While play therapy may look like “just playing,” it is a deeply intentional and evidence-based approach to helping children express themselves, process experiences, and build emotional resilience. Registered Play Therapists™ are trained in a variety of therapeutic models—such as Child-Centered Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy, attachment-focused methods, and trauma-informed techniques—all designed to meet the unique needs of each child.
This page offers insight into the principles behind therapeutic play and why it is such a powerful tool in supporting a child’s healing and growth. When parents and caregivers understand the purpose behind the play, they become essential partners in the process—helping to carry the child’s progress beyond the therapy room and into everyday life.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate counseling approach that honors the language of children—play. When children face emotional, behavioral, or relational challenges, they often lack the words to express what they are experiencing internally. Play therapy creates a safe and supportive environment where children can explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences through play—using toys, art, movement, storytelling, and imagination to communicate what words cannot.
At Rural Texas Psychoeducational Services, we understand that every child is unique. That’s why we draw from a variety of evidence-based play therapy models, including Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy, AutPlayⓒ Therapy, Synergetic-informed techniques, and trauma-focused approaches. This flexibility allows us to tailor sessions based on your child’s individual needs, personality, and developmental stage, while always maintaining a relationship-based, affirming foundation of trust and safety.
Who Can Benefit from Play Therapy?
Play therapy is effective for children navigating:
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Anxiety and excessive worry
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Emotional dysregulation or frequent meltdowns
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Trauma or grief
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Family transitions (e.g., divorce, new siblings, moves)
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Behavioral difficulties at home or school
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Social challenges or difficulty with peer relationships
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Low self-esteem or confidence
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Attachment disruptions
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Developmental differences or challenges
Our approach supports children in gaining emotional insight, strengthening coping skills, improving relationships, and building resilience, without requiring them to explain their struggles in adult terms.
Why Work with a Registered Play Therapist™?
A Registered Play Therapist™ brings specialized training in both child development and therapeutic play. This advanced credential ensures that every session is grounded in clinical expertise, ethical practice, and a deep respect for the child’s inner world. Sessions are not “just play”—they are intentional, evidence-informed interventions designed to help children heal, grow, and thrive.
We believe in meeting children where they are and walking alongside them with compassion, creativity, and care. Play therapy is not only about resolving problems—it’s about nurturing emotional well-being and empowering children to become more connected, capable, and confident in themselves.
This service is covered by insurance plans.
See Fees & Insurance page.
