Play therapy is a structured, theoretically based approach to therapy that builds on the normal communicative and learning processes of children (Carmichael, 2006; Landreth, 2002; O’Connor & Schaefer, 1983).

Quote from Association for Play Therapy website

What is Play Therapy?

Counselling children is very different than counselling adults. When it comes to counselling children, the method we use is Play Therapy. Play Therapy differs from regular play as well as regular talk therapy. In Play Therapy, “Play” will be the words and the medium for children to communicate their feelings and struggles at hand during the counselling process. With the use of selected materials & toys, and in a safe environment with necessary limits; the play therapist supports children to work through their struggles with their inner potentials and resources.

Research shows that Play therapy can be effective with children experiencing a wide range of social, emotional, behavioural, and learning problems, including:

  • Anger, Aggression, & Acting out behaviours
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders & Aspergers - Emotional Issues
  • Anxiety, Fears, Phobias & Timidity
  • Friendship & Social Setting challenges
  • School & Academic Difficulties
  • Self Concept & Self Esteem issues
  • Depression, Grief & Loss
  • Separation, Divorce and Family Dissolution
  • Foster Home & Adoption Experience
  • Crisis & Trauma; Child Abuse & Neglect
  • Physical Symptoms without medical reasons
  • Children with Special Needs (e.g. Autism) - Engaging & Promoting Emotional & Intellectual Growth

Why Play Therapy?

Play Therapy can promote:

  • Self Acceptance & Confidence
  • Responsibilities & adaptive behaviours
  • Cognitive development
  • Development of social and relational skills
  • Creativity & problem solving skills
  • Experience & expression of feelings
  • Empathy & Respect for others
  • Understanding & acceptance of past and current experiences

Should you need to discuss with one of our therapists regarding the Play Therapy process, please Contact Us. Our office is locaed in the Vancouver - Oakridge / Kerrisdale area. Our trained play therapists are also BC Registered Clinical Counsellors who provide a wide range of counselling services for children in the Vancouver west side area. They include Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Child Behaviour Consultation and Parenting Support, and Counselling for Adolescents.