Insightful Play and Counseling
Play Therapy as defined by the Association for Play Therapy (APT) is “the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained Play Therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.”
So, what does this really mean and how can play therapy help my child? Play is a child’s natural form of communication and the way that they can learn about themselves, others, and the world. Play Therapy provides the environment and therapeutic relationship to create the opportunity and freedom for a child to work through what they are currently experiencing, have experienced in the past, are adjusting to, and/or are struggling with. In addition to what the initial presenting concerns may be, play therapy also naturally creates the opportunity to practice and support
Often times a child does not even realize the work that they are doing while in the playroom because it feels natural to them and isn’t forced by expecting them to talk about their presenting concern(s). Asking or expecting them to talk often leads to frustration on both the adult and child’s side due to lack of understanding on both sides.
While it may look like it is all fun and games (and for the most part it is…it’s ok to enjoy the time while we are putting in hard work!), there are times in which the play and work that the child is engaging in is uncomfortable, painful, challenging, and/or difficult. As Mr. Rogers said, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.”
Below are additional resources regarding play therapy and I am always happy to answer any questions!
Mental Health Professional Applying the Therapeutic Power of Play
