Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate approach to mental health counseling for children that creates a space to facilitate growth and change. Play is the natural language of children and play therapy opens time for children to play out their thoughts and feelings just as adults might talk through their world in a more traditional therapy setting. It opens opportunities for therapist and parents to gain understanding as children explore and experience their world. Connecting with children on their level supports an emotionally safe environment disarmed of fear through which children can build relationships, foster creativity, deepen insight, and bridge gaps of disconnection.

 

Play therapy can help children to:

1. Express thoughts and feelings in healthy ways

2. Develop problem solving skills

3. Gain self-acceptance

4. Cultivate empathy and learn new social skills

5. Cope with difficult situations and emotions

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