At Journeys Counseling Center in Lubbock, Texas, we understand that children express themselves differently than adults. That’s why we offer play therapy, a proven approach that helps young children process emotions, build coping skills, and improve behavior through play.
Play therapy is ideal for children ages 3 to 12. It uses toys, games, storytelling, art, and other creative activities to help children express what they may not be able to say with words. Through guided play in a safe, supportive setting, children can explore emotions, resolve internal conflicts, and build trust with a licensed therapist trained in child development.
What Play Therapy Can Help With
Play therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Grief and loss
- Trauma and abuse
- ADHD
- Anger and aggression
- Social difficulties
- Family changes, such as divorce or relocation
What to Expect from Play Therapy
During a play therapy session, your child will meet one-on-one with a trained child counselor in a specially designed playroom. Sessions typically last 45 to 50 minutes. Through observation and interaction, the therapist gains insight into your child’s emotions, behavior, and experiences. Parents are regularly updated and may be involved in parts of the therapeutic process depending on the child’s needs.
While every child is different, many families begin to notice improvements within a few weeks. Long-term progress may require several months of regular weekly sessions, especially when addressing deeper emotional or behavioral concerns.
Why Choose Play Therapy for Your Child?
Many children struggle to express their emotions verbally, especially when dealing with complex experiences. Play therapy meets them at their level by using play as a language. This therapeutic approach allows children to process difficult feelings, gain emotional regulation skills, and build healthy ways to communicate without needing to sit still or talk at length. It’s an engaging, developmentally appropriate method that respects your child’s natural way of interacting with the world.
How Parents Are Involved in the Process
While sessions are child-led, parental involvement plays a key role in successful outcomes. Children’s play therapists will often meet with parents regularly to share observations, provide insights, and offer strategies to use at home. For younger children, parents may even be invited to participate in certain activities. By understanding what your child is working on in therapy, you’ll be better equipped to support their progress in everyday life.
Benefits of Starting Early
Early intervention with play therapy can set the stage for lifelong emotional wellness. Children who learn to understand and manage their feelings at a young age are more likely to develop healthy coping skills, strong peer relationships, and improved behavior at home and school. The earlier a child begins therapy, the more quickly they can build the foundation for lasting resilience and confidence.
Our Play Therapy Specialists in Lubbock, TX
At Journeys Counseling Center, our therapists are trained in child psychology, play-based techniques, and trauma-informed care. We tailor each session to the unique needs of your child, using evidence-based methods to guide emotional growth. Whether your child is navigating anxiety, grief, behavioral concerns, or big life transitions, our goal is to help them feel safe, heard, and empowered.
Common Questions Parents Have About Play Therapy
Parents often have questions before starting play therapy, especially when it comes to understanding the process, their role, and how therapy fits into their child’s daily life. Below are some of the most common questions families ask when considering play therapy at Journeys Counseling Center in Lubbock.
How do I know if my child truly needs play therapy?
Many parents wonder whether their child’s behavior or emotions are simply a phase or something that requires professional support. Play therapy may be helpful when concerns begin to interfere with your child’s ability to function at home, school, or socially. Other signs that additional support could be beneficial include:
- Ongoing emotional distress
- Sudden behavioral changes
- Difficulty adjusting to life events
- Struggles with emotional regulation
A consultation with a licensed therapist can help determine whether play therapy is an appropriate next step.
Will my child understand that they are in therapy?
Children typically do not experience play therapy as “therapy” in the traditional sense. Instead, they view sessions as a safe and welcoming space where they can engage naturally. Therapists are trained to explain the process in age-appropriate ways, helping children feel comfortable without pressure or fear. Over time, many children look forward to play therapy sessions because they feel understood and supported.
What if my child doesn’t want to talk or participate?
This is a very common concern. Play therapy does not rely on direct conversation, and children are never forced to share or participate in a specific way. Therapists follow the child’s lead and allow progress to unfold naturally. Even when a child appears quiet or reserved, meaningful therapeutic work is still happening through observation, choice-making, and nonverbal expression.
How do I support my child outside of sessions?
Parents play an important role in reinforcing progress outside the therapy room. Your child’s therapist may offer guidance, parenting strategies, or communication tools tailored to your family’s needs. Small, consistent changes at home often support long-term growth and help children feel secure as they apply new skills in daily life.
Is play therapy confidential?
Parents often ask how privacy is handled. While therapists keep sessions confidential to maintain trust with the child, parents are regularly provided with appropriate updates, themes, and recommendations. This balance supports both therapeutic effectiveness and parental involvement.
Contact Our Licensed Therapists in Lubbock for Children Under 12
At Journeys Counseling Center, we have licensed therapists specifically trained to work with children ages 12 and under. Our compassionate team is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space where your child can feel seen, heard, and supported.
Contact our office today to schedule a play therapy appointment in Lubbock, TX. Let us help your child navigate their emotions and grow in confidence and resilience, one play session at a time.
