EXPrESSIVE therapy
Expressive therapy goes beyond traditional talk therapy and focuses on creative outlets as a means of expression. This therapy can be especially helpful for children and individuals that find it difficult to talk about their thoughts and emotions. Some forms of expressive therapy that our clinicians implement are play therapy, sand tray therapy, and bibliotherapy to help children and adolesecents work through trauma. These techniques have been proven to be highly effective when used with adults as well.
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Play Therapy
Do you have a child like Andrew? Well, not many of us do. But, wouldn't it be wonderful to understand what our children are trying to communicate to us?
What is Play Therapy?
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Play is the way children learn and begin to develop from a very young age. This is also the way they express themselves and exhibit how they understand the world and people around them. Play is a child's natural form of expression, and in the therapeutic relationship children will communicate through activities, and toys rather than words. According to the Association for Play Therapy (APT), trained therapists use play therapy to address cognitive, behavioral, and emotional challenges. During play, thoughts and feelings are revealed that otherwise would have remained hidden.
Bibliotherapy
Bibliotherapy uses literature, such as books, poetry, and other written materials, as a therapeutic tool to help individuals address emotional and psychological issues, and improve their mental health and well-being.
Reading and discussing books or other written materials can provide insight, inspiration, and healing to individuals struggling with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
Sandtray Therapy
Can you recall what it's like to play in the sand? Just think about walking along the beach and feeling the small particles between your toes or spending hours creating a masterpiece sand sculpture. Sand is a powerful tool for healing with endless possibilities.
What is Sandtray Therapy?
Sandtray therapy is a nonverbal, therapeutic modality that provides a full sensory experience focusing on the clients understanding of his or her world. Sand is used as a platform with the combination of miniature figures to create a scene reflecting an inner thoughts and feelings. This technique is combined with talk therapy to facilitate a deeper awareness of struggles or concerns. Sandtray therapy is a safe, creative way to communicate.