What is Play Therapy

Play therapy is a specialized form of counseling designed to help children express their feelings, process their experiences, and overcome challenges in a safe and supportive environment. Unlike traditional talk therapy, play therapy uses the natural language of children—play—to help them communicate and work through emotions they may not yet have the words to describe. It provides a child-friendly space where toys, games, and creative activities become tools for healing and growth. Rochelle adheres to the definition of play therapy as outlined by the Association for Play Therapy, "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." (2024).

Why is Play Therapy Used?

Children often struggle to articulate their emotions or explain what they are experiencing. Play therapy meets children at their developmental level, using play as a way to connect, explore, and heal. By engaging in play, children can:

Express their thoughts and emotions in a nonverbal, non-threatening way.
Build self-esteem and confidence.
Develop problem-solving and coping skills.
Strengthen relationships with caregivers and peers.

What Does Play Therapy Help With?

Play therapy is effective in addressing a wide range of challenges, including:

Anxiety and depression
Grief and loss
Behavioral issues at home or school
Trauma and abuse
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Social and relational difficulties

It is particularly helpful for children who may have experienced significant life changes, such as divorce, relocation, or the loss of a loved one.

How Does Play Therapy Help?

Through play, children can explore and process their feelings in a way that feels natural to them. Rochelle utilizes the parts of the different types of play therapy to meet your child's specific needs. Play Therapy approaches include Cognitive Behavioral, Filial Therapy, Adlerian, and AutPlay, ensuring that the techniques align with each child’s specific needs. Play therapy sessions focus on building trust and fostering emotional safety, which allows children to:

Process emotions they may not fully understand.
Practice healthy ways to express and manage feelings.
Learn and reinforce positive behaviors.
Strengthen their relationships with caregivers through improved communication and understanding.

Why Choose Rochelle for Play Therapy?

Play is more than just fun—it’s a child’s language and a bridge to connection, healing, and understanding. For many families, play is the missing piece in the relationship puzzle: a way to connect when words fall short, when behaviors become overwhelming, or when emotional needs feel misunderstood.

As a Registered Play Therapist, I believe that true healing begins with connection. Whether it’s between child and caregiver, or within the child themselves, I use play therapy to help rebuild trust, foster emotional safety, and strengthen the bonds that are often strained by life’s challenges.

In sessions, I don’t just "observe" play—I join in, attune, and create a space where children feel seen, heard, and accepted exactly as they are. Play becomes a tool for self-expression, emotional regulation, and even repair in the parent-child relationship. I also involve caregivers in the process, offering support and insight to help reconnect families both inside and outside the therapy room.

Choosing me for play therapy means choosing a collaborative, compassionate partner who deeply values the unique story behind every behavior and every family.

Together, we’ll use play to unlock growth, connection, and change that lasts.