Play Therapy in Henry County, OH

Photo of Sarah Roper (Roper Counseling), Counselor in Henry County, OH
Sarah Roper (Roper Counseling)
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LPSC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Napoleon, OH 43545
Never underestimate the power of your story and know that your voice matters!I believe that counseling is a process of telling ones story. I treat children, adolescents and adults facing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family conflict, peer relationships, self esteem, coping strategies and more. I specifically have worked with children through early adulthood and families for over 18 years. I believe we all have mental health and that our health is on a spectrum. Sometimes we need a little extra guidance, help and support. And I look forward to helping you with this!
Never underestimate the power of your story and know that your voice matters!I believe that counseling is a process of telling ones story. I treat children, adolescents and adults facing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family conflict, peer relationships, self esteem, coping strategies and more. I specifically have worked with children through early adulthood and families for over 18 years. I believe we all have mental health and that our health is on a spectrum. Sometimes we need a little extra guidance, help and support. And I look forward to helping you with this!
(567) 229-9057 View (567) 229-9057

Online Therapists

Lois A Fridenstine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oberlin, OH 44074
Therapies most often used are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Bibliotherapy and Play Therapy with an Eclectic Approach.
Children, families and adults are very special to me. Children ages 0-10, pre-teens, teens, college students and adults of all ages. Parent/Giuardian involvement, both father and mother, is mandatory when working with children. I have extensive training and experience in trauma treatment, family therapy, ADHD assessment and treatment and anxiety. My areas of specialization include depression; anxiety; trauma issues including rape, incest and childhood/adult emotional, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and poverty; grief and loss; and life adjustment.
Therapies most often used are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Bibliotherapy and Play Therapy with an Eclectic Approach.
Children, families and adults are very special to me. Children ages 0-10, pre-teens, teens, college students and adults of all ages. Parent/Giuardian involvement, both father and mother, is mandatory when working with children. I have extensive training and experience in trauma treatment, family therapy, ADHD assessment and treatment and anxiety. My areas of specialization include depression; anxiety; trauma issues including rape, incest and childhood/adult emotional, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and poverty; grief and loss; and life adjustment.
(440) 424-4365 View (440) 424-4365
Photo of Paige Shively, Counselor in Henry County, OH
Paige Shively
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
In addition, I offer Play Therapy and Sandtray therapy for children.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, but especially love working with clients who are goal oriented and motivated to experience healing and growth in all areas - mental, physical, spiritual, and relational. I specialized in the treatment of children with Autistic and learning disorders; however, I also have experience working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. However counseling isn't limited to a setting where we only discuss stressors or illness - it is also a place where we can work on setting goals, strengthening what is already healthy, and developing new skills!
In addition, I offer Play Therapy and Sandtray therapy for children.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, but especially love working with clients who are goal oriented and motivated to experience healing and growth in all areas - mental, physical, spiritual, and relational. I specialized in the treatment of children with Autistic and learning disorders; however, I also have experience working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. However counseling isn't limited to a setting where we only discuss stressors or illness - it is also a place where we can work on setting goals, strengthening what is already healthy, and developing new skills!
(380) 201-9419 View (380) 201-9419
Photo of Faith Beddick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henry County, OH
Faith Beddick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bellefontaine, OH 43311  (Online Only)
She enjoys using various methods with her client’s including talk therapy, art, play, mindfulness training, and meditation.
You deserve to live a life that allows you to be who you truly are and release what no longer serves you. Faith will support you in the process of self-discovery. You will work collaboratively to choose goals and find ways that suit you best for achieving your goals. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or stress, there is hope. Often, our troubles feel as if we are walking alone on a dark path. Faith would be honored to join you on this journey, holding the flashlight to help you find your way, then passing you the flashlight when you are ready to continue on your own with a renewed sense of
She enjoys using various methods with her client’s including talk therapy, art, play, mindfulness training, and meditation.
