Understanding Play Therapy: Causes, Types, and When to Seek Medical Help

Understanding Play Therapy

Play therapy is a specialised therapeutic approach designed to help children express feelings, develop coping strategies, and resolve internal conflicts through structured play. This gentle and child-centred service provides emotional support in a way that feels natural and engaging to young minds.

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy uses toys, games, art, and imaginative play as tools for communication and healing. It helps children who may struggle to express emotions verbally by allowing them to process experiences symbolically and creatively.

This service is often used to support children dealing with:

Anxiety or depression

Family separation or divorce

Bereavement or trauma

Behavioural challenges

Developmental delays or learning difficulties

It’s typically offered in a safe, private setting designed to foster trust and emotional expression.

What to Expect from This Service

When accessing a play therapy service, you can expect:

An initial consultation with the parent/guardian

A series of child-led, one-on-one play therapy sessions

Use of therapeutic tools like sand trays, puppets, or drawing

Regular progress updates and optional parental guidance

A non-judgemental space where children feel seen and understood

Sessions usually last 30–50 minutes and are conducted weekly or bi-weekly.

Who Conducts This Service?

Play therapy is provided by:

Registered play therapists

Child psychotherapists or counsellors

Mental health professionals with specialisation in child development

All professionals listed on My Health Assistant are fully qualified, DBS-checked, and trained in therapeutic techniques suitable for children.

Who Might Need This Service?

Play therapy is ideal for children aged 3 to 12 experiencing:

Emotional distress or trauma

Aggressive or withdrawn behaviours

Issues related to ADHD or autism spectrum disorders

Low self-esteem or confidence

Life changes such as moving home or starting school

This service can be beneficial even when the child doesn’t have a formal diagnosis.

Types of Play Therapy Services

Therapists may offer:

Non-directive play therapy – where the child leads the session

Directive play therapy – where the therapist gently guides the play

Group play therapy – for siblings or small peer groups

Filial therapy – involving parents to support home-based play therapy techniques

Each approach is chosen based on the child’s specific needs and developmental stage.

Risks Associated with This Service

Play therapy is considered very safe, but it’s important to be aware of:

Temporary emotional sensitivity as feelings surface

Resistance or withdrawal in early sessions

The need for consistent attendance for best outcomes

These are all part of a normal therapeutic journey. Working with a qualified therapist ensures your child’s well-being is the top priority.

How to Choose the Right Health Professional

To find the best play therapy service near me, consider:

Professional accreditation (e.g., BAPT, PTUK)

Experience with your child’s specific needs

A warm, child-friendly environment

Positive parent reviews or recommendations

The therapist’s ability to communicate clearly with both child and caregiver

My Health Assistant allows you to easily search and compare therapists to find the right fit for your family.

Summary

Play therapy offers children a safe, age-appropriate way to explore their thoughts and emotions. As a gentle yet powerful service, it promotes emotional resilience, better communication, and healthy development. My Health Assistant helps you find a trusted play therapy service near me, connecting your child with caring professionals who understand how to support their mental and emotional well-being through the healing power of play.