Because Play Therapy
Uses the Language of Childhood to Foster Change
Why Play Therapy?
Play is critical for human development, growth, learning and fostering relationships.
Play is a natural process that
Develops trusts and mastery
Encourages learning and acceptable behaviour
Manages emotions
Decreases anxieties
Fosters creative thinking and problem solving
Promotes open communication
Elevates spirit and self-esteem building.
Play is our first language. Just as adults use words to communicate, children use play. When playing, we express thoughts and feelings that might otherwise remain hidden. Play Therapy is powerful tool for addressing behavioural and emotional challenges. Using common play items such as sand, dolls, puppets, art, and dress up clothes, mental health professionals help clients better process their experiences and develop more effective strategies for managing their worlds. Practitioners use play therapy as a primary intervention or as a supportive therapy to address:
Behavioural issues caused by bullying, grief and loss, divorce and abandonment, physical and sexual abuse, and crisis and trauma.
Mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders, academic and social impairment, physical and learning disabilities, and conduct disorders.
Research suggests Play Therapy is an effective mental health approach, regardless, of age, gender, or the nature of the problem. Play Therapy works best when a parent, family member, or caregiver is actively involved in the treatment process. Grown ups too can benefit from Play Therapy.
based on brochure developed by the Canadian Association for Play Therapy
