Play Therapists Explain: How Does Play Therapy Work?
/Play therapy has becoming an increasingly popular therapeutic modality for children. Play can be incredibly therapeutic and can help a skilled clinician identify key areas to work on with a child in the therapeutic setting. Incorporating play into the therapeutic process can add a layer of depth into the sessions that can uncover and pinpoint the preferences of the child and how to break down their thought processes about different aspects of their lives. Play therapy can also be incredibly helpful in detecting goals of a child’s behavior.
There are many different techniques and approaches to play therapy depending on the therapist conducting the session, but here are some basic mechanisms behind play therapy:
- Creates a fun and trusting therapy environment
- Building rapport between child and therapist
- Gives a child space to express themselves in abstract ways other than talking
- Gives the child power and autonomy in the therapeutic setting
What tools are used in play therapy?
Depending on the child’s age and preferences, play therapy can include tools like board games, books, toys, balls, and even activities like dance and yoga.
Can I join my child’s play therapy session?
This would depend on the therapist facilitating the session and their therapeutic approach. Typically, these sessions are held 1x1 with the child and therapist to build a relationship that is trusting and feels safe to the child.
How can I track my child’s progress in play therapy?
Some therapists may invite you into the last few minutes of a session, check in with you in the lobby after a session, or even ask to meet with you separately to discuss treatment plans, goals, and findings within the play therapy sessions.
Do you feel that play therapy would benefit your child?
This is a specialty at Serene Mind. Email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or give us a call at 813.321.8280 to set up an intake appointment to see if one of our play therapists is a good fit for your child.
