Play Therapy
Play therapy makes a difference. Play is an enjoyable, fun activity that elevates our spirits and brightens our outlook on life. Play relieves feelings of stress and boredom and, most importantly, helps us express ourselves.
What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy refers to a large number of treatment methods, all applying the therapeutic benefits of play. Play therapy helps children to address and resolve their own problems and builds on the natural way that children learn about themselves and their relationships in the world around them.
The Association for Play Therapy defines play therapy as the “systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.”
What does Play Therapy help?
Play therapy helps children:
- Become more responsible for their behaviors and develop more successful strategies
- Develop new and creative solutions to problems
- Develop respect and acceptance of self and others
- Learn to experience and express emotion
- Cultivate empathy and respect for the thoughts and feelings of others
- Learn new social skills and relational skills with family
- Develop self-efficacy and a better assuredness about their abilities
What is Sandplay therapy?
Sandplay therapy is a nonverbal, therapeutic intervention that makes use of a sandbox, toy figures, and sometimes water, to create scenes of miniature worlds that reflect a person’s inner thoughts, struggles, and concerns. This is a form of play therapy; other methods include imaginary play with toys and puppets or bibliotherapy that uses literature to help a patient interpret stories or fiction and how such writings may relate to the patient’s own difficulties. Play therapy aims to help a child’s growth and development. The practice of play therapy requires extensive, specialized education, training, and experience. With my knowledge and background, I am confident that you and I can set your child up for success.
Our Sandplay Therapy Tray
Art Therapy
Art Therapy is a creative process that uses drawing, painting, collage, coloring, or sculpting to help people with their mental statuses (Art Therapy). Additionally, these artistic mediums help individuals express themselves. With the guidance of an Art Therapist, clients may uncover the hidden meanings and undertones behind their creative work.
Art Therapy Easel
If you’re interested in learning more about play therapy and how it can help your child grow, contact me today for a free consultation.