Play Therapy vs. Talk Therapy for Children: What’s the Difference?

When we think of therapy, we often picture a client sitting across from a therapist talking through difficult issues.  For young children, however, this can be challenging because they are still developing the ability to verbally communicate their emotions and experiences.

That’s where Play Therapy can help.

What Is Play Therapy?

Play Therapy uses a child’s natural language—play—to help them express emotions, process experiences, and develop skills. It is an evidence-based, developmentally appropriate approach to working with children.

Play Therapy can help children develop emotional regulation, healthy coping skills, communication, deeper relationships, and a positive self-concept.

Play Therapy can be particularly helpful for children experiencing anxiety, ADHD, Autism, behavioral challenges, grief, trauma, and other emotional concerns.

What About Talk Therapy?

Talk therapy can be effective for teens who are able to process their thoughts and emotions through conversation.  Younger children, however, may not yet have the developmental skills to communicate everything they are experiencing through words alone.

This doesn't mean children can't benefit from talking—it simply means therapy should meet children at their developmental level.