Photo of Catherine M Saunders, Counselor in Portland, OR
Catherine M Saunders
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Waitlist for new clients
Me estoy asociando con Mindful Therapy Group para programar y facturar. Llame al 971-352-6971 o envíe un correo electrónico a highlands@mindfulsupport services.com. Creo que cada persona tiene habilidades naturales de curación y sabiduría. Mi función es ayudar a los clientes a determinar su camino hacia el crecimiento, la curación, la acción positiva y la mejora de la calidad de vida a través de la relación consigo mismo y con los demás. Baso mi trabajo en teorías de las terapias cognitivo-conductuales, psicodinámicas y de sistemas familiares para tallar la terapia que funciona personalmente para cada cliente.
Me estoy asociando con Mindful Therapy Group para programar y facturar. Llame al 971-352-6971 o envíe un correo electrónico a highlands@mindfulsupport services.com. Creo que cada persona tiene habilidades naturales de curación y sabiduría. Mi función es ayudar a los clientes a determinar su camino hacia el crecimiento, la curación, la acción positiva y la mejora de la calidad de vida a través de la relación consigo mismo y con los demás. Baso mi trabajo en teorías de las terapias cognitivo-conductuales, psicodinámicas y de sistemas familiares para tallar la terapia que funciona personalmente para cada cliente.
(971) 306-4938 View (971) 306-4938
Photo of Ramiro Romo Jr., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Ramiro Romo Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97208  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Soy Ramiro, un terapeuta Latino bilingüe. Hijo de padres inmigrantes, amante de los tacos y entusiasta de todo lo relacionado con Pokémon. Estoy comprometido a ayudar a mis clientes a aprender cómo construir versiones saludables de sí mismos y a alejarse de la vergüenza. Muchas veces, esto incluye explorar los desafíos estresantes continuos de la vida, procesar experiencias traumáticas o mejorar la comunicación en nuestras relaciones. Especializado en ayudar a quienes experimentan luchas contra la ansiedad, la depresión, la disfunción sexual, el trauma generacional y la crianza de los hijos.
Soy Ramiro, un terapeuta Latino bilingüe. Hijo de padres inmigrantes, amante de los tacos y entusiasta de todo lo relacionado con Pokémon. Estoy comprometido a ayudar a mis clientes a aprender cómo construir versiones saludables de sí mismos y a alejarse de la vergüenza. Muchas veces, esto incluye explorar los desafíos estresantes continuos de la vida, procesar experiencias traumáticas o mejorar la comunicación en nuestras relaciones. Especializado en ayudar a quienes experimentan luchas contra la ansiedad, la depresión, la disfunción sexual, el trauma generacional y la crianza de los hijos.
(971) 306-4086 View (971) 306-4086
Photo of Alison Newey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Alison Newey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
I am a queer integrative client-centered art therapist, trained in play therapy and anchored in mindfulness-based and neurobiologically-informed theory.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
I am a queer integrative client-centered art therapist, trained in play therapy and anchored in mindfulness-based and neurobiologically-informed theory.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
(971) 251-4113 View (971) 251-4113
Photo of Xiomara Raquel Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Xiomara Raquel Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in play therapy, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Collaborative problem-solving and infant mental health.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural licensed clinical social worker in Tigard, Oregon. I have many years of experience working with children and families. My areas of expertise include: sexual abuse cases, early childhood mental health, working with children and families exposed to traumatic events and family therapy. I like to facilitate groups for trauma survivors and also to work with adult survivors of sexual abuse. I particularly enjoy working with Latino families. I am very interested in reunification cases particularly working with children and families involved in the child welfare system.
I have extensive training in play therapy, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Collaborative problem-solving and infant mental health.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural licensed clinical social worker in Tigard, Oregon. I have many years of experience working with children and families. My areas of expertise include: sexual abuse cases, early childhood mental health, working with children and families exposed to traumatic events and family therapy. I like to facilitate groups for trauma survivors and also to work with adult survivors of sexual abuse. I particularly enjoy working with Latino families. I am very interested in reunification cases particularly working with children and families involved in the child welfare system.
