Children are not just mini adults! For developmental reasons, children are not able to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in words the same way that adults can. The natural mode of communication for children is play. Through play, they are able to express things that they could not otherwise express. For this reason, play therapy is much more effective with children than traditional “talk therapy.” Play therapy is an intentional relationship between a child (or client of any age) and a therapist trained in play therapy in which the child is able to express their thoughts, feelings, desires, and experiences through play. The play therapist provides a specially selected assortment of toys as well as an environment where all feelings and experiences are accepted (though not necessarily agreed with). By observing and joining with the child in play, the therapist is able to open a “window” into the child’s world. The child is able to work through problems as they play. Through play therapy children are able to:
• Communicate thoughts, feelings, and needs.
• Develop a more positive self-concept and feelings of self-worth and confidence.
• Develop more self-reliance and self-control.
• Learn to identify and express their feelings in words.
• Develop the ability to self-evaluate and learn to trust themselves.
If you are a caregiver for a child with emotional or behavioral problems, play therapy may be right for them. Contact me to find out more!
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