You deserve to live a life that allows you to be who you truly are and release what no longer serves you. Faith will support you in the process of self-discovery. You will work collaboratively to choose goals and find ways that suit you best for achieving your goals. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or stress, there is hope. Often, our troubles feel as if we are walking alone on a dark path. Faith would be honored to join you on this journey, holding the flashlight to help you find your way, then passing you the flashlight when you are ready to continue on your own with a renewed sense of
(614) 896-9085 View (614) 896-9085
Photo of Anessa Gilbride, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henry County, OH
Anessa Gilbride
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tipp City, OH 45371
I've had extensive training in various modalities, including traditional talk therapy, trauma-informed and trauma-focused therapy, CBT, play and sand therapy, and am EMDR trained as well.
—Available with NO Waiting List at this time! Taking the leap to begin therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming. My goal is to provide a caring, accepting environment for my clients to feel safe, valued and heard. Through compassion, I approach counseling by viewing each client as an individual, investing time to understand what shapes them and their stories. My collaborative style invites my clients to be partners in identifying and reaching goals in their journey to change.
I've had extensive training in various modalities, including traditional talk therapy, trauma-informed and trauma-focused therapy, CBT, play and sand therapy, and am EMDR trained as well.
—Available with NO Waiting List at this time! Taking the leap to begin therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming. My goal is to provide a caring, accepting environment for my clients to feel safe, valued and heard. Through compassion, I approach counseling by viewing each client as an individual, investing time to understand what shapes them and their stories. My collaborative style invites my clients to be partners in identifying and reaching goals in their journey to change.
(937) 870-1078 View (937) 870-1078
Photo of Shana Bentley, Counselor in Henry County, OH
Shana Bentley
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perrysburg, OH 43551
Shana takes a collaborative approach when working with clients and pulls from multiple theories to meet her client’s needs (such as play therapy, CBT, solution focused, strengths based, and mindfulness).
Shana Bentley, LPCC-S graduated from Bowling Green State University with her M.A. in Mental Health Counseling in 2016. Shana has several years of experience in community mental health, college campus, and private practice settings. Her primary population is working with early childhood (ages 2-10), while also enjoying working with adolescents and college age populations. Shana has the ability to work with a wide range of issues, including mood disorders, behavioral concerns, and life transitions. She has special interest in working with those who experience anxiety or have gone through traumatic events.
Shana takes a collaborative approach when working with clients and pulls from multiple theories to meet her client’s needs (such as play therapy, CBT, solution focused, strengths based, and mindfulness).
Shana Bentley, LPCC-S graduated from Bowling Green State University with her M.A. in Mental Health Counseling in 2016. Shana has several years of experience in community mental health, college campus, and private practice settings. Her primary population is working with early childhood (ages 2-10), while also enjoying working with adolescents and college age populations. Shana has the ability to work with a wide range of issues, including mood disorders, behavioral concerns, and life transitions. She has special interest in working with those who experience anxiety or have gone through traumatic events.
(419) 495-8729 View (419) 495-8729
Photo of Leah F Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henry County, OH
Leah F Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Powell, OH 43065
I am a master’s level licensed social worker. I have experience working with children, teens and young adults. I obtained my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from The Ohio State University. I believe in access to quality mental health care for all individuals. I strive to help all individuals in the healing process by providing comfortable, supportive and nonjudgmental care. I utilize CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), play therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy to assist clients in achieving their goals and healing.
I am a master’s level licensed social worker. I have experience working with children, teens and young adults. I obtained my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from The Ohio State University. I believe in access to quality mental health care for all individuals. I strive to help all individuals in the healing process by providing comfortable, supportive and nonjudgmental care. I utilize CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), play therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy to assist clients in achieving their goals and healing.
(614) 414-3853 View (614) 414-3853
Photo of Kristin Stimpert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henry County, OH
Kristin Stimpert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Kristin, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashland, OH 44805
Hey there! My name is Kristin, I work with diverse populations, but focus on young women from preteens to age 40 and children, ages 2-10. I specialize in depression, anxiety, adjustment, and trauma. I work with individuals, couples and families, but prefer individual work. I have experience working in children's services, crisis, hospitals, community mental health, and private practice. I have training in child-centered non-directive Play Therapy, and often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. My passion is to help others in their journey of healing and growth.
Hey there! My name is Kristin, I work with diverse populations, but focus on young women from preteens to age 40 and children, ages 2-10. I specialize in depression, anxiety, adjustment, and trauma. I work with individuals, couples and families, but prefer individual work. I have experience working in children's services, crisis, hospitals, community mental health, and private practice. I have training in child-centered non-directive Play Therapy, and often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. My passion is to help others in their journey of healing and growth.
