The Power of Play: Why Play Therapy Matters

By Meredith Holcomb

As a child therapist in training, I often get asked: “Why play? Shouldn’t we be talking about the problem?” And I completely understand the question. But the truth is—play is the child’s language, and in the world of therapy, it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to help children heal, grow, and make sense of their world.

What Is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate, evidence-based approach that allows children to express themselves through toys, art, stories, and imagination. While it may look like simple fun on the surface, a trained therapist understands that a child’s play often reflects their inner world—their fears, their hopes, and sometimes, their trauma.

Why Is It Important?

Children, especially those who have experienced trauma, may not have the words to describe what they’ve gone through. Play gives them a voice. It provides a safe, structured space to explore big feelings and scary experiences in a way that feels natural and non-threatening.

Through play therapy, children can:

• Learn to express emotions in healthy ways
  
• Reprocess traumatic experiences
  
• Develop problem-solving and coping skills
  
• Build confidence and emotional resilience
  
• Restore a sense of control and safety
  

As a therapist, I don’t just sit back and watch. I enter the child’s world, offering empathy, reflection, and gentle guidance—all while building a trusting relationship that becomes the foundation for healing.

Play therapy isn’t just for children who’ve experienced trauma. It’s also effective for kids dealing with anxiety, grief, divorce, behavioral struggles, or difficulties at school. Every child deserves a space to be seen, heard, and supported—and play therapy offers just that.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever watched a child pour out their heart with a crayon, a puppet, or in a sandbox, you know there’s something sacred about it. In a world where children are often expected to “act older” or “talk it out,” play therapy gives them the permission to just be a child—and that’s where real healing begins.

If you’re curious about whether play therapy might help your child or want to learn more, feel free to reach out. At Clayton Counseling, we’re here to walk alongside families with compassion, understanding, and a whole lot of play.

To learn more about me and working with me click here!