What is Play Therapy?
Just as counseling is for adults, play therapy serves the same purpose for children. When adults face problems, they find relief in sharing them with a trusted friend or therapist. However, children's ability to express themselves with words is not as developed as that of adults. Therefore, putting their distress into words can be challenging. Play therapy provides children with the opportunity to communicate their thoughts, feelings, needs, and desires through play, which is their most natural form of expression. With the guidance of a trained Play Therapist, children learn to understand themselves and their world better, work through their problems, and develop the necessary skills to cope with life more effectively.
Why Does My Child Need Play Therapy?
At some point in their development, many children may struggle to cope with life experiences or exhibit behaviors that concern their parents or teachers. If you, your child's teacher, or their doctor are concerned about your child's behavior or notice that they are having difficulty coping, it is essential to consult a specialist. The recommended approach for helping your child is often play therapy.
What Can I Expect from Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a process in which the therapist establishes a safe and trusting relationship with the child, helps reveal and work through the child's problems, reaches solutions, practices new skills, and prepares for closure. Changes in mood and behavior during play therapy are normal and expected. Sometimes, it may seem like things are getting worse instead of better. This is a natural part of the process. If you notice such changes, discuss them with your child's therapist.
Additionally, the therapist will not force the child to share information about their life or traumatic experiences. Instead, the child is allowed to process their issues at their own pace. The play therapy environment offers children more freedom than they typically experience in other areas of their lives. Every emotion and thought the child expresses in therapy is accepted. This freedom is essential for the child to feel secure enough to open up and work through their fears and problems.
However, limits are set on behaviors that could harm the therapist, the child, or the play therapy materials. These boundaries help create a safe environment where the child feels secure. Setting limits and providing appropriate options help children learn self-control and develop self-respect.
How Should I Talk to My Child After a Therapy Session?
It is important that your child does not feel pressured to share everything that happens during play therapy. They should view their therapy time as a private and special moment between themselves and the therapist. Allow your child to initiate any conversations about their therapy, but also respect their right not to share if they choose not to.
How Often and for How Long Should My Child Attend Play Therapy?
Each child progresses at a different pace in therapy. The duration of therapy depends on the child’s personality, the severity of the trauma, and their home and life circumstances. Since children thrive with structure and consistency, maintaining a regular therapy schedule will provide the most benefit. Therefore, it is important to bring your child to their scheduled sessions consistently.
What Should I Expect After Therapy Ends?
During therapy, the therapist will determine when your child no longer needs therapeutic intervention. This happens when the child’s play patterns and intensity shift to reflect age-appropriate and developmentally typical play. At this point, it is time for the child to "graduate" from therapy.
As children grow, their thoughts and life experiences evolve, and they may face new challenges or display behaviors that cause concern. If you or other adults in your child's life notice difficulties in coping or worrisome behaviors, you can bring your child back to therapy.
When Should I Speak with the Therapist?
Your child's therapist will want to meet with you regularly to discuss their progress. They may also invite you to participate in some sessions. In these cases, the therapist will provide guidance and support throughout the session. Additionally, if any concerning developments occur between sessions, you may request a special meeting with the therapist.
What Can I Do During Sessions?
Before each session:
- Arrive a few minutes early to allow your child time to prepare.
- Reassure them that you will be waiting for them when the session ends.
- While your child is in therapy, parents or caregivers should remain in the center.
During the consultation process:
You play a crucial role in your child's life, and you can also have a powerful impact on their therapy process. Your involvement can help your child generalize what they learn in therapy to their home and school environments. You may also receive tools and strategies from the therapist to strengthen your relationship with your child.
The therapist may recommend reading materials or exercises for you to practice at home. Please follow these recommendations, as they will support your child's development and progress in therapy.
Dr. Birgül Emiroğlu Bakay
Clinical Psychologist
