What is Play Therapy?

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Play Therapy is an approach to counseling utilized for children. Children learn to understand the world through play. Play Therapy embraces play to facilitate therapeutic interventions. Play can include games, dolls, art activities, sports, make-believe, or any other activity that fits a child developmentally and emotionally.

Play Therapy can be beneficial for children with behavioral issues. Because these children might not have the words to communicate their feelings or might not want to, this allows them a space to express themselves and share their feelings through play.

Play therapists get to know the child’s specific interests and can tailor their counseling space to make it unique for each child. As the counselor observes and interacts with the child, they can understand the emotions that lead to their behaviors. Over time, therapists can encourage children to use play to express feelings instead of expressing them through inappropriate or harmful behaviors.

Play Therapy can also be used for adults to help them connect with their inner creativity and facilitate child-like joy.

Therapists Who Specialize in Using Play Therapy

The decision to pursue therapy is a great first step in taking ownership of your life and learning new skills. I tailor my interventions to the needs of my clients and do not employ a one-size-fits-all-approach. Some children need a gentle approach where they feel empowered and free to guide the conversation and advocate for their needs. Teens, however, may need a more direct approach while sti...

Leigh Bates

Louisville

Kentucky

** TELEHEALTH AVAILABLE** I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families treating a variety of life's problems. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and judgment free environment for all of my clients. As a licensed art therapist I have an unique skill set to provide to my clients to help them overcome life's challenges. The focus of my work has been around...
Are you considering reaching out to talk to someone about the challenges that you, your children, or your family may be facing? I would be happy to be that person. We will collaborate and develop goals together and I will help you reach those goals. We will focus on your strengths. Even if you seem to have forgotten what those strengths are, I know they are there and together we will find them...
There are times in life when situations, circumstances and emotions feel overwhelming. I understand that making the decision to seek support during these difficult times can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Whether you are seeking help for your child, your family or yourself, I am here to support you and walk you through the process to ease any anxiety it may cause. My approach to therapy is...

Julie A McKay

Minneapolis

Minnesota

*Not currently taking new clients due to a maternity leave. I will be returning to work in early April. Please check my website for a list of recommended providers and the most up to date details. www.drjuliemckay.com. Thank you and all the best to you and your family during this challenging winter season. I offer evidenced based therapies including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy and Cognitiv...
I am a Resident in Counseling under the supervision of Sharon Watson. I am passionate about helping individuals from diverse backgrounds to experience growth in their lives and achieve their highest potential. I believe in the value that an individual's culture, religion and family history brings to their lives. Empowering and guiding people to take hold of their personal growth is a large focu...

Jane Garcia

Hartford

Connecticut

**TELEHEALTH ONLY AT THIS TIME. I'M CURRENTLY FULL AFTERNOONS AND EVENINGS** I am a board-certified art therapist and licensed professional counselor with 12 years of clinical experience. I specialize in early childhood mental health but I enjoy working with children of all ages. I trust in the wisdom of children and their abilities to explore their own themes, symbols, and stories. Children...
Saving the world and helping people is what I’ve wanted to do since I was 13yrs old. If you’re in search of a safe, therapeutic environment to discuss your thoughts, feelings and experiences I’d love to help you process and gain the tools needed to manage your mental health. My therapeutic style involves a collaborative approach that includes empathy, transparency, non-judgement and validation....
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, and children. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy. I utilize pl...
My clients come from a wide age range. I work with individuals 18 and up and work with families with kids 17 and below. I am passionate about working with growing families that are having difficulties with adjustments. I enjoy working with kids (ages 2+), as well as mothers and fathers to help make personal and family changes that address both the individual and family needs. When working with...
Developing deep connections with others has always been my passion. In my work I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients and utilize an integrative approach to therapy. Being attuned to my client's needs, I use a wide range of modalities such as CBT, DBT, and person-centered approach, believing we all have the power to heal and grow within us. I work with adults,...
I know the courage it takes to walk into someone's office for the first time, so I strive to create an encouraging environment. My life experience has given me compassion and empathy for people who are hurting and are in need of help. I know how the past can influence the present and how the future can seem less hopeful. I believe hope is a powerful force. So if your lacking hope, I have extra ...
We all have mental health issues at some point in our lives. Traumatic events or life transitions can certainly overwhelm and create crisis in our lives. In therapy sessions we work on issues and emotions that overwhelm like stress, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, abuse and/or neglect or abandonment. Alcohol and drug addiction are common ways that some people try to cope with these emotions....

Alana Russotti

Rochester

New York

Perhaps you feel out of balance, are struggling with a transition, or are seeking to find a state of wellness in your life; or maybe your child is struggling emotionally and/or behaviorally, is going through a big life change, or you're wanting them to have space to explore and express themselves with a professional. However you or your family came to need support, I would be honored to help. M...
We all have a story to tell. I'm interested in yours. I won't judge or criticize. Therapy is supposed to reduce your distress and eliminate the feelings of stigma, brokenness and inadequacy. We all have our struggles, and we all need help at times. Together we will find the solution. My goals include helping you heal and become increasingly empowered to be a stronger, happier and more content...