Play therapy is for children what talk therapy is for adults.

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During a typical play therapy session, the child and therapist might use role play to explore a difficult situation, use the sand tray to try out a new way of coping with a situation, use the doll house to replay a difficult memory, or create an art project to describe their feelings. We use an approach that it integrative and tailored to the child's needs at the moment, by drawing on expressive and projective techniques, art and sand play, role and dramatic play, child-centered play therapy, cognitive-behaviour therapy, adlerian play therapy, and other techniques and approaches. At times, the therapist will be directive and choose activities or stories for the child, at other times, the therapist will be non-directive and will allow the child to choose. 

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Play therapy allows children to:

• Become more responsible for their behaviour

• Develop new and creative solutions to problems

• Develop acceptance and respect for self and others

• Learn to experience and express emotion

• Cultivate empathy and respect for the thoughts and feelings of others

• Learn new social skills and relations skills with family

• Develop self-efficacy

Charlene is a Registered Play Therapist with the Association for Play Therapy and a Certified Foundational Theraplay Practitioner with the Theraplay Institute. She has completed training through the BC Play Therapy Association, Rocky Mountain Play Therapy Institute, and the Theraplay Institute.  

 

Play therapy services are available for children aged 5-12 with concerns related to trauma, anxiety, depression, divorce, self-esteem, attention/focus, anger, autism, developmental delays, or other difficult life events. If you think your child might benefit, please call. The first appointment will be with just the parents or caregivers. This gives us a chance to speak openly about your child's strengths and weaknesses and to create a therapy plan together.