Why is Play Therapy Important?

Therapy with children looks a lot different than therapy with adults. Because children’s brains don’t have the developmental abilities to come to therapy and talk through their emotions and problems the way adults do, play therapy is the recommended treatment approach to working with children. Not all therapists are equipped to treat the unique dynamics of working with children, teens, and parents, but the Clinicians at Creative Family Counseling have received expert training in therapy models that are proven to be effective in helping families meet their goals in counseling.

Children need to play. It is through play that children communicate their needs, process their emotions, and discover themselves.

A therapist who provides play therapy provides a safe space for the child to grow, develop, and heal by joining the child’s world of play and providing the appropriate supports and interventions when the opportunities arise.  Sometimes it is even helpful for some of our adolescent clients to participate in play therapy!

At Creative Family Counseling, we use Play Therapy for:

• Anxiety, Separation Anxiety, and Panic
• Adjustment to Family Changes such as Divorce or Deployment
• Behavioral Concerns related to Aggression, Tantrums, and Defiance
• Grief and Loss
• Recovery from Trauma, Neglect, or Abandonment
• ADHD
• Sexualized Behavior
• Depression

Play Therapy can help by increasing a child’s ability to:

• Solve problems
• Learn social skills
• Express emotion
• Understand confusing experiences
• Develop emotional intelligence
• Increase confidence
• Adjust to transitions

There many forms of play and other expressive therapies provided at Creative Family Counseling.  Depending on the needs of your child, sometimes the play therapy sessions are more direct (therapist-led) and sometimes they are more indirect (child-led).  A therapist offering play therapy may use a wide array of therapeutic toys, games, activities, art techniques, or sand tray therapy.  

Where can I find a Therapist Offering Play Therapy?

We have Therapists who offer flexible availability for Play Therapy at our Prospect Campus and our Louisville Campus.

We agree to provide a safe space that allows clients to reach their goals in a collaborative manner.

I’m ready for a happier home. How do we get started?

1. Contact our Practice Administrator to be matched with a Therapist offering play therapy who fits your needs.
2. Schedule an intake appointment to discuss your concerns and goals.
3. Allow your Therapist to create an individualized treatment plan for you.
4. Work together to meet your goals.
5. Enjoy  a happier home.

Still have Questions?

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to have additional questions answered!