Play therapy

Play Therapy :

“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”

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Our Play Therapy Services

Play therapy is a form of therapy used primarily for children. That’s because children may not be able to process their own emotions or articulate problems to parents or other adults.

While it may look like an ordinary playtime, play therapy can be much more than that.

A trained therapist can use playtime to observe and gain insights into a child’s problems. The therapist can then help the child explore emotions and deal with unresolved trauma. Through play, children can learn new coping mechanisms and how to redirect inappropriate behaviors.

Play therapy is practiced by a variety of licensed mental health professionals, like psychologists and psychiatrists. It’s also practiced by behavioral and occupational therapists, physical therapists, and social workers.

Benefits of Play Therapy

According to the professional organization Play Therapy International, up to 71 percent of children referred to play therapy may experience positive change.

While some children might start off with some hesitation, trust in the therapist tends to grow. As they become more comfortable and their bond strengthens, the child may become more creative or more verbal in their play.

Some of the potential benefits of play therapy are:

• taking more responsibility for certain behaviors
• developing coping strategies and creative problem-solving skills
• self-respect
• empathy and respect for others
• alleviation of anxiety
• learning to fully experience and express feelings
• stronger social skills
• stronger family relationships

Play therapy can also encourage use of language or improve fine and gross motor skills.

If your child has a diagnosed mental or physical illness, play therapy doesn’t replace medications or any other necessary treatments. Play therapy can be used alone or alongside other therapies.

When Play Therapy is Used

Although people of all ages can benefit from play therapy, it’s typically used with children between the ages of 3 and 12. Play therapy may be helpful in a variety of circumstances, such as:

• facing medical procedures, chronic illness, or palliative care
• developmental delay or learning disabilities
• problem behaviors in school
• aggressive or angry behavior
• family issues, like divorce, separation, or death of a close family member
• natural disasters or traumatic events
• domestic violence, abuse, or neglect
• anxiety, depression, grief
• eating and toileting disorders
• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• autism spectrum disorder (ASD)