What is Play Therapy anyway?
The term “play therapy” gets used often in the therapy world, but it isn’t always clear what Play Therapy actually entails. With International Play Therapy week coming up in February, what better time to introduce the topic of what Play Therapy actually is and what it’s used for!
Play Therapy is a modality of therapy for children that meets them on their level. Most often, young children lack the ability to express themselves effectively verbally. Play Therapy utilizes play, which is a child’s natural form of expression and language. Play Therapists come from multiple theoretical backgrounds, and approaches include Non-Directive Play Therapy and Directive Play Therapy. Play therapy is typically used with children ages 3-12, however some theories apply to infants, and play techniques can be utilized throughout the lifespan.
Play therapy is helpful to all aspects of a child’s development, including: social, emotional, cognitive, physical, creativity, and language development.
What are the benefits of Play Therapy?
-Building emotional awareness and healthy emotional expression
-Processing trauma or grief
-Improving social and communication skills
-Enhancing problem-solving abilities
-Building healthy coping skills and regulation skills
-Enhances social relationships
-Increases personal strengths and resiliency
Play Therapy can be used to treat anxiety, trauma, behavioral concerns, grief and loss, coping with major life changes, school avoidance, self-criticism, BIG feelings, and more!
If your child is struggling with any of these issues, or you find yourself needing some parenting guidance, The Vine Wellness Group is passionate about surrounding families and identifying the help they need.
Want to learn more about Brittany Christiansen and her specialization in play therapy with children? Visit her Bio here.
To schedlle and appointment: Call us today at 210-490-4419 or click here to fill out an online inquiry!
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