play therapy

noun

1. a form of psychotherapy used chiefly with children, in which patients act out situations in play that are expressive of their emotional problems, conflicts, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of play therapy¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Immediate, free counselling is available when required, as well as play therapy for children - as research has shown adults bereaved by suicide are at higher risk of attempting suicide themselves.

From BBC

Another study of 5- to 12-year-old children with sexual behavioral problems found that just 2% of children who underwent cognitive behavioral therapy committed future offenses, compared to 11% of children who underwent group play therapy.

From Salon

"The homes provide accommodation, psycho-social, bereavement support, play therapy, remedial education and anything they need in order for them to access care," he told the BBC.

From BBC

One other important solution to help kids cope is play therapy.

From Seattle Times

I got this little cottage set back from the Main Street on Long Island and decorated three separate play therapy rooms with expressive arts therapy and sand play therapy.

From New York Times