Play therapy is a form of psychotherapy that utilizes play and movement as means of communication and expression for children. Play therapy recognizes that children may not have the verbal skills to articulate their thoughts and feelings as effectively as adults. Instead of relying solely on conversation, play therapy allows children to communicate, explore, and make sense of their experiences through play.
Play therapy often employs a non-directive or child-centered approach, where the therapist creates a safe and supportive environment for the child to freely express themselves. The therapist follows the child’s lead in the play, allowing the child to choose the toys and activities they are drawn to. A variety of toys, games, art supplies, and other expressive materials are provided in the therapy space. These may include dolls, action figures, drawing materials, sand trays, and games. The therapist carefully selects these materials to facilitate different forms of expression.
Children may use play to symbolically represent their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Through the use of toys and activities, they can project their inner world into the play, providing the therapist with insights into their thoughts and feelings.