Play therapy is a psychotherapeutic treatment approach specifically developed to help children between

the ages of 5 to 12 years old. It provides an opportunity for the child to ‘play out’ his or her feelings and problems,

just as, in certain adult therapy, an individual ‘talks out’ his or her difficulties. 

Therapeutic play normally takes place in a safe, comfortable playroom, where very few rules or limits are imposed

on the child, encouraging free expression and allowing the therapist to observe the child’s choices, decisions, and play

style. The goal is to help children learn to express themselves in healthier ways, become more respectful and

empathetic, and discover new and more positive ways to solve problems.

Therapeutic play can help children with social or emotional deficits learn to communicate better, change their behavior,

develop problem-solving skills, and relate to others in positive ways. It is appropriate for children undergoing or witnessing stressful events in their lives, such as a serious illness or hospitalization, domestic violence, abuse, trauma, a family crisis, or an upsetting change in their environment.

 

Play therapy can also help children with academic and social problems, learning disabilities, behavioral disorders,

anxiety, depression, grief, or anger, as well as those with attention deficit disorders or who are on the autism spectrum.