What is Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT)?

Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is a developmentally responsive, evidence-based approach for children ages 2 – 12 experiencing social, emotional, behavioral, or relational challenges. Because play is a child’s natural language, children express thoughts, feelings, and experiences through toys and play more easily than through words alone. Toys are the child’s words, and play is their language. 

In CCPT, the therapeutic power of play is combined with a safe, trusting relationship to support healing, emotional growth, and resilience. CCPT counselors are extensively trained to respond to children in ways that help them feel deeply understood, accepted, and emotionally secure as they work through experiences in the playroom.

Through this process, children develop healthier ways of coping, increased self-confidence, improved emotional regulation, and stronger overall functioning. CCPT is the most researched form of play therapy and is considered an effective evidence-based therapy for children ages 2 - 12. Some of the common childhood challenges treated by CCPT include:

• Anxiety and worry

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Depression and low mood

• Emotional dysregulation (frequent mood swings, irritability, “big feelings”)

• Disruptive or challenging behaviors (aggression, defiance, impulsivity)

• Grief and loss

• Life transitions and adjustments (divorce, relocation, school changes, new sibling)

• Separation anxiety

• Social difficulties (difficulty making or keeping friendships)

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (support with emotional expression and regulation)

• Obsessive-Compulsive behaviors (OCD traits or rigid thinking)

• Trauma or adverse experiences (including exposure to stress, neglect, or abuse)

The Parents’ Role
Before the first session, let your child know that they are coming to a special playroom to see Ms. Debbie. In general terms, explain the reason they are coming and that it is okay to talk about whatever they want to in the playroom. This is their special time.  After the play session, do not probe your child for details about what they did. Remember that their work in the playroom is mostly nonverbal and they may not recognize the importance of these experiences. If they bring out artwork, do your best to recognize the effort and resist evaluative statements or questions.

Parents play an essential role in supporting the growth and development of their children. While a child engages in Child-Centered Play Therapy weekly, parents are given tools in their monthly parental consultations. These tools help parents connect with their children in developmentally appropriate ways to support their child’s emotional regulation and use communication skills that will connect with the child at the emotional level. This helps children feel understood and supported in their growth process.

Parents can also participate in my 10-week, evidence-based Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT) course. This course, also known in the counseling world as filial therapy, is taught in a small group setting. This small group experience teaches many of the same skills used in play therapy and equips parents to engage with their child in intentional and meaningful ways. Through guided practice, parents learn how to conduct special play times at home, strengthen their relationship with their child, and respond more confidently to emotional needs. If you are interested in participating in this program, please feel free to reach out for more information at 817-404-7664 or use the button below.