Play Therapy
Supporting Children Through Creative, Evidence-Based Therapeutic Play
Children don’t always have the words to talk about what they are thinking or feeling—but they do know how to play. Play therapy uses a child’s natural language of play to help them express emotions, build coping skills, heal from challenges, and grow in a safe, supportive environment.
At Salyer Counseling Group, our trained play therapists provide developmentally appropriate, compassionate care to help your child thrive at home, in school, and in relationships.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that uses toys, art, games, and creative activities to help children process emotions and experiences. Instead of relying solely on talk, children express themselves through play—allowing the therapist to understand their inner world and support healing.
Play therapy is commonly used with children ages 3–12, but it can also be adapted for teens through expressive arts, sand tray methods, and activity-based therapy..
At our Arlington, TX-based therapy practice, we understand the challenge that occur during childhood and adolescence and we are equipped with age appropriate tool and intervention to make therapy both effective and fun.
Our team of therapist are ready to parter with you and your child.
We understand that coordinating the help of a professional therapist can be difficult. We are here to help. Here are a few answers to frequently asked questions related to child and teen therapy:
+ What can play therapy helps with?
- Play therapy can support children experiencing:
- Anxiety or fears
- Depression or sadness
- Trauma or stressful life events
- Behavior concerns at home or school
- Attachment difficulties
- Emotional outbursts or anger
- Family transitions (divorce, relocation, blended families)
- Social challenges
- Grief and loss
- Low self-esteem
- Difficulty communicating needs or emotions If your child is struggling, play therapy provides a safe, nurturing place to explore big feelings while learning new skills.
+ What shoul I expect at my child’s play therapy sessions?
- Parent Intake Appointment: We begin with a parent-only session to discuss concerns, goals, and your child’s history so we can create a personalized treatment plan.
- Weekly Play Therapy Sessions: Children meet individually with the therapist for 45–50 minutes. Sessions are held in a fully equipped play therapy room designed to promote expression and emotional safety.
- Ongoing Parent Check-Ins: We provide periodic parent sessions to share insights, teach skills, and ensure you feel supported throughout your child’s therapeutic journey.
- Collaborative Care: With your permission, we can collaborate with teachers, pediatricians, or other providers to maximize your child’s progress.
+ What are the benefits of play therapy?
Play therapy can help children:
- Improve emotional regulation
- Reduce anxiety, fear, and stress
- Build confidence and self-awareness
- Strengthen communication skills
- Develop problem-solving and coping abilities
- Work through trauma and difficult experiences
- Improve behavior at home and school
- Strengthen family relationships
Play therapy meets children exactly where they are—helping them feel seen, understood, and capable of growth.
+ Insurance & Payment Options
- We offer in-network options with several major insurers and provide private pay rates with sliding scale options. Telehealth is available for parent sessions and older children when appropriate.
- To verify benefits, contact our office—we’re happy to help you understand your coverage.
If your child is struggling with emotions, behavior, or changes at home, they don’t have to navigate it alone. Play therapy can help them feel understood, supported, and empowered. Contact us!
Salyer Counseling Group is here to support your child’s emotional well-being every step of the way.
