Why Play? Because It’s a Child’s First Language!
Signs Your Child May Benefit from Play Therapy
Intense or Frequent Tantrums
All kids have meltdowns, but if your child frequently experiences extreme emotional outbursts, struggles with self-regulation, or seems overwhelmed by frustration or sadness, Play Therapy can teach them healthier ways to manage emotions.
School Struggles
Frequent teacher complaints, difficulty focusing, or acting out in school may indicate that your child is experiencing emotional distress. Play Therapy can help children develop self-regulation and coping skills for success in school and at home.
Withdrawal or Social Isolation
If your child is avoiding friends, struggling to connect with family, or showing signs of social anxiety, Play Therapy can help them rebuild confidence and develop positive social skills.
Grief, Loss, or Trauma
If your child has experienced the loss of a loved one, medical trauma, neglect, or abuse, Play Therapy can help them process difficult emotions in a safe, supportive environment.
Anxiety, Worries, or Fears
Children with excessive fears, separation anxiety, or difficulty adjusting to change may benefit from therapeutic play techniques that help them feel safe, secure, and understood.
Trouble Expressing Emotions
Does your child shut down, bottle up emotions, or struggle to talk about feelings? Play Therapy provides a non-verbal outlet for children to express what they might not be able to say in words.
Aggressive or Defiant Behavior
Hitting, biting, yelling, or difficulty following rules can be signs of underlying emotional distress. Through Play Therapy, children learn how to process frustration, develop impulse control, and express emotions in healthy ways.
Difficulty Coping with Transitions
Life changes—such as divorce, moving, changing schools, or a new sibling—can be overwhelming for kids. Play Therapy provides support in adjusting to transitions and processing emotions safely.
Negative Self-Talk
If your child frequently says things like “I’m not good enough” or “Nobody likes me,” Play Therapy can help them build self-confidence, positive self-talk, and emotional resilience.
What Happens in a Play Therapy Session?
Free Play & Exploration
Play Therapy sessions take place in a child-friendly playroom filled with carefully selected toys, art materials, and expressive activities. Children are encouraged to engage in:
Creative Play – Drawing, painting, or storytelling
Imaginative Play – Using dolls, puppets, or figurines to act out emotions
Sensory Play – Sand trays, clay, or kinetic materials for self-expression
Movement-Based Play – Games, role-playing, or interactive activities
Therapist-Guided Play & Emotional Exploration
While children play, I will:
Observe and Reflect – Understanding themes in the child’s play that may relate to emotions or experiences
Gently Guide When Needed – Encouraging storytelling, role-play, or art to help children express feelings
Use Specialized Techniques – Such as Sand Tray Therapy, Puppet Play, or EMDR with Play Therapy to help process emotions safely
Skill-Building & Coping Strategies
Throughout the session, I introduce age-appropriate emotional regulation techniques, such as:
Deep breathing & mindfulness games to manage anxiety
Identifying emotions through play to improve communication
Problem-solving activities to build confidence
Expressing anger safely through art, movement, or storytelling
What makes my practice different? I don’t just work with children—I work with parents, too
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I believe that real, lasting change happens when kids feel supported both in and out of the therapy room. That’s why I make parent involvement a key part of the process. Through regular check-ins, open communication, and practical strategies you can use at home, I help bridge the gap between therapy sessions and everyday life.
🔹 Collaborative Approach – You know your child best! I work alongside you to understand their needs, strengths, and struggles so we can create a plan that truly fits.
🔹 Ongoing Communication – No more wondering what’s happening in therapy. I provide regular updates, insights, and tools you can use to support your child’s growth.
🔹 Parent Coaching & Guidance – Sometimes, small shifts in parenting strategies can make a big difference. I offer personalized guidance to help you navigate challenges with confidence.
Children don’t grow in isolation—they thrive in connection. By including parents in the process, I ensure that therapy doesn’t just stay in the office but becomes part of your family’s journey toward healing and growth.