Play Therapy
Play Therapy for Children
Play is the language of a child.
Children learn, explore, and communicate through play. When a child experiences any disturbance in their world, it can appear as anxiety, depression, behavior and performance problems at school. Children are able to process these difficulties through play in therapy.
Through play therapy we help children communicate and work through their emotions in a way that is safe and natural for them.
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Problem Areas Commonly Treated
Our counselors work with children experiencing various problems that may present individually or in the family system, at home or at school. Some of the issues we commonly treat in child therapy include:
Grief
Trauma & Abuse
Behavioral Issues
Social Skills Training
Changes in Family System
Anxiety in children and excess worrying
ADHD
Depression
Emotional Regulation
Working with Parents
We believe that a parent's role in their child's therapy process is crucial, and therefore we integrate the parents in their treatment.
During the time we are working with your child, we will provide feedback and suggestions of how things can be changed or improved at home to help with the process. In addition, we often will make recommendations of resources we find helpful. We can also provide therapy for parenting to help parents create the optimal system for their family.
Facts About Play Therapy
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Play therapy is a form of counseling where trained therapists use play to help children express their feelings and resolve emotional difficulties. Through play, children can communicate their experiences, thoughts, and emotions in a natural, non-threatening manner, allowing therapists to understand and address their concerns effectively.
Does your child seem to be withdrawing or isolating themselves from friends and family? Do they display a significant change in mood or behavior that you find concerning? Are they struggling with sleep issues or recurring physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches? Have they experienced a recent traumatic event such as a major loss, assault, or accident? Or do you see them struggling with their self-esteem?
If you're not sure whether therapy is necessary for your child, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can discuss your family's particular situation, and determine the best course of action moving forward.
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Play therapy is beneficial for children experiencing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, behavioral issues, trauma, grief, family changes (like divorce or relocation), social difficulties, and developmental delays. It provides a safe space for children to explore and work through these issues at their own pace.
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The duration of play therapy can vary based on the child's needs and progress. Generally, it involves regular sessions over several weeks to months. The therapist will assess progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure the best outcome for the child.
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Play therapy is recommended for children who may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally or who benefit from a more interactive, expressive approach to therapy. If your child is struggling with emotional or behavioral issues impacting their daily life, consulting with a play therapist can help determine if play therapy is a suitable option.
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The first step is calling us at (708) 713-5894 or filling out a contact form so we can learn more about your specific needs. It is critically important that we match your child with the therapist that is best suited to his or her own unique situation. During this call we learn more about you, hear your concerns, and answer any questions you may have. Once we have this information we will recommend the therapist who we feel is the best fit for you.