TRAUMA-CENTERED PLAY THERAPY
Heal through play.
TOWSON & BEL AIR, MD | ONLINE THROUGHOUT MARYLAND + DC
What is Trauma-Centered Play Therapy?
Have you ever heard the phrase “kids learn best through play?” Well, it’s true! Play is the language of childhood. It allows children and teens to explore their world, process their experiences, embrace their creativity and imagination, and learn about themselves and others. When children and teens experience traumatic events, they don’t process or share their experiences the same way that adults do.
Trauma-Centered Play Therapy (TCPT) is a therapeutic approach designed to help children who have experienced trauma. It combines principles of play therapy with an understanding of trauma's effects on emotional and psychological development.
TCPT aims to:
To help children express and process their trauma.
To foster emotional regulation and resilience.
To improve relationships with peers and family.
To promote healing and recovery from trauma.
TCPT is a compassionate, effective way to support children on their healing journey, allowing them to reclaim a sense of safety and joy in their lives.
Key components
PLAY AS A MEDIUM
Children often express themselves better through play than verbal communication. TCPT uses play to help children articulate their feelings, fears, and experiences.
SKILL DEVELOPMENT
TCPT also focuses on building coping skills and resilience, helping children learn how to manage their emotions and responses to stress.
TRAUMA AWARENESS
Therapists are trained to recognize the signs of trauma in children and understand how it affects their behavior, relationships, and emotional regulation.
SAFE ENVIRONMENT
Creating a safe, supportive space is crucial. The therapist helps the child feel secure, allowing them to explore their feelings without judgment.
CAREGIVER INVOLVEMENT
Involving parents or caregivers can strengthen the therapeutic process, as it helps them understand the child's experiences and improve family dynamics.
EMOTIONAL PROCESSING
Through play, children can reenact traumatic experiences, express emotions, and begin to process their trauma. This can help them make sense of their feelings and experiences.
Why Play Therapy?
Enrolling your child in trauma-centered play therapy is a valuable investment in their emotional and psychological well-being. This approach provides a safe space for children to express their feelings, helping them process trauma with the guidance of trained therapists. It equips them with coping mechanisms, improves communication skills, and fosters healthier relationships. By addressing the whole child—emotionally, cognitively, socially, and physically—this therapy promotes comprehensive healing and empowers children to regain control over their experiences. Early intervention can lead to lasting positive effects on mental health, setting the stage for resilience and a brighter future.
Meet your child where they’re at