Play therapy is different than traditional talk therapy approaches in that play therapy is considered a more developmentally relevant and specialized way for children to receive counselling.

With play therapy, toys become many of the therapeutic tools used for expression and work is done in directive and non-directive ways, verbally and non-verbally. It largely depends on the child, but directive (therapist-lead) and non-directive (child-lead) techniques are used to help work through issues, as is the relationship between the child and the psychologist. Some work is done through metaphor, allowing the child distance from their internal emotional wounds. At all times the children are in the lead (within reasonable safety limits, of course).

Although play therapy is a relatively new counselling method and is officially around 100 years old, the language and significance of play was mentioned back in the day by Plato and Aristotle. The field is constantly developing and changing and it is growing in popularity, which is amazing news. Research is continually growing to support the need for more play therapists in our communities.

In my specialized therapeutic playroom at Sunshine Psychological, a variety of tools are available to help facilitate play therapeutically. These include: a sand tray and miniatures, puppets, dolls, building and constructive items, art supplies, games, costumes and much more. I am continually adding to my collection and feel it is important to have a wide selection of fun things to explore and use during sessions.