What is play therapy?

Play therapy is to children what counseling is to adults. Play therapy utilizes play, children's natural medium of expression, to help them express their feelings more easily through toys instead of words.

Does my child need play therapy?

Throughout their lives, most children go through difficult times, such as the divorce of their parents, trouble making friends, or adjusting to changes at school or home. Some children need more help than others to get through these times. If you or other adults in your child's life are concerned about your child's behavior, play therapy can help. It is the most appropriate treatment for helping your child work through difficult times and helping you gain a better understanding of what your child is going through.

What toys are in a play room and why?

Toys are carefully selected for the play therapy room to facilitate creative and emotional expression from children. The types of toys used can be played with in many ways and therefore allow for decision-making in children. They are also very durable and sturdy to allow for repeated use and rough play.

Why play therapy?

Play Therapy is the most appropriate method of treatment for children who are having difficulties coping with life situations. Though children lack the cognitive skills to express themselves with words, they are fluent in the language of play. Play therapy allows them to express themselves in the way in which they are most comfortable.

How long does a child receive play therapy?

The length of time a child is seen in play therapy varies from child to child. It depends upon the severity of the trauma, the child's personality, and how the child perceived the trauma. This can be discussed with your child's play therapist during consultation times.

Can a play therapist tell me if my child has been abused?

Through the course of building a relationship and engaging in the process of play therapy, your child's play therapist will watch for themes in your child's play. Over time and across sessions, your child's play therapist may be able to observe enough information to either support or contradict an assumption you may have regarding abuse of your child.

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a therapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission.  However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse.  The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. 

• If a client intends to harm himself or herself.  The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety.  If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

• In response to a subpoena.  These might be issued for records or for a personal appearance.

• If a complaint is filed.  A governing board has the right to subpoena confidential mental health information relevant to that complaint.