Play therapy

Play therapy is a form of therapy that it is experiencing huge growth in Australia because the evidence shows it can be effective. By using play to help children express their emotions and process their experiences children are offered the space to develop confidence and a strong sense of self, communicate and deal with trauma, increase emotional regulation and develop social skills. It is a non-intrusive and effective way to help children work through their difficulties in a safe and supportive environment. Play therapy can be used to address a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and developmental issues in children.

Play therapy is based on the idea that play is the natural language of children. By engaging in play, children can communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a way that is comfortable and familiar to them. Play therapy allows children to explore and express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences through toys, games, and other creative activities.

There are several different approaches to play therapy, including non-directive play therapy, directive play therapy, and child-centred play therapy. In non-directive play therapy, the child is given free rein to play with whatever toys they choose, while the therapist observes and engages with the child as needed. In directive play therapy, the therapist takes a more active role in guiding the child through specific activities or exercises. Child-centred play therapy focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship between the child and the therapist, with the goal of creating a safe and supportive environment for the child to explore their feelings and experiences.

Play therapy is an evidence-based treatment that is effective in reducing symptoms in children. Research has shown that play therapy can be an effective treatment for children with a variety of emotional and behavioural issues. Studies have found that children who participate in play therapy show improvements in areas such as self-esteem, emotional regulation, and social skills. Play therapy has also been shown to help children cope with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other psychological difficulties.

Play therapy is a valuable tool for helping children work through their emotional and behavioural difficulties in a safe and supportive environment by utilising a language that comes naturally to them. By allowing children to express themselves through play, therapists can help children develop the skills they need to cope with difficulties and thrive in their lives.

References:

1. Landreth, G. L. (2002). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship. Taylor & Francis.

2. Ray, D. C., & Bratton, S. C. (2010). The Efficacy of Play Therapy With Children: A Meta-Analytic Review of Treatment Outcomes. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 41(3), 237-245.

3. Bratton, S. C., Ray, D., Rhine, T., & Jones, L. (2005). The Efficacy of Play Therapy With Children: A Meta-Analytic Review of Treatment Outcomes. Journal of Counseling and Development, 83(3), 370-378.

4. Schaefer, C. E., & Drewes, A. A. (2014). The Therapeutic Powers of Play and Creativity. Jason Aronson.