Play Therapy in Edmonton & St. Albert

female psychologist in hijab practicing play therapy with blond male child

Discover the transformative power of play therapy offered by our experienced psychologists. Play therapy can help your child or family find healing and happiness.

At Summit Counselling Services, we offer a unique and highly effective therapeutic approach known as play therapy. Play therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that is designed to help children, adolescents, and even some adults express themselves and work through various emotional and psychological challenges. Our psychologists at our Edmonton & St. Albert locations offer play therapy.

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate approach for individuals with difficulty expressing themselves verbally. It utilizes the natural medium of play to help clients communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Through play, individuals can explore their emotions, resolve conflicts, and develop essential coping skills.

Our Play therapists are trained psychologists in Edmonton and St. Albert who use various creative and expressive techniques to engage clients. These techniques may include art, music, sand tray work, puppetry, and other forms of play. By providing a safe and supportive environment, play therapy allows clients to work through trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, and other challenges.

How Can Play Therapy Help?

female psychologist working with male child in St. Albert Play Therapy Room with a therapy dog

1. Expression and Communication: For children, play is their natural language. Play therapy provides a structured way for them to express themselves, even when they may not have the words to describe their feelings or experiences.

2. Emotional Regulation: Through play, individuals can learn how to recognize and manage their emotions. This is particularly helpful for children and adolescents who may struggle with anger, anxiety, or depression.

3. Problem-Solving and Coping Skills: Play therapy can help clients develop problem-solving abilities and essential coping strategies to carry into their daily lives.

4. Trauma Recovery: It is particularly effective in helping individuals, especially children, who have experienced traumatic events. It allows them to process and heal from their traumatic experiences in a safe and controlled environment.

5. Strengthening Relationships: Play therapy can improve relationships within the family by providing insights into the needs and emotions of all family members.

Relevant Statistics:

Here are some key statistics that underscore the efficacy of play therapy:

female psychologist practice play therapy in St. Albert with male child

American Psychological Association (APA): The APA has recognized the effectiveness of play therapy in helping children and adolescents cope with emotional and psychological difficulties. They state that play therapy is a valuable tool for therapists working with this population.
Association for Play Therapy (APT): The APT reports that play therapy is an empirically supported and evidence-based treatment approach. They suggest it is highly effective in helping children with various emotional and behavioral issues.
Research Findings: Numerous research studies have consistently shown that play therapy is associated with significant improvements in emotional and psychological well-being among children and adolescents. Outcomes often include reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and disruptive behaviors.
Parent and Client Satisfaction: Anecdotal and survey-based evidence consistently indicates high satisfaction levels among parents and clients who have engaged in play therapy. They report that it has improved their overall quality of life and the functioning of their families.

If you believe you or your child could benefit from the power of play therapy, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our experienced play therapists are dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for healing and growth. We look forward to helping you and your family navigate life's challenges and work toward a brighter, more fulfilling future through the transformative process of play therapy.