Play Therapy Psychiatrists in Worcester, MA

Photo of Dr. Lucy Muigai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Dr. Lucy Muigai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-BC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01606
I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Having started as an Educator, My Education and training Include a Master’s in psychology, a Master’s in Community and Public health, a Master’s in Family Nurse Practitioner, CAGS in PMHNP and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. As a Doctorate prepared Psychiatric and Family practitioner, I draw on my knowledge of Nursing, Psychology, Community / Public Health and Education to advocate for and provide the very best solutions for those I serve. I'm glad to be welcoming new patients Via Telehealth and face to face. You can reach me via email /phone call.
I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Having started as an Educator, My Education and training Include a Master’s in psychology, a Master’s in Community and Public health, a Master’s in Family Nurse Practitioner, CAGS in PMHNP and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. As a Doctorate prepared Psychiatric and Family practitioner, I draw on my knowledge of Nursing, Psychology, Community / Public Health and Education to advocate for and provide the very best solutions for those I serve. I'm glad to be welcoming new patients Via Telehealth and face to face. You can reach me via email /phone call.
(774) 235-6883 View (774) 235-6883

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Rebecca Blair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Rebecca Blair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, MA 02038
I am here to connect with you, build rapport, and determine if medication may play a helpful role or if we can alleviate challenges through emotional and behavioral support.
I have been a pediatric nurse practitioner since 2014 in primary care settings where I supported pediatric patients' physical and mental health. Through this role, I gained ample experience treating ADHD, depression, and anxiety in pediatric and adolescent populations. I completed Duke University's PMHNP program, during which time I worked with adolescent and adult populations in community healthcare clinics, a partial-hospital program and an emergency department. I have training in CBT and have studied DBT. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a special interest in providing care for youth and families.
I am here to connect with you, build rapport, and determine if medication may play a helpful role or if we can alleviate challenges through emotional and behavioral support.
I have been a pediatric nurse practitioner since 2014 in primary care settings where I supported pediatric patients' physical and mental health. Through this role, I gained ample experience treating ADHD, depression, and anxiety in pediatric and adolescent populations. I completed Duke University's PMHNP program, during which time I worked with adolescent and adult populations in community healthcare clinics, a partial-hospital program and an emergency department. I have training in CBT and have studied DBT. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a special interest in providing care for youth and families.
(508) 444-9818 View (508) 444-9818
Photo of Valeria Dworkowitz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Valeria Dworkowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, MA 01730
The various therapies that I utilize in working with clients across the lifespan include Sand Play Therapy, EMDR, Pranic Healing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness.
I am an integrative practitioner licensed in NJ & MA who can assess biochemistry to identify important deficiencies/abnormalities that may be related to mental health symptoms. I can provide genetic testing for med management. Patients often seek integrative/"functional" psychiatry after they have trialed multiple medications, experienced unpleasant/unremitting side effects, and have not been able to obtain symptom alleviation with traditional psychiatry. I believe strongly in psychotherapy to help the patient work towards healing. I work collaboratively with other treatment providers and am a strong advocate for my patients needs.
The various therapies that I utilize in working with clients across the lifespan include Sand Play Therapy, EMDR, Pranic Healing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness.
I am an integrative practitioner licensed in NJ & MA who can assess biochemistry to identify important deficiencies/abnormalities that may be related to mental health symptoms. I can provide genetic testing for med management. Patients often seek integrative/"functional" psychiatry after they have trialed multiple medications, experienced unpleasant/unremitting side effects, and have not been able to obtain symptom alleviation with traditional psychiatry. I believe strongly in psychotherapy to help the patient work towards healing. I work collaboratively with other treatment providers and am a strong advocate for my patients needs.
(973) 409-1065 View (973) 409-1065
Mallory Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lenox, MA 01240
We are a growing holistic psychiatric practice for the whole family with a Child Psychiatrist for children, and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for adults. Our mission is to provide evidence-based, holistic mental health care using the art and science of healing to adults, children and adolescents. Our primary treatment model involves the pillars of what we believe to make up a healthy and happy life: being part of a community, nutritional information and mind-body therapies as well as focused treatment of symptoms using therapy or medications as indicated.
We are a growing holistic psychiatric practice for the whole family with a Child Psychiatrist for children, and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for adults. Our mission is to provide evidence-based, holistic mental health care using the art and science of healing to adults, children and adolescents. Our primary treatment model involves the pillars of what we believe to make up a healthy and happy life: being part of a community, nutritional information and mind-body therapies as well as focused treatment of symptoms using therapy or medications as indicated.
