Play Therapy is a structured theoretically based approach to therapy that builds on the normal

communicative processes of children. Therapists utilize play therapy to help children express what is

bothering them when they do not have the verbal language to express their thoughts or feelings. In play therapy, the toys are like the child's words and the play is the child's language. Through play

therapy children are helped to learn more adaptive behaviors when there are social or emotional deficits.

The positive relationship of trust that develops between the therapist and child, can provide a corrective emotional experience necessary for healing. Play therapy allows the child to explore their emotions in a safe environment. Through play therapy children learn to communicate with others, express feelings, modify behaviors, develop problem solving skills, cope with trauma, and learn new ways of relating to others. Even the most troubling problems can be confronted in play therapy.