A play therapist is a mental health professional that uses play to help children and adolescents resolve emotional issues and problems. Play therapy is a form of counseling that uses toys and games to help children communicate their feelings, emotions, and thoughts. It is often used to help children who have experienced abuse or trauma.
Garrett Counseling is happy to offer play therapist services as part of our comprehensive counseling services. Play therapy can be an effective tool for helping children and adolescents cope with stress, anxiety, and other emotional issues. Our play therapist will work with you and your child to develop a personalized plan tailored to their needs.
Most people think of play as just a fun activity for children, but it’s so much more for licensed mental health . For them, play is a powerful tool that can help kids with various issues, from developmental delays to treating trauma and adjustment disorders. When kids are allowed to play freely, they can explore their feelings and emotions in a safe and secure environment. This can be especially beneficial for kids who have difficulty communicating verbally.
Who Is It For?
Play therapy is a profession that is often overlooked. However, it is essential to remember that play therapists are not just for children. Many adults also need play therapy to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
The following are disorders which can benefit from the services of a play therapist in Jacksonville, Alabama:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Anxiety Disorders
- Trauma Related Disorders
Other individuals who require the assistance of a play therapist include:
- A child who is struggling to make friends in school.
- A child who is dealing with an eating disorder.
- A child who is being bullied at school.
- A teenage girl who has recently been sexually assaulted.
- A child who is constantly getting into fights with other children their age.
- A child who is struggling with their parents’ divorce.
What Can You Expect?
When you book a session, our counselor can set you up for these three play therapy techniques for the best results.
- Expressive Arts Therapy: We will use creative activities like painting, drawing, and sculpting to help children express their feelings.
- Sand Tray Therapy: In which your child will use miniature figures and objects to create scenes that represent their thoughts and feelings.
- Puppet Therapy: Our therapists will use puppets to help children talk about complex subjects.
During a play therapy session, there are six goals that we typically work towards. These are:
- Assess the child’s needs by observing how the child plays and interacts with others.
- Help the child express any feelings or emotions they may be struggling with.
- Help the child develop healthy coping skills.
- Teach the child problem-solving skills.
- Help build the child’s self-esteem and confidence.
- Provide support and guidance for parents or caregivers.
The Benefits of Consulting a Registered Play Therapist
Many people may not realize that consulting a play therapist can be highly beneficial. Play therapy for adults focuses on the developmental needs of grown ups and adolescents. It helps them recover from traumatic events, build self-esteem, and resolve conflicts.
Conclusion
Play therapy is valuable for children struggling with emotional or behavioral problems. The services of a play therapist can help these children learn how to cope with their emotions and healthily express themselves. Hire a therapist today.