As a Registered Play Therapist with many years of experience, I understand how important it is to provide children with a safe and comfortable environment to express themselves. With the advent of virtual play therapy, we can now offer this service to children from the comfort of their own homes. This can be especially important for children who are not able to attend in-person sessions, whether due to distance or other factors. Since 2020 and the challenges it presented to us all, I have come to learn the benefits of virtual play therapy and how it can be just as effective as in-person play therapy.
Virtual play therapy is a form of therapy that allows children to participate in play therapy sessions from anywhere with an internet connection. It uses video conferencing technology, through our secure client portal, to connect the child and therapist in a virtual environment, allowing for real-time interaction and communication.
One benefit of virtual play therapy is convenience. Virtual sessions can be scheduled at times that are convenient for both the child and therapist, without the need for travel. This can be especially helpful for families who live in remote areas or who have busy schedules. Additionally, virtual play therapy can be a good option for children who may feel uncomfortable in a traditional therapy setting, such as those with social anxiety or sensory processing issues.
Another benefit of virtual play therapy is the ability to provide continuity of care. In-person play therapy may not always be feasible due to circumstances beyond our control, such as inclement weather or unexpected illnesses. Virtual play therapy can ensure that children receive consistent care, regardless of external circumstances. This can be particularly important for children who are experiencing mental health challenges and need ongoing support.
Virtual play therapy also provides a familiar environment for children. Participating in therapy from their own homes can help children feel more comfortable and at ease, which can lead to more open and honest communication with their therapist. This can be especially important for children who have experienced trauma or who are dealing with anxiety or depression.
In terms of effectiveness, studies have shown that virtual play therapy can be just as effective as in-person play therapy. Research has also found that children who participate in virtual play therapy show significant improvement in their mental health symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues.
At Amy Brown Counseling, we offer virtual play therapy services for children ages 7 and up. Our team of experienced therapists understands the unique needs of children and is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for them to explore their feelings and emotions. We use evidence-based techniques to help children develop coping skills and strategies to deal with life’s challenges.
Fill out the new client inquiry form today to get started with a therapist on our team.
