Indianapolis Counseling Network

Written by Pamela J. Wright M.S., LMFT, LMHC   

Play has been observed for centuries for its healing powers and contemporary child psychologists recognize that children readily engage in play primarily because it is fun, it is a familiar experience and it doesn’t require instruction—kids just do it. Trained therapists understand that through a child’s eyes play is their language and toys are the words used to reveal what is going on in their world. Play therapy is the treatment of choice for children ages 3 – 12 years

    Young people generally display their emotional discomfort differently than adults when experiencing social, emotional, behavioral, and learning problems. They try to conceal their emotions so as not to appear different than their peers. These issues may be related to life stressors such as: divorce; death; academic failure; relocation; hospitalization; chronic illness; abuse; and domestic violence. Anger, crying, and sadness, all common reactions, will be displayed like waves of pain followed by a time of calm until the next wave overtakes them.  This process is repeated many times and is painful and confusing for parents to observe.  It is at this point that reaching out to a counselor can be beneficial.

    The following thumbnail description of a therapy session will give you an idea of how a session is conducted.  The therapist first establishes rapport with the young client, acquaints them with the room and the client is then encouraged to select an activity.  The therapist accepts their choice and through this interaction the therapist soon learns what challenges the child faces.  The therapist is skilled as an observer and/ or an interactive participant and knows to follow the lead of the client without disrupting their work process.  As themes develop around the clients issues the therapist then can choose to address the issues by introducing specific activities or allow the client the freedom to direct her/his own work until the problems are resolved or better managed.

Adolescents and young adults often are self-conscious, shy, and reluctant to speak to parents or other adults about their issues. Therapists can serve as the objective helper and those skilled to work with these age groups quickly engage even the most reluctant young person.  The use of art, card games, journaling, and a variety of other creative activities interspersed with talk-therapy can be highly effective. Adolescents and young adults subsequently engage with their therapist and begin discussing their problems. 

This type of therapy helps children, teens and young adults:

• Become more accountable for behaviors and develop more successful strategies.
• Develop new and creative solutions to problems.
• Develop self-respect and increased self-esteem.
• Learn to express emotions appropriately.
• Cultivate empathy and respect for thoughts and feelings of others.
• Learn to use better judgment.
• Learn new social skills and relational skills with family, peers, and classmates.

If you think your child would benefit from this specialized therapy contact the C.T.S. Counseling Center to schedule an appointment, 317-924-5205. or find out more about Play Therapy at www.ctscounseling.org

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