Play Therapy, Counseling and Treatment Programs

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

15 minutes read
Group therapy session.

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With a dedication to providing individualized and comprehensive care, A Mission For Michael is a leading mental health treatment provider in California, Washington, and Virginia. Our counseling services include the use of various evidence-based approaches, holistic treatments, and wellness programs. This combination allows us to provide you with a unique treatment experience that prepares you for long-term recovery.

Our mental health counseling programs provide treatment options for various mental health and dual diagnosis conditions. This includes mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and personality disorders. While our psychotherapy services focus on providing care for adults 18 and older, we do see value in helping you understand different behavioral health treatments. We will now review structural play therapy, and how creative play interventions can be incorporated into some holistic therapy programs.

What is Play Therapy?

Play-based counseling is a therapeutic approach that is commonly used with children, adolescents, and in some cases, teens. Therapeutic play techniques can help with emotional expression, learning new coping skills, and working though conflicts or challenges. Play therapy activities are guided by a trained therapist who assists in expressing and exploring emotions in a safe, and non-verbal way.

Play therapy can be an effective treatment approach for children who are struggling with behavioral concerns, trauma, and anxiety. Interactive therapeutic play can help introduce emotion regulation skills, and work to build self-esteem. Family play therapy can include parents, caregivers, and siblings to strengthen family relationships and create a supportive and healthy environment at home.

Approximately 71% of children who participate in play therapy show meaningful progress, highlighting its effectiveness in addressing emotional and behavioral challenges. Though research on play therapy for adults is limited, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) reported that half of adults with mental illness received treatment in 2022, which included an assortment of therapeutic approaches.

Play therapy has proven particularly beneficial for children with separation anxiety disorder and those experiencing anxiety due to hospitalizations or intensive medical treatments. Studies also indicate that parental involvement in play therapy significantly enhances its effectiveness, creating a collaborative environment that supports both the child and the family in managing emotional challenges.

How Much Does Play Therapy Cost?

The cost of play therapy can range based on several key factors, including your insurance coverage, location of the provider, level of care, and the expertise of your therapist. Inpatient and residential treatment programs have higher treatment expenses than outpatient treatment. Outpatient therapy sessions can range from $100 to $250 per session.

Keep in mind that this estimate can fluctuate based on additional treatment interventions. Those who are engaging in addition individual therapy, group therapy, or psychiatric care services may have additional treatment expenses. If you would like to receive a personalized estimate for mental health treatment for your unique concerns, we encourage you to call us today to speak with an admission counselor about various  ways to pay for treatment.

Types of Play Therapy Counseling Techniques and Programs Available Near Me

There are various play therapy techniques that can be used to target the specific needs of children and adolescents. Below are examples of play therapy approaches, highlighting their unique methods and benefits. This is not a comprehensive list, but it provides insight into the popular and effective options available.

Synergetic play therapy combines the use of neuroscience, attachment theory, and play to help teach emotion regulation skills and build resilience. This approach emphasizes the therapeutic relationship between the individual and therapist. Synergetic play therapy is Ideal for those who struggle with self-soothing, and those who experience heightened emotional responses.

Adlerian play therapy combines Adlerian therapy principles with play activities. This approach is commonly used to learn more about family dynamics and beliefs. Adlerian play therapy encourages emotional expression, developing social interest, and building confidence. This approach can help make the connection between choices and behaviors and the surrounding environment. 

Cognitive behavioral play therapy includes various techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Therapeutic play techniques are used to address distorted thinking patterns and develop healthy coping skills. This approach can be used to help those struggling with anxiety, depression, or phobias.

Sand tray therapy is a specific form of therapy that uses play therapy tools to create visual representations of a person’s inner world and experiences. This can help individuals express thoughts and emotions that are challenging to put into words. Sand tray therapy can be particularly helpful for those who are struggling with emotional challenges and trauma.

Animal assisted play therapy introduces you to therapy animals in a safe and supportive environment. The focus of this approach is to build trust with the animal, which can then reduce anxiety and enhance emotional well-being. Animal assisted play therapy can be helpful for those who struggle in social situations, with attachment issues, or have a history of trauma.

Family play therapy can focus on strengthening family relationships while engaging in shared play activities. This approach can address communication patterns, individual roles, and lingering conflicts within the family unit. This approach encourages bonding and collaborative problem-solving in a fun, supportive environment.

Art play therapy sessions use a range of creative art activities to help with emotional expression. This commonly includes activities like drawing, painting, or sculpting, all of which provide a non-verbal way to express feelings. Art play therapy can be helpful for those who are struggling with emotional regulation, grief, or trauma.