(786) 766-7310 View (786) 766-7310
Photo of Clara Rose Liberov, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Clara Rose Liberov
Professional Counselor Associate , MS, NCC, LPC A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Together, we can develop connection, resiliency, and adaptability with nature, adventure, conversation, art, music, movement, and play based experiences.
Perhaps you wonder where your groove went and want to connect again. How to begin? One must be off the mark to find it; you are exactly where you must be. Here. Navigating feelings of disconnection, stress, desire for self knowing in hopes of arriving at one's passion is natural. Deepening connection with self is a lifelong process and can be cultivated through connection, investigation, and integration. Through chosen experiences, we'll collaborate to unveil passions, explore internal dynamics and empower personal transformation.
Together, we can develop connection, resiliency, and adaptability with nature, adventure, conversation, art, music, movement, and play based experiences.
Perhaps you wonder where your groove went and want to connect again. How to begin? One must be off the mark to find it; you are exactly where you must be. Here. Navigating feelings of disconnection, stress, desire for self knowing in hopes of arriving at one's passion is natural. Deepening connection with self is a lifelong process and can be cultivated through connection, investigation, and integration. Through chosen experiences, we'll collaborate to unveil passions, explore internal dynamics and empower personal transformation.
(458) 236-3271 View (458) 236-3271
Photo of Noa Grayevsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Noa Grayevsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I'm really glad you're here. It's a big deal to look for a therapist, especially when you're having a hard time. I want to make it as easy as possible for you to feel out whether reaching out to me makes sense for you. + Here are some facts: I've been in the field for about 12 years. That means I have solid experience. I've worked in all sorts of settings, including with people who are in crisis, have survived trauma and abuse, are immigrants, are college students, are unhoused, are really young. I'm unlikely to be overwhelmed by what you're dealing with. I will be your ally. I care deeply and sincerely about the people I work with.
I'm really glad you're here. It's a big deal to look for a therapist, especially when you're having a hard time. I want to make it as easy as possible for you to feel out whether reaching out to me makes sense for you. + Here are some facts: I've been in the field for about 12 years. That means I have solid experience. I've worked in all sorts of settings, including with people who are in crisis, have survived trauma and abuse, are immigrants, are college students, are unhoused, are really young. I'm unlikely to be overwhelmed by what you're dealing with. I will be your ally. I care deeply and sincerely about the people I work with.
(503) 770-8898 View (503) 770-8898
Photo of Family Roots Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Family Roots Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
We help new parents, young children, and teens to create healthier relationships and work together to navigate family conflict, life stressors, and adjustment to change. Do your child's emotions and outbursts seem out of control and too much to handle? Does your teen seem anxious, depressed, or withdrawn? Are you and your partner arguing constantly about parenting? Feeling sad and hopeless, or not bonding with your baby or child like you thought you would? We can help.
We help new parents, young children, and teens to create healthier relationships and work together to navigate family conflict, life stressors, and adjustment to change. Do your child's emotions and outbursts seem out of control and too much to handle? Does your teen seem anxious, depressed, or withdrawn? Are you and your partner arguing constantly about parenting? Feeling sad and hopeless, or not bonding with your baby or child like you thought you would? We can help.
(971) 274-5503 View (971) 274-5503
Photo of Ángela Vásquez Vásquez, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Ángela Vásquez Vásquez
Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Currently accepting new clients! If you or your child are facing challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, or struggles related to gender or racial identity, I am here to support you. Using my own personal experience, I strive to provide support to children ages 3+, adolescents and adults who are struggling to heal and find peace within their own existence. I have a passionate and sincere dedication and conviction to make therapy accessible for everyone regardless of who they are or where they come from so they can also have an equal opportunity to achieve their well-being.
