Play Therapy in Lawrenceville, GA

What is Play Therapy?

Play is the natural way children experience self-expression, relieve stress, practice new skills, and develop social competence.  Play Therapy is an evidenced-based, structured approach, that uses the innate therapeutic benefits of play to promote healing.  Play Therapists are specifically trained to perform assessments, develop treatment plans, and provide interventions using the natural communication and learning process of the child. Play Therapy encompasses a range of theoretical models. Sessions may be completely led by the child, completely led by the therapist or a hybrid of child-directed and therapist-directed activities. The Play Therapist, guided by their theoretical orientation, will offer interventions based presenting concerns and the developmental age of the child.

How does Play Therapy work?

Play is the language the child uses to explore difficult topics in a developmentally appropriate way.  Toys and other items in the play therapy room allow the child to “talk” about issues using the language of childhood. The child is able to have some psychological distance from the problem so they can safely explore it. Through play, the child can experience mastery, experiment with various solutions and roles, and gain confidence in their abilities. When treating anxiety in young children, for example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) may be playfully incorporated to teach concepts and practice skills.  

Why should I consider Play Therapy for my child?

Play Therapy is the recommended treatment modality for children experiencing a range of challenges.  Young children may not have the verbal or cognitive skills to verbalize their thoughts and feelings or explain how they are being impacted by events. In addition, even when a child is old enough to talk about their feelings, research shows that playful interventions enhance well-being and the acquisition of new skills.  

Benefits of Play Therapy

Play Therapy is proven to be effective for a variety of challenges that children have.  The approach is used to:

• Facilitate emotional expression.

• Improve regulation.

• Encourage problem-solving.

• Teach coping skills.

• Increase social competence. 

• Build resilience.

• Experience mastery.

• Increase feelings of self-worth

How do I start Play Therapy for my child?

As a Registered Play Therapist, I will work with you and your child to resolve the current issues.  Your child will also acquire skills to enhance resilience and facilitate future problem-solving.  To learn more about Play Therapy, I encourage you to reach out today for a free consultation.