Explaining Play Therapy
How do I explain to my child who you are or what play therapy is?
Parents often feel at a loss of how to explain who a counselor is. It is helpful to tell your child where they are coming to give them a chance to prepare their mind. First start with a simple script of something like this, “You have an appointment with Ms. Natalie next week. Ms. Natalie has a play room. She helps kids with big feelings. We all have big feelings, and we all need help with them sometimes. Ms. Natalie helps kids with their big feels through play.”
Let your child ask questions if they have any. If they don’t have any questions, you can stop there. If they have more questions or concerns, use the tips below if you need help explaining play therapy to your child before they come for their first session.
Let your child know that you will be with them if they would like. If you will not be there, you can let them know that the safe person bringing them to the appointment will stay right outside the room. If you will be watching a sibling in the waiting room, let them know that you will be right outside the room in case they need anything.
Let your child know that Ms. Natalie is a safe person.
Show your child a picture of an item from the playroom. In your parent intake, you are welcome to take pictures if there are items that would help your child feel more comfortable.
Let your child know that they will be going to play.
Avoid using any negative language around play therapy. “You have to go because you won’t stop acting mean at school.” This form of communication can create a negative impression of therapy, and your child will have a harder time engaging in the process.
Avoid using the term doctor. I am not a doctor because I have a master’s degree in mental health counseling. Some children have fears of the doctor, so there is no need to add that confusion.
It’s okay to talk about challenges if believe your child will benefit from this conversation. “You know how we have been yelling at each other a lot lately? We are going to go to play therapy to help us learn how we can talk to each other better.” “You know how school has been really hard for you, and you have been struggling with using your hands on other kids when you are mad? Play therapy will be a place where we will find ways to help you better.” “You know how it’s very hard for you when I drop you off at school, and you cry when I leave everyday? Play therapy can help you and me find ways to help you during those times.”
Avoid using bribes or punishments.
Stay positive.
If you still have questions, please ask! I want you to feel comfortable through the process, and I can help guide you through the process.