Play Therapy is a great way to connect with young children.

Play Therapy is an innovative way to work with children usually ranging in ages between three to twelve years of age to help them better express themselves, their feelings, and resolve any problems that they are currently struggling with. Play Therapy can also be helpful in working with teenagers as there are many different approaches. It helps children let their guard down and do not feel the pressure to just sit and talk. This allows them to do it on their terms in their own way. 

Play therapy provides a safe space for children to work with their therapist one on one in a more natural setting so the children can learn about emotions, what they are feeling, how to process those feelings, and implement coping mechanisms. Play Therapy can be used for behavioral problems such as anger, family discord, crisis, trauma, behavioral disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief and loss, divorce or abandonment, social development, and autism. 

Some of the benefits of Play Therapy include developing coping strategies and creative problem-solving skills, self-respect and self-reflection, empathy, anxiety relief, stronger social skills, stronger family relationships, and learning how to express their emotions and know that it is okay. When working alongside children, the child’s therapist may include parents, siblings, and other family members. This helps improve healing, family dynamics, and family understanding of what the child is feeling and how to aid in their coping and healing outside of the office. 

If you are interested to learn more about Play Therapy please visit the Association for Play Therapy at https://www.a4pt.org/page/WhyPlayTherapy