As you navigate the complex world of counselling, it’s crucial to remember that children have their own unique ways of understanding and exploring their feelings to promote positive mental health. One approach that speaks their language is Play Therapy. We’re here to introduce you to this gentle, yet powerful, child’s play method in an easy-to-understand manner.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play Therapy is a form of counselling that uses play to help children aged 3-12 to express what is troubling them when they do not have the verbal language to express their thoughts and feelings. In this therapeutic approach, toys and stuffed animals are like the child’s words, and play is the child’s language. In our clinic we work with children ages 5+.
How Does It Work?
In a safe, confidential, and caring environment, play therapists use a variety of therapeutic play and creative arts techniques to alleviate chronic, mild, and moderate psychological and emotional conditions in children to improve the child’s coping resources.
The therapist may help the child to explore life events, such as traumatic events, that may have an effect on their current circumstances, in a manner and pace that the child can comfortably handle. This can lead to emotional regulation, a sense of safety and understanding, healthier decision-making, enhanced self-esteem, and better family relationships and general well-being of the child’s mind.
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Who Can Benefit From Play Therapy?
Play Therapy can benefit children facing a wide range of difficulties, including emotional problems, conduct issues, trauma, grief and loss, family difficulties, social skills problems and difficulties with problem-solving skills. If your child is having difficulties with behavior at home or school, self-awareness, struggling with a life transition, or seems excessively sad or anxious, Play Therapy is beneficial to help children learn the necessary skills to overcome these issues in their own way which can also improve the overall parent-child relationship.
Why Choose Us For Play Therapy?
Our play therapists are trained in various Play Therapy techniques, such as role playing and language skills, and have a deep understanding of children’s individual needs. We are committed to providing a safe, warm, and non-judgmental space where your child can express their feelings and thoughts through play.
At our practice, we understand that each child is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of your child. We work closely with the parents or caregivers in the process, providing support and any additional training required.
How does play therapy help children under 5?
Play therapy is a form of child-centered counselling by a licensed mental health professional that uses child’s play to help young children learn how to express feelings, process experiences, develop coping skills, and improve overall mental health and self-esteem. For those under 5, who may not yet have the words to describe their emotions, play therapy provides a safe and supportive space to explore their inner world through toys, art, and creative activities which helps children regain the skills to process emotions, adapt to new environments and communicate efficiently.
What are the signs my child might benefit from play therapy?
Children under 5 might benefit from play therapy if they show signs of emotional distress, such as frequent tantrums, withdrawal, anxiety, aggression, sleep disturbances, or regression in behavior. Play therapy can be especially helpful in supporting children after big life changes like divorce, trauma, or starting daycare.
Is play therapy suitable for toddlers who are non-verbal or have limited speech?
Yes, play therapy is ideal for non-verbal or minimally verbal toddlers because it doesn’t rely on spoken language. Through play, children can communicate thoughts and emotions in a natural and developmentally appropriate way, making therapy effective even without words.
What should I expect during a play therapy session for my child?
During a typical play therapy session, your child will engage with age-appropriate toys, art materials, and activities in a welcoming environment guided by a registered play therapist to achieve their main goals of improvement. The therapist observes and gently interacts to help your child express themselves and work through challenges. Sessions usually last 30–45 minutes.
What’s The Next Step?
If you believe your child could benefit from expressing themselves through play, we’re here to guide you further.
Reach out to us for a free initial phone consultation either via phone (604.229.4887), via clicking the Book Now button, or by filling out the website Contact Form below (in the footer). During the initial call we’ll discuss your needs and determine if Play Therapy is a good fit for your child.
Remember, children often express their thoughts and feelings differently from adults, and Play Therapy is a therapeutic approach that provides them with a safe and relatable medium to do so.
We invite you to take the first step on this important journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—we look forward to partnering with you and your child towards improved emotional health and happier family dynamics.
