Child Play Therapy

Child and play therapy to help young children express emotions, build skills, and grow through developmentally supportive therapeutic play.

Child Play Therapy

Children ages 2-9

Play is our first language. It is the mode in which children communicate before they have fully developed language skills. Often times, children show us their feelings and desires through their behavior. Children often know what they need and may struggle to communicate that need. These 45-minute child-centered therapy sessions allow the child freedom to process what they need to when and how they need. This process gives them a sense of control when they may feel out of control in other areas of their life. We use play therapy with children as young as 2 through the age of 9.

As a registered Play Therapist, I focus on discovering the feelings beneath the behavior and assist the child with finding the voice they need to communicate and, ultimately, bring awareness to their challenges. 

We work collaboratively with the child and family to help with the behaviors at home and school. Working together is an essential part of the therapeutic process for everyone involved.

Young child wearing a green superhero mask and cape, expressing creativity and imagination in a playful therapy setting.

How Play Therapy Helps

Children often experience big emotions without having the words to explain them. Changes at home, school stress, grief, trauma, or developmental challenges can show up as tantrums, withdrawal, aggression, or anxiety.

Play therapy helps children:

  • Express feelings in a safe and developmentally appropriate way

  • Build emotional regulation skills

  • Increase confidence and self-esteem

  • Improve social and communication skills

  • Develop problem-solving abilities

  • Process difficult or overwhelming experiences

Over time, children begin to feel more secure, understood, and capable — both at home and in school settings.

Partnering With Parents

Parents play a vital role in the therapeutic process. While sessions are child-centered, collaboration with caregivers supports meaningful and lasting progress. We provide guidance and practical strategies that can be implemented at home to reinforce growth and improve consistency.

Working together helps create stability across environments and strengthens the child’s support system. Our goal is not only to support the child in session, but to equip families with tools that encourage long-term emotional health.

Areas of Focus

  • Depression

  • Grief & Loss (including death, divorce)

  • Social/Communication Challenges

  • Trauma

  • Anger

  • Anxiety

  • Behavioral Challenges

  • Bullying

When to Consider Play Therapy

If your child is experiencing frequent emotional outbursts, difficulty adjusting to change, separation anxiety, trouble at school, or behaviors that feel concerning or confusing, play therapy may provide helpful support. Early intervention can strengthen emotional development and prevent patterns from becoming more deeply rooted.

We offer in-person sessions at our Bellaire office for children and families. If you believe your child may benefit from play therapy, we invite you to reach out to learn more about how we can support your family.

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