Helping children express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through the natural language of play.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate, evidence-based approach to helping children express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through the natural language of play. While adults often talk about what’s bothering them, children express themselves best through play.
In play therapy, toys are like the child’s words and play is the child’s natural language (Landreth, 2002).
In a safe and supportive environment, a trained play therapist uses toys, art, storytelling, sand trays, and other expressive tools to help children explore their inner world. Through this process, children can gain a better understanding of themselves, develop healthier coping strategies, and build stronger emotional resilience.
Why Choose Play Therapy?
Research shows that play therapy can significantly improve a child’s emotional well-being, behavior, and ability to relate to others. It not only supports children but also provides insights for caregivers, helping families navigate challenges together with greater understanding and connection. If you’re looking for compassionate, child-centered support, play therapy offers a powerful path toward healing and hope.
Understanding Play Therapy
Play therapy is a special way of helping children work through big feelings and tough experiences — using their natural language: play. While adults often talk about what’s bothering them, children express themselves best through play. In play therapy, your child will use toys, art, games, and storytelling to safely explore emotions, build confidence, and make sense of their world — all with the guidance of a trained therapist.
How Can It Help My Child?
Play therapy can be helpful for children who are:
- Feeling anxious, sad, or angry
- Having trouble at school or home
- Dealing with family changes like divorce or a move
- Grieving a loss
- Struggling after a traumatic experience
- Having difficulty making or keeping friends
Through play, your child can learn healthy ways to cope, express themselves, and feel more in control of their emotions. Each session is tailored to the child’s unique needs, creating space for healing, growth, and self-discovery at their own pace.
What Happens in a Session?
During a session, your child will be welcomed into a warm, child-friendly space filled with carefully chosen toys and creative materials. These tools help them share what’s going on inside — often without saying a word. Over time, play therapy helps children grow in emotional strength and confidence.
As a parent or caregiver, you’ll also be part of the process. I’ll work closely with you to understand your child’s needs, share insights, and support you along the way.
Every child deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported.
If you’re concerned about your child, play therapy could be a gentle, effective way to help them feel better and thrive.
📞 Call: 617-855-0057
Ready to Support Your Child’s Journey?
Contact AEON Counseling & Consulting to schedule a consultation.