Currently accepting new clients! If you or your child are facing challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, or struggles related to gender or racial identity, I am here to support you. Using my own personal experience, I strive to provide support to children ages 3+, adolescents and adults who are struggling to heal and find peace within their own existence. I have a passionate and sincere dedication and conviction to make therapy accessible for everyone regardless of who they are or where they come from so they can also have an equal opportunity to achieve their well-being.
(971) 414-2761 View (971) 414-2761
Photo of Sprout Therapy PDX, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Sprout Therapy PDX
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
If you’re reading this, we already know you’re struggling. Maybe you’re having trouble “adulting”. You’re feeling like everyone else seems to have it all together, why can’t you? Your mental health is getting worse and worse, and you just want it to stop. Your day to day life is chaos and worry and you remember better days when things just weren't like this. You might feel like you’re out of control of your life.
If you’re reading this, we already know you’re struggling. Maybe you’re having trouble “adulting”. You’re feeling like everyone else seems to have it all together, why can’t you? Your mental health is getting worse and worse, and you just want it to stop. Your day to day life is chaos and worry and you remember better days when things just weren't like this. You might feel like you’re out of control of your life.
(971) 302-2395 View (971) 302-2395
Photo of Joann Lundberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Joann Lundberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC , ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Is your child experiencing behavioral problems that interfere with school, family, or friendships? Is your teen distant, defiant or have mood swings? While facing challenges in childhood is a normal part of growing up, sometimes kids need additional help learning the skills needed to navigate big feelings, worries, upsetting and confusing events and the stressors of modern life. I offer kids an opportunity to learn and practice new skills, a safe space to explore big feelings and can help them learn to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a helpful way using creative, and fun approaches and evidence based practices
Is your child experiencing behavioral problems that interfere with school, family, or friendships? Is your teen distant, defiant or have mood swings? While facing challenges in childhood is a normal part of growing up, sometimes kids need additional help learning the skills needed to navigate big feelings, worries, upsetting and confusing events and the stressors of modern life. I offer kids an opportunity to learn and practice new skills, a safe space to explore big feelings and can help them learn to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a helpful way using creative, and fun approaches and evidence based practices
(971) 308-5321 View (971) 308-5321
Photo of Michael Langlois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Michael Langlois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
When you come to therapy, it's important to remember that you are already trying to cope in the best way you can. But you don't have to wait until things feel unbearable before you ask for help. I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years, & have experience working with Online Gaming, Adolescents, Parenting Conflicts, Cross-cultural Therapy, Learning Disabilities, Depression, GLBT Issues, Bereavement, Anxiety & Trauma. A video is worth a thousand words, so if you go to my website you'll find two that talk about my specialty, who I am and how I work. I work with patients online currently, & make it easy for you to get started.
When you come to therapy, it's important to remember that you are already trying to cope in the best way you can. But you don't have to wait until things feel unbearable before you ask for help. I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years, & have experience working with Online Gaming, Adolescents, Parenting Conflicts, Cross-cultural Therapy, Learning Disabilities, Depression, GLBT Issues, Bereavement, Anxiety & Trauma. A video is worth a thousand words, so if you go to my website you'll find two that talk about my specialty, who I am and how I work. I work with patients online currently, & make it easy for you to get started.
(332) 244-3548 View (332) 244-3548
Photo of Azanet Cabezas, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Azanet Cabezas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families. I specialize in early childhood mental health, trauma, at-risk adolescents, depression, anxiety and identity issues ( in relation to acculturation, biculturalism and/or effects of human migration/immigration).
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families. I specialize in early childhood mental health, trauma, at-risk adolescents, depression, anxiety and identity issues ( in relation to acculturation, biculturalism and/or effects of human migration/immigration).
