Therapy for children is a little different than adult therapy. For the most part, adults choose to enter into this healing space, whereas many times, the choice is made for children by a parent or guardian. And what a gift that choice is! However, as much as we would love our children to sit down and tell us all about their day and their burdens, they are not wired this way. Why? Children are not rational.
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Instead of trying to explain in terms we would use, it’s best to use developmentally appropriate forms of therapy… like play therapy! At MindWell Counseling in Bethesda, Maryland, play therapy is integrated into a holistic, child-centered approach that considers the whole child—their emotions, behavior, relationships, and environment. It not only helps children feel heard and supported but also equips them with tools for lifelong emotional wellness.
A Creative Therapeutic Approach for Children
Play therapy is unique and specialized for children. It’s really rather magical! This creative therapeutic approach is used to help children express their emotions, process experiences, and build coping skills using the language they know best: play. Through guided play, a trained play therapist creates a safe, supportive environment where children can explore their inner world, work through challenges, and build resilience. Play therapy can be effective for children facing issues such as:
- Anxiety or excessive worry
- Grief and loss
- Divorce or family transitions
- Trauma or abuse
- Aggression, tantrums, or social withdrawal
- Low self-esteem or confidence
- Difficulties in school or peer relationships
During sessions, your therapist may use toys, art, sand trays, puppets, and storytelling to help the child communicate. Each activity will be tailored to their developmental stage and therapeutic goals.
Play Therapy Is More Than Just Play
Play therapy is more than just playing with your child while they talk about their feelings. It aims to help a child’s growth and development. When children are given an unconditional positive space to do and be what they need to be in that moment, they are able to process their burdens in a way that works for them. In addition, they learn emotional literacy, regulation, advocacy, coping, social, self-compassion, and so many other important skills while being in a space that can be fun and silly while also being challenging and hard.
The practice of play therapy requires extensive, specialized education, training, and experience. That’s why it’s important to go to a Registered Play Therapist.
What’s the difference?
A therapist who is trained in play therapy has received education and instruction in play therapy techniques but may not have pursued the additional steps required to become a Registered Play Therapist. This could mean they have attended workshops, conferences, or completed courses focused on play therapy, but they may not have undergone the comprehensive training and supervision necessary to earn the RPT credential. Without the oversight and accountability provided by the APT, the quality and effectiveness of their play therapy interventions may vary.
A Registered Play Therapist Serving Bethesda, MD
Maggie Meyer is a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), which means she is constantly engaging in science-based interventions and continuing education. She has also worked diligently to meet the rigorous standards set forth by the Association for Play Therapy (APT), demonstrating her unique expertise in this modality. With her knowledge and background, there’s no doubt your child will be set up for success.
If you’re interested in learning more about play therapy and how it can help you and your child, contact MindWell Counseling today for a free consultation at our office in Bethesda!