Music play therapy can involve creating, listening to, or moving to music. This allows you to explore emotions and improve your mood. This form of play therapy encourages self-expression and relaxation with the use of rhythm and sound. Music play therapy is commonly used with those experiencing stress, anxiety, or difficulty expressing themselves verbally.

Behavioral & Play Therapy Programs Near Me

With the use of various mental health treatments and therapies and wellness programs, AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers can provide you with personalized care. In addition to our top-notch clinical treatments, we offer comfortable accommodations that will help you feel at home. Dial (866)478-4383 to explore available treatment options today.

Which Disorders May Be Treated With Play Therapy?

Holistic play interventions can be used to address a range of emotional, behavioral, and psychological concerns. Play therapy approaches allow for individualized care, based on the symptoms and challenges that you’re experiencing. Below is an introduction to mental health disorders that may benefit from play-based interventions.

Play Therapy for Psychosis

Those who are struggling with psychosis can find that play therapy allows them to experience and express their thoughts and emotions in a safe, structured environment. This approach encourages you to explore your delusions or hallucinations with non-verbal play techniques. This may be used in addition to other behavioral health treatments, including medication management services.

Play Therapy for ADHD

Play therapy can use structured play to help improve focus, impulse control, and social skills for those who are living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Play activities can be tailored to your needs, to help improve problem-solving abilities and self-regulation. This may be incorporated into individual therapy or group therapy to channel energy positively and focus on behavioral challenges.

Play Therapy for Trauma

Trauma-informed play interventions can be impactful for those who have been affected by abuse, neglect, or other traumatic events. Play therapy for trauma can provide you with a safe space to process difficult emotions and memories resulting from your experience. Sand tray therapy and attachment-based play therapy are examples of approaches used with those who have a history of trauma.

Play Therapy for Social Anxiety

Play therapy workshops and sessions can provide gradual exposure to social situations in a low-pressure setting for those who struggle with social anxiety. This can help those struggling practice social skills, build confidence, and learn to manage anxiety symptoms. This can include role-playing or group activities.

Play Therapy for Depression

Play therapy for emotional healing can focus on addressing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and withdrawal for those who are struggling with depression. Play therapy can encourage you to engage in enjoyable activities to rebuild interest and motivation for leisure activities. Play therapy for depression may be used in addition to other treatments including talk therapy and medication management services.

Play Therapy for OCD

Play therapy for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can incorporate play-based techniques to identify and challenge obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. This can include the use of role-playing to help you confront fears in a safe and manageable way. Play therapy sessions can help you learn healthier thought patterns and coping mechanisms for your specific symptoms.

Play Therapy for Anger

Developmental play strategies can help those of varying ages understand and express their anger productively. Play therapy can help introduce emotion regulation and problem-solving skills with the use of integrative activities. This approach can enhance other behavioral health treatments by enhancing coping skills for aggressive behaviors.

Play Therapy for Personality Disorders

Play therapy strategies may be used with those who are struggling with personality disorders. Creative play interventions can focus on skill building and emotional expression for those who have emerging traits of personality disorders. This can include exploring their self-identity and the interpersonal challenges they experience.

Understanding When To Enroll In a Play Therapy Program

Now that we have talked about play therapy for behavior problems and emotion challenges, let’s talk about situations in which it can be helpful. Play therapy can introduce valuable life skills, and improve emotional expression. Situations in which this may be a good treatment option for you or your loved ones include:

Play therapy activities for relationship-building can be helpful when conflicts or stress are having a negative impact on your home environment. Play therapy can help family members process their challenges and work towards strengthening their connection. Transgenerational play therapy may be used to work though patterns that have been passed from generation to generation.

Play therapy can also be impactful when parenting stress and/or discipline strategies impact the mental health of family members. Play therapy can promote positive communication between family members, and help parents understand their child’s perspective on situations. You may be encouraged to have family sessions, based on your needs.

Play therapy can be helpful for those who struggle with peer relationships or bullying. Storytelling in play therapy can help you explore and process emotions and experiences in a healthy way. Play therapy can also enhance social skills, confidence, and emotional resilience. This approach is useful for those experience isolation or fear in social settings.

Schooling and career stress can contribute to the development of anxiety, behavioral issues, or withdrawal. Play therapy helps you begin to process performance-related pressures and learn to implement healthier coping strategies. Play therapy can help improve your self-esteem and improve adaptability in these settings.

