What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the natural power of play to help children express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Through the use of toys, games, dolls, and various other creative tools, play therapy allows children to process their feelings in a way that is appropriate for their developmental stage. Just as talking is the natural form of communication for adults, play is a child’s primary method of expressing themselves. Even children who are verbal may communicate more fully and meaningfully through play, as it offers a safe and non-threatening outlet for their emotions.
How Does Play Therapy Work?
In play therapy, the therapist observes how your child engages with different toys and materials during the session. This observation provides valuable insight into how they interact with the world around them, as well as their internal emotional landscape. The therapist may notice differences in your child’s behavior when playing alone versus with others, and how their interactions change over time. This can help the therapist identify key emotions, coping mechanisms, and underlying thoughts that may not be immediately verbalized by the child.
The therapist may guide the play by selecting specific toys that align with the goals of the session, or they may allow the child to lead, joining in and engaging when appropriate. The key is to create an environment that feels safe and supportive for the child, fostering an atmosphere of trust where they can freely express themselves.
Common Tools and Techniques in Play Therapy
Play therapy incorporates a wide range of creative tools that help children process their emotions and experiences. Some of the most commonly used items and techniques include:
- Drawing, coloring, and painting
- Puppets and role-play
- Sand trays and miniature toys
- Action figures or animal figurines
- Dolls and dollhouses
- Board games and puzzles
- Building toys (e.g., blocks)
- Storybooks and storytelling activities
Through these activities, children may be asked to tell stories, enact scenes, or solve problems in a playful manner. This creative approach allows children to explore and communicate their feelings in ways that feel less intimidating than direct conversation. The therapist uses these insights to guide the therapeutic process and better understand the child's emotional world.
When is Play Therapy Used?
Play therapy can be a helpful intervention for children who are dealing with a variety of challenges, including:
- Anxiety or stress
- Depression
- Trauma or grief
- Self-esteem issues
- Family transitions, such as divorce or separation
- Experiences of abuse or neglect
In addition to these common concerns, play therapy may be helpful in addressing a range of other emotional or behavioral issues. It can also be used alongside other therapeutic techniques, with the therapist working with parents and caregivers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the child’s unique needs.
Can Adults Benefit from Play Therapy?
While play therapy is often associated with children, it can also be effective for older youth and adults, particularly those who have developmental disorders, brain injuries, dementia, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For example, adult coloring—an activity many find relaxing—shares the same principles as play therapy. The act of engaging in creative, non-verbal activities can help individuals relax, release tension, and open up emotionally.
In these cases, the creative process encourages self-expression and problem-solving in a way that feels safe and manageable, offering a different avenue for processing emotions that might be difficult to express verbally.
What to Expect from Play Therapy
As with any form of therapy, the effectiveness of play therapy depends on the commitment and openness of both the therapist and the client. While play therapy can provide profound benefits, it is not a quick fix—it requires active participation, patience, and a willingness to engage in the process of self-discovery and healing. In some cases, this may involve facing difficult emotions, but this discomfort is often a necessary step in the journey toward growth and recovery.
If you are interested in learning more about how play therapy can support your child or loved one, our team of compassionate therapists is here to help. We offer flexible in-person, online, and telephone counseling sessions at multiple locations throughout Alberta. Contact us today to find out how we can support your family’s unique needs.