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Why
play therapy? The
therapeutic
use of play
allows trained
professionals
to better
communicate
with and help
children to
achieve optimal
mental health. A
growing number
of mental
health professionals
believe that
play is as
important
to human happiness
as love and
work.
Play
therapy is
increasingly
recognized
as an effective
practice by
mental health
practitioners,
psychologists,
counselors,
social workers,
marriage and
family therapists,
schools and
universities,
hospitals
and clinics,
community
mental health
centers, managed
care providers,
judges and
attorneys,
and families.
Play
is a fun,
enjoyable
activity that
elevates our
spirits and
brightens
our outlook
on life. Play
relieves feelings
of stress
and boredom,
connects people
in a positive
way, stimulates
creative thinking
and exploration,
regulates
emotions,
and boosts
confidence.
Play allows
us to practice
skills and
roles needed
for survival.
Learning and
development
are fostered
through play.
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Toys
work like
the child's
words and
play is
like the
child's
language. Through
play, positive
relationships
quickly
develop
between
therapists
and children.
This provides
a corrective
emotional
experience
necessary
for healing.
Play therapy
can promote
cognitive
development,
provide
insight,
and help
resolve
inner conflicts
or dysfunctional
thinking.
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