient, residential, and acute settings. I have worked with children and adolescents with a wide variety of mental health concerns, ranging from personality disorders, behavioral disorders, substance use disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, self-harm, trauma, and suicidal/homicidal ideation.
(801) 405-3410 View (801) 405-3410
Photo of Julie J Chan Boon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kamas, UT
Julie J Chan Boon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Jordan, UT 84088  (Online Only)
I use several approaches such as traditional talk therapy, CBT, DBT, EFT, family systems, TBRI, play therapy, and specializes in Brainspotting.
I have worked in mental health since 2006. I have worked in several different settings and with several different populations. I enjoy working with kids, teens, adults, families, and elderly. I enjoy helping clients work through their struggles, through teaching coping skills, mindfulness, reducing symptoms, and improving overall functioning. I work hard at helping normalize issues and helping others to know that they do not have to face their battles alone.
I use several approaches such as traditional talk therapy, CBT, DBT, EFT, family systems, TBRI, play therapy, and specializes in Brainspotting.
I have worked in mental health since 2006. I have worked in several different settings and with several different populations. I enjoy working with kids, teens, adults, families, and elderly. I enjoy helping clients work through their struggles, through teaching coping skills, mindfulness, reducing symptoms, and improving overall functioning. I work hard at helping normalize issues and helping others to know that they do not have to face their battles alone.
(385) 304-3520 View (385) 304-3520

See more therapy options for Kamas


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.