Play Therapy with Children
Play therapy is a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps children express themselves, process difficult experiences, and build emotional resilience using the language they know best: play.
For children, play is not “just play.” It is how they communicate, explore their world, and make sense of big feelings. When a child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, grief, trauma, ADHD, school difficulties, or family transitions, traditional talk therapy may not feel natural or effective. Play therapy meets children where they are developmentally and emotionally.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a structured, therapeutic approach in which trained clinicians use toys, creative arts, storytelling, games, and imaginative play to help children express thoughts and feelings they may not have the words for. Through carefully guided sessions, therapists observe patterns, themes, and behaviors in play to better understand a child’s internal world.
Unlike ordinary playtime, therapeutic play is intentional and goal-oriented. It creates a safe space where children can:
• Express difficult emotions
• Develop coping skills
• Improve emotional regulation
• Increase problem-solving abilities
• Build confidence and self-esteem
• Strengthen communication skills
Why Play Therapy Works
Children often lack the vocabulary to explain what they are experiencing. A child feeling anxious might show stomachaches. A child experiencing grief may become withdrawn or irritable. A child who has experienced trauma may act out or struggle at school.
In play therapy, a child might use dolls, puppets, art materials, sand trays, or games to symbolically work through these experiences. The therapist gently supports the child in identifying feelings, practicing coping skills, and building resilience. All in a way that feels safe and natural.
Research shows that play therapy can significantly reduce behavioral concerns, improve emotional regulation, and enhance parent-child relationships when caregivers are involved in the process.
What Concerns Can Play Therapy Help With?
Play therapy can be especially helpful for children experiencing:
• Anxiety or excessive worry
• Behavioral challenges at home or school
• ADHD symptoms
• Grief and loss
• Divorce or family transitions
• Trauma or abuse
• Social skill difficulties
• Low self-esteem
• School avoidance
It is commonly used with children ages 3–12, though techniques can be adapted for older children as well.
What Parents Can Expect
Play therapy is a collaborative process. While sessions are focused on the child, parents are an essential part of treatment. Therapists provide regular updates, guidance, and practical strategies that families can use at home to support progress.
It is important to understand that change takes time. Just as children use play to express emotions, they may also test boundaries or revisit themes repeatedly as they work through challenges. With consistency and support, growth unfolds naturally.
Immediate Openings in Yuba City and Roseville
If your child has been struggling and you have been considering support, we currently have immediate openings for play therapy in Yuba City and Roseville. Early intervention can make a meaningful difference in your child’s emotional and social development.
