Play & Art Therapy

I found I could say things with color and shapes
that I couldn’t say any other way things I had no words for.
– Georgia O’Keeffe

What is Play Therapy?

Play Therapy is an evidenced-based, structured approach that builds on the normal communicative and learning processes of children. For children, self-expression and communication occur most naturally through play. While adults tend to process thoughts and feelings verbally in therapy, children engage in play to show us their inner worlds. Play Therapy is a model that uses the therapeutic powers of play to help clients resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development. Play therapy creates a space for children to express feelings, develop problem-solving skills, modify behavior and learn new ways of relating to others. Play provides a safe psychological distance from their problems and allows expression of thoughts and feelings appropriate to their development.

Play and Art Therapy are available at our Child and Family Centers

Association For Play Therapy

Play Therapy is defined by APT as “the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained Play Therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development."

What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy is used to help people manage physical and emotional problems by using creative activities to express emotions. It provides a way for people to come to terms with emotional conflicts, increase self-awareness, and express unspoken concerns about their illness and their lives. “Expressive arts therapy” may also include the use of dance and movement, drama, poetry, and photo therapy, as well as more traditional art methods.

Art therapy is based on the idea that the creative act can be healing. It helps people express hidden emotions; reduces stress, fear, and anxiety; and provides a sense of freedom. Many art therapists also believe the act of creation influences brain wave patterns and the chemicals released by the brain.  Research supports the effectiveness of play therapy with children experiencing a wide variety of social, emotional, behavioral, and learning problems (Reddy, Files-Hall& amp; Schaefer 2005).