“The activities that are the easiest, cheapest, and most fun to do — such as singing, playing games, reading, storytelling, and just talking and listening — are also the best for child development.” — Jerome Singer, Yale University
Child-Centered Play Therapy helps children ages 3–10 work through social, emotional, and behavioral challenges using their natural language — play. In a safe, supportive space, children use toys and creativity to express feelings, solve problems, and build confidence. The therapist follows the child’s lead with warmth and acceptance, helping them grow in self-awareness, self-control, and healthy relationships.
How CCPT Works
The therapist builds a warm and trusting relationship where your child feels safe, accepted, and understood. This is accomplished by following your child’s lead in play, helping them express feelings, solve problems, and grow at their own pace. Necessary limits are set for safety and in response to the constraints of reality (for example: time and schedules), allowing your child to explore and build confidence in a creative and supportive space.
The Process of CCPT
Children use play — not words — to express and work through feelings like worry, anger, or sadness. The therapist joins the child’s world with warmth and understanding, allowing healing to unfold naturally through play. Parents receive updates about progress and safety while the child’s private play space remains a safe place for growth and self-expression.
Setting and Duration
Sessions typically last 30–50 minutes in a specially equipped playroom with toys chosen for creative, expressive, and emotional growth. The needs of the child and the goals for therapy vary greatly, but it is recommended to attend sessions consistently for about 16 sessions before evaluating for goal mastery and the possibility of taking a break from therapy or ending therapy.
Parental Involvement
Parents are invited for periodic consultations to support consistency at home and in other settings. The therapeutic relationship between parent, child, and therapist is central to the child’s progress and success.