“When we do not have words to convey our sensations, feelings, or thoughts, we cannot simply 'name it to tame it'. But we can use implicit communication -- movement, rhythm, sound, image, enactment, and play -- to 'express it to address it'.
This is the transformative and restorative role of expressive arts, to provide a voice when language is unavailable or impossible.”
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- Dr. Cathy Malchiodi, trauma-informed expressive arts therapist and researcher
Play Therapy
Play Therapy at Creative Remedies
According to the Association for Play Therapy, Play Therapy is "the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development."
Child play therapy is a specialized therapeutic approach that acknowledges and respects a child's unique stage of development. It emphasizes communication through the language of play, allowing licensed mental health professionals to assist their young clients, typically between the ages of three and 12, in expressing themselves and resolving their challenges.
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The effectiveness of play therapy is greatly enhanced by establishing a secure and trusting relationship between the therapist and the child. Within this safe environment, children are encouraged to freely and authentically express their joys and concerns.
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Numerous institutions, including mental health agencies, schools, hospitals, and private practitioners, have embraced play therapy as a primary intervention or as a complementary form of therapy for various issues. These may include behavioral problems such as anger management, grief and loss, divorce and abandonment, crisis and trauma. Additionally, play therapy has shown positive results in assisting in growth with neurodiversity, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism or pervasive developmental disorders, academic and social developmental challenges, and physical and learning disabilities.
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Extensive research supports the effectiveness of play therapy as a mental health approach, regardless of age, gender, or the specific nature of the problem. Therefore, play therapy can be effective for adults as well. Furthermore, involving a parent, family member, or caretaker in the treatment process greatly enhances the therapeutic outcomes.
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Questions about play therapy, its effectiveness, and its application are not only allowed but welcome since it is difficult to conceptualize from simply a few paragraphs. Please contact Primary Play Therapist, Anastasia Canfield, at anastasia.mtbc@gmail.com or at the form below.
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You may also schedule a consult with her here:
app.simplymeet.me/anastasiacanfield/freeconsultation
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WAITLISTING ONLY FOR THIS SERVICE
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Initial out-of-pocket session: FREE
Second session and beyond: $100
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Mines & Associates EAP accepted
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Insurances accepted:
Aetna
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Kaiser Permanente
Oscar
Oxford
United