(413) 287-8164 View (413) 287-8164
Photo of Ajay Marken, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
Ajay Marken
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
Dr. Marken is a Columbia- and Cornell-trained, board-certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist. He was on faculty at Harvard Medical School and is now on faculty at New York University. Dr. Marken predominantly provides psychotherapy and/or medication management. He has a patient-centered approach that provides thorough and individualized care for your particular needs. As a physician, Dr. Marken focuses on the interaction between the biological, the psychological, and the environmental contributors to mental health. He is a member of the International Society for Sports Psychiatry and works with athletes at all levels.
Dr. Marken is a Columbia- and Cornell-trained, board-certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist. He was on faculty at Harvard Medical School and is now on faculty at New York University. Dr. Marken predominantly provides psychotherapy and/or medication management. He has a patient-centered approach that provides thorough and individualized care for your particular needs. As a physician, Dr. Marken focuses on the interaction between the biological, the psychological, and the environmental contributors to mental health. He is a member of the International Society for Sports Psychiatry and works with athletes at all levels.
(646) 681-1389 View (646) 681-1389
Photo of Claudio O. Toppelberg, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
Claudio O. Toppelberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02120
Dr. Toppelberg is an experienced, Harvard-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, usually working with ages 3-30. He evaluates and treats emotional/ behavioral difficulties including ADHD, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and selective mutism, and those preventing weight loss. He has focused on issues of performance at work, study and competitive sports. He regularly works with tour-level tennis players and other professional and student athletes. He is an expert in neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as learning and language disabilities. He runs psychiatric services at an excellent school for children/adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, the prestigious New England Center for Children.
Dr. Toppelberg is an experienced, Harvard-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, usually working with ages 3-30. He evaluates and treats emotional/ behavioral difficulties including ADHD, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and selective mutism, and those preventing weight loss. He has focused on issues of performance at work, study and competitive sports. He regularly works with tour-level tennis players and other professional and student athletes. He is an expert in neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as learning and language disabilities. He runs psychiatric services at an excellent school for children/adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, the prestigious New England Center for Children.
(617) 681-7184 View (617) 681-7184
Photo of Marie Rose Canton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Marie Rose Canton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02122
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by life's demands and struggles with anxiety or low self-esteem. They seek to understand themselves better, manage stress effectively, and cultivate a more fulfilling life. Their goal is to develop coping strategies and build confidence to navigate their world with greater ease. They want guidance to unlock their potential and desire a therapist who listens deeply and offers compassionate, evidence-based support to help them thrive.
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by life's demands and struggles with anxiety or low self-esteem. They seek to understand themselves better, manage stress effectively, and cultivate a more fulfilling life. Their goal is to develop coping strategies and build confidence to navigate their world with greater ease. They want guidance to unlock their potential and desire a therapist who listens deeply and offers compassionate, evidence-based support to help them thrive.
(617) 433-5349 View (617) 433-5349
Photo of Ayelet Barkai, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
Ayelet Barkai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139
People are often unaware of, and frustrated by, the emotional and relational roadblocks that repeatedly thwart them. I work with you to clarify and understand these issues and their origins, to help you effect positive change. I believe that the self-understanding that catalyzes such change is best reached by cultivating a psychotherapeutic relationship in which compassionate, honest and constructive communication can occur. I strive to create an environment that encourages the development of empathic and reflective self-awareness, recognizes and fosters resilience, and promotes your optimal well-being.
People are often unaware of, and frustrated by, the emotional and relational roadblocks that repeatedly thwart them. I work with you to clarify and understand these issues and their origins, to help you effect positive change. I believe that the self-understanding that catalyzes such change is best reached by cultivating a psychotherapeutic relationship in which compassionate, honest and constructive communication can occur. I strive to create an environment that encourages the development of empathic and reflective self-awareness, recognizes and fosters resilience, and promotes your optimal well-being.
(617) 440-3237 View (617) 440-3237
Photo of Yu Wang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Yu Wang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
•• Accepting New Patients •• I received a doctoral degree at Rush University. I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and adult/gerontology primary care. I have worked in hospital settings and out-patient clinics. I specialize in medication management in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and bipolar; serving populations 10 years and beyond.
•• Accepting New Patients •• I received a doctoral degree at Rush University. I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and adult/gerontology primary care. I have worked in hospital settings and out-patient clinics. I specialize in medication management in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and bipolar; serving populations 10 years and beyond.
(339) 220-5536 View (339) 220-5536
Photo of Mary A Foley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Mary A Foley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHCNS, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Easton, MA 02375
I have 30 years of clinical experience treating children, adolescents, and young adults. It is my passion to work with my patients and families to address their challenges in a comprehensive way which results in the best outcomes for my patients and their families. I have specialized in ADHD, anxiety, and depression and have conducted research at Mc Lean Hospital in those areas. Medication evaluations, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy are my specialties. I also teach advanced practice nursing and psychopharmacology at Northeastern University. .