(503) 966-0727 View (503) 966-0727
Photo of Elsa Tzintzun, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Elsa Tzintzun
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
¡Hablo Español! I specialize in working with Latinx, immigrants, and BIPOC clients, but I am open to anyone! I work with adults and children with trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, racial identity, and life transitions. I use a holistic approach to healing using theory based and intuition along with EMDR. I work with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I understand the Latino culture and beliefs. Understanding these beliefs can be part of the healing process. Healing is a journey which can be achieved with professional help and support. I help my client develop copping skills to reduce stress and achieve their goals.
¡Hablo Español! I specialize in working with Latinx, immigrants, and BIPOC clients, but I am open to anyone! I work with adults and children with trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, racial identity, and life transitions. I use a holistic approach to healing using theory based and intuition along with EMDR. I work with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I understand the Latino culture and beliefs. Understanding these beliefs can be part of the healing process. Healing is a journey which can be achieved with professional help and support. I help my client develop copping skills to reduce stress and achieve their goals.
(503) 616-2188 View (503) 616-2188
Photo of Jessie Ricker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jessie Ricker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
Bienvenidos and Welcome! My name is Jessie Ricker, and I consider myself a well-seasoned, mental health therapist as I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I've worked in a variety of treatment settings including detention, residential, community-based, and outpatient; I have gained experience domestically and abroad. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. As a wife and parent myself, I am very passionate about supporting couples and families within their journeys to build healthy attachments and repair ruptured relationships. I am overjoyed to support you in your treatment journey!
Bienvenidos and Welcome! My name is Jessie Ricker, and I consider myself a well-seasoned, mental health therapist as I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I've worked in a variety of treatment settings including detention, residential, community-based, and outpatient; I have gained experience domestically and abroad. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. As a wife and parent myself, I am very passionate about supporting couples and families within their journeys to build healthy attachments and repair ruptured relationships. I am overjoyed to support you in your treatment journey!
(971) 247-1879 View (971) 247-1879
Photo of Joey Schweinfurth, Counselor in Portland, OR
Joey Schweinfurth
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
I firmly believe that there is power in lending an ear and meeting someone where they are at through providing empathy and support. With that support change is possible, and clients can work towards seeing the growth an healing they desire. I would be honored to provide that ear to listen and support you as we work together to reach your goals and achieve the change you wish to see in your life. I primarily work with individuals 13+ who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce/separation support, communication & self-esteem issues and men's issues. Se habla espanol, por favor contactarme para mas detalles.
I firmly believe that there is power in lending an ear and meeting someone where they are at through providing empathy and support. With that support change is possible, and clients can work towards seeing the growth an healing they desire. I would be honored to provide that ear to listen and support you as we work together to reach your goals and achieve the change you wish to see in your life. I primarily work with individuals 13+ who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce/separation support, communication & self-esteem issues and men's issues. Se habla espanol, por favor contactarme para mas detalles.
(360) 531-7451 View (360) 531-7451
Photo of Andrea Lynne Woodward, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Andrea Lynne Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Informed by two decades as an innovation consultant, business and life coach, Andrea specializes in helping individuals address anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, weight loss, health challenges, family and relationship conflict. As a culturally sensitive Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, she aligns with challenges faced by LGBTQ+, polyamorous and Latinx communities. Bilingual in Spanish, Andrea enjoys working with Spanish-speaking clients. With over 12 years’ experience as a sex coach, Andrea helps women, men and couples to resolve obstacles to communication and intimacy.
Informed by two decades as an innovation consultant, business and life coach, Andrea specializes in helping individuals address anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, weight loss, health challenges, family and relationship conflict. As a culturally sensitive Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, she aligns with challenges faced by LGBTQ+, polyamorous and Latinx communities. Bilingual in Spanish, Andrea enjoys working with Spanish-speaking clients. With over 12 years’ experience as a sex coach, Andrea helps women, men and couples to resolve obstacles to communication and intimacy.
