Photo of Ben Weinheimer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Provo, UT
Ben Weinheimer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84606
Waitlist for new clients
I love being a therapist, helping others to find their best selves and reach their potential. I do individual and family / marital therapy with all ages. I specialize in autism spectrum disorders, abuse / trauma, anxiety, depression, executive functioning deficits (like ADHD and learning problems), and behavior problems. My preferred modes of therapy are cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), child-centered play therapy / filial play therapy, neurocognitive remediation (NCR), and experiential therapy (including utilizing mindfulness).
I love being a therapist, helping others to find their best selves and reach their potential. I do individual and family / marital therapy with all ages. I specialize in autism spectrum disorders, abuse / trauma, anxiety, depression, executive functioning deficits (like ADHD and learning problems), and behavior problems. My preferred modes of therapy are cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), child-centered play therapy / filial play therapy, neurocognitive remediation (NCR), and experiential therapy (including utilizing mindfulness).
(801) 876-5343 View (801) 876-5343
Photo of Adrianne Moody, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, UT
Adrianne Moody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
Adrianne has been trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, Child Centered Play Therapy, sand tray therapy and is Certified by EAGALA in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP).
Adrianne has been working as a therapist since 2015. Adrianne understands the challenges of today and has experience working with people with diverse backgrounds and of all ages. Adrianne has a deep understanding of the struggles that children of all ages experience with the stress of divorce and custody issues as well as trauma and school stress. Adrianne has experienced many of her own unexpected life struggles and it has helped her to have a deeper level of empathy and understanding for each individual person. She would be glad to spend time with you getting to know you and your personal situation.
Adrianne has been trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, Child Centered Play Therapy, sand tray therapy and is Certified by EAGALA in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP).
Adrianne has been working as a therapist since 2015. Adrianne understands the challenges of today and has experience working with people with diverse backgrounds and of all ages. Adrianne has a deep understanding of the struggles that children of all ages experience with the stress of divorce and custody issues as well as trauma and school stress. Adrianne has experienced many of her own unexpected life struggles and it has helped her to have a deeper level of empathy and understanding for each individual person. She would be glad to spend time with you getting to know you and your personal situation.
(385) 219-4955 View (385) 219-4955
Photo of Liz Harrell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Provo, UT
Liz Harrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
I have play therapy specialties and I love working with children.
My approach is an affirmative space. I help many navigate the difficult journey of their faith crises and revolutions. This is a very hard time to navigate and the universe is calling us to heal. I don't judge ANY of my clients and I meet them where they are at to work on their goals. I have special trainings and certifications with Brainspotting a brain based trauma approach; working with children through play therapy, couples therapy & LGBTQ+ relationships and issues. I also have extensive experience wading through the struggles of stepfamily and blended family issues. You deserve a supportive space to manage life.
I have play therapy specialties and I love working with children.
My approach is an affirmative space. I help many navigate the difficult journey of their faith crises and revolutions. This is a very hard time to navigate and the universe is calling us to heal. I don't judge ANY of my clients and I meet them where they are at to work on their goals. I have special trainings and certifications with Brainspotting a brain based trauma approach; working with children through play therapy, couples therapy & LGBTQ+ relationships and issues. I also have extensive experience wading through the struggles of stepfamily and blended family issues. You deserve a supportive space to manage life.
(385) 644-9318 View (385) 644-9318
Photo of Casey Moser, Pre-Licensed Professional in Provo, UT
Casey Moser
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, MSW-I
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604
Looking for a therapist for your kiddo? I have access to a play therapy room as well.
My approach integrates trauma-informed care and mindful practices to help increase your self-awareness and emotional intelligence. We can explore past experiences that may be holding you back, develop healthy coping skills, and navigate challenging relationships. I work with kids, teenagers, and adults. As a student intern, I have many resources available to me to personalize your treatment to research-based modalities for whatever you're going through. I am committed to doing the necessary work and research outside of your sessions to make the most of our time together.
Looking for a therapist for your kiddo? I have access to a play therapy room as well.
My approach integrates trauma-informed care and mindful practices to help increase your self-awareness and emotional intelligence. We can explore past experiences that may be holding you back, develop healthy coping skills, and navigate challenging relationships. I work with kids, teenagers, and adults. As a student intern, I have many resources available to me to personalize your treatment to research-based modalities for whatever you're going through. I am committed to doing the necessary work and research outside of your sessions to make the most of our time together.
(385) 324-3449 View (385) 324-3449
Photo of Ellen S Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, 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 Karen Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, UT
Karen Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
Karen also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, Play Therapy, as well as Art Therapy.
