Child Therapy
Connecting through the language of play
Play-based Therapy for Children
Play is often described as the language of children. Through observing the world around them and engaging in imaginative play, children are able to explore their thoughts and emotions in a non-threatening way. Play therapy is a systematic psychotherapeutic approach used by therapists to harness the powers of play as a means of helping children process and deal with repressed feelings and psychosocial conflict.
Foundations of Play Therapy
Most often used for children ages 3-12
Utilizes child-directed techniques with few rules or limits
Reflective responses and other verbal and nonverbal feedback allows the child to feel accepted, heard and understood.
Meets children at their appropriate stage of development
Is conducted using sand trays, puppets, art, drama, storytelling, music and games
Is based on the whole child, seeing their strengths and affirming their strengths, while providing support and guidance to the family
How Will Play Therapy Help My Child?
Through play-based techniques, your child’s self-empowerment and self-regulation is enhanced, leading to growth in:
Conflict resolution
Interpersonal communication
Problem-solving techniques
Emotion regulation
Self-expression
Trust and Confidence
Behavior modification
How Are Parents and Caretakers Involved?
The most important part of therapy with children is creating a safe and secure environment, whether that is in-person or remotely. Your therapist will walk parents through the process and what to expect, both initially and as therapy continues.
Your therapist will schedule Parent Collaboration Meetings (PCMs) monthly or as needed to collaborate on the progress and direction in the therapy room and at home. Supplemental therapy or coaching is also available to support parents in learning how to apply play therapy techniques at home and for parent coaching.
Is Play-based Therapy Appropriate for My Child?
Your child’s therapist will adapt and attune the goals and techniques of therapy based on your concerns and the unique person of your child. Play therapy can help children experiencing:
Loss and grief
Trauma
Anxiety
Depression
Family changes/dysfunctions
Social challenges
Academic challenges
Get in touch to learn more.
Contact us to get in touch with one of our child therapists and learn how we can help. You may also want to browse our team page and feel free to reach out to a therapist directly if you are drawn to a particular team member’s profile.
