Different Types of Play Therapy and How They Support Mental Health

When children struggle to express their thoughts and emotions through words, play therapy offers a developmentally appropriate path to healing. Through toys, art, games, and imaginative scenarios, children are able to explore their inner world and work through emotional or behavioral challenges in a safe and supportive space.

But did you know that there are different types of play therapy, each with its own approach to supporting children’s mental health? In this blog, we'll explore several commonly used types of play therapy and how they can be tailored to meet your child’s specific needs.

1. Non-Directive (Child-Centered) Play Therapy

Also known as client-centered play therapy, this approach allows the child to take the lead in sessions. The therapist offers a supportive environment without directing the child’s actions or play themes.

How it helps:
This type of play therapy builds trust and autonomy. It supports emotional expression and encourages self-discovery, making it especially effective for children who feel overwhelmed or out of control.

2. Directive Play Therapy

In contrast to the non-directive approach, directive play therapy involves more structure. The therapist chooses specific activities or toys to help the child address targeted issues.

How it helps:
It’s particularly beneficial for children with specific behavioral concerns, trauma, or anxiety. By gently guiding the child, therapists can introduce new coping strategies and help the child confront difficult emotions in manageable ways.

3. Sand Tray Therapy

This technique involves the use of miniature figures and a sandbox. Children create scenes that reflect their inner thoughts, fears, and experiences.

How it helps:
Sand tray therapy can reveal complex emotions that are hard to articulate. It’s often used to process grief, trauma, or emotional conflicts, giving children a safe way to “speak” without words.

4. Art-Based Play Therapy

Using drawing, painting, and crafts, this approach encourages self-expression through art. It’s especially helpful for children who may be withdrawn or hesitant to speak.

How it helps:
Art therapy helps children externalize their emotions and gain insight into their feelings. It fosters creativity, boosts confidence, and enhances emotional regulation.

5. Filial Therapy

Filial therapy involves parents or caregivers in the play therapy process. Trained by the therapist, parents conduct structured play sessions at home.

How it helps:
By strengthening the parent-child bond, filial therapy builds trust and enhances emotional connection. It also empowers parents to support their child’s growth outside of therapy sessions.

6. Cognitive-Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT)

CBPT integrates cognitive-behavioral principles with play-based techniques. It focuses on changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors using games, storytelling, and role-play.

How it helps:
Ideal for children dealing with anxiety, ADHD, or depression, this structured method helps kids identify negative thoughts, build coping skills, and practice problem-solving in a playful format.

Why the Right Type of Play Therapy Matters

Every child is unique—and so are their needs. A trained therapist will choose the most appropriate method (or a combination of techniques) based on the child’s personality, developmental level, and the issues they’re facing. With the right approach, play therapy can be a powerful tool for improving emotional well-being, behavior, and resilience.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health Through Play Therapy

If your child is struggling emotionally or behaviorally, play therapy may be an effective and compassionate way to help them heal. To learn more about whether play therapy is right for your child, we invite you to reach out to our team. Together, we can support your child in building a stronger, healthier emotional foundation.