If you need EMDR, but it is re-traumatizing for you, Karen specializes in DNMS, an ego state therapy created by an EMDR therapist that is gentle and allows traumas to process through completely and permanently. Dissociated traumas can surface in DNMS, bringing information that explains unwanted behaviors. Once healed, the behaviors subside. Karen gets to the root of issues. Karen brings a wealth of life experience with her. She understands women's issues and the struggles they face including complex issues of infertility, children's resiliency after a divorce, raising blended families, and helping children heal from abuse.
Karen also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, Play Therapy, as well as Art Therapy.
If you need EMDR, but it is re-traumatizing for you, Karen specializes in DNMS, an ego state therapy created by an EMDR therapist that is gentle and allows traumas to process through completely and permanently. Dissociated traumas can surface in DNMS, bringing information that explains unwanted behaviors. Once healed, the behaviors subside. Karen gets to the root of issues. Karen brings a wealth of life experience with her. She understands women's issues and the struggles they face including complex issues of infertility, children's resiliency after a divorce, raising blended families, and helping children heal from abuse.
(801) 528-7124 View (801) 528-7124
Photo of Carly Schrimpl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, UT
Carly Schrimpl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604
I work with children individually using play based modalities to help them adjust to the change in their families and provide them with tools to strengthen them in their changing world.
Divorce can be a scary experience for a child. A child can respond to such changes by having tantrums, refusals, and becoming more withdrawn. The guilt and shame of divorce can be so overwhelming that you do not know how to help your child anymore and fear that the divorce can cause damage to your child forever. The good news is, divorce does not have to be the worst thing you can do to your child. In fact, divorce can be a very healthy decision and help your child learn how to cooperate and grow, even under challenging circumstances.
I work with children individually using play based modalities to help them adjust to the change in their families and provide them with tools to strengthen them in their changing world.
Divorce can be a scary experience for a child. A child can respond to such changes by having tantrums, refusals, and becoming more withdrawn. The guilt and shame of divorce can be so overwhelming that you do not know how to help your child anymore and fear that the divorce can cause damage to your child forever. The good news is, divorce does not have to be the worst thing you can do to your child. In fact, divorce can be a very healthy decision and help your child learn how to cooperate and grow, even under challenging circumstances.
(385) 458-3937 View (385) 458-3937
Photo of Tiffany Huntsman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, UT
Tiffany Huntsman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACMHC
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604
Through play and filial therapy, I work well with children of any age, along with their parents.
Now scheduling new clients within a week! Is your family facing tough moments with mental health challenges? Do you have daily struggles and strained communication with a child or partner? These challenges don't mean you are failing. You have questions and don't know where to look for answers. I can help! I'm dedicated to fostering positive change in children, youth, adults, and couples. I believe in families and helping support them through any struggles, whether it's divorce, blended families, separation anxiety, school refusal, defiance, ADHD, OCD, autism, adoption, communication difficulties, conflict, or trauma.
Through play and filial therapy, I work well with children of any age, along with their parents.
Now scheduling new clients within a week! Is your family facing tough moments with mental health challenges? Do you have daily struggles and strained communication with a child or partner? These challenges don't mean you are failing. You have questions and don't know where to look for answers. I can help! I'm dedicated to fostering positive change in children, youth, adults, and couples. I believe in families and helping support them through any struggles, whether it's divorce, blended families, separation anxiety, school refusal, defiance, ADHD, OCD, autism, adoption, communication difficulties, conflict, or trauma.
(385) 503-2841 View (385) 503-2841
Photo of Barbara Bronson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, UT
Barbara Bronson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84601
I am trained expressive art, sand tray, and play therapy, as well as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Life can be difficult. Many challenges face us and we can all use a little guidance or just an empathetic listening ear at times. At Innsaei, you will discover ways to calm the waves of your inner world, so you can live a whole and peaceful life. We offer many options for you to work in creative and effective ways, all personally customized to you and your needs, helping you gain insight, skills, and processes so you can navigate through the challenges encountered along life's journey.
I am trained expressive art, sand tray, and play therapy, as well as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Life can be difficult. Many challenges face us and we can all use a little guidance or just an empathetic listening ear at times. At Innsaei, you will discover ways to calm the waves of your inner world, so you can live a whole and peaceful life. We offer many options for you to work in creative and effective ways, all personally customized to you and your needs, helping you gain insight, skills, and processes so you can navigate through the challenges encountered along life's journey.
(801) 850-9734 View (801) 850-9734
Photo of ABC Family Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Provo, UT
ABC Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604
I use talk, play, interactive and teaching therapy to help decrease overall distress and increase awareness and problem solving skills.