(419) 550-1035 View (419) 550-1035
Photo of Rebecca Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henry County, OH
Rebecca Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Tipp City, OH 45371
Welcome! I'm glad that you are showing an interest in your own or a family member's emotional and mental well being. I'm Becky Hunt, though the official name is Rebecca. I have been working with children and families since 2004. I have provided many different kinds of case management and therapeutic services in my social work career. My work-joy is found in play therapy. Through play therapy child, families, and (yes!) adults can work through many issues in their lives. The best part is all the hard work doesn't feel like work, it feels like play.
Welcome! I'm glad that you are showing an interest in your own or a family member's emotional and mental well being. I'm Becky Hunt, though the official name is Rebecca. I have been working with children and families since 2004. I have provided many different kinds of case management and therapeutic services in my social work career. My work-joy is found in play therapy. Through play therapy child, families, and (yes!) adults can work through many issues in their lives. The best part is all the hard work doesn't feel like work, it feels like play.
(937) 696-7541 View (937) 696-7541
Photo of Olivia Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henry County, OH
Olivia Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235
I enjoy working with late elementary age kids, teens, older adolescents, and adults, and I frequently use creative mediums like art and play to help clients express themselves in new ways.
I love to help my clients strengthen their Curiosity, Confidence, and Joy. To me, this means helping them explore internally to build trust in themselves, and expand their capacity for love and happiness. My goal is to create a space where clients feel safe and secure enough to heal from their past wounds. I believe the relationship between the therapist and the client is essential and I spend as much time as needed to build trust and comfort. It's important to me that our relationship feels authentic.
I enjoy working with late elementary age kids, teens, older adolescents, and adults, and I frequently use creative mediums like art and play to help clients express themselves in new ways.
I love to help my clients strengthen their Curiosity, Confidence, and Joy. To me, this means helping them explore internally to build trust in themselves, and expand their capacity for love and happiness. My goal is to create a space where clients feel safe and secure enough to heal from their past wounds. I believe the relationship between the therapist and the client is essential and I spend as much time as needed to build trust and comfort. It's important to me that our relationship feels authentic.
(740) 224-5759 View (740) 224-5759
Photo of Oneida Pinero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henry County, OH
Oneida Pinero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW TX, LCSW CA, LCSW FL, LCSW VA, LISW OH
Verified Verified
Defiance, OH 43512  (Online Only)
I take an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating a range of evidence-based modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and solution-focused therapy, tailored to individual circumstances.
Hello, my name is Oneida Pinero and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, California, Ohio, Virginia, and Texas. With over 25 years of experience, I have a diverse professional background providing treatment to children ages four and older, adolescents, and adults, with a special focus on working with children and adolescents who experience symptoms of PTSD, Anxiety, ADHD, conduct disorders, trauma symptoms, and mood disorders.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating a range of evidence-based modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and solution-focused therapy, tailored to individual circumstances.
Hello, my name is Oneida Pinero and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, California, Ohio, Virginia, and Texas. With over 25 years of experience, I have a diverse professional background providing treatment to children ages four and older, adolescents, and adults, with a special focus on working with children and adolescents who experience symptoms of PTSD, Anxiety, ADHD, conduct disorders, trauma symptoms, and mood disorders.
(419) 451-4496 View (419) 451-4496
Photo of Amanda Marie Bradley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henry County, OH
Amanda Marie Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, OH 43566
I utilize techniques such as play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR and mindfulness-based techniques to help you reach your treatment goals.
Making the choice to begin therapy is not a decision that is made lightly. I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs! I provide therapy with a client focused approach. I believe that you are the expert on your life and you are coming to therapy looking for assistance on how to reach your goals. I am seasoned in working with clients that have been experiencing anxiety, depression, anger and substance use. I enjoy working with women, first responders, veterans and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
I utilize techniques such as play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR and mindfulness-based techniques to help you reach your treatment goals.
