Play Therapy and Theraplay®
By Clinical Mental Health Team
Children sometimes struggle to express or manage difficult feelings, and parents may feel frustrated or unsure how to help. Play-based therapies provide a safe, effective way for children to process emotions, build coping skills, and strengthen parent-child relationships.
Play Therapy uses the natural language of play to help children communicate feelings they cannot yet verbalize. Therapists may use a structured playroom or office toys, and sessions can be directive (therapist-guided) or nondirective (child-led), depending on the child’s needs. Directive play may include guided activities or games to help children explore emotions, practice problem-solving, or process stressful events. Nondirective play allows the child to lead, while the therapist reflects feelings and provides support. Many therapists combine both approaches to best support the child.
Theraplay® is an attachment-based therapy designed to strengthen the parent-child bond. Sessions include playful, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate activities focused on four dimensions: Nurture (comfort and care), Engagement (fun and connection), Challenge (encouraging growth), and Structure (safety and predictability). Examples of Theraplay® activities include handprint art, balloon toss, movement and singing, sensory play, and gentle touch exercises. This approach helps children feel secure, valued, and connected, while teaching parents to guide and co-regulate their child’s emotions.
Both Play Therapy and Theraplay® are appropriate for children of varying ages, including infants, and can address emotional or behavioral difficulties such as anxiety, withdrawal, clinginess, disruptive behavior, or challenges with attachment. These therapies are adaptable for Telehealth, allowing children to receive developmentally appropriate sessions online.