Play Therapy
Healing Through Creativity, Expression, and Connection
Available at Pillars of Wellness: In-person
What Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate therapeutic approach for children that uses play—their natural form of communication—to explore emotions, resolve conflicts, and develop healthy coping skills. Rather than relying solely on words, play therapy gives children tools like toys, games, and art to express what they might not be able to say out loud.
Through the safety of play, therapists help children work through trauma, anxiety, grief, family transitions, and behavior concerns in a way that feels safe and accessible.
Why Choose Play Therapy?
Children often express their inner world through play before they can verbalize it. Play therapy offers:
✅ A safe, child-led space to explore thoughts and feelings
✅ Therapist-directed structured play activities to help child address specific concerns
✅ Opportunities to develop emotional regulation skills and build confidence
✅ Support in processing trauma, grief, or family changes
✅ A foundation for healthier communication and relationships
Who Can Benefit from Play Therapy?
Play therapy is especially effective for:
- Children ages 3–12 (or developmentally equivalent)
- Those experiencing anxiety, behavioral concerns, or aggression
- Children coping with divorce, loss, trauma, sibling dynamics, or school issues
- Kids with selective mutism, attachment difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ADHD
What Happens in Play Therapy?
Sessions are led by licensed therapists trained in child development and play-based interventions.
Common tools may include:
- Sand trays
- Art and drawing
- Puppets or role-play
- Therapeutic games
- Behavioral Rehearsal and Interventions
- Storytelling and imagination-based activities
Through these methods, therapists observe themes, guide conversations, and build trust to help children:
- Name and regulate their emotions
- Build problem-solving and social skills
- Heal from difficult experiences
- Enhance Confidence
Parent Involvement
Caregiver participation is key! Therapists often include:
- Parent check-ins and coaching
- Collaborative treatment planning
- Tools for at-home support
- Joint sessions to model parenting and communication techniques
This helps reinforce new skills and fosters healing within the family system.
Getting Started with Play Therapy
📞 To learn more or schedule an intake for your child, contact our administrative team. We’ll guide you through the next steps and match your child with a therapist who specializes in developmentally appropriate care.