Play Therapy

Play therapy is a method of treatment for depression that allows children to express their feelings and thoughts through play. This allows them to express what they feel on their own development level and can assist in helping the therapist treat the child accordingly. Children of all ages are more talkative and expressive while playing. They are able to better communicate their emotions through play therapy. In addition, play therapy offers a safe, non-threatening means for children to show their emotions and depression. Play therapy can take the form of role playing, playing with dolls, pretending and even just free play.

Therapist who deal with children that have experienced depression problems from violence, divorce or death of someone close, are specially trained to assess and understand what children are communicating through play. A play therapy professional is trained in mental health and depression and can effectively facilitate play scenarios to address specific problems relating to children. This can often help the therapist in finding viable solutions to a child's problems. Sometimes, a play therapist will work directly with the child's specific problem, while other times, the therapist works holistically to see the child's personality. Also, when a child is taken to play therapy, the therapist will make certain that the child feels safe and secure. The child will also understand that their thoughts and concerns remain confidential so that the child will not feel under pressure from parents or other outside forces.

It is often difficult for parents to know whether or not a child might benefit from play therapy. There are obvious reasons for play therapy, but if children are experiencing behavioral issues or depression at home or school, play therapy might be recommended. Many times, if a child has experienced a life-changing event and begins to act out, a teacher or pediatrician might recommend using play therapy as an option.