How Does TLC Help Children Heal and Grow Through Play Therapy?

At Total Life Counseling in Winter Park, we see beyond behaviors—we see the emotions behind them. Every child communicates in their own way, and when words aren’t enough, play therapy helps them express, process, and overcome life’s challenges in a space where they feel understood. Here’s how we help!

• Emotions Take Shape Through Play: A child struggling with social anxiety may carefully arrange miniature figures in a sand tray, recreating an overwhelming moment at school. Through gentle guidance, they begin to reshape the story—this time, with confidence and control.
• Healing That Feels Natural: For a child dealing with grief or trauma, words can feel too heavy. But when they sculpt, draw, or act out their emotions, they can process their pain in a way that doesn’t feel forced.
• From Frustration to Self-Regulation: Some kids lash out when they’re overwhelmed, and others shut down. Our Play Therapy therapist Winter Park helps children recognize their emotions, express them safely, and develop healthy coping mechanisms by using interactive games and creative activities.
• Learning Social Skills Without Pressure: For children who struggle with friendships, structured play provides a stress-free way to practice communication, teamwork, and problem-solving without fearing getting it “wrong.”
• Empowering Parents to Understand Their Child’s World: Play therapy isn’t just for children—it’s for families, too. Through observation and guided participation, parents gain insight into their child’s emotions, helping them respond with patience, empathy, and support.

At Total Life Counseling in Winter Park, play isn’t just play—it’s a bridge to emotional growth, healing, and lifelong resilience. Let’s help your child take that step forward.

ASD and Play Therapy at TLC Winter Park

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience the world in unique ways, often finding it difficult to express emotions or connect through traditional conversation. At Total Life Counseling (TLC) in Winter Park, we understand the challenges surrounding substance abuse, and we use play therapy to create a safe, engaging space where they can communicate, process feelings, and build essential life skills.

How TLC Play Therapy Counseling Winter Park Helps

• A Safe Way to Express Emotions: Many children with ASD struggle with verbal communication. Through sand trays, puppets, and imaginative play, they can process emotions, release tension, and make sense of their world—without words.
• Developing Social and Emotional Skills: Structured play naturally and engagingly teaches essential life skills like turn-taking, sharing, recognizing emotions, and building relationships.
• Personalized for Every Child: Each child is unique. Our therapists tailor every session to match their comfort level, interests, and communication style, ensuring a positive experience.
• Strengthening Parent-Child Bonds: Play therapy also helps parents understand their child’s sensory needs, emotions, and way of processing the world, leading to deeper connections at home.

Testimonials

A Few Kind Words From Satisfied Clients

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would your child need play therapy?

Play therapy helps children who struggle with expressing emotions, coping with trauma, managing behavioral challenges, and addressing the mental health needs of children. It provides a safe space for them to communicate through play when words aren’t enough.

What age is best for play therapy?

Play therapy is most effective for children ages 3 to 12, but older children and teens can also benefit, especially when using creative or interactive techniques tailored to their age.

How long is a play therapy session?

Sessions typically last between 30 to 50 minutes, depending on the child’s needs and attention span. Regular sessions over time help build trust and facilitate deeper emotional processing.

How effective is play therapy?

Several studies have shown that play therapy significantly improves emotional regulation, social skills, and behavior, especially in children facing anxiety, trauma, or developmental challenges.