Play Therapy
What Is Play Therapy and How Can It Help?What Is Play Therapy and How Can It Help?
When most people think of therapy, they picture a cozy office, a comfortable couch, and thoughtful conversation between an adult and a therapist. But for young children, talking about feelings isn’t always easy — or even possible.
That’s where Play Therapy comes in.
Play Therapy for children gives kids a safe and supportive space to express themselves through the language of play. Guided by a licensed child therapist, play becomes a powerful way for children to work through emotions, process experiences, and build healthy coping skills.
At Mindful Beginnings of Lake Norman, our trained Play Therapists use evidence-based techniques to help children gain confidence, manage emotions, and heal from challenges in their own unique way.
As the Association for Play Therapy explains, “Toys are the child’s words, and play is the child’s language.”
Research shows that Play Therapy is one of the most effective methods for helping children grow emotionally and socially — especially when parents and caregivers are actively involved in the process.
How Is Play Therapy Different From Playing at Home?
At home, play is part of everyday life — a way for children to have fun, explore, and connect with family. In therapeutic play, however, play has a deeper purpose.
A trained Play Therapist understands how children communicate through play. Through observation and interaction, the therapist can see themes and emotions emerge that represent what the child is feeling inside.
This process helps children:
Build emotional awareness and regulation
Strengthen decision-making and problem-solving skills
Increase self-confidence and resilience
Heal from difficult experiences
Just as adult therapy sessions differ from casual conversation, Play Therapy is more than ordinary play — it’s a purposeful and healing experience guided by a professional.
How to Prepare Your Child for Play Therapy
At Mindful Beginnings of Lake Norman, our caring Play Therapists will guide you and your child every step of the way. We know that starting therapy can feel new or uncertain, and we’re here to help make it a positive experience from the very beginning.
During your intake session, your therapist will explain how Play Therapy works, suggest ways to help your child feel comfortable, and collaborate with you to set meaningful goals. This is also a wonderful opportunity to ask questions and better understand how therapy can support your child’s emotional well-being.
Our goal is to help your child feel seen, safe, and supported — so they can begin to grow, heal, and thrive.
You also can learn more about play therapy HERE !
Email us to set up a brief consultation to discuss your child’s needs for play therapy!