Play Therapy
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Waterloo:
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Nurturing Growth and Healing Through Play: Play Therapy in Kitchener-Waterloo
Is your child experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges that are difficult to express through words? Play is a child’s natural language, and play therapy provides a safe and supportive space for them to explore their feelings, process experiences, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. At GreenValley Counselling Services in Kitchener-Waterloo, we offer specialized play therapy services to help children navigate their inner world and foster positive growth.
Understanding the Power of Play Therapy
Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate and evidence-based approach to counselling for children aged 3 to 11. Through the use of toys, art materials, games, and other creative outlets, children can communicate their thoughts and feelings in a way that feels natural and comfortable for them. It’s a dynamic process where children can:
- Express emotions they may not have the language for.
- Process difficult experiences and trauma.
- Develop problem-solving skills.
- Learn to manage their feelings and behaviors.
- Build self-esteem and confidence.
- Improve social skills and relationships.
Play therapy isn’t just “playing”; it’s a therapeutic approach guided by trained professionals who understand the symbolic language of play and how it can facilitate healing and growth.
How Play Therapy Can Help Your Child
Play therapy can be beneficial for children experiencing a wide range of challenges, including:
- Anxiety and worry
- Depression and sadness
- Trauma and grief
- Behavioral issues (e.g., defiance, aggression)
- ADHD and impulsivity
- Social and emotional difficulties
- Adjustment to life changes (e.g., divorce, moving, new sibling)
- Low self-esteem
- Difficulty expressing emotions
Our Child-Centered Approach in Kitchener-Waterloo
At GreenValley Counselling Services Kitchener-Waterloo office, our child therapists are dedicated to providing a nurturing and child-centered environment. We follow ethical guidelines and evidence-based practices to ensure your child receives the highest quality of care. Our play therapy room is thoughtfully equipped with a variety of materials to encourage exploration and expression.
Meet Our Child Therapist: Jillian Kipp
Jillian Kipp is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at our Kitchener-Waterloo location who is passionate about working with children and families. Jillian has specialized training in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), which is recognized as the most researched and widely utilized form of play therapy.
In Child-Centered Play Therapy, Jillian follows the child’s lead, creating a safe and accepting space where the child feels empowered to explore their world at their own pace. She trusts in the child’s innate capacity for healing and growth, offering empathy, acceptance, and reflective listening to help them process their experiences and develop a stronger sense of self. Jillian’s warm and engaging approach helps children feel comfortable and understood as they navigate their emotional landscape through play.
Jillian Kipp, Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying
What to Expect in Play Therapy Sessions
Typically, play therapy sessions in our Kitchener-Waterloo office last for 50 minutes and occur on a regular basis. Parents are often involved in the process, especially in the initial stages and for ongoing collaboration. This may include:
- Initial Consultation: Meeting with parents to understand the child’s developmental history, presenting concerns and to set goals.
- Individual Play Therapy Sessions: Child engages in play in the therapy room with the therapist.
- Parent Consultation: Regular check-ins with parents to offer support, provide tools and psycho-educational information specific to their child and needs.
- Update Sessions: These are booked every 6 sessions to provide updates on your child’s progress, strengths, and recommendations, and hear more in depth from parents what they are observing at home so that goals can be reassessed.
Why Choose GreenValley Counselling in Kitchener-Waterloo for Play Therapy?
When seeking play therapy for your child in Kitchener-Waterloo, our agency offers:
- Specialized Training: Our therapists, like Jillian Kipp, have specific training and expertise in child-centered play therapy.
- Child-Friendly Environment: Our therapy room is designed to be welcoming, safe, and equipped with a variety of engaging materials.
- Collaborative Approach: We believe in working closely with parents and caregivers to support the child’s overall well-being.
- Evidence-Based Practices: We utilize therapeutic approaches that are supported by research and proven to be effective.
- Compassionate and Experienced Therapists: Our team is dedicated to creating a positive and healing experience for your child.
Ready to Explore the Benefits of Play Therapy?
If you believe play therapy could help your child thrive, we encourage you to reach out to our Kitchener-Waterloo office. Our compassionate team are here to answer your questions and help you take the first step towards your child’s emotional growth and well-being.
Learn More About Play Therapy in Kitchener-Waterloo or Schedule a Consultation
You can also call our Kitchener-Waterloo office directly at:
Call: 888.699.7817
Email us at: info@greenvalleycounselling.com
Text: 226.916.5309
900 Guelph St. Unit 210, Kitchener, ON. N2H 5Z6 near the border of Waterloo
We can usually set up an appointment quite quickly. Please reach out to get more information on fees, insurance coverage, available appointment times, or to schedule an appointment for therapy in Kitchener.