Child Play Therapy
Humanisitc Child Centered Play Therapy
Play Therapy is an evidence-based practice, for working with children 3-12 years of age. A form of counselling that takes place in the playroom, whereby the therapist is led by the child, via the medium of play - a comfortable, natural , familiar and non threatening process for children. The therapist uses an array of developmentally appropriate ways to engage, and therapeutically play with the child. This may include such things as: puppets, sand-tray, storytelling, drawing, drama, music, games, art or construction.  The Therapist strategically utilizes play therapy to help children express what is troubling them, when they do not have the verbal language to express their thoughts and feelings (Gil, 1991). The positive relationship that develops between the therapist and the child during play therapy sessions can provide a corrective emotional experience necessary for healing, positive change and growth (Moustakas, 1997). Child Centered Humanisitc Play therapy allows children to-  Express, Regulate, Communicate, Practice & Master, new skills and behaviors. New ways of Doing Thinking & Feeling.
What happens in the Play Room?
Play Therapy helps children process traumatic experiences and upsetting events that have impacted their lives. In the play room the combination of toys, play and a therapeutic relationship with a trained Play Therapist, can allow a child to re-work previous trauma, make sense of current difficulties, or progress developmentally.Â
Children Play out literally and or metaphorically their inner and real life experiences to build insight and capacity. In the Play room Children express, regulate communicate, practice, master new skills, new ways of doing thinking and feeling. Children are safe from their own feelings & reactions and Play Therapy offers inner resolution, safety and new possibilities. The Unfamiliar becomes familiar.
How is it different to the way children play at home or school?
Play is so important! However, the benefits of play therapy with a trained child play therapist is unique, as the therapist is trained in deciphering and responding to the child’s unique communication in the playroom. The evidence-based practice of play therapy for children provides for healing and development, and is highly effective for helping children to 'play out' what they may find difficult to put into words. Play is vital to every child’s social, emotional, cognitive, physical, creative and language development.
Outcomes of engaging in Play Therapy & the Theraputic Powers of Play
The outcomes of Play Therapy are varied and may include a reduction in anxiety and raised self-esteem, positive changes in behaviour and improved relations with family and friends, resilience development, improved emotional & physical regulation and increased engagement in learning and school.
The Therapeutic powers of play are the mechanisms in play that actually produce the desired change in a child's dysfunctional thoughts, feelings, and or behaviors (Schaefer & Peabody, 2016). Theraputic Powers of Play provide foundational knowledge that supports the therapists theoretical framework, clinical decision making and practice. Theraputic Powers of Play are divided into four quadrants - Facilitates communication, Fosters emotional wellness, Enhances Social relationships & Increases Personal strengths. At Mandal Play Therpay we will discuss these powers and how they relate to your child and their theraputic process at the midpoint meeting.
