Your child seems to be struggling and you’re not sure what to do. They’re too young for traditional talk therapy, but you’ve heard that play therapy might be a good option. But what is play therapy, and how does it work? You just want what is best for your child, and you want to help them deal with whatever is troubling them.
What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a child-centered approach to counseling that utilizes play as a way for children to express their emotions and work through difficult or troubling issues. It’s a hands-off way for children to guide the sessions and explore different activities and scenarios, helping them to understand their own thoughts and feelings more naturally. It is based on the idea that play is a child’s primary language, and that by tapping into this “first language,” children can better process their emotions, work them out, and play through any problems they may be facing. For example, if your family is going through a difficult transition, your child might play out different scenarios or express their feelings through roleplay.
How Does Play Therapy Work?
For the first session for your child, the play therapist will meet with you, the parent, or the caregiver. This is so they can learn more about your perspective of what’s going on and your child’s history. This is beneficial so the play therapist has more information to work with and can better understand how to help your child. Once therapy starts, the parent will have “check-ins” with the play therapist to ensure they are still on the same page.
Now that the play therapist has an understanding of your child’s situation, they will meet with them in a designated playroom. This is where your child can explore different toys and activities, and have some “me time” to focus on their own thoughts and feelings.
What is the Play Therapist’s Role?
As your child plays, the therapist will watch for patterns or themes that occur in their play. They will then interpret what your child may be feeling or thinking. They will use this to work with them to address these issues and find ways to help them process and address their problems. It can be from issues in their lives to more complex issues such as trauma or abuse. The play therapist’s role is to support them by listening and providing guidance.
With younger children, the therapist may take a more hands-off approach. They may suggest certain activities or toys for your child to play with, and ask them open-ended questions about what they’re doing. Whereas play therapists with older children will approach them more directly. They may ask questions to help them explore different perspectives, or help identify feelings or emotions that they are experiencing.
Play Therapy and Older Children
Play therapy isn’t just for younger children. Older children can benefit from play therapy, too. With older children, the approach may be more directive. The therapist will ask why your child did something or how they were feeling about a certain situation. They will participate in more play therapist-guided activities and ask for more direct feedback. Since your child is also able to verbally explain or discuss their thoughts and feelings, the therapist can also provide guidance and support as needed.
What Parents Need to Understand About Play Therapy
As a parent, you may have some ideas of what play therapy is and how it works. However, the approach may be different than what you expected or envisioned. It’s important to understand that play therapy is not about fast results. It takes time for your child to trust the play therapist and develop a relationship with them. It’s a process where your child will explore different ways to think about their emotions and work through difficult issues in a safe and non-judgmental environment. This is extremely important because your child is developing the ability to understand their emotions. So, exploring them takes time as they are uncharted territories for them.
Play Therapists Are Here For You Too
As a parent, it’s also important to remember that the play therapist is there to support and guide you, as well. They are here to listen to your concerns about your child and help you problem-solve together. So, if you are feeling worried or concerned about how things are going, don’t hesitate to reach out and talk with the play therapist. With their support and guidance, you can help your child get the most out of play therapy so they can start feeling better about themselves and their situation.
Interested in Play Therapy in Roswell, GA?
Our therapists at Wellview Counseling know that as a parent you want what’s best for your child. You want them to have the skills they need to face any challenge that comes their way. This is why we have an experienced play therapist who can help your child explore their emotions and thoughts in a safe, non-judgmental environment. If you’re interested in starting therapy or coaching:
- Contact Wellview Counseling
- Meet with our specialized play therapist and parent coaches
- Begin letting your child explore their feelings, thoughts, and emotions through play!
Other Therapy Services Offered at Wellview Counseling
Starting play therapy for your child is just one way to support your family’s healing and growth. At Wellview Counseling, we offer a variety of different therapy services to help you and your family find healing and connection. Your teen may need counseling due to anxiety. You may be seeking counseling because you’re struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression. Maybe your family is needing to learn how to maintain healthy boundaries or process big emotions. No matter the situation you are facing, our specialized therapists are here to help you and your family. Our office is in Roswell, GA, but we also offer online therapy to anyone in Georgia. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment please feel welcome to reach out to us!
About the Author
Ashley Bobo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and has worked in a variety of settings over the course of 20 years. Ashley understands you want to help your child find the best way to cope with stress and difficult emotions. She is passionate about helping children and families learn more about themselves, their relationships, and their emotions. This is why parenting and family therapy are two of her expertise areas.