Play Therapy: Helping Children Heal, One Game at a Time


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At True Living Counselling & Coaching, we believe that play is one of the most powerful forms of communication for children. Just as adults express their thoughts and feelings through words, children express theirs through play. Play Therapy provides a safe, therapeutic environment where children can express emotions, process experiences, and learn new coping skills—all through activities they love and understand.

What is Play Therapy?

Play Therapy is a form of counselling or psychotherapy that uses play as the primary medium for communication. Designed for children, Play Therapy allows kids to explore their thoughts and feelings through structured activities, games, art, and other forms of creative expression. It’s grounded in child development and psychology, with therapists trained to interpret and respond to a child’s behaviours, reactions, and choices during play.

Play Therapy is not just "playing"; it’s a therapeutic approach that guides children toward emotional healing, behaviour modification, and personal growth. It provides them with a natural, non-threatening way to process difficult feelings they may not be able to express with words.

How Does Play Therapy Work?

In Play Therapy, the therapist observes and engages with a child as they play. Each session is tailored to the child’s age, emotional needs, and developmental stage. The therapist may use a variety of tools and techniques, including:

  • Sand trays with miniature figures for storytelling
  • Art supplies for drawing, painting, and crafting
  • Puppets or dolls to act out emotions or scenarios
  • Board games to promote communication and problem-solving
  • Building blocks or LEGO sets to encourage creativity and teamwork​

Through these activities, children can safely express and process feelings like anger, sadness, or confusion. The therapist may also help the child learn new ways to cope with challenges, build confidence, and develop healthy interpersonal skills.

Who Can Benefit from Play Therapy?

Play Therapy is beneficial for children of various ages and backgrounds who may be struggling with:
  • Anxiety: Children who feel overwhelmed or worried can learn relaxation and grounding techniques.
  • Trauma and loss: Kids who have experienced trauma, grief, or loss often find comfort in play as they process complex emotions.
  • Behavioral issues: For children with ADHD, ODD, or other behavioral challenges, play can provide an outlet for understanding and reshaping behaviors.
  • Family transitions: Major life changes like divorce or relocation can be challenging; play therapy helps children navigate these transitions.
  • Social difficulties: For children facing bullying, social anxiety, or peer pressure, play can enhance social skills and confidence.
  • Learning or developmental disorders: Play therapy is often adapted to meet the unique needs of children with learning differences, autism, and other developmental challenges.​

The Benefits of Play Therapy

Play Therapy offers a range of benefits that empower children to thrive in their day-to-day lives:
  1. Emotional Release: Play therapy provides a safe space for kids to release difficult feelings, from anger and frustration to fear and sadness.
  2. Improved Communication Skills: Children develop ways to express their thoughts, needs, and concerns, even if they struggle to articulate them verbally.
  3. Enhanced Problem-Solving: Play therapy encourages children to think critically, make decisions, and develop solutions to challenges they face.
  4. Increased Self-Confidence: As children progress in therapy, they build self-esteem and trust in their own abilities, fostering resilience.
  5. Better Relationships: By practicing healthy social behaviors in therapy, children improve their relationships with family, friends, and peers.
  6. Coping Skills Development: Kids learn coping mechanisms and emotional regulation strategies, providing them with tools they’ll use long after therapy concludes.

What to Expect in a Play Therapy Session

At True Living Counselling & Coaching, Play Therapy sessions are tailored to each child's individual needs and are typically conducted in a warm, welcoming environment. Sessions usually last 50 minutes. Parents or guardians may be involved in the process, especially during the initial assessment and follow-up sessions, but children will generally work independently with the therapist during play.

Therapy is a journey, and each child progresses at their own pace. Some children may show improvement after just a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing therapy. Together with our therapist, you’ll develop a plan that works best for your child’s unique needs.

If you believe Play Therapy could help your child or have questions about this approach, reach out to us at True Living Counselling & Coaching. Our compassionate and highly skilled therapist is here to support your child’s journey to growth, healing, and happiness—one play session at a time.

Learn more about Andrea who is our therapist that provides child and family counselling services. 
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