Kate Mills, MA, LCPC 3/16/26 Kate Mills, MA, LCPC 3/16/26

Play Therapy: Common Questions and Answers

If you've read my previous post about Play Therapy, you may still have questions. I support you! It’s completely natural to have questions before your child begins play therapy. Parents often wonder what to expect, how their child will respond, and how they themselves will be involved.

Guidance for Parents and Caregivers Supporting Children

How long does play therapy take?

Every child is unique. Some children show noticeable changes within a few weeks, while others benefit from ongoing support over several months. Your therapist will check in with you regularly about your child’s progress and goals.

What if my child doesn’t want to go?

It’s common for children to feel unsure at first. Many warm up once they see the playroom and realize it’s a safe, welcoming space. If your child resists, your therapist can work with you on gentle ways to ease the transition.

How do I explain this appointment to my child before their first session?

Keep it simple and positive. You might say, “You’re going to meet someone who has a special room with lots of toys. Their job is to help kids with big feelings by playing together.” Avoid making it sound like a punishment or something to “fix” them: frame it as a safe, supportive place just for them.

Will I be in the room during sessions?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on your child’s needs and the therapist’s approach. Younger children may benefit from a parent joining in, while older children often open up more when they have space of their own. Either way, as your child's guardian, you can request updates or parent meetings for updates on your child’s growth and process.

What if my child just “plays” and doesn’t talk?

That’s completely normal. Play is your child’s way of talking. Play therapists are trained to understand the themes and emotions that come through in play, even if your child isn’t using words.

Is play therapy only for children with big problems?

Not at all. Play therapy can help children with a wide range of challenges; from everyday stress, sibling conflicts, and school anxiety, to coping with loss, divorce, or trauma. Think of it as emotional support and skill-building, not just “fixing problems.”

How will I know if it’s working?

You may notice gradual changes in your child’s mood, behavior, or coping skills. The therapist will also share insights and updates. Sometimes the progress shows up in small ways first; fewer meltdowns, more willingness to try new things, or more positive interactions at home. Every child learns at their own pace.

A Final Word for Parents

Reaching out for support is a powerful step. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin. Play therapy gives your child a safe space to heal and grow, and it also gives you tools and guidance along the way. Remember, you and your child are not alone in this journey. Together, and especially with support, growth and healing are possible.

If you’re curious about whether play therapy might be right for your child, research and contact a child therapist in your area. Sometimes starting the conversation can make all the difference.

Recommended Reading for Parents

If you’d like to learn more about play therapy and supporting your child’s emotional growth, here are some excellent resources:

“Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship” by Garry L. Landreth A classic guide for understanding the philosophy behind play therapy.
“Parenting with Play Therapy: A Practical Guide to Nurturing Emotional Well-Being” by Nancy Boyd WebbAccessible, parent-friendly insights.
“Child-Centered Play Therapy: A Practical Guide to Developing Therapeutic Relationships with Children” by Rise VanFleetHelpful for parents curious about the techniques therapists use.

Short Videos about Play Therapy

If you’re a visual learner, like me, here are some short videos on YouTube that do a great job of outlining play therapy and its benefits:

Introduction to Play Therapy Therapist Joey Harmon gives a quick overview of child-centered play therapy in the first 3 minutes
Play Therapy Works! A succinct video by the Association for Play Therapy introducing what play therapy is and why credentialed therapists matter
Play is the Child’s Language: Play Therapy Joanne Wicks describes how play is children’s emotional expression in a brief talk
Introducing Andrew A short clip emphasizing that “play is a child’s first language” and how children express inner worlds through play

Kate Mills, MA, LCPC 10/13/25 Kate Mills, MA, LCPC 10/13/25

What is Play Therapy?

As parents, we want the very best for our children. When they’re struggling, whether with big feelings, changes at home, or difficult experiences, it can be hard to know how to help. Many parents come to me saying, “They won’t talk about it. I’ve tried asking, but I just can’t get through.” That’s where play therapy is a great option.

