What Is Play Therapy? 3 Ways It Supports Kids’ Emotional Growth

Types of Play Therapy

Play therapy encompasses 2 primary approaches that therapists use depending on the child’s needs, personality, and therapeutic goals:

Directive Play Therapy 

In directive (or focused) play therapy,⁷ the therapist actively guides the session. They choose specific toys, games, or exercises designed to address particular issues or teach certain skills. For example, a they might use a specific art activity to help a child express feelings about their parents’ divorce, or use a game designed to build social skills for someone who struggles with peer relationships. 

This form of therapy works well for children who benefit from clear structure, have specific behavioral goals, or need direct skill instruction.

Non-Directive Play Therapy 

The non-directive approach⁸ follows the child’s natural lead, allowing them to choose activities and direct the session’s flow. The therapist holds a safe space, but lets the child decide how to use different play materials. This approach is based on trust that children naturally gravitate toward what they need to heal and process. 

A lot of experienced play therapists blend elements from both approaches based on what each child needs. 

What Age Groups Benefit From Play Therapy?

Play therapy is most commonly used for children between the ages of 3 and 12, though the approach can be adapted for younger and older kids depending on their needs. This age range is the time when children naturally tend to explore the world, process experiences, and express emotions through the use of play.

Preschool Children (Ages 3–5)

Play therapy works well for this age group because they have limited verbal skills but rich imaginations. At this stage, children process experiences through symbolic representation⁹ and repetitive play. A 4-year-old might not be able to explain feeling scared about starting school, but they can show these feelings by having toy animals hide or by repeatedly building and knocking down structures.

School-Age Children (Ages 6–12) 

Children in this age can still benefit from play therapy, though sessions might involve more verbal processing alongside play activities. These children can engage in more complex games, understand rules better, and begin to make connections between play and real life.¹⁰ They might like board games that teach problem-solving skills or art projects that help them express complicated family situations.

Teens and Adolescents

While play therapy is less commonly used with teenagers, some adolescents respond well to modified approaches that incorporate creative activities like music, art, or drama.¹¹ The main factors are the individual child’s developmental level, interests, and comfort with play-based expression—not just chronological age.

Issues Play Therapy Can Address

Play therapy is effective for treating a wide range of conditions¹² in children. The most common include:

• Trauma and PTSD from abuse, domestic violence, accidents, or medical procedures
• Anxiety and depression that cause withdrawal, sleep problems, or persistent worry
• Behavioral problems including aggression, defiance, and difficulty following rules
• Family transitions like divorce, the death of a loved one, or major moves
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders that benefit from flexible, sensory-rich approaches
• Learning disabilities that affect academic performance and self-esteem
• Difficulties with social skills and problems with peer relationships
• Grief and loss following deaths or significant life changes 

This more relaxed approach to therapy creates a safe space where children can process difficult experiences at their own pace.

The Benefits of Play Therapy for Children

1. It Develops Emotion Regulation 

Children who participate in play therapy often experience improvements in their well-being that extend far beyond the therapy room. Many develop stronger emotional regulation skills¹³ like learning to recognize when they feel overwhelmed and using healthy ways to calm themselves down.

2. It Addresses Social Anxiety and Improves Communication Skills 

Play therapy can also decrease social anxiety¹⁴ and improve communication skills. Better communication strengthens parent-child relationships and helps kids advocate for themselves in school and social situations.

3. It Builds Confidence and Self-Worth

Most importantly, play therapy helps children rebuild their confidence¹⁵ and self-worth. As they work through challenges in a supportive environment, many discover inner strengths they didn’t know they had. This growing self-assurance often translates into improved academic performance, stronger friendships, and more willingness to try new things.

Because play therapy is designed to be child-centered and flexible, your therapist can adapt it to meet your child’s needs. 

What to Expect in Play Therapy Sessions

Play therapy sessions usually last 45–50 minutes and occur weekly, though frequency may vary based on your family’s schedule. The therapist will create a consistent, safe environment filled with carefully selected toys and materials designed to encourage expression and exploration.

Parent involvement varies depending on the child’s age and treatment goals. Some therapists include parents in some sessions, while others work individually with children and meet with parents separately to discuss progress and strategies for home. It all depends on your therapist’s approach and your child’s needs.

Progress in play therapy often happens gradually,¹⁶ depending on your child’s natural pace. Your therapist should communicate regularly about your child’s development and adjust treatment approaches as needed.

How to Find a Play Therapist

When searching for a play therapist, look for licensed mental health professionals who have specialized play therapy training. This includes licensed therapists, social workers, and school counselors who have completed additional play therapy certification. Many therapists hold credentials from organizations like the Association for Play Therapy, which requires specific education and supervised experience in this field.

Ask potential therapists about their experience working with children who have similar challenges to your child’s situation. Learn about their therapeutic approach, session structure, and how they involve parents in the treatment process. Most qualified play therapists will offer an initial consultation to discuss your child’s needs and determine if play therapy is an appropriate fit.

Insurance coverage for play therapy varies, so contact your insurance provider to understand your benefits. Many therapists offer sliding scale fees or payment plans to make treatment more accessible. Recovery.com can help you locate qualified play therapists in your area who meet your needs and preferences.

FAQs

Q: How long does play therapy take to work? 

A: The total length of the treatment episode varies based on your child’s progress, but most children start to show some improvement within 6–8 sessions. Some children benefit from short-term intervention; others require longer-term support.

Q: Is play therapy covered by insurance? 

A: Many insurance plans cover play therapy if it’s provided by a licensed mental health professional. Check with your insurance provider for more information about your coverage. The team at your treatment center may also be able to talk to your provider and help you sort out insurance details. 

Q: Can parents observe sessions? 

A: Therapist policies on parent observation vary. Some allow occasional observation, while others believe children express themselves more freely without parents present. Discuss this preference with your chosen therapist.

Q: What if my child doesn’t want to play? 

A: Skilled play therapists can work with reluctant children by starting with less threatening activities and gradually building comfort. Children should never be forced to participate in activities that make them uncomfortable.