I have 30 years of clinical experience treating children, adolescents, and young adults. It is my passion to work with my patients and families to address their challenges in a comprehensive way which results in the best outcomes for my patients and their families. I have specialized in ADHD, anxiety, and depression and have conducted research at Mc Lean Hospital in those areas. Medication evaluations, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy are my specialties. I also teach advanced practice nursing and psychopharmacology at Northeastern University. .
(508) 603-7795 View (508) 603-7795
Photo of New England Psychiatric Center LLC, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
New England Psychiatric Center LLC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02138
I am an adult, child and adolescent psychiatrist and Addiction Medicine specialist. I am currently full-time faculty at Boston Children’s Hospital and clinical instructor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. I work in the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program in the Division of Addiction Medicine at Boston Children’s Hospital. I also serve on the Massachusetts Medical Society's Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use. In my private practice, I assess and treat patients of all ages. My office is located in Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA. At this time, I am accepting a limited number of clients.
I am an adult, child and adolescent psychiatrist and Addiction Medicine specialist. I am currently full-time faculty at Boston Children’s Hospital and clinical instructor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. I work in the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program in the Division of Addiction Medicine at Boston Children’s Hospital. I also serve on the Massachusetts Medical Society's Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use. In my private practice, I assess and treat patients of all ages. My office is located in Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA. At this time, I am accepting a limited number of clients.
(508) 905-4896 View (508) 905-4896
Photo of Maria Jose Lisotto, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
Maria Jose Lisotto
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I strongly believe that the best psychiatric care is centered on the whole person, not just on a diagnosis or specific medication. I provide weekly therapy and work with patients to determine if medications can be of help. I do not believe that everyone needs a medication, but they can be useful in treating particular psychiatric symptoms; I will work with you in order to find the best treatment modality that meets your goals and needs.
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I strongly believe that the best psychiatric care is centered on the whole person, not just on a diagnosis or specific medication. I provide weekly therapy and work with patients to determine if medications can be of help. I do not believe that everyone needs a medication, but they can be useful in treating particular psychiatric symptoms; I will work with you in order to find the best treatment modality that meets your goals and needs.
(617) 209-6196 View (617) 209-6196
Photo of Dahyana (Diana) Schlosser, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Dahyana (Diana) Schlosser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MEd
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
Welcome to a place of healing, understanding, and growth. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, committed to providing comprehensive and holistic mental health care to both adults and children. My approach to treatment is grounded in the latest evidence-based practices, yet deeply attuned to the unique circumstances and nuances of life. I believe that truly effective care emerges from a synthesis of scientific knowledge and compassionate, personalized attention.
Welcome to a place of healing, understanding, and growth. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, committed to providing comprehensive and holistic mental health care to both adults and children. My approach to treatment is grounded in the latest evidence-based practices, yet deeply attuned to the unique circumstances and nuances of life. I believe that truly effective care emerges from a synthesis of scientific knowledge and compassionate, personalized attention.
(508) 342-5518 View (508) 342-5518
Photo of Arnold Robbins, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
Arnold Robbins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
I provide comprehensive humanistic psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I have a lot of experience and clinical know-how across many psychotherapeutic approaches. I am empathic and thoughtful and approachable. I am a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Boston University, and a Lecturer at Tufts . I am a sought after supervisor for resident psychiatrists and colleagues. I work with all age groups except young children. My web site (ArnoldRobbinsMD.com.} I am comprehensive in my evaluations and treatment recommendations. I am responsive to each patient's needs. I use cinema to illustrate important emotions.
I provide comprehensive humanistic psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I have a lot of experience and clinical know-how across many psychotherapeutic approaches. I am empathic and thoughtful and approachable. I am a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Boston University, and a Lecturer at Tufts . I am a sought after supervisor for resident psychiatrists and colleagues. I work with all age groups except young children. My web site (ArnoldRobbinsMD.com.} I am comprehensive in my evaluations and treatment recommendations. I am responsive to each patient's needs. I use cinema to illustrate important emotions.
(617) 941-4131 View (617) 941-4131
Photo of Tyrone J Williams, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
Tyrone J Williams
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Cambridge, Massachusetts with board certification in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry. I have 15 years of experience in practice and most commonly treat ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance use. I specialize in individual therapy and provide guidance to parents and families. I normally emphasize diet, exercise, and sleeping habits as essential elements to therapy. If I think it makes sense, I will prescribe medications, collaborating with my patients and their healthcare providers to make safe and appropriate medication choices.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Cambridge, Massachusetts with board certification in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry. I have 15 years of experience in practice and most commonly treat ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance use. I specialize in individual therapy and provide guidance to parents and families. I normally emphasize diet, exercise, and sleeping habits as essential elements to therapy. If I think it makes sense, I will prescribe medications, collaborating with my patients and their healthcare providers to make safe and appropriate medication choices.
