When adults struggle with emotions or challenges, we often turn to words. We talk it out in therapy, journal our feelings, or process thoughts through conversation. But children don’t always have the language to do the same. Instead, they turn to what comes most naturally to them: play.
This is where play therapy comes in—a powerful, evidence-based approach that meets children right where they are. Through child’s play, they can express themselves, explore tough experiences, and develop tools to navigate their world.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a structured, theoretically-based approach to therapy that uses play as a tool to help children express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences. It is grounded in the belief that play is the child’s natural form of communication—much like talking is for adults.
According to the Association for Play Therapy (APT), this method establishes an interpersonal process where a trained play therapist uses the systematic use of child-centered play therapy to help prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.
In simple terms: play therapy works because it speaks the language of children. It allows them to process what’s happening inside, even when they don’t have the words to say it out loud.
The Therapeutic Power of Play
Children use symbolic play to reenact scenarios, explore emotions, and make sense of their world. A toy can become a family member, a dragon can represent fear, or a block tower might be the home they wish they had. Through play, children can fully express themselves in a safe, supportive environment.
The therapeutic process allows kids to:
- Work through trauma or anxiety
- Explore family dynamics
- Learn emotional regulation
- Develop healthy attachment
- Strengthen problem-solving skills
- Build confidence and self-understanding
Because it’s rooted in the child’s natural way of learning, play therapy fosters deeper healing than simply asking, “How are you feeling today?”
Child-Centered Play Therapy: Letting the Child Lead
Child-centered play therapists create a warm, non-directive space where the child leads the session. This model emphasizes the child’s ability to find healing from within, with the therapist providing guidance, presence, and emotional safety.
Rather than interpreting or steering the play, the therapist reflects, observes, and supports—helping the child feel seen, heard, and understood. This method respects the child’s autonomy and promotes trust in the therapeutic process.
Over time, children begin to show more adaptability, emotional insight, and resilience—all through their own discoveries within play.
What Happens in a Play Therapy Session?
Every session is unique, but it typically includes a curated playroom with toys that invite creativity and emotional expression: dolls, art supplies, sand trays, puppets, and more.
A trained play therapist may observe themes in how the child engages, such as recurring stories, characters, or patterns. These insights help guide treatment and identify areas where the child may be struggling.
Sessions are usually weekly and range from 30 to 50 minutes. Depending on the child’s needs, the course of therapy may be short-term or ongoing.
When Is Play Therapy Helpful?
Play therapy is effective for a range of emotional and behavioral challenges, including:
- Anxiety, depression, or trauma
- Divorce or separation
- Grief and loss
- Behavioral issues at home or school
- Social difficulties or peer conflicts
- Attachment concerns
- Life transitions
Any time a child feels overwhelmed, stuck, or misunderstood, play therapy offers a safe space to explore those feelings in a way that makes sense to them.
Supporting Your Child Through Play Therapy
As a parent or caregiver, your involvement is important. While the focus is on the child during sessions, therapists often provide feedback, resources, and strategies to support you at home.
You may be asked to participate in parent sessions, track behavior changes, or implement techniques that align with what your child is working on in therapy. This partnership is key to long-term growth.
Remember: play isn’t just “just play.” It’s how a child develops social understanding, builds emotional language, and learns to navigate the world. Mental health care for children should be just as intentional—and just as playful.
The Takeaway
Play therapy is not about fixing a child—it’s about helping them feel safe enough to be themselves, explore their world, and build the inner tools they need to thrive. Through the theoretical model of play, children can grow emotionally, strengthen relationships, and overcome challenges in a way that honors their natural way of being.
At GROW Counseling, our child-centered play therapists are trained to guide children through this powerful process. We believe in the therapeutic power of play and are honored to walk with families as their children heal, grow, and flourish.
We offer child and family therapy in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Peachtree City, and surrounding areas, with in-person and virtual options available.
If your child is struggling and you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today to learn more about our play therapy services and how we can support your child’s emotional wellness.
