What is Play Therapy? 

Play therapy is a modality of treatment that builds on and uses the basic function and nature of play in children to meet them where they are at and guide them to healing themselves through the play, toys and relationship with the trained therapist. The toys become the children’s words for whatever traumatic event or events that the child has experienced. The positive relationship with the therapist creates a safe place to explore the emotions and thoughts of the event. This safe place allows for the child to take the necessary steps to heal. However, Play therapy is not just for children. Play therapy can be used across the lifespan. The toys for younger children can be replaced with arts and crafts and other games for older children and those young at heart. To learn more about play therapy, visit the Association for Play Therapy at www.a4pt.org.