Play Therapy in New Iberia, LA

Photo of Lotus Counseling and Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Lotus Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
New Iberia, LA 70563
Our counselors have special trainings in EMDR, Brainspotting, Gottman Method, Polyvagal Theory, Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Certified Anxiety-Informed Professional, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Prepare & Enrich, Trauma Informed Yoga & Tai Chi to best serve the needs of our clients.
Lotus Counseling & Wellness is owned & operated by married couple, Auriel Campbell, MA LPC and Trent Istre. Auriel has been serving the Acadiana area as a counselor since 2019. Lotus is dedicated to providing the Acadiana area with a knowledgeable team who can provide a variety of therapeutic modalities to fit the needs of adults, couples, families, adolescents and children. Our goal is to provide affordable, quality mental health services to the Acadiana area.
Our counselors have special trainings in EMDR, Brainspotting, Gottman Method, Polyvagal Theory, Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Certified Anxiety-Informed Professional, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Prepare & Enrich, Trauma Informed Yoga & Tai Chi to best serve the needs of our clients.
Lotus Counseling & Wellness is owned & operated by married couple, Auriel Campbell, MA LPC and Trent Istre. Auriel has been serving the Acadiana area as a counselor since 2019. Lotus is dedicated to providing the Acadiana area with a knowledgeable team who can provide a variety of therapeutic modalities to fit the needs of adults, couples, families, adolescents and children. Our goal is to provide affordable, quality mental health services to the Acadiana area.
(337) 680-4958 View (337) 680-4958
Photo of Ashli King, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Ashli King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Iberia, LA 70560
In life, there can be moments we prepare for and some life events or adjustments that take place, that feel hopeless or helpless. I'm here as your therapist to share, display, and provide courage to know that with the right tools, the right heart, and the right words, we can work together to make the necessary steps to "see the trees amongst the forest". And, to show you, that life can be experienced differently from what you are currently dealing with.
In life, there can be moments we prepare for and some life events or adjustments that take place, that feel hopeless or helpless. I'm here as your therapist to share, display, and provide courage to know that with the right tools, the right heart, and the right words, we can work together to make the necessary steps to "see the trees amongst the forest". And, to show you, that life can be experienced differently from what you are currently dealing with.
(337) 467-8355 View (337) 467-8355
Photo of Stephanie Hebert, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Stephanie Hebert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Iberia, LA 70560
My career has been dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and young adults achieve balance and direction through a strengths-based lens. After serving as a school counselor for over 6 years, I have come to recognize the significant role mental health plays on performance, friendships, family dynamics, and overall well-being. I understand the constant struggles of juggling current responsibilities while also trying your best to plan ahead and work toward your goals. This is where I come in.
My career has been dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and young adults achieve balance and direction through a strengths-based lens. After serving as a school counselor for over 6 years, I have come to recognize the significant role mental health plays on performance, friendships, family dynamics, and overall well-being. I understand the constant struggles of juggling current responsibilities while also trying your best to plan ahead and work toward your goals. This is where I come in.
(337) 202-2743 View (337) 202-2743
Photo of Tawana M. C. Colbert Acadian Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Tawana M. C. Colbert Acadian Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Iberia, LA 70560
Life can present many challenges. Whether you are an adult, adolescent or child, there are times when you may need someone to help you navigate through life. My name is Tawana Carson-Colbert. I have experience working with clients of all ages (4+). I have provided individual and group psychotherapy for clients suffering from, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, anger management, life stressors and transitions. I believe in providing a comfortable, non-judgmental, safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and work through their adversities.
Life can present many challenges. Whether you are an adult, adolescent or child, there are times when you may need someone to help you navigate through life. My name is Tawana Carson-Colbert. I have experience working with clients of all ages (4+). I have provided individual and group psychotherapy for clients suffering from, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, anger management, life stressors and transitions. I believe in providing a comfortable, non-judgmental, safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and work through their adversities.
(337) 561-1791 View (337) 561-1791
Photo of Aureyon N. Conner, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Iberia, LA
Aureyon N. Conner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Iberia, LA 70563
I am passionate about assisting children, adolescents, and adults who are faced with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, interpersonal conflict, career and academic concerns, life transitions, and more. As a PLPC, I aim to end stigmas that prevent people from seeking mental health services by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space that allows clients to be their most authentic selves. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is important to the healing journey. On this journey, I am committed to assisting clients become happier and healthier versions of themselves.