Marriage, family and individual counseling for those who need a caring and engaged professional. My therapy is focused on the brain and how our brains can be healed and our lives can be changed forever. I specialize in difficulties in relationships and struggles with mental health disorders. I typically see individuals struggling with relationships, medications, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, trauma recovery, family problems, military (tricare) and pre/post mission preparation. I am close to BYU and UVU and I see students who suffer from ADHD, depression and anxiety.
I use talk, play, interactive and teaching therapy to help decrease overall distress and increase awareness and problem solving skills.
Marriage, family and individual counseling for those who need a caring and engaged professional. My therapy is focused on the brain and how our brains can be healed and our lives can be changed forever. I specialize in difficulties in relationships and struggles with mental health disorders. I typically see individuals struggling with relationships, medications, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, trauma recovery, family problems, military (tricare) and pre/post mission preparation. I am close to BYU and UVU and I see students who suffer from ADHD, depression and anxiety.
(385) 595-5292 View (385) 595-5292
Photo of Sharlene Christensen, Counselor in Provo, UT
Sharlene Christensen
Counselor, CMHC, NCC, RPTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84601
I use a variety of modalities including play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment therapy, and sand tray and expressive therapies.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in individual and family therapy. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor with over 15 years in the mental health field. I have worked in residential treatment, child welfare and private practice.
I use a variety of modalities including play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment therapy, and sand tray and expressive therapies.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in individual and family therapy. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor with over 15 years in the mental health field. I have worked in residential treatment, child welfare and private practice.
(801) 436-5830 View (801) 436-5830
Photo of Clair Mellenthin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, UT
Clair Mellenthin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84601
I am an experienced Play Therapist, and certified Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and can help your child by providing guidance and expertise in developing healthy coping skills, communication, and behavioral modification techniques in a comfortable, confidential and supportive environment.
As an experienced child and family therapist, I understand how difficult it can be to find resources and help for children and teens who are suffering from emotional and behavioral issues including: low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, forming and maintaining healthy relationships, past trauma and abuse, and engaging in unhealthy behaviors. I specialize in working children ages 3+ who are experiencing difficulty in their functioning and ability to navigate life's challenges and relationships. I am committed to helping families become healthy, happy, and whole.
I am an experienced Play Therapist, and certified Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and can help your child by providing guidance and expertise in developing healthy coping skills, communication, and behavioral modification techniques in a comfortable, confidential and supportive environment.
As an experienced child and family therapist, I understand how difficult it can be to find resources and help for children and teens who are suffering from emotional and behavioral issues including: low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, forming and maintaining healthy relationships, past trauma and abuse, and engaging in unhealthy behaviors. I specialize in working children ages 3+ who are experiencing difficulty in their functioning and ability to navigate life's challenges and relationships. I am committed to helping families become healthy, happy, and whole.
(801) 895-4343 View (801) 895-4343
Photo of Melissa Blumell, Counselor in Provo, UT
Melissa Blumell
Counselor, MA, CMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84601
As a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in working with children ages 3 and up.
Currently scheduling new clients. Some openings for this week. Sometimes children experience anxiety, grief, trauma, or issues related to autism that result in difficult behavior. Such challenges can strain family relationships and exhaust parents. The good news is that people, especially young people, can change and I'm here to help.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in working with children ages 3 and up.
Currently scheduling new clients. Some openings for this week. Sometimes children experience anxiety, grief, trauma, or issues related to autism that result in difficult behavior. Such challenges can strain family relationships and exhaust parents. The good news is that people, especially young people, can change and I'm here to help.
(801) 797-3001 View (801) 797-3001
Photo of Eddie Shin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Provo, UT
Eddie Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84606
No matter the struggle, I believe nothing is impossible to overcome! I use evidence-based techniques, such as ART, play therapy, sandtray, DBT skills training, and much more, to help clients feel empowered and capable of conquering life!.
Life is hard and no one is meant to go through it alone. Sometimes we need help gaining another perspective to get out of difficult situations, and that is okay. Whether you struggle with anxiety, trauma, anger, family relationships, or if life just throws you down, I'm here to walk through this together with you!
No matter the struggle, I believe nothing is impossible to overcome! I use evidence-based techniques, such as ART, play therapy, sandtray, DBT skills training, and much more, to help clients feel empowered and capable of conquering life!.
Life is hard and no one is meant to go through it alone. Sometimes we need help gaining another perspective to get out of difficult situations, and that is okay. Whether you struggle with anxiety, trauma, anger, family relationships, or if life just throws you down, I'm here to walk through this together with you!