Making the choice to begin therapy is not a decision that is made lightly. I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs! I provide therapy with a client focused approach. I believe that you are the expert on your life and you are coming to therapy looking for assistance on how to reach your goals. I am seasoned in working with clients that have been experiencing anxiety, depression, anger and substance use. I enjoy working with women, first responders, veterans and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
(567) 298-6486 View (567) 298-6486
Photo of Mary D Squire, Psychologist in Henry County, OH
Mary D Squire
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
I am also trained in Play Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
The quality of one's life can be greatly enriched through the personal growth and healing that takes place in psychotherapy. As human beings, we cannot control all the things that happen to us in life, but with help, we often can find ways to bring some positive meaning to unfortunate events. I believe that many of the solutions to our problems lie within us, so I work with clients to help them unlock their own unique strengths and overcome obstacles to resolution.
I am also trained in Play Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
The quality of one's life can be greatly enriched through the personal growth and healing that takes place in psychotherapy. As human beings, we cannot control all the things that happen to us in life, but with help, we often can find ways to bring some positive meaning to unfortunate events. I believe that many of the solutions to our problems lie within us, so I work with clients to help them unlock their own unique strengths and overcome obstacles to resolution.
(419) 250-8858 View (419) 250-8858
Photo of Joan Freeman, Counselor in Henry County, OH
Joan Freeman
Counselor, RN, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43615
Play is a natural expression for young children.
As a child and family therapist I work with children, adolescents and adults conducting individual, couples, and family counseling for persons experiencing a wide range of issues-from transitions and losses (job loss, illness, divorce, death), relationship issues, depression, fears and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I approach the counseling relationship in an interactive and respectful manner by assisting you to find the solution that is best for you in a safe and trusting environment.
Play is a natural expression for young children.
As a child and family therapist I work with children, adolescents and adults conducting individual, couples, and family counseling for persons experiencing a wide range of issues-from transitions and losses (job loss, illness, divorce, death), relationship issues, depression, fears and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I approach the counseling relationship in an interactive and respectful manner by assisting you to find the solution that is best for you in a safe and trusting environment.
(419) 531-9494 View (419) 531-9494
Photo of Megan Marcinowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henry County, OH
Megan Marcinowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ashland, OH 44805
Hello there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and enjoy working with children 6+, teens, their families, and young adults. I am passionate about holding compassion and hope for my clients as they walk through their most challenging times. I offer a safe space, free of judgment, that allows collaboration between clinician, client, and their family. Together, we can set goals and identify what treatment looks like for you. To heal and grow, we need to look at the whole person. That’s why my approach is holistic and utilizes various treatment modalities, such as DBT, CBT, person-centered, and art or play therapy interventions.
Hello there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and enjoy working with children 6+, teens, their families, and young adults. I am passionate about holding compassion and hope for my clients as they walk through their most challenging times. I offer a safe space, free of judgment, that allows collaboration between clinician, client, and their family. Together, we can set goals and identify what treatment looks like for you. To heal and grow, we need to look at the whole person. That’s why my approach is holistic and utilizes various treatment modalities, such as DBT, CBT, person-centered, and art or play therapy interventions.
(419) 513-8758 View (419) 513-8758
Photo of Sarah L Sparhawk, Counselor in Henry County, OH
Sarah L Sparhawk
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
In addition to working on social skills and behavior management with clients and their families, Sarah has extensive experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art therapy and play therapy to help children who've been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder. Empowering children to navigate the every day stressors that accompany mental health issues is Sarah's priority.
In addition to working on social skills and behavior management with clients and their families, Sarah has extensive experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art therapy and play therapy to help children who've been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder. Empowering children to navigate the every day stressors that accompany mental health issues is Sarah's priority.
(614) 412-9798 View (614) 412-9798
Photo of Kenneth J Cunningham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henry County, OH
Kenneth J Cunningham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW-S, LMSW
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43615
Child play therapy, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups will compose generalist practice, and psychiatric referral.
Life indeed ebbs and flows, and there are moments when good company, a listening ear, is essential. To be hopeful, to be inspired, to be appreciated- these things make life fulfilled "What oxygen is for the lungs, such is hope for the meaning of life." Children, adolescents, adults, families and couples are served; 38years in practice. Practice locations: Adrian Mi- 142 E Maumee; Toledo Oh- 4334 Central, Ottawa Hills Shopping Center; APEX Downriver/ Brownstown,Mi., virtual only
Child play therapy, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups will compose generalist practice, and psychiatric referral.