Play therapy, including mindful play techniques, can be helpful for those who are struggling with anxiety, mood swings, or irritability as a result of stress. Play therapy can help you learn effective relaxation techniques and emotional regulation skills to decrease your psychological distress. This can help you learn to navigate overwhelming, or stressful, situations effectively.

Play therapy can be helpful for those who are experiencing mental health concerns because of a physical health condition. Therapeutic play techniques can give you a creative outlet to express fears, frustrations, and other emotions related to your health concerns. This can help promote emotional resilience and improve emotional well-being during times of health concerns.

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    Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

    We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

    If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

    Do Mental Health Centers Offer Play-Based Therapy?

    Yes, there are mental treatment centers offer play-based therapy. Expressive arts in play therapy can be used to address a range of mental health concerns, which can be tailored to each individual. You may have play therapy available in individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy settings near you.

    Play therapy counseling is commonly used with children who are experiencing mental health concerns, though it can be a treatment option for teens and adults. This includes those who are living with an intellectual disability, dementia, chronic illness, trauma, anger management issues, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). If you or someone you love has been struggling with persistent or worsening mental health distress, we encourage you to contact A Mission For Michael (AMFM) today to explore available treatment options.

    Does Health Insurance Cover Play Therapy?

    Health insurance companies may provide insurance coverage for play therapy, when it is developmental and medically appropriate. Your coverage options are dependent on your carrier, and the details of your coverage. Your plan may have specific limitations, exclusions, or out-of-pocket expenses.

    If you would like to learn about the scope of your insurance coverage, we encourage you to complete the AMFM insurance verification form. This allows us to contact your insurance provider and inquire about the details of your policy. We can then take these details and apply them to the costs of treatment options appropriate for your current treatment needs.

    psychologist and patient in therapy session.

    How Long is the Play Therapy Treatment Process?

    The duration of play therapy can vary and is dependent on your individual needs. Those who are experiencing complex, or dual diagnosis conditions, may require longer treatment durations than others. The U.S. Association for Play Therapy reported that on average, 20 play therapy sessions are needed to resolve presenting challenges.

    The process is of play therapy is flexible, which allows you to receive care that is tailored to your progress. Your therapist will work with you to determine which therapeutic play techniques would be the most impactful for you, and continuously monitor your progress. Family involvement in your treatment can also influence the timeline of treatment.

    How Effective is Play Therapy as a Treatment Option?

    The U.S. Association for Play Therapy referenced research showing that play therapy effectiveness can range from moderate to highly effective. This reflects individuals of varying ages and genders, with a range of mental health conditions. When looking at effectiveness for children, play therapy effects were greater among those who had parental involvement.

    Play therapy can be an effective treatment option for a range of mental health conditions and adverse life experiences. This includes anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, depression, ADD, autism spectrum disorders, and conduct disorders. Those who are experiencing life stressors like divorce or death, relocation, hospitalization, chronic illness, stressful experiences, abuse, domestic violence, and natural disasters can also benefit from creative play interventions.

    When you’re experiencing mental health concerns, finding the right treatment provider is a key step in your recovery. It can be challenging to navigate your treatment options, even if you have previously received mental health treatment. Try a simple online search using keywords like “Play therapy near me in Orange County” or “Play therapy center near me.”

    You can then begin narrowing down your search results. We encourage you to investigate their available treatment programs, use of evidence-based therapies, and alternative treatment options. You may find several treatment providers who offer play therapy in your area, but they may not provide the same level of care, or treatment experience. To find additional play therapy providers, we encourage you to visit websites like the Association for Play Therapy (APT) for directories of certified professionals or contact your local mental health providers and ask for recommendations.

    Another important step is to spend time reading online reviews of treatment providers. This can help you understand other perspectives after receiving care, and if they would recommend their treatment provider. If you’re using health insurance, we encourage you to verify that the provider you’re interested in working with in in-network. For support and guidance in determining which level of care is appropriate for you needs, contact A Mission For Michael (AMFM) by dialing (866)478-4383 and asking about our free assessment.

    • Approximately 71% of children who engage in play therapy show progress.
    • While there is limited research exploring the use of play therapy with adult populations, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) indicated that half of the adults experiencing a mental illness in 2022 received mental health treatment.
    • Research has indicated that play therapy is an effective treatment option  for children struggling with separation anxiety disorder.
    • Studies have indicated that the effectiveness of play therapy increases with parental involvement in sessions.
    • Play therapy can be used to reduce anxiety symptoms that occur because of hospitalizations. This includes those receiving intensive medical treatments.

    Check if your health insurance will cover the cost of mental health treatment.