I am passionate about assisting children, adolescents, and adults who are faced with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, interpersonal conflict, career and academic concerns, life transitions, and more. As a PLPC, I aim to end stigmas that prevent people from seeking mental health services by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space that allows clients to be their most authentic selves. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is important to the healing journey. On this journey, I am committed to assisting clients become happier and healthier versions of themselves.
(337) 201-9592 View (337) 201-9592

Online Therapists

Photo of Ann Daigle Acadian Counseling Center in New Iberia, LA
Ann Daigle Acadian Counseling Center
MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70508
As a child & family therapist, I approach counseling with a mix of play, cognitive-behavioral, & strength-based perspectives.
You have made it here & are taking the first step toward a more fulfilling life for yourself or someone you care about. In life, we all have struggles & need a non-judgmental, safe space to process. I provide mental health support to children & adolescents as they go through everything that life may offer them. I am here to assist through life transitions so that my clients can truly thrive in the present & be set up for success in the future. You may be searching for guidance while experiencing behavioral issues at home or school. You might have concerns about your child’s mood or behaviors that hinders their overall wellbeing.
As a child & family therapist, I approach counseling with a mix of play, cognitive-behavioral, & strength-based perspectives.
You have made it here & are taking the first step toward a more fulfilling life for yourself or someone you care about. In life, we all have struggles & need a non-judgmental, safe space to process. I provide mental health support to children & adolescents as they go through everything that life may offer them. I am here to assist through life transitions so that my clients can truly thrive in the present & be set up for success in the future. You may be searching for guidance while experiencing behavioral issues at home or school. You might have concerns about your child’s mood or behaviors that hinders their overall wellbeing.
(337) 329-8336 View (337) 329-8336
Photo of Andrea Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Iberia, LA
Andrea Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70508
Using multiple modalities such as EMDR, CBT, Polyvagal Theory; and with children, art and play therapy, we can address each area.
We all have a story we tell ourselves about our worth as a human being. That story is influenced by our experiences. Sometimes the story is positive and beneficial. Other times, the story creates negative beliefs that prevent inner happiness and healthy relationships with others, as well as ourselves. I believe we can change the unhealthy stories we tell ourselves.
Using multiple modalities such as EMDR, CBT, Polyvagal Theory; and with children, art and play therapy, we can address each area.
We all have a story we tell ourselves about our worth as a human being. That story is influenced by our experiences. Sometimes the story is positive and beneficial. Other times, the story creates negative beliefs that prevent inner happiness and healthy relationships with others, as well as ourselves. I believe we can change the unhealthy stories we tell ourselves.
(337) 345-1305 View (337) 345-1305
Photo of NOLA Art Therapy and Counseling, LLC, Art Therapist in New Iberia, LA
NOLA Art Therapy and Counseling, LLC
Art Therapist, MS, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
We have 4 other clinicians on staff including two other art therapists and counselors, a clinical social worker, and a counselor who utilizes talk, art, sandtray and play.
Sometimes extra help and support are needed to successfully navigate through the challenging and difficult situations that arise in life. By seeking therapy, you will receive our support while we work as a team to better understand your challenging life situations. If you make a commitment to change and work on improving yourself and your situation, therapy can give you the tools you need to face future life challenges. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a highly personalized approach made to meet the needs of each individual client and/or family to help them achieve personal growth.
We have 4 other clinicians on staff including two other art therapists and counselors, a clinical social worker, and a counselor who utilizes talk, art, sandtray and play.
Sometimes extra help and support are needed to successfully navigate through the challenging and difficult situations that arise in life. By seeking therapy, you will receive our support while we work as a team to better understand your challenging life situations. If you make a commitment to change and work on improving yourself and your situation, therapy can give you the tools you need to face future life challenges. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a highly personalized approach made to meet the needs of each individual client and/or family to help them achieve personal growth.
