Play Therapy

Play is a vital part of children’s lives. Through play, children learn, develop, and express their thoughts and feelings. Play therapists enter the emotional world of the child and allow the child to lead. When the child feels understood and safe, they can begin to express their problems and concerns and gain mastery over difficult and challenging situations. This leads to an increase in self-esteem and more enjoyable relationships with family members and friends.

Some of the issues children may be working on in play therapy include:

Anxiety/fears

Divorce/remarriage of parents

Sexual or physical abuse

Aggression

Low self-esteem

Attachment issues

Grief/loss

Depression

Neglect

Attention deficit/impulsivity

Parent/Guardian Involvement

Parents are a very important part of the play therapy process. Parents meet with the therapist

on a regular basis and provide crucial information on what is happening with the child outside

of therapy. Parents may be asked to join their child in play therapy sessions and/or given ideas

and recommendations to further support their child’s progress.

Suggested Readings:

Relationship Play Therapy by C. Moustakas

Reaching Children Through Play Therapy by Carol and Byron Norton

The Child’s First Book of Play Therapy by M. Nemiroff and J. Annunziata

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