Why Play Instead of Talking?

Adults often process emotions by talking. Children, however, typically don’t have the words or life experience to explain what’s going on inside. Instead, they may “speak” through play. When a child picks up a toy, draws a picture, or acts out a story, they’re often telling us what they’re feeling, even if they can’t put it into words. Play therapy is a specialized form of counseling that uses this natural language of children to help them express themselves, work through challenges, and build skills for coping and resilience.

What You Can Expect as a Parent

It’s normal to wonder, What exactly happens in play therapy? or How will this help my child? Here are some key things to know:

Sessions look like play, but they have purpose. Your child will use toys, games, art, and stories to explore feelings. The therapist is trained to guide this process so the play becomes healing and meaningful.
Progress takes time. Just like with adults, therapy is a process, not a quick fix. You may notice small shifts such as better mood, fewer meltdowns, more confidence, though these may be observed over weeks and months during treatment.
Parent Involvement. Parents play a vital role. Depending on the therapist’s approach, you might meet regularly with the therapist to discuss your child’s progress, learn strategies for home, or even join in parts of sessions.
Confidentiality matters. Children need to feel safe in therapy. That means your therapist may not share every detail of what happens in the playroom, but they will update you on themes, progress, and ways you can support your child outside of sessions.
It’s about building tools for life. The goal isn’t to make problems “disappear,” but to help your child develop healthier ways to understand and manage their emotions, relationships, and experiences.

How Parents Can Support the Process

Be patient—healing happens in small steps.
Stay consistent with therapy appointments.
Show interest without pressuring your child to “report back” after sessions.
Practice new coping skills at home when your therapist suggests them.

Short Videos about Play Therapy

If you’re a visual learner, like me, here are some short videos on YouTube that do a great job of outlining play therapy and its benefits:

Introduction to Play Therapy — therapist Joey Harmon gives an overview of child-centered play therapy
Play Therapy Works! — a succinct video by the Association for Play Therapy introducing what play therapy is and why credentialed therapists matter
Play is the Child’s Language: Play Therapy — Joanne Wicks describes how play is children’s emotional expression in a brief talk
Introducing Andrew — a short clip emphasizing that “play is a child’s first language” and how children express inner worlds through play

Final Thoughts

Remember: seeking play therapy doesn’t mean you’ve failed as a parent. It means you’re giving your child another pathway to healing and growth, and that’s a powerful gift.

Disclaimer: The content shared on this blog reflects my personal and professional reflections. It is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, counseling, or professional mental health treatment. If you are experiencing distress or seeking support, I encourage you to reach out to a qualified mental health professional in your area.

Dr. Ryan Stivers, PhD, LMFT 11/14/19 Dr. Ryan Stivers, PhD, LMFT 11/14/19

Clinician Earns Registered Play Therapist Credential

We are excited to announce that Meredith Messina, MA, LCPC has achieved certification as a Registered Play Therapist! Meredith has worked hard to reach this career goal, and we are excited to celebrate with her!

A Registered Play Therapist is a licensed mental health professional who has met the rigorous training and credentialing standards set by the Association for Play Therapy. Registered Play Therapists must complete specialized academic courses and complete over 500 hours of supervised therapy sessions utilizing play therapy models and techniques.

Play Therapy is an evidenced-based, psychotherapeutic technique typically used with young and older children. Registered Play Therapists help children explore and express repressed thoughts and feelings in a comfortable and non-threatening setting. Children are allowed to freely express themselves within the play therapy room while the therapist observes behaviors and interacts with the child. The ultimate goal is to help the child develop new problem-solving and social-emotional skills through the use of play.

You can learn more about Registered Play Therapists and Play Therapy by visiting the Association for Play Therapy’s website (www.a4pt.org). If you are interested in booking a session with Meredith, please visit our website (www.summitfamilytherapy.com) or call 309-713-1485.