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CHILDREN AND PLAY THERAPY
What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a form of psychotherapy primarily for children (but sometimes, adults) working through emotional and mental issues.1 It helps children express themselves and learn about the world through their natural love of play. Therapists use it primarily for children, but adults can benefit, too.
Benefits of Play Therapy
- It creates a space where a child will feel comfortable being themselves instead of other more traditional forms of psychotherapy.
- It allows the child to take charge of their therapy process. Effective play therapy allows the child to use toys and mediums they are most comfortable with and go at their own pace.
- It helps children understand their emotions, especially if they had struggled with doing this before.
Directive Play Therapy
With directive play therapy, the therapist takes a hands-on approach and leads the child through guided play activities to help them express themselves. They’ll typically give specific instructions and supervise the child as they go through it.
Non-directive Play Therapy
Non-directive play therapy makes use of a less controlled environment. The therapist leaves the child to engage in whatever play activities they might enjoy and express themselves with limited interference.