(504) 273-7851 View (504) 273-7851
Photo of Stephony Mark in New Iberia, LA
Stephony Mark
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hammond, LA 70404  (Online Only)
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) and have experience in utilizing CBT, person-centered, Eclectic/Integrative, MI, Play-Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Systems approach to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
I work with individuals and families who are experiencing mental health, marital issues, suicidal thoughts, grief, loss, and other issues that can be very challenging, stressful and overwhelming. Reducing your symptoms and improving your daily functioning is my goal. I provide support and counseling to clients from diverse backgrounds, personalities, and cultures. Services are delivered with respect, enthusiasm, and professionalism. Together you and I will collaborate to develop a treatment plan to meet your individual or family needs.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) and have experience in utilizing CBT, person-centered, Eclectic/Integrative, MI, Play-Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Systems approach to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
I work with individuals and families who are experiencing mental health, marital issues, suicidal thoughts, grief, loss, and other issues that can be very challenging, stressful and overwhelming. Reducing your symptoms and improving your daily functioning is my goal. I provide support and counseling to clients from diverse backgrounds, personalities, and cultures. Services are delivered with respect, enthusiasm, and professionalism. Together you and I will collaborate to develop a treatment plan to meet your individual or family needs.
(225) 314-5233 View (225) 314-5233
Photo of Julie G Galloway in New Iberia, LA
Julie G Galloway
MS, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70508
Julie has experience using Play Therapy for clients of all ages.
Julie has a strong desire to work with tweens, teens and the adults who support them. She also has a passion for working with caregivers, healthcare professionals and those living with extraordinary circumstances like chronic illnesses or disabilities. Julie supports her clients in their desire to foster healthy relationships by means of empowering her clients to navigate, prioritize and effectively communicate for a maximized healthy life balance. She believes personal growth and development can occur in all individuals open to acceptance and understanding of themselves and others.
Julie has experience using Play Therapy for clients of all ages.
Julie has a strong desire to work with tweens, teens and the adults who support them. She also has a passion for working with caregivers, healthcare professionals and those living with extraordinary circumstances like chronic illnesses or disabilities. Julie supports her clients in their desire to foster healthy relationships by means of empowering her clients to navigate, prioritize and effectively communicate for a maximized healthy life balance. She believes personal growth and development can occur in all individuals open to acceptance and understanding of themselves and others.
(337) 408-1028 View (337) 408-1028
Photo of Office of Michelle Tate, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Office of Michelle Tate
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
With over 24 years combined experience as an educator and counselor, I specialize in play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused techniques to guide clients towards positive change and growth.
Life presents us with challenges, but each challenge is an opportunity to gather new tools for growth. Sometimes we all need a little extra support to navigate what comes our way. I support children and adults through big life changes, academic and professional struggles, relationship building, emotional expression, and motivation enhancement.
With over 24 years combined experience as an educator and counselor, I specialize in play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused techniques to guide clients towards positive change and growth.
Life presents us with challenges, but each challenge is an opportunity to gather new tools for growth. Sometimes we all need a little extra support to navigate what comes our way. I support children and adults through big life changes, academic and professional struggles, relationship building, emotional expression, and motivation enhancement.
(504) 305-8433 View (504) 305-8433
Photo of Megan Nicole Long, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Megan Nicole Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70006
I believe in the power of creative interventions, so my work with children, teens, and young adults often harnesses the therapeutic power of play, sandtray, and art-based interventions.
My clients often are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and anxious because of life changes and constant feelings of worry and overwhelm. The kids, teens, and young adults I work with often need to feel heard and set goals of better understanding their big emotions. A major part of this work is including parents and caregivers to provide tools and strategies that can help at home. My clients often have trouble expressing their deepest feelings and want to have better relationships with friends and family. Anxiety sometimes feels like it gets in the way of close relationships, but, together, we can discover new ways to reconnect.
I believe in the power of creative interventions, so my work with children, teens, and young adults often harnesses the therapeutic power of play, sandtray, and art-based interventions.
My clients often are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and anxious because of life changes and constant feelings of worry and overwhelm. The kids, teens, and young adults I work with often need to feel heard and set goals of better understanding their big emotions. A major part of this work is including parents and caregivers to provide tools and strategies that can help at home. My clients often have trouble expressing their deepest feelings and want to have better relationships with friends and family. Anxiety sometimes feels like it gets in the way of close relationships, but, together, we can discover new ways to reconnect.
