play therapy

One of my favorite definitions of play therapy so far is from The British Association of Play Therapists: “an effective therapy that helps children modify their behaviors, clarify their self-concept, and build healthy relationships. In Play Therapy, children enter into a dynamic relationship with the therapist that enables them to express, explore, and make sense of their difficult and painful experiences. Play Therapy helps children find healthier ways of communicating, develop fulfilling relationships, increase resiliency, and facilitate emotional literacy. (www.bapt.info, 2009)”. Just like therapy with adults, Play Therapy has multiple modalities. So when a therapist says they do “play therapy” we really only know that they are utilizing play to explore the emotions and behaviors, however we don’t know how they are utilizing it. Some modalities are very directive where the therapist chooses the activity and process, others are very non-directive where the kid decides what to do and talk about. They all have specific aspects they are each really good at addressing and other areas where they might be lacking. Regardless of the specific modality, Play Therapy is the most effective and developmentally appropriate approach for kids. Dr. Brenna Hicks has a great short blog about WHY this is the case: https://www.thekidcounselor.com/talk-therapy-doesnt-work-kids-play-therapy/.

I personally find the most benefit in the play room and in my client’s daily lives by utilizing Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) and Adlerian Play Therapy. In some instances, such as with individuals who have OCD, I also incorporate behavioral therapies adjunctively to target specific symptoms and challenges.