Play
Therapy
Play therapy allows kids to move beyond their stuck emotions and feel relief through sharing honestly through their play
A child’s emotions carry an amazing and natural ability to change and heal with proper care and support. Just like in traditional talk therapy, relief is felt when a child has a supportive, neutral environment to share honest feelings and place their emotions that have become hard to carry.
Children don’t always have the vocabulary or the insight to articulate their emotions in the same way adults do. In the therapeutic space children can use play to convey their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without being directed or coached.
As the child plays, we can begin to recognize themes and patterns that indicate the child’s emotions and their sources.
Play therapy can be a supportive therapeutic service for you if your child is struggling with:
Emotional melt downs
Difficulty sleeping or eating
Life changes and transitions
Grief or loss
Verbalizing feelings
Anger outbursts and tantrums
Past or recent trauma
School avoidance or anxiety
Fears or phobias
FAQ
What makes playing in your office different than playing at home?
We have specific toys in the office that allow for the express of feelings, the telling of stories, and showing where concern or difficulties exist. As therapists, we are able to interpret and validate what the child expresses in their play. We use a non-directive approach that allows for safety, understanding, and support.
Will I be in the room with my child during play therapy?
The first session, one or both parents are always present for us to gather a full picture of your child, including their developmental history and current functioning. If during subsequent appointments, your child is more comfortable with you in the room, we will coach you in how to present while allowing the child to be free in their play and expression of their feelings. We do usually work towards them feeling comfortable being in the office with us alone, but we are careful and supportive with that transition.
How do I explain to my child about what the appointment is for and what will happen when we're there?
We describe ourselves as someone who’s job it is to help kids with their feelings. When in the office, we want to hear the story of the child and hear about all of the things that make them who they are and the important parts of their lives. We then come up with a plan of what we can help them with. Parents are always in the room for the first session and we make this first interaction a very light, positive experience.