(385) 403-8950 View (385) 403-8950
Photo of Jackie Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Provo, UT
Jackie Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84603
I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed by issues with your mental health, your relationship, or life in general. You don't have to bear it all alone. My goal as a therapist is to help you find hope and healing so that you feel true joy again. I work with clients of all ages, religions, and cultural or ethnic backgrounds. I'm trained in couples counseling, sex therapy, family therapy, teen therapy, and child or play therapy.
I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed by issues with your mental health, your relationship, or life in general. You don't have to bear it all alone. My goal as a therapist is to help you find hope and healing so that you feel true joy again. I work with clients of all ages, religions, and cultural or ethnic backgrounds. I'm trained in couples counseling, sex therapy, family therapy, teen therapy, and child or play therapy.
(435) 500-0869 View (435) 500-0869
Photo of Kennedy Demboski - Center For Resilience Leadership, Counselor in Provo, UT
Kennedy Demboski - Center For Resilience Leadership
Counselor, MA, ACMHC
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84601
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 True Self Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, UT
True Self Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
We have therapists trained in a variety of modalities including sand/play/expressive therapies, Somatic therapies, trauma therapies (EMDR, IFS), and traditional therapies such as CBT and DBT.
Life is hard. It just is. At some point, you may have felt like you've lost sight of who you are and what you want. Whether that's due to mental illness, trauma, low self-worth, relationship challenges, or unexpected life changes, sometimes you just need someone to help guide and be present with you through the struggle. At True Self Counseling, we work with children, teens, and adults, and specialize in working with trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, faith transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. We believe each individual has within them the ability to heal, grow, thrive, and embrace their true selves.
We have therapists trained in a variety of modalities including sand/play/expressive therapies, Somatic therapies, trauma therapies (EMDR, IFS), and traditional therapies such as CBT and DBT.
Life is hard. It just is. At some point, you may have felt like you've lost sight of who you are and what you want. Whether that's due to mental illness, trauma, low self-worth, relationship challenges, or unexpected life changes, sometimes you just need someone to help guide and be present with you through the struggle. At True Self Counseling, we work with children, teens, and adults, and specialize in working with trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, faith transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. We believe each individual has within them the ability to heal, grow, thrive, and embrace their true selves.
(385) 412-8335 View (385) 412-8335
Photo of Dr Megan Oka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Provo, UT
Dr Megan Oka
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84606
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working with children, families, and couples for 12 years. I have a passion for working with children in particular, as I believe helping a child in early life changes the course of their development. I specialize in play therapy, sand therapy, Theraplay, and couple therapy.
I have been working with children, families, and couples for 12 years. I have a passion for working with children in particular, as I believe helping a child in early life changes the course of their development. I specialize in play therapy, sand therapy, Theraplay, and couple therapy.
(435) 704-9429 View (435) 704-9429
Photo of Kayla Barnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Provo, UT
Kayla Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84602
I am trained in EMDR, Sand Tray, TF-CBT, CPRT, and Child-Centered/Synergetic Play therapy.
Take a deep breath - you being here is a brave step in your healing journey! Being vulnerable is scary and finding someone to be vulnerable with can be even scarier. You don't have to have all the answers and it's okay to ask for help to better your life. I am here to help you in the process of opening up, increasing self-awareness and personal growth to be who you want to be. You are the reason that I am here.
I am trained in EMDR, Sand Tray, TF-CBT, CPRT, and Child-Centered/Synergetic Play therapy.
Take a deep breath - you being here is a brave step in your healing journey! Being vulnerable is scary and finding someone to be vulnerable with can be even scarier. You don't have to have all the answers and it's okay to ask for help to better your life. I am here to help you in the process of opening up, increasing self-awareness and personal growth to be who you want to be. You are the reason that I am here.
(385) 455-0840 View (385) 455-0840
Photo of Carolyn Harvey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Provo, UT
Carolyn Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CCLS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
CBT-cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on changing distorted thinking. Many clients have negative thinking and self-hatred, which has influenced behaviors. EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a form of therapy that helps people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. DBT-Dialectical Behavioral Therapy teaches mindfulness, a technique to help clients live their lives fuller and more aware. DBT teaches distress tolerance, effective relationship skills, emotion regulation and coping skills for life's challenges. Play therapy uses play to help children deal with emotional and mental health issues.
CBT-cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on changing distorted thinking. Many clients have negative thinking and self-hatred, which has influenced behaviors. EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a form of therapy that helps people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. DBT-Dialectical Behavioral Therapy teaches mindfulness, a technique to help clients live their lives fuller and more aware. DBT teaches distress tolerance, effective relationship skills, emotion regulation and coping skills for life's challenges. Play therapy uses play to help children deal with emotional and mental health issues.
(385) 336-0267 View (385) 336-0267
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.