Play therapy is a counseling approach that builds on the natural communication and learning processes of children. The therapist uses games, toys, sandtray and other mediums (clay, drawings, paint) to help a child learn to communicate with others, express feelings, modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and learn to relate to others in various ways. Play therapy can provide a safe context for children to communicate at their own level and at their own pace. Parents may also participate in Filial Therapy sessions with their child.
Filial Therapy is a unique therapeutic method that involves parents and caregivers directly as the agents of therapeutic change. In Filial Therapy, parents are trained to engage in non-directive play sessions, usually referred to “special play time” with their child. Subsequently, the parent conducts these non-directive play sessions with their child under the supervision of the therapist, thus deeply hearing the child’s concerns and consequently strengthening the attachment with their child.