Play Therapy
Play Therapy is a form of counseling designed specifically for children, typically between the ages of 3 and 12. Instead of relying on conversation alone, a trained play therapist uses toys, games, art, and creative activities to help children communicate their thoughts and feelings in a natural and comfortable way.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play Therapy is a specialized form of counseling designed for children. Instead of relying only on conversation, therapists use play, creative activities, and developmentally appropriate techniques to help children express emotions, solve problems, and develop healthy coping skills.
Because play is a child's natural way of communicating, it provides valuable insight into their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Through Play Therapy, children can safely explore emotions while learning skills that support healthy emotional and social development.
How Does Play Therapy Work?
During Play Therapy sessions, children may use:
- Toys
- Art supplies
- Games
- Sand trays
- Puppets
- Role-playing activities
- Storytelling
- Creative play
These activities help children communicate in ways that feel natural while allowing therapists to guide emotional growth and skill development.
Parents and caregivers are often included in the therapeutic process through regular updates, education, and strategies to support progress at home.
Insurances We Accept
- BlueCross and BlueShield
- GEHA
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Molina Healthcare
- Optum
- Oxford
-
Presbyterian
-
SUREST
-
UMR
-
UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
What Can Play Therapy Help With?
Play Therapy may benefit children experiencing:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Behavioral concerns
- ADHD
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Grief and loss
- Family changes such as divorce
- Trauma or stressful experiences
- Difficulty expressing emotions
- Social challenges
- Low self-esteem
- School-related stress
Every child is unique, and therapy is personalized to meet their developmental needs and goals.
Meet our Kids Counselors
Emily Martin, M.A. Candidate
Therapist | Master's Intern Counseling
Amy Smith, LCSW
Therapist | In-Person & Online
Natalie D. Vasquez, LMSW
Therapist | Master's Intern Counseling
Frequently Asked Questions About Play Therapy
What age is Play Therapy for?
Play Therapy is commonly used with young children, but it may also benefit older children depending on their developmental needs and therapeutic goals.
Will parents be involved?
Yes. Parents and caregivers are an important part of the therapy process. Your therapist will discuss your child's progress, provide guidance, and recommend ways to support your child at home while maintaining your child's privacy when appropriate.
Is Play Therapy just playing?
No. Although sessions involve play, each activity is chosen with a therapeutic purpose. Play Therapy is a structured, evidence-based approach led by a trained therapist to help children express emotions, develop coping skills, and work toward specific treatment goals.
How long does Play Therapy take?
The length of therapy depends on your child's needs, goals, and progress. Your therapist will work with your family to develop a treatment plan that supports your child's growth.
