Play as Therapy
“Play is the child’s symbolic language of self-expression and can reveal (a) what the child has experienced; (b) reactions to what was experienced; (c) feelings about what was experienced; (d) what the child wishes, wants, or needs; and (e) the child’s perception of self.”
― Garry L. Landreth, Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship
How is play therapy different than other therapy methods?
Play is the "core language" through which children express their perceptions of their experiences and they perceive themselves, others, and the world around them. The toy the child chooses "speaks" to the therapist and communicates their current perspective. Play therapy is a fun and natural way for children to receive help with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, etc.
“In fact, the crux of what makes play therapy so effective — and different from most other counseling methods — is that it is directed by the client” (Bray, 2018)
The process of play therapy and how it helps with children's mental health
The play therapy process usually follows this order: observation, assessment, and talking with parents to hear about any issues they want addressed, the therapist observes the child playing by themselves and with caregivers or other children, then the therapist focuses on any identified issues they noticed during the play such as attachment, emotional regulation, etc. to figure out how to design play therapy sessions that will target those specific areas.
“The assumption is that helping children externalize such perceptions via the use of toys and play assists them to cognitively restructure unhelpful thoughts, feelings and beliefs, leading to changes in thinking and behavior at home and at school” (Ewing, et al, 2014).
If you're interested in locating a play therapist near you, check out one of the directories on the parent resources page!
