What Is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a type of counseling designed especially for children. While adults use words to talk through challenges, children express themselves naturally through play. Toys, art, games, and creative activities become their “words”- a way to show feelings, process experiences, and practice new skills.

In play therapy, children might use puppets to tell a story, draw how they feel, build with blocks, or create scenes in a sand tray. These experiences allow them to express emotions, make sense of difficult situations, and learn healthy ways to cope, in a space that feels fun, comfortable, and safe.

Parents/caregivers

Parents play an important role, too, and research has shown that parent or caregiver involvement leads to the best results. The therapist will check in with you regularly to share progress, insights, and strategies for supporting your child at home. Generally, after every 3 sessions, your child’s therapist will schedule a time to check in, over the phone or video call. Every child’s process is unique, and growth happens gradually; but with patience, consistency, and care, real change begins to take root.

How Play Therapy Helps

Play therapy has been shown to help children who experience:

● Anxiety, worry, or stress

● Anger or emotional outbursts

● Grief and loss

● Changes in family structure (such as divorce or new siblings)

● Difficulty adjusting to school or peers

● Low confidence or self-esteem

● Behavioral challenges

What to Expect

Play therapy sessions typically last about 45–50 minutes. In the beginning, the therapist focuses on building a trusting relationship with your child, getting to know them and helping them feel at ease in the playroom.

Through play therapy, your child learns to:

● Identify and express feelings

● Develop problem-solving and coping skills

● Build confidence and self-control

● Heal from difficult experiences like anxiety, loss, family changes, or trauma

● Strengthen relationships at home and school