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Play Therapy

At Cultivate Therapy, we specialize in Child Centered & Prescriptive Play Therapy, a research-based model of healing through play that helps children prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and flourish in their growth and development. Our trained play therapists speak to children in their own language-- the language of play -- to create a safe and supportive environment where children can explore their feelings, learn new skills, and overcome challenges.

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What is Play Therapy?

The Association for Play Therapy (APT) defines play therapy as "the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development."

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Initially developed at the turn of the 20th century, play therapy now encompasses a wide range of treatment methods that leverage the therapeutic benefits of play.  Child Centered & Prescriptive Play Therapy, the approach we use, focuses on non-directive play to help children address and resolve their own problems, building on the natural way children learn about themselves and their relationships in the world around them (Axline, 1947; Carmichael, 2006; Landreth, 2002).

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Meet your team.

Therapists That Offer Play Therapy

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Alison Urban

How Play Therapy Helps Children

Through play therapy, children can:

  • Communicate with Others: Learn to express their feelings and thoughts effectively.

  • Modify Behavior: Develop more responsible behaviors and successful strategies.

  • Solve Problems: Cultivate creative solutions to challenges they face.

  • Build Relationships: Learn new social and relational skills with family and peers.

  • Express Emotions: Experience and express their emotions in a healthy way.

  • Develop Self-Esteem: Build self-efficacy and gain confidence in their abilities.

  • Foster Empathy: Develop empathy and respect for the thoughts and feelings of others.

The Benefits of Play

Play is essential to human growth, development, learning, and cultivating relationships. Through play, children can:

  • Build Trust and Mastery: Gain confidence and feel more secure.

  • Foster Learning and Acceptable Behaviors: Learn new skills and appropriate ways to behave.

  • Regulate Emotions: Manage and reduce anxiety and stress.

  • Promote Creative Thinking and Problem Solving: Enhance their creativity and ability to find solutions.

  • Encourage Open Communication: Feel more comfortable expressing themselves.

  • Elevate Spirit and Self-Esteem: Improve their mood and sense of self-worth.

What to Expect

At Cultivate Therapy, our play therapy sessions are designed to create a safe and nurturing environment where children can freely express themselves through play. Our therapists are trained in various play therapy techniques and tailor their approach to meet each child's unique needs.

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How We Can Help

If your child is experiencing behavioral issues, emotional difficulties, or challenges in their relationships, play therapy can provide a supportive space for them to heal and grow. Our experienced therapists are here to guide and support your child through their journey, helping them achieve a happier and healthier life.

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Meet with us in person or via telehealth for online therapy. 

In DBT therapy sessions, our experienced therapists will take you through the four transformative modules developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan:  mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.  

 

Your therapist will suggest practical exercises in session and take-home strategies to manage intense emotions, regulate your behavior, and enhance your overall quality of life. 

 

Take the first step towards a more balanced and fulfilling life by booking a free consultation with one of our DBT therapists today.

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