The Heart of Play Therapy- A Philosophy To help Your Child Thrive

I have a deep conviction that children come into the world primed for growth and change. One of the most significant ways we evolve is in relation to those around us. This means that a child’s support system plays a crucial role in fostering positive, lasting change.

Within relationships, all of us can experience reparation and healing that significantly contribute to flourishing.

When a child experiences an adult intentionally taking the time to see and experience the world through their eyes, the child feels safe enough to explore the world, test new ways of being, and express themselves freely.

Play therapy is unique in that it uses a child’s natural language—play—as a means for growth. Toys become “words” and play" becomes the “language” in which children express emotions, process experiences, and build coping skills in ways that feels comfortable and natural.

Through play, children engage with their feelings, build self-confidence, and practice real-world scenarios, creating pathways for growth in ways that traditional talk therapy may not offer.

Play therapy holds a special place in my heart because it requires therapists to be fully “with” the child. This simple yet powerful presence, central to Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), embodies the warmth, acceptance, and understanding that form a secure base for a child’s development. By embracing Gary Landreth’s philosophy:

“I am here, I hear you, I understand, I care, and I delight in you,”

a child can learn to feel valued, seen, and understood. When children feel accepted just as they are, they become more open to taking risks, expressing themselves, and building new skills.

Ultimately, I believe in the power of play to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives. Through the relationship between the therapist and the child, play therapy allows children to discover their strengths, build resilience, and address developmental, psychological, and behavioral challenges.

If you’re seeking a therapeutic approach that honors your child’s unique way of experiencing the world, therapeutic play could be the right fit. Together, we can help your child navigate their world with confidence, hope, and resilience.

Feel free to reach out if you’d like to learn more about how play therapy can make a difference for your family.