(458) 217-1997 View (458) 217-1997
Photo of Amy Madrigal, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Amy Madrigal
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, CADC II, CYMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97231
I am passionate about people leading empowered, connected, and purposeful lives. I work collaboratively with clients in identifying needs, making changes, and practicing new skills in a safe and supportive setting. Sometimes getting assistance is the difference between lasting change, or staying stuck in an increasingly devastating cycle. Depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, stress and conflict are just a few things that can be overwhelming and make life and relationships difficult to manage. . As a person with lived experience and in long term recovery I am able to connect with and encourage people to make a lasting change.
I am passionate about people leading empowered, connected, and purposeful lives. I work collaboratively with clients in identifying needs, making changes, and practicing new skills in a safe and supportive setting. Sometimes getting assistance is the difference between lasting change, or staying stuck in an increasingly devastating cycle. Depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, stress and conflict are just a few things that can be overwhelming and make life and relationships difficult to manage. . As a person with lived experience and in long term recovery I am able to connect with and encourage people to make a lasting change.
(541) 320-7487 View (541) 320-7487
Photo of Elsa Renteria, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Elsa Renteria
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I have experience working with parents, children, teens, and adults across cultures with a variety of mental health needs and life challenges. I'm passionate about helping you discover your innate wisdom for healing. I utilize a variety of approaches, integrating internal family systems, mindfulness, EMDR, parent child interactive therapy, and DBT. I'm also passionate about healing intergenerational wounds from a variety of methods, including trauma reprocessing, psychedelic integration, and helping parents better guide their children via effective communication and emotional intelligence skills.
I have experience working with parents, children, teens, and adults across cultures with a variety of mental health needs and life challenges. I'm passionate about helping you discover your innate wisdom for healing. I utilize a variety of approaches, integrating internal family systems, mindfulness, EMDR, parent child interactive therapy, and DBT. I'm also passionate about healing intergenerational wounds from a variety of methods, including trauma reprocessing, psychedelic integration, and helping parents better guide their children via effective communication and emotional intelligence skills.
(213) 895-4161 View (213) 895-4161
Photo of Laura Placek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Laura Placek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CMHC, CADCIII, CMH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Bringing you affordable, confidential, and comprehensive services locally. We are an independent behavioral agency providing dual diagnosis and treatment services. Board certified and Licensed. I meet you where you are in life. My goal is to help you to identify paths to achieve personal goals, recovery, and life balance. Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. I believe in compassionate and respectful person-centered care.
Bringing you affordable, confidential, and comprehensive services locally. We are an independent behavioral agency providing dual diagnosis and treatment services. Board certified and Licensed. I meet you where you are in life. My goal is to help you to identify paths to achieve personal goals, recovery, and life balance. Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. I believe in compassionate and respectful person-centered care.
(503) 486-3978 View (503) 486-3978
Photo of Wendy Ludlow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Wendy Ludlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Insurance accepted: Aetna, Bluecross/blue shield of Mass, Oscar, United, Aetna, Cigna. Consider therapy as evolution and consciousness development. I am directive - and teach skills and strategies to transform anxiety, to-program your thoughts, to heal trauma, depression, obsession, scattered thoughts, racing thoughts - you will understand where unsupportive thoughts/patterns come from - and have life long skills to evolve. I will support your soul evolution towards your highest good. specialist in child therapy/parent coaching. Build prosocial behaviors in children rather yelling/feeling helpless. Evolve your life!
Insurance accepted: Aetna, Bluecross/blue shield of Mass, Oscar, United, Aetna, Cigna. Consider therapy as evolution and consciousness development. I am directive - and teach skills and strategies to transform anxiety, to-program your thoughts, to heal trauma, depression, obsession, scattered thoughts, racing thoughts - you will understand where unsupportive thoughts/patterns come from - and have life long skills to evolve. I will support your soul evolution towards your highest good. specialist in child therapy/parent coaching. Build prosocial behaviors in children rather yelling/feeling helpless. Evolve your life!
(505) 375-6828 View (505) 375-6828
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.