Play Therapy

What is it, how does it work, and who is it for?

Play Therapy is a treatment methodology, utilizing a variety of approaches and techniques to overcome childhood challenges. It allows children to use their natural mode of expression in a therapeutic setting to safely address their struggles. It permits children to practice and act out scenarios similar to what they experience in their lives, while placing a safe distance between themselves and the challenge. Play Therapy empowers children to make shifts in the way they think and feel about their issues and it also provides them with the opportunity to learn problem solving skills that they can utilize outside of therapy.

Play Therapy works well for children because it utilizes concrete objects (toys) as symbols to re-enact troubling experiences, making it easier for them to communicate their thoughts and feelings. The toys act as the child’s words, while the play serves as their language. The Play Therapist uses structured play to help children systematically address and resolve their struggles and/or challenges. The child/Play Therapist relationship provides children with a secure environment, in which they can learn about real life boundaries and limits. Play Therapy also enables children to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem.

Play Therapy occurs in a designated Play Therapy room in the Play Therapist’s office. The Play Therapy room is stocked with therapeutic toys that will facilitate the expression of a wide range of feelings. Sand and art materials are utilized to provide children with the opportunity for free and creative expression. Activities may be directed by the Play Therapist (Draw your family) or the child may be asked to draw/paint/mix clay freely. Puppets and dress up clothes are used so children may “try on” different roles and act or re-enact scenarios. The kitchen, food, and dolls are used to access the nurturing side of children, while Bop Bags and police gear allow children to express their anger or aggression. At times, therapeutic games or story books are used to address specific challenges including parental divorce.

Play Therapy is beneficial for children of all ages dealing with childhood challenges including, among others, parental divorce, low self-esteem, grief and loss, poor social skills, and transitions. If your child has experienced a significant life stressor (relocation, loss of family member, parental divorce) or is struggling with making friends, excessive shyness, anxiety or anger, following directions, decreased academic performance, or low self-esteem, Play Therapy will be beneficial.

Play Therapy is not only effective for children, but parents benefit as well. The Play Therapist will work with parents to help them establish techniques to master the challenges they are facing. This may include implementing behavioral plans, reestablishing boundaries or strengthening skills such as limit setting and communication. By having an understanding of the childhood challenges and specific ways of managing them based on the family’s need, parents will be able to help their children achieve their maximum potential and attain healthy emotional development.

Play Therapy is conducted by a licensed psychotherapist who has advanced training in Play Therapy. The International Association for Play Therapy (www.a4pt.org) maintains a list of Registered Play Therapists and also serves as a resource for parents.

By Carrie A. Cohen, LCSW, RPT, www.parentchildtherapy.com