Play Therapy in Middlesex, NJ

TYPES OF PLAY THERAPY

Child-Centered Play Therapy

In this approach, the child takes the lead in the play session, choosing the toys and activities they want to engage in. The child therapist provides a non-judgmental and supportive presence, allowing the child to express themselves freely.

Directive Play Therapy

This type of therapy involves the therapist guiding the child’s play in a more structured way. The Play Therapist may use specific games or activities to address the child’s particular issues or concerns.

Trauma Play Therapy

This is a form of therapy that uses play as a way for children to express their feelings and thoughts about traumatic experiences in a safe and non-threatening way. It aims to provide a supportive environment for children to process their trauma, develop coping skills, and build resiliency. The therapist follows the child’s lead and helps them develop a sense of empowerment and control over their experiences.

Sandtray Therapy

This type of therapy involves the use of a tray filled with sand and miniature objects. Children can create their own scenes in the sand, using the objects to represent their experiences and emotions.

Expressive Arts Play Therapy

This approach incorporates various forms of creative expression, such as drawing, painting, and sculpting, to help children communicate and process their emotions.

Narrative Play Therapy

In this approach, the Play Therapist uses storytelling to help the child explore their experiences and emotions. The child may create their own story or work with the therapist to co-create a story.

Gestalt Play Therapy

This approach focuses on the present moment and encourages the child to become aware of their thoughts, feelings, and sensations. The Play Therapist may use activities such as role-playing or movement to help the child connect with their emotions and develop self-awareness.

Integrative Play Therapy

This approach combines different play therapy techniques to create an individualized treatment plan for the child. The Registered Play Therapist may draw from various modalities such as cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, or humanistic approaches to best meet the child’s needs.

Mindfulness-based Play Therapy

This approach incorporates mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and body awareness into Play Therapy sessions. The Play Therapist may use activities that encourage the child to focus on the present moment and develop self-regulation skills.

Digital Play Therapy

This form of therapy combines traditional play therapy techniques with digital tools such as games, virtual reality, and other interactive media. It provides a safe and engaging space for children to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences through play, while also leveraging the benefits of technology to enhance the therapeutic process. Digital play therapy can be particularly effective for children who are more comfortable with technology or who have difficulty engaging in traditional talk therapy.

Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT)

This type of therapy that focuses on improving the relationship between a child and their parent or caregiver. Parents or caregivers are trained to use play therapy techniques to enhance their relationship with their child. Through play, the parent and child learn to communicate and connect with each other in a more positive and healthy way.

Family Play Therapy

This is type of therapy that involves the whole family in the therapeutic process, using play as a means of communication and healing. During family play therapy sessions, family members engage in structured play activities, such as games, crafts, and storytelling, which are designed to facilitate communication, emotional expression, and problem-solving.The goal of family play therapy is to improve family relationships, promote emotional regulation, and reduce conflict and stress within the family.