When many people hear the term “Play Therapy”, they often ask, “what exactly is that, do you just play?”. When parents are looking for counseling services for their child, play therapy might show up. Since this may be a first, parents might ask, how does that work or how does playing help.
Yes, the children do play, but there is more to it than just playing. Play is a way that children are able to communicate as well as work.
This all begins in a specific space of a “play room”, that is set up in a certain way with particular toys, games and art supplies. These items are selected for specific reasons, to help allow the child to express themselves in many ways. This space is also a place for the child to gain comfort, feel safe, and be able to establish a trusting therapeutic relationship. When the child begins to feel safe, they begin to express more freely through the play and crafts. Their play changes from more exploratory play to expression and metaphors by playing out their world through their eyes. The children are able to feel accepted (within clear limits) and validated without judgement.
If the counselor uses non-directive play, then the child is given the lead to freely choose the activity or toys, and play as they wish, with minimal limits. During this time, the counselor observes the play and reflects, letting the child know they are present, accepting and helping process what may be played out. If the child invites the counselor into their play, the counselor will join but will still have the child lead. If the counselor uses directive play, these are more specific and guided activities (such as using games, crafts, books, puppets… ) to help address specific goals (such as trauma, grief, self-esteem, anxiety and more).
Due to the nature of this process being “work” and dealing with emotions, this process (as any other form of counseling) does take time. Parents should not expect to see immediate change.
Many parents would like to know how many sessions it may take, but that is difficult to determine. Some children may benefit from just a few months while deeper challenges may take longer.
Since the child is the client they do have confidential rights, however since they are a minor, counselors will let parents know if there are safety concerns and some will provide parent consults to provide updates on progress of goals and general themes in sessions.
At The Vine Wellness we do include parents as part of the process and services. The more parents are involved, with the initial session and parent consults and implementing any recommended changes at home, the more benefits the child is able to gain from the investment of time and money in play therapy.
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