Life indeed ebbs and flows, and there are moments when good company, a listening ear, is essential. To be hopeful, to be inspired, to be appreciated- these things make life fulfilled "What oxygen is for the lungs, such is hope for the meaning of life." Children, adolescents, adults, families and couples are served; 38years in practice. Practice locations: Adrian Mi- 142 E Maumee; Toledo Oh- 4334 Central, Ottawa Hills Shopping Center; APEX Downriver/ Brownstown,Mi., virtual only
(517) 565-7116 View (517) 565-7116
Photo of Madison Becker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henry County, OH
Madison Becker
Licensed Professional Counselor, , MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Perrysburg, OH 43551
I am EMDR trained and utilize a holistic approach that incorporates mind-body connection techniques for all my clients as well as play therapy for children.
You're struggling and withdrawing from life more than usual. It all seems like too much for you to handle right now. You can't quite understand why it is you feeling so anxiety, lonely, fatigued, and overwhelmed. You feel exhausted and are losing steam without knowing how to help yourself. There is hope in flourishing and discovering how truly strong you are. I seek to provide you with the skills and the healing necessary to be the best version of yourself. Whether you are seeking out therapy for yourself or your child, there is a path towards healing and wellness.
I am EMDR trained and utilize a holistic approach that incorporates mind-body connection techniques for all my clients as well as play therapy for children.
You're struggling and withdrawing from life more than usual. It all seems like too much for you to handle right now. You can't quite understand why it is you feeling so anxiety, lonely, fatigued, and overwhelmed. You feel exhausted and are losing steam without knowing how to help yourself. There is hope in flourishing and discovering how truly strong you are. I seek to provide you with the skills and the healing necessary to be the best version of yourself. Whether you are seeking out therapy for yourself or your child, there is a path towards healing and wellness.
(419) 664-4216 View (419) 664-4216
Photo of Kaitlyn Inniger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henry County, OH
Kaitlyn Inniger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43623
As a licensed professional counselor and school psychologist working with children ages seven and up, adolescents, and those transitioning into young adulthood, I am passionate about creating a safe space in counseling for people to be the truest versions of themselves. I view the counseling relationship as being inherently collaborative, empowering, and supportive, fueled by trust and hope. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed, and person-centered approach, as well as play therapy, motivational interviewing, and dialectical behavioral techniques in my counseling work.
As a licensed professional counselor and school psychologist working with children ages seven and up, adolescents, and those transitioning into young adulthood, I am passionate about creating a safe space in counseling for people to be the truest versions of themselves. I view the counseling relationship as being inherently collaborative, empowering, and supportive, fueled by trust and hope. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed, and person-centered approach, as well as play therapy, motivational interviewing, and dialectical behavioral techniques in my counseling work.
(419) 792-3198 View (419) 792-3198
Photo of Katie McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henry County, OH
Katie McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
I am experienced in helping parents and children through grief/loss, positive reward systems, anger management, communication skills, social skills, mindfulness, and play therapy.
If you don't feel comfortable in traditional talk therapy, you may have a different learning style that deserves respect. There are four main learning styles: visual, auditory, reading/writing and kinesthetic, which requires physical interaction with the environment. If you are a visual person or need more engagement, then art therapy may be the best fit for you. Art Therapy is a method of self-expression that creates a safe and nonjudgmental space. The focus is on the process of creating and the meaning you bring to your art. No artistic talent is required. I offer telehealth (virtual) services to children, adolescents and adults.
I am experienced in helping parents and children through grief/loss, positive reward systems, anger management, communication skills, social skills, mindfulness, and play therapy.
If you don't feel comfortable in traditional talk therapy, you may have a different learning style that deserves respect. There are four main learning styles: visual, auditory, reading/writing and kinesthetic, which requires physical interaction with the environment. If you are a visual person or need more engagement, then art therapy may be the best fit for you. Art Therapy is a method of self-expression that creates a safe and nonjudgmental space. The focus is on the process of creating and the meaning you bring to your art. No artistic talent is required. I offer telehealth (virtual) services to children, adolescents and adults.
(614) 683-3028 View (614) 683-3028

See more therapy options for Henry County

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.