Play therapy for children

Absolutely! Play therapy can be used for all children and teens however, the play session may look a little different for teens. The therapeutic power of play can be used in many ways.  Parents sometimes think that play therapy is “just play.” But play is important to children / teens. Not only can play be a window into their inner world, but a lot can happen that is therapeutic and should not be dismissed just because it is conducted through the medium of play. Children / teens can come to discover ways of thinking and behaving that help them flourish. 

I start off the sessions with allowing the child to lead the session. This means that your child can choose what to play with within certain limits. I stay present with your child, by tracking their movements.

No. Just like adult counseling, play therapy also has different types of therapy types within the play therapy umbrella. 

When getting to know your child is important to build an established trusted relationship with them. Thus, in the beginning of the therapeutic process I always start with using child centered play therapy. Thereafter depending on the child's developmental level, I may use more direct interventions. 

I usually meet with the child individually and meet with the caregivers once a month. However, caregivers can meet with me more often as needed. My philosophy in child counseling, is that the parents are the catalyst for change!