(504) 509-5324 View (504) 509-5324
Photo of Ronald Fitzgerald Manning, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Iberia, LA
Ronald Fitzgerald Manning
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70503
Client Age: Children, Adolescents, Adults Modality: Individual, Play, Group, LGBTQ Specialties: Depression, Anger Management, ADHD, Anxiety, Addiction Approach: Narrative Therapy, CBT, REBT, Play Therapy.
Born and raised in Calhoun, LA Ronald was raised by his grandmother who taught him the importance of helping people. He realized we are not all fortunate enough to get the help we need when we need it. We may sometimes need a guiding light to help brighten our path. He decided to attend the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL). He earned his Counseling in Training (CIT) and Certified Addictions Counseling (CAC) license. He earned his Master's from Grand Canyon University with a specialty in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ronald's road to helping others through counseling started while working in the field of addiction.
Client Age: Children, Adolescents, Adults Modality: Individual, Play, Group, LGBTQ Specialties: Depression, Anger Management, ADHD, Anxiety, Addiction Approach: Narrative Therapy, CBT, REBT, Play Therapy.
Born and raised in Calhoun, LA Ronald was raised by his grandmother who taught him the importance of helping people. He realized we are not all fortunate enough to get the help we need when we need it. We may sometimes need a guiding light to help brighten our path. He decided to attend the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL). He earned his Counseling in Training (CIT) and Certified Addictions Counseling (CAC) license. He earned his Master's from Grand Canyon University with a specialty in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ronald's road to helping others through counseling started while working in the field of addiction.
(337) 343-9151 View (337) 343-9151
Photo of Melissa Cavanaugh, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Melissa Cavanaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70508
Brene Brown once said "Vulnerability is not knowing victory or defeat, it’s understanding the necessity of both; it’s engaging. It’s being all in." I approach a session in this way and I hope to help each client navigate this journey. Whether it is issues with depression, anxiety, family conflict, substance abuse, etc, I hope to help each client reach that balance. I use an eclectic counseling approach to meet the needs of every client. I also see children as young as 4 years of age and aim to help them explore their emotions through their own language.. play. I am currently licensed in Louisiana, Maine, and Washington!
Brene Brown once said "Vulnerability is not knowing victory or defeat, it’s understanding the necessity of both; it’s engaging. It’s being all in." I approach a session in this way and I hope to help each client navigate this journey. Whether it is issues with depression, anxiety, family conflict, substance abuse, etc, I hope to help each client reach that balance. I use an eclectic counseling approach to meet the needs of every client. I also see children as young as 4 years of age and aim to help them explore their emotions through their own language.. play. I am currently licensed in Louisiana, Maine, and Washington!
(337) 408-1041 View (337) 408-1041
Photo of Myiesha Beard, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Myiesha Beard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, LMHP, CAMS-II, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zachary, LA 70791
The purpose of therapy is to restore the client to a healthy state of life by helping to remove barriers that may hinder this process. I specialize in the mental health care of children, adults, couples and families. My services include individual, group, marriage counseling and family therapy. Parent training, workshops, play therapy and prevention groups are also offered. I have twenty years experience working within the field of mental health. I utilize a number of therapeutic techniques and interventions that are tailored to the the client. I'm an Independent Assessor, Clinical Supervisor, mentor and consultant.
The purpose of therapy is to restore the client to a healthy state of life by helping to remove barriers that may hinder this process. I specialize in the mental health care of children, adults, couples and families. My services include individual, group, marriage counseling and family therapy. Parent training, workshops, play therapy and prevention groups are also offered. I have twenty years experience working within the field of mental health. I utilize a number of therapeutic techniques and interventions that are tailored to the the client. I'm an Independent Assessor, Clinical Supervisor, mentor and consultant.
(225) 570-4999 View (225) 570-4999
Photo of Latiolais Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Latiolais Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70503
Waitlist for new clients
Play Therapy is primarily used with children and adolescents.
