Play Therapy

What is Play Therapy?

Association of Play Therapy (www.a4pt.org) defines play therapy as “the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.”

In simpler terms, play therapy is designed to help a child vocalize and communicate their emotions, feelings, and experiences in a language they understand: through play. Play is the universal language of children all over the world. Play therapy is the most beneficial for children ages three to twelve, while also keeping in mind an individual’s developmental level. Play and creative imagination is how children communicate things and view and experience the world. It is exceptionally important to provide therapeutic services in which therapists speak the language of the child.

There are many different emerging modalities of play therapy being used by therapists. A commonality among these is the fostering and importance of a trusting relationship between child and therapist. It is important for the child to feel comfortable in the space rather than having them sit on a couch in front of a therapist to engage in a conversation they do not understand. Children do not make the conscious decision to attend therapy, therefore, it is imperative that they are given adequate time to become familiar with the counseling environment. To assure this, therapists provide a nurturing environment that will allow a trusting relationship to grow between the child and a therapist.

Is Play Therapy Right for My Child?

Play Therapy can be used for all different types of issues a child is having or situations which are affecting a child. Some of these include, but are not limited to:
Behavioral problems, grief, divorce, bullying, crisis, abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning and physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism, social disabilities, conduct disorders, and more.

Would It Work for My Child?

Research supports that play therapy can be successful for all children, regardless of race, age, and issues the child is bringing in. It also suggests that parents should be involved in the treatment process with their child.