Could My Child Benefit from Play Therapy?

Parenting is a journey filled with joy, challenges, and moments of uncertainty. If your child is struggling to navigate their emotions, behaviour, or relationships, you might wonder what steps to take to support them. One therapeutic approach grounded in evidence-based practices and recognised for its profound impact on children’s emotional and developmental well-being is Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT).

What is Child-Centred Play Therapy?

Child-Centred Play Therapy is a research-backed therapeutic approach grounded in the belief that play is a child’s natural language. Developed by pioneers such as Dr. Garry Landreth, Dr. Sue Bratton, and Dr. Dee C. Ray, CCPT allows children to express themselves, process their experiences, and develop coping strategies through play. In a safe, nurturing, and non-directive environment, a trained play therapist follows the child’s lead, using their choices and play as the medium for healing and growth. This approach aligns with the principles of attachment theory and emotional regulation, as highlighted by experts like Dr. Daniel J. Siegel and Dr. Becky Kennedy.

How Can Play Therapy Help My Child?

Children often lack the verbal skills to articulate their emotions or experiences fully. Play therapy provides a bridge to understanding their inner world. Through CCPT, children can:

Build Emotional Resilience: They learn to identify and manage complex emotions like anger, sadness, or anxiety.

Improve Behaviour: By exploring their thoughts and feelings, children often show reductions in tantrums, aggression, or withdrawal.

Enhance Social Skills: Interacting with a therapist can foster communication, empathy, and problem-solving abilities.

Heal from Trauma: Play offers a safe space to process challenging experiences and rebuild a sense of safety and trust.

Strengthen Self-Confidence: As children are accepted unconditionally, they gain a deeper sense of self-worth and empowerment.

Who Can Benefit from Child-Centred Play Therapy?

Play therapy can benefit children from diverse backgrounds and needs, including those:

• Experiencing anxiety, depression, or emotional dysregulation.

• Coping with life transitions, such as divorce, relocation, or loss.

• Diagnosed with developmental delays, autism, ADHD, or other neurodivergent profiles.

• Impacted by trauma, neglect, or difficult family dynamics.

• Struggling with social skills, peer relationships, or self-esteem.

At Inspiring Play: Child and Family Play Therapy Sunshine Coast, we often see children who need a gentle and effective approach to support their unique journeys. By tailoring therapy to each child’s needs, we aim to nurture their hearts and minds through play.

Why Choose Child-Centred Play Therapy?

This approach is grounded in empathy, unconditional positive regard, and respect for the child’s autonomy. Drawing from the work of Landreth, Nordling, and Cochran, CCPT provides a space where children feel understood and supported, helping them develop the tools they need to thrive.

Seeking Support

If you’re wondering whether Child-Centred Play Therapy might be the right fit for your child, consider reaching out for a consultation. At Inspiring Play, we specialise in creating a warm, supportive environment where children and families can grow and heal together. Contact us today to learn how we can help your child flourish.

Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength. Together, we can empower your child to navigate their challenges with resilience and confidence.

Sunshine Coast Play Therapy servicing Mudjimba, Caloundra, Nambour, Gyplie and Noosa.

References

• Landreth, G. L. (2012). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship.

• Ray, D. C., & Bratton, S. C. (2021). Child-Centred Play Therapy Research: The Evidence Base for Effective Practice.

• Siegel, D. J. (2012). The Whole-Brain Child.

• Kennedy, B. (2021). Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be.