Unlike adults who find relief in talking about their concerns and challenges, children communicate best through play. Play therapy is a special process that enables children to express themselves through the use of play and toys. Through several styles of play including art play, sand play, dramatic play and fantasy play, children communicate their emotional concerns.
Depending on the child’s presenting issues, I will use either a child centered approach where the child selects the toys and activities, or a more directive approach, where I guide the play with particular outcomes in mind. And sometimes it can be useful to employ a combination of both child centered and therapist directed play to more expediently meet therapeutic goals. If there has been any type of trauma, I may incorporate a form of EMDR Therapy geared specifically to the child’s emotional and chronological age.
As the play evolves children gain a sense of understanding, comfort and mastery over their situation. Children develolp new ways to express their feelings, communicate with others and solve problems. And through play, these solutions can be rehearsed, mastered and adapted into lifelong strategies.
Additionally, when appropriate I will encourage and guide the parent to be part of the play process. This has many benefits. The play can strengthen the parent-child bond, increase the parent’s understanding of the play therapy process and the child’s inner experience, and elucidate playful ways to connect with the child outside the session.
Research supports the effectiveness of play therapy with children experiencing a wide variety of social, emotional, behavioral and learning problems, including:
- Anxiety and Depression
- Aggression and Impulsivity
- Low Self-Esteem
- Social Withdrawal
- Divorce, Death and Loss
- Post Traumatic Stress
- Chronic Illness and Hospitalization
- Attachment Issues
- Adoption
Contact me by phone at 303-223-0727 or email at robinglincoln@msn.com to schedule a complimentary phone consultation to learn more.
The fee for a 50 minute session is $175.