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Play Therapy:
A Parent's Guide to Understanding the Play Therapy Process
What is play therapy?
Play therapy is a treatment option available for children who have been caught up in parental turmoil or violence, have suffered abuse, or have experienced a significant loss, such as the death of a parent. Play therapy is a special process that focuses on children's need to express themselves through the use of play and toys. Children are encouraged to play spontaneously, while the play therapist provides a safe and understanding environment. During the process a wide variety of toys are made available to children to encourage the expression of their emotional concerns. Children are given the opportunity to express themselves through a variety of styles including art play, sand play, dramatic play and fantasy play. Resolving the child's negative emotions allows the child to achieve a sense of happiness and contentment thereby reducing or eliminating problematic behaviors.
Why play therapy for children?
Children like to play. Children are unable to understand and talk about their feelings the way adults do and this makes adult therapies inappropriate in meeting young children's special needs. Play becomes therapeutic to children as they give expression to their experiences and emotions. Through play, children can re-create the experiences that are contributing to their anger, fears, sadness or frustrations. In many cases, these emotions can negatively influence a child's day-to-day behavior. A benefit of play therapy is that children can engage in therapeutic play at their own developmental level. The relationship with the play therapist allows children a sense of security when re-creating emotionally stressful experiences.
How long will play therapy take?
Play therapy is a process that depends on several factors in the child's past and present experiences. The two most important factors are the developmental stage of the child and the age of the child at the onset of the concern. Usually, recent events require a shorter duration of therapy. Play therapy for events that occurred further back in time often require more intensive play therapy over a longer duration.
Is play different in play therapy than when my child plays at home?
The basic function of play remains the same in both situations. Play, to children, is a natural way to rehearse for life's interactions. Play serves three essential purposes: cognitive development, motor development and emotional resolution. When facilitated by a trained play therapist, the play becomes focused on emotional resolution. This focus helps the child re-establish balance and his/her sense of well-being.
How will I be involved as a parent?
Parent involvement is important in the play therapy process. Parents will be asked to meet with the therapist on a regular basis. Family therapy may also be an important part of the therapy process. If recommended by the therapist, a parent may become involved in the play therapy process. Parents will also be asked to contribute to their child's progress by following the recommendations of the therapist. Recommendations often include additional activities, outside of the therapy office, which support the play therapy process.
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