Play Therapy
The Mind Spot is pleased to announce we are now offering play therapy during the day time hours.
Children learn to understand the world and their place in it through play.
What is Play Therapy
Play therapy is a form of therapy used primarily for children. Because play is a major outlet through which children demonstrate what is on their mind, whether they have words or not, play therapy has developed around understanding children and their needs by observing their play and helping solve problems through play. Play therapy is typically targeted to children ages 3 to 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties.
Play therapy takes place in a comfortable playroom where few rules are imposed on a child, allowing the child free and spontaneous expression of feelings. The therapist, schooled in child psychology, usually has an array of toys that children can use to act out their feelings. In addition, the therapist may ask children questions about the toys they’re using that reveal hidden worries and concerns.
A trained therapist can use playtime to observe and gain insights into a child’s problems. The therapist can then help the child explore emotions and deal with unresolved trauma. Through play, children can learn new coping mechanisms and how to redirect inappropriate behaviors.
Through play therapy, children learn to express their thoughts and feelings in appropriate ways, learn about the feelings of others, learn ways of controlling their own behavior, and learn how to solve problems they encounter.
Benefits of Play Therapy
Some of the potential benefits of play therapy are:
Taking more responsibility for certain behaviors
Developing coping strategies and creative problem-solving skills
Self-respect
Empathy and respect for others
Alleviation of anxiety
Learning to fully experience and express feelings
Stronger social skills
Stronger family relationships
Dealing with trauma
Adjusting to change
Helping with anger issues