(617) 941-4632 View (617) 941-4632
Cynthia Telingator
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02139
My career has focused on humanistic and relational approaches to taking care of children, adolescents, adults and families. Shame, stigma and loss impact development in a multitude of ways, and can deter people from reaching their personal and professional goals. Disruption due to trauma, loss, medical and mental health issues can have long lasting effects. I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy and focus on supporting one's resilience and strengths while exploring experiences and feelings which may interfere with forward movement.
My career has focused on humanistic and relational approaches to taking care of children, adolescents, adults and families. Shame, stigma and loss impact development in a multitude of ways, and can deter people from reaching their personal and professional goals. Disruption due to trauma, loss, medical and mental health issues can have long lasting effects. I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy and focus on supporting one's resilience and strengths while exploring experiences and feelings which may interfere with forward movement.
(617) 553-9082 View (617) 553-9082
Photo of Guerline Norbrun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Guerline Norbrun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
Dr. Guerline Norbrun, DNP, PMHNP-BC, ARNP, AGNP-BC is an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and primary care. She has been practicing in both capacities' inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Norbrun provides comprehensive and individualized care to all ages, social and cultural background with psychiatric disorders including ADHD, Asperger's, addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective, Bipolar, Borderline personality Disorder among others. Her commitment is to deliver comprehensive and impactful mental health care to her patients’ population.
Dr. Guerline Norbrun, DNP, PMHNP-BC, ARNP, AGNP-BC is an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and primary care. She has been practicing in both capacities' inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Norbrun provides comprehensive and individualized care to all ages, social and cultural background with psychiatric disorders including ADHD, Asperger's, addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective, Bipolar, Borderline personality Disorder among others. Her commitment is to deliver comprehensive and impactful mental health care to her patients’ population.
(508) 422-5654 View (508) 422-5654
Photo of Malak Rafla, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
Malak Rafla
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02139
Waitlist for new clients
Leading a fulfilling and happy life can be challenging and may even seem impossible at times. I believe that communicating and connecting via talk therapy is one path towards a happier and more meaningful life. My view is that therapy provides an opportunity to gain insight into one's relationships with one's self, others and society. I use a variety of approaches in my therapeutic work according to what works for each individual person. Together we'll focus on trying to understand the root causes of various problems and repetitive patterns of behavior that are difficult to change.
Leading a fulfilling and happy life can be challenging and may even seem impossible at times. I believe that communicating and connecting via talk therapy is one path towards a happier and more meaningful life. My view is that therapy provides an opportunity to gain insight into one's relationships with one's self, others and society. I use a variety of approaches in my therapeutic work according to what works for each individual person. Together we'll focus on trying to understand the root causes of various problems and repetitive patterns of behavior that are difficult to change.
(857) 259-5821 View (857) 259-5821
Photo of Ruxandra Carp, Psychiatrist in Worcester, MA
Ruxandra Carp
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Winchester, MA 01890  (Online Only)
I focus on developing a collaborative relationship with my clients and I am deeply interested in getting to know their unique strengths, needs, and life experiences. I combine evidence based medicine with various therapeutic interventions, to empower my clients to balance their emotions, thoughts, and reactions. Subsequently, they develop healthier life patterns and pursue their personal, academic, and career goals. I completed my residency and fellowship at training programs affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Dual Board Certifications in Adult Psychiatry and in Child Psychiatry.
I focus on developing a collaborative relationship with my clients and I am deeply interested in getting to know their unique strengths, needs, and life experiences. I combine evidence based medicine with various therapeutic interventions, to empower my clients to balance their emotions, thoughts, and reactions. Subsequently, they develop healthier life patterns and pursue their personal, academic, and career goals. I completed my residency and fellowship at training programs affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Dual Board Certifications in Adult Psychiatry and in Child Psychiatry.
(781) 519-0442 View (781) 519-0442
Photo of Andrietta Barnett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Worcester, MA
Andrietta Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
As an advanced practice family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she is certified to treat chronic diseases and mental health disorders using evidence-based pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions across all age groups. Andrietta prioritizes patient-centered care and employs diverse educational techniques to promote health behavior change. Her holistic approach to patient care aims to restore patients to optimal health in a timely manner.
As an advanced practice family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she is certified to treat chronic diseases and mental health disorders using evidence-based pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions across all age groups. Andrietta prioritizes patient-centered care and employs diverse educational techniques to promote health behavior change. Her holistic approach to patient care aims to restore patients to optimal health in a timely manner.
(508) 290-7087 View (508) 290-7087

Nearby Play Therapy Psychiatrists Searches for Worcester

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Play Therapy Psychiatrists

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.