I see counseling as a process in which we come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life, and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I provide an atmosphere of openness and trust in which you may choose to examine and change non-functional patterns and behaviors. I believe that as people become personally responsible for interactions and behavior, they are very capable of finding happiness and contentment.
Play Therapy is primarily used with children and adolescents.
I see counseling as a process in which we come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life, and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I provide an atmosphere of openness and trust in which you may choose to examine and change non-functional patterns and behaviors. I believe that as people become personally responsible for interactions and behavior, they are very capable of finding happiness and contentment.
(337) 226-1017 View (337) 226-1017
Photo of Beth Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Beth Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, ICST-P, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70501
Waitlist for new clients
Moore Wellness is located in Lafayette, Louisiana offering: Counseling, Sandtray Play Therapy, Chiropractor, Massage Therapy, Reiki, & Acupressure Ear Seeds, Tai Chi Easy, & Spiritual Direction.
I became a counselor to help hurting people and trauma survivors heal and restore their wholeness. I embrace them with compassion and acceptance, because I understand struggling and what it feels like to need someone to listen and believe you. Clients are welcome to bring in their spirituality, their fears, and their taboos. A safe, calm space can help clients process their worries and problems, as well as use helpful coping skills to transform lives. Every client's situation is unique and I use integrative approaches to help them heal as a whole person in mind-body-spirit.
Moore Wellness is located in Lafayette, Louisiana offering: Counseling, Sandtray Play Therapy, Chiropractor, Massage Therapy, Reiki, & Acupressure Ear Seeds, Tai Chi Easy, & Spiritual Direction.
I became a counselor to help hurting people and trauma survivors heal and restore their wholeness. I embrace them with compassion and acceptance, because I understand struggling and what it feels like to need someone to listen and believe you. Clients are welcome to bring in their spirituality, their fears, and their taboos. A safe, calm space can help clients process their worries and problems, as well as use helpful coping skills to transform lives. Every client's situation is unique and I use integrative approaches to help them heal as a whole person in mind-body-spirit.
(337) 427-8341 View (337) 427-8341
Photo of Rachel A. Foreman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Iberia, LA
Rachel A. Foreman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70503
When working with children, I utilize play and art therapies according to developmental levels.
We accept United Healthcare and Louisiana Healthcare Connections Medicaid (up to 18 years of age).
When working with children, I utilize play and art therapies according to developmental levels.
We accept United Healthcare and Louisiana Healthcare Connections Medicaid (up to 18 years of age).
(337) 522-7296 View (337) 522-7296
Photo of Latifey LaFleur Ph.D. Registered Play Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Latifey LaFleur Ph.D. Registered Play Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70503
Dr. LaFleur is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LPC-S), a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor and a Counselor Educator at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents as well as Filial Play Therapy which is a parent training program designed to increase communication and build a stronger and healthier relationship between parents and their children.
Dr. LaFleur is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LPC-S), a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor and a Counselor Educator at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents as well as Filial Play Therapy which is a parent training program designed to increase communication and build a stronger and healthier relationship between parents and their children.
(337) 419-3332 View (337) 419-3332
Photo of Rachel Geiger, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Iberia, LA
Rachel Geiger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70503
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a Registered Play Therapist with extensive training in play therapy and working with children and adolescents.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and creative, rooted in an appreciation and respect for each human being that chooses to work with me as they move towards greater wholeness in their lives. I see my role as offering support and guidance to help each person in their own unique process of growth and healing. I offer training in various skills that may be useful in the process, depending on the client’s individual needs. My approach is trauma-informed and rooted in cognitive skill building, mindfulness, expressive arts therapies, play therapy, systems theory, and somatic therapy.
I am also a Registered Play Therapist with extensive training in play therapy and working with children and adolescents.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and creative, rooted in an appreciation and respect for each human being that chooses to work with me as they move towards greater wholeness in their lives. I see my role as offering support and guidance to help each person in their own unique process of growth and healing. I offer training in various skills that may be useful in the process, depending on the client’s individual needs. My approach is trauma-informed and rooted in cognitive skill building, mindfulness, expressive arts therapies, play therapy, systems theory, and somatic therapy.
(717) 910-3512 View (717) 910-3512

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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.