Get to Know a Play Therapist and the Play Room

Play therapy is a relatively new uprising field in South Africa and of course we may wonder - what is a play therapist? What does a play therapist do? Where does a play therapist work and what do they use in their play rooms? All these questions offer us a new way of thinking about play therapy.

What is a Play Therapist?

A play therapist in South Africa uses play and creative activities as a form of therapy to help children address and manage their emotional and behavioral challenges. The play therapist works with the child to create a safe and supportive environment where they can express themselves freely, process their experiences, and develop coping strategies. Through play, the therapist can gain insight into the child's thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns, and help them to develop new perspectives and ways of dealing with their challenges. The ultimate goal of play therapy is to support the child's growth and well-being, and help them to build resilience and healthy relationships.

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” -George Bernard Shaw

Where can a Play Therapist be found?

Play therapists go where there might be opportunity for them to practice their learnt skills and abilities.

• Private Practice: Play therapists can start their own private practice, offering individual and family therapy services to children in the community.

• Schools: Schools may have a need for play therapists to work with children who are experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties.

• Hospitals and Clinics: Hospitals and clinics may have mental health programs that require the services of a play therapist.

• Non-profit Organizations: There may be non-profit organizations that provide mental health services to children, and they may be in need of play therapists to work with their clients.

• Community Centers: Community centers may offer programs for children, and they may be in need of play therapists to provide mental health services.

These are some of the opportunities for play therapists. However, it is important to note that the specific opportunities for play therapists in your area will depend on the availability of services, the needs of the community, and the level of demand for play therapy services. This could mean that some of these opportunities in your area does not have a play therapist.

What are the Characteristics and Skills of a Play Therapist?

1. Empathy

Play therapists are able to understand and relate to the emotions and experiences of the children they work with. A play therapist must be able to understand and relate to the child's perspective and emotions.

2. Patience

Play therapy sessions can be slow and involve a lot of quiet observation and waiting, so play therapists need to have a lot of patience.

3. Creativity

Play therapists use imaginative and creative approaches to therapy, including games, toys, and art materials. Play therapists must be able to think outside the box and come up with creative and engaging play activities.

4. Communication skills

Play therapists need to be able to effectively communicate with children, understand their needs and concerns, and express their own thoughts and feelings in a clear and supportive manner. Play therapists must be able to communicate effectively with children and their families, as well as collaborate with other professionals as needed.

5. Active listening

Play therapists need to be able to listen attentively to children, both verbally and non-verbally, to understand their thoughts and feelings.

6. Cultural sensitivity and Cultural Competence

Play therapists need to be aware of cultural differences and tailor their therapy approaches to meet the needs of each child. Play therapists must be able to work with children and families from diverse backgrounds and understand their cultural needs and values.

7. Boundary-setting

Play therapists need to establish clear and healthy boundaries with children to ensure a safe and therapeutic environment. Play therapists must be able to set and maintain appropriate boundaries with children and their families.

8. Ability to manage stress

Play therapists may work with children facing difficult situations, so they need to be able to manage their own stress and emotions to provide effective support.

9. Continuous learning

Play therapists should be committed to ongoing professional development and continuing education to stay current with developments in the field.

10. Assessment skills

Play therapists must be able to evaluate the child's developmental, emotional, and behavioral needs.

11. Problem-solving skills

Play therapists must be able to identify and address challenges that arise during therapy sessions.

12. Observation skills

Play therapists must be able to observe the child's behavior and interactions during play to gain insights into their emotional and behavioral patterns.

13. Knowledge of therapeutic play techniques

Play therapists must be familiar with various play therapy techniques and how to apply them effectively.

14. Knowledge of developmental stages

Play therapists must have a deep understanding of child development and how it affects behavior and emotions

15. Knowledge of developmental stages

Play therapists must have a deep understanding of child development and how it affects behavior and emotions.

16. Ability to work with children in crisis

Play therapists must be able to work with children who are experiencing trauma, abuse, or other stressful situations.

What are some of the different Toys that can be found in the Play Room?

The Play room is a magical place where play therapy takes place. A play room of a therapist refers to a designated space within a therapeutic setting, such as a counseling center or clinic, specifically designed for play therapy sessions. This room is equipped with a range of toys, games, and other play materials that are carefully selected to support the child's therapeutic process. The play room is typically a bright and colorful space that is set up to promote creativity, expression, and exploration. The play room is meant to create a safe and nurturing environment where children can feel comfortable and secure while they engage in play therapy activities with the therapist. The play room may also be designed to accommodate different types of play, such as imaginative play, dramatic play, and art and crafts.

Here is a list of some typical toys used in a play room for play therapy:

• Dolls and stuffed animals

• Action figures and toy vehicles

• Play kitchen sets

• Art supplies (paints, markers, crayons, clay, etc.)

• Dramatic play costumes, masks, hats and props

• Sand tray and miniature figures

• Board games and card games

• Building blocks and construction sets

• Sensory toys (such as slime, playdough, etc.)

• Music and rhythm instruments

• Manipulative toys (such as puzzles, shape sorters, etc.)

• Puppet sets

• Sports equipment (such as balls, jump ropes, Hoola Hoops, boxing bags etc.)

• Outdoor play equipment (such as swings, slides, etc.)

• Animal figures and habitats

• Bubble machines and sensory lights.

• Poppits and Fidget Spinners

It's important to note that the specific toys or tools used by play therapists can vary depending on the needs and preferences of the individual child. The play therapist will use these tools to facilitate communication, expression, and coping skills development in the child.

I hope this post will help perspective play therapists as well as perspective clients of play therapists to know more about what to expect when making a decision about a play therapy session for your kids and/or clients.

The best way to get to know a play therapist and the play room is to book a session with a nearby play therapist and experience the set-up in person!