Children may not yet have the words to explain how they feel or why they react in certain ways, but they often do know how to express themselves through play. That’s where play therapy comes in. It can offer a supportive, developmentally appropriate way for children to explore their emotions, make sense of their experiences, and practice coping skills through something that feels more natural for them: playing.

While it may look like simple fun, play therapy is a structured and intentional mental-health approach informed by decades of research in child development. In this blog, we will explore the basics of play therapy, how it works, and why many families find it helpful. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or caregiver, learning about play therapy can help you feel more informed as you explore options.

What is play therapy?

Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses play as the main way children express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Since many children communicate through actions before words, play can become their “language” in settings like therapy.

A licensed play therapist creates a supportive space using selected toys or materials, such as dolls, art supplies, games, or sandplay therapy. These can help children explore their emotions in ways that feel safer and natural.

Play therapy has roots in psychoanalysis and child psychology. Virginia Axline is widely recognized for helping shape child-centered, non-directive play therapy. Today, the approach continues to evolve as research grows in areas like childhood trauma, attachment styles, and emotional development.

Is play therapy effective?

Organizations such as the Association for Play Therapy suggest that play-based approaches may help support emotional regulation, communication skills, and overall functioning in many children.

Play therapy can be helpful because:

  • It meets children at their developmental level.
  • It uses play, something familiar and comfortable.
  • The therapeutic relationship can contribute to positive experiences.

However, outcomes can vary. Like any therapeutic approach, its benefits depend on a variety of factors, including the individual, the therapist, the therapeutic relationship, and other factors.

Who can play therapy help?

Play therapy may support children experiencing:

  • Emotional overwhelm or stress
  • Big feelings that are hard to express
  • Friendship or social challenges
  • Family transitions (such as divorce or changes in living situations)
  • Grief or loss
  • Difficult or frightening experiences
  • Behavioral challenges

While often used with younger children, many therapists can adapt these approaches for older kids or teens when appropriate.

Can play therapy work for adults?

Yes, play therapy for adults can be helpful. Creative expression through methods such as music therapy or art therapy may also be helpful. These methods can support symbolic expression or creativity when verbal discussion feels challenging.

Experiences vary widely, so adults interested in expressive forms of therapy can explore options with a licensed mental health professional.

Types of play therapy

Licensed play therapists may use one or a blend of two broad approaches:

  • Directive play therapy: In a directive play therapy approach, the therapist guides activities to support specific themes or skills. Techniques may include role-playing, storytelling, art or creative tasks, or therapeutic activities. These activities may help children, teens, or adults practice coping skills, build emotional awareness, or explore specific techniques.
  • Non-directive play therapy: This approach, also referred to as child-centered play therapy, follows the individual’s lead. The play therapist offers selected materials, provides emotional reflection, and creates space for exploration without specific prompts. This approach may help children or adults explore feelings at their own pace, build confidence, and strengthen emotional clarity.

Examples of play therapy activities

Play therapy may look different for each individual. Common techniques or activities include:

  • Role-play with puppets or dolls
  • Art activities, such as drawing, painting, or sculpting
  • Sand trays
  • Therapeutic storytelling
  • Board games or card games
  • Active or imaginative play, such as building, pretending, or exploring themes through movement or toys

Some therapists may also integrate elements of other therapeutic approaches, such as parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT), when appropriate for family support.

Why does play therapy work?

You may wonder why play therapy with a trained mental health professional is different from the play children do at home. After all, kids can learn, explore, and express themselves through play every day. However, play in a therapeutic setting has important qualities that make it unique.

  • It’s play with a purpose: The environment is intentionally designed to support emotional expression and learning. The toys, materials, and setup are chosen to help children communicate feelings, practice coping skills, and explore experiences safely.
  • The therapist helps make meaning of the play: Children may express their emotions symbolically, through characters, stories, or actions. A play therapist can notice themes, reflect feelings, and respond in ways that help support growth and emotional awareness.
  • It’s a safe, neutral space: Many children behave differently with someone outside their family. A licensed child therapist provides a consistent, calm, and supportive environment where the child can explore feelings without worrying about disappointing a parent or navigating family dynamics.
  • Therapists can respond in specific ways: Parents may naturally react to their children with emotions, such as frustration or worry. In play therapy, the therapist can be trained to stay regulated and consistent, even during challenging themes or behaviors.
  • It supports skills that build over time: Children may practice emotional expression, problem-solving, self-soothing, or communication skills during play therapy.

How to find a play therapist

If you’re interested in exploring play therapy near you, here are a few helpful steps:

  • Look for training in play therapy: Not all therapists offer play therapy. Many complete additional training in therapeutic play or child-focused methods.
  • Ask about their approach: Different play therapists may use directive, non-directive, or blended styles.
  • Consider fit and comfort: A supportive, trusting therapeutic relationship can help children feel safer in the therapy room.
  • Review logistics: This may include session length, caregiver or parent involvement, in-person or online therapy options, and cost or insurance considerations.

You can browse therapist profiles, specialties, and availability through platforms such as findmytherapist.com.

Things to consider

Play therapy can be helpful for many children, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • It may not be the right fit for every child. Some children prefer talking, art, or other outlets.
  • Therapy often takes time, and progress can look gradual.
  • Caregiver involvement varies. Some child therapists bring parents or caregivers in more or less frequently than others.
  • Many factors can influence progress in therapy, including readiness, consistency, and comfort with the therapist.

Takeaway

Play therapy can give children a developmentally appropriate way to express emotions, explore challenges, and practice coping skills through the language of play. It’s one of many tools families can consider when supporting a child’s emotional well-being.

If you’re beginning to explore options or want to learn more about local or online mental health providers, you can browse therapists near you at findmytherapist.com.