Play is a child’s first language. Before an individual learns and understands spoken language, he or she has already begun developing relationships using his or her creative and mimicking behaviors through Play as a means of communication. Play Therapy is a well-established discipline. Research suggests that children referred to play therapy will show a positive change.
A safe, confidential and caring environment is created in the playroom which allows the child to play with as few limits as possible but as many as necessary (for physical and emotional safety). This allows healing to occur on many levels following our natural inner trend towards health. Play and creativity operate on impulses from outside our awareness-the unconscious.
The therapist may reflect to the child observations of what has happened during the session if this is felt to be appropriate. In cognitive behavioral Play therapy, the counselor guides the child through directed activities that encourage learning, cooperative interaction and self-expression. Above all, the child is given “Special Time.” So often in modern life we do not seem to have enough time to spend with our children-just playing, just being there for them. The child is given strategies to cope with difficulties they face in life and which they themselves cannot change. It provides a more positive view of their future life.
