Play Therapy for Children
Meet Kristin Coggin – Registered Play Therapist (RPT)
Meet In Jung Hwang – Registered Play Therapist (RPT)
You’ve likely tried everything up to this point. You’ve looked into almost every resource for your child you can think of. You may have also thought about talking to other moms or dads for support. But, you only find yourself insecure or doubting that they will understand. Even worse, you fear they might judge you or your child. You may have already talked to another parent looking for support, but their answers may not have been helpful because their child doesn’t have the same issue(s). As a result, you feel stuck and worried about your little one’s behavior, their development, ability to connect with others and his or her inability to control impulses. It’s probably time to try play therapy for children.
What is Play Therapy?
This is an evidence-based form of therapy designed with the intent to help children on their level. It is a system with a large number of treatment methods. These methods work to apply the therapeutic benefits of play. They help children to address and resolve their specific problems. In addition, it also builds on the natural way children learn about themselves and their relationships in the world around them.
This form of therapy is not only letting your child play and color in the therapy office to fill time or have fun. This form of therapy uses specific types of play techniques that focus on your child’s main issue. It is how children express themselves and understand the world around them. Our play therapist will use sand trays, toys, art, and other creative expressive techniques. By doing so, children can experiment, problem solve, express themselves, and gain self-confidence in everyday activities. In a way, play is the language and therapy is the conversation.
APT is the premier professional organization. It specializes in training mental health professionals to skillfully use play therapy for children. The APT defines it as the clinical use of play techniques by play therapists “to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.”
How Does Play Therapy in Atlanta, GA Help?
This form of therapy for children helps your child:
- Become more responsible for their behaviors and develop more successful strategies
- Develop new and creative solutions to problems
- Develop respect and acceptance of self and others
- Learn to experience and express emotion
- Cultivate empathy and respect for the thoughts and feelings of others
- Learn new social skills and relational skills with family
- Develop self-efficacy and a better assuredness about their abilities
What Conditions Can A Play Therapist Treat?
- Trauma
- Grief and loss
- ADHD
- Anxiety and fear
- Social problems
- Anger
- Impulsivity
- Academic issues
Who is Play Therapy For?
It is often provided for children ages 3-12. This age range is most common because of how children at this stage of development interact with the world around them. However, it is not uncommon for teens and adults to benefit from recreation and play techniques. Children can benefit from this form of therapy if they’ve experienced issues expressing thoughts and feelings related to:
In the end, this form of therapy offers an avenue to connect with a child’s inner world. It works to unlock an understanding of how and why they are operating. With this knowledge, a seasoned play therapist is not only able to understand and treat your child. In addition, they can also help you finally find new ways to garner hope about your child’s future.
Begin Play Therapy in Atlanta, GA
Your child can benefit from the therapeutic benefits of play with the support of a trained play therapist. Are you interested in learning more about therapy and how it can help your child grow? If so, contact us today and be connected with our play therapist. We are happy to offer support from our Atlanta, GA-based therapy practice. To start your therapy journey, please follow these simple steps:
- Contact North Atlanta Psychotherapy
- Meet with a caring therapist
- Start benefiting from the power of play!
Other Services Offered with North Atlanta Psychotherapy
Play therapy for children isn’t the only service offered by North Atlanta Psychotherapy. Our team is happy to offer a variety of services in support of your mental health. We also offer anxiety treatment, depression therapy, play therapy, and grief counseling. We also provide support for men, couples, and teens. Feel free to also learn more about how we can support those with bipolar disorder and OCD, or visit our blog to learn more today!
Helpful Resources Regarding Play Therapy for Children: