Each week we will be sharing a tip from our school psychologist, Mrs. Rollins.

This week we are talking about – What is Play Therapy?

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy was developed to understand children and their needs by observing their play and then helping them solve problems through play. It is typically used for children ages 3-11 with social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. This option is chosen rather than talk therapy because it can work for children with various levels of verbal skills.

Play therapy starts with an interview with caregivers to learn about the problems that need to be addressed. The therapist will observe the child at play noting interaction with the toys, separation from parents and the therapist being in the room. Over time they will say aloud what they see the child doing in the playroom to help process and express through play what they have experienced.

Play therapy typically takes place over 20 sessions that last 30 to 45 minutes. The therapist displays unconditional positive regard for the child by letting them know that their thoughts, feelings, and expressions are valid and valued. The content of sessions are reviewed with parents either by report, video, or two-way mirror. As a team, they consider treatment plans outside of sessions to address presenting problems.

Play therapy can also be used with teenagers or adults with developmental disabilities, dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other mental health concerns that are more typical, but that they could have difficulty talking through. Dramatic role-play or sand tray therapy helps them get in touch with feelings or experiences that are hard to talk about. Play therapy is used for adults along with other therapies and medication.

Counseling Today, Healthline, and Psychology Today all have more information on this topic if you are interested.

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