PLAY THERAPY

There are many different ways of conducting play therapy, all treatment methods make use of the natural benefits of play. A play therapist is a trained mental health professional who facilitates play so that the child can systematically address and resolve his/her own problems. Play therapy allows trained play therapists to assess and understand children's play and to use it in assisting the child in coping with difficult emotions and in finding solutions to their problems The play therapist uses traditional play techniques like the dollhouse; dress up clothes, puppets, water play, arts and crafts material, board games, sand tray, and music. They also employ modeling behaviors through role-playing in which they take turns with the child to act like teacher, sibling, friend and parent etc. to teach children better conflict resolution. Play therapy sessions can be structured or unstructured. Play therapists work differently but all use the benefits of play to psychologically help children. Some play therapists work more directly with the problem of the child and some play therapists work with the child holistically for insight into the child's personality and perceptions.

The key technique in play therapy is the therapist’s interpretation of symbolic play in words that the child is ready to accept and understand, and offering new ways in the context of play to control and manage fears, anxieties, and negative emotions. Interventions are offered in the context of play.

It is important for the child to feel safe in play therapy. Sometimes parents are part of the play therapy session and sometimes the therapist conducts the session with the child. It depends on the therapists’ style, and the nature of the problem. When the therapist meets with the child alone, most play therapists engage in the concept of "confidentiality" which means that what children specifically say and do in play therapy will be kept confidential (exceptions include allegations of abuse or harm to self and others). The play therapist will involve the parent by sharing general themes, helpful responses, and progress in therapy with the parent as well as meet with the parent on a regular basis. This confidentiality allows children to feel that they can fully express themselves without being inhibited by the concern over their parents' reactions or feelings. Play therapists may also facilitate family therapy on a regular basis in which all or some family members may participate to work toward therapeutic success for the child.

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