what is play therapy and why does it work?
f you’re a parent wondering how to help your child cope with big feelings, challenging behaviors, or tough life experiences, you’re not alone. It can be hard to see your child struggling and not know how to support them. That’s where play therapy comes in.
Play therapy is a way for kids to process what they’re feeling and going through—without the pressure of having to "talk it out" like adults do. Through play, children naturally express themselves, work through emotions, and develop new skills to handle life’s ups and downs. Let’s break it down so you can understand how it works and why it’s so effective.
What Exactly Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a type of counseling or therapy designed specifically for kids. Instead of sitting across from a therapist and talking (which can feel intimidating or just plain boring to children), play therapy uses toys, games, art, and even storytelling as tools for healing and self-expression.
Think of it this way: for kids, play is like their language. If they can’t find the words to explain how they feel—or if they don’t even fully understand their emotions yet—they can "show" what’s going on through play. It’s like giving them a safe, creative outlet to work through things at their own pace.
Why Does Play Therapy Work?
You might be wondering, "Okay, but how does playing with toys or drawing pictures actually help?" Great question! Here’s why it works so well:
1. Kids Communicate Through Play
Children often don’t have the vocabulary to say, "I feel anxious because my parents are arguing," or "I’m scared because of what happened at school." But they might act out these feelings with dolls, create a drawing that tells a story, or even use a sand tray to build a world that reflects their inner thoughts. Play therapy gives kids a "voice" they can use comfortably.
2. It Feels Safe and Non-Judgmental
Talking about tough feelings can be scary—even for adults! Play therapy creates emotional distance. For example, a child might use a superhero figure to show how they "fight" against fear or sadness. It’s less direct, which helps them feel safer while still working through deep emotions.
3. It’s Fun! (And Therapeutic)
Let’s face it—play is how kids naturally explore the world and learn. Play therapy taps into this instinct. It doesn’t feel like "work" to them, but they’re actually learning problem-solving skills, how to manage their emotions, and even how to communicate better while they play.
4. It Builds Trust
The relationship between the child and the therapist is key. In play therapy, the therapist creates a warm, supportive space where the child feels understood and valued. Over time, this safe bond helps the child open up and feel confident in addressing their challenges.
Who Can Benefit from Play Therapy?
Play therapy is incredibly versatile. It can help kids dealing with:
Big emotions like anxiety, sadness, or anger.
Life changes like divorce, moving, or a new sibling.
Trauma from things like accidents, loss, or difficult family situations.
Behavioral challenges like tantrums, defiance, or difficulty focusing.
Social struggles, such as making friends or dealing with bullying.
Whether your child is shy and reserved or loud and boisterous, play therapy can meet them where they are and help them grow.
Does It Really Work?
Yes, and there’s research to back it up! Studies show that play therapy can improve kids’ emotional well-being, reduce problem behaviors, and help them handle life’s challenges more effectively. It’s not just "playing for the sake of playing"—it’s an intentional process guided by a trained therapist who knows how to use play as a powerful tool for healing and growth.
If you’re interested in play therapy for your child or teen, give us a call at Embracing the Journey at 714-202-6226 to set up a free phone consultation. Our provider, Hyun Choi, is experienced and ready to assist you and your family with play therapy. Play therapy can help with child anxiety, child depression, grief, anger, trauma, divorce, and many other challenges children may be facing. Not sure if play therapy is the right fit for your child? Give us a call, and we’ll be happy to guide you through your options and help you find the best support for your family!