When children struggle emotionally, socially, or behaviorally, they often don’t yet have the words to explain what they feel. Instead, they communicate through their play, their actions, and their relationships with the people around them. That’s where Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) comes in.
At Jenkins Creative Counseling Center (JCCC), Child-Centered Play Therapy is one of the foundational approaches we use to support children. It offers a safe, developmentally appropriate space for kids to express themselves, build confidence, and develop healthy coping skills—without the pressure of talking before they’re ready.
Here’s what parents need to know about this powerful, evidence-based approach.
What Is Child-Centered Play Therapy?
Child-Centered Play Therapy is rooted in the work of Virginia Axline, who first developed this approach, and was later expanded and popularized by Dr. Garry Landreth, a leading voice in the field of play therapy. It is built on one simple truth:
Play is a child’s natural language.
Just as adults use words to process emotions and experiences, children use play. Through toys, art, movement, storytelling, and imagination, children communicate feelings they may not yet be able to verbalize. In CCPT, the therapist creates a safe, structured, and accepting environment where children can do this freely.
How CCPT Supports Children’s Emotional Growth
Child-Centered Play Therapy is designed to help children:
- Process difficult emotions
- Build self-confidence
- Strengthen problem-solving skills
- Learn healthy emotional expression
- Increase frustration tolerance
- Develop better impulse control
- Strengthen their sense of autonomy
- Improve social and relational skills
Rather than “correcting” behavior, CCPT focuses on understanding the needs behind the behavior and supporting the child’s ability to regulate, express, and understand their emotions.
What Happens in a CCPT Session?
A typical Child-Centered Play Therapy session lasts between 30–45 minutes and includes:
1. A Carefully Selected Playroom
The therapy room contains specific toys that support expression, mastery, creativity, and problem-solving—such as art supplies, puppets, figures, blocks, sand, pretend play items, and feeling-focused tools.
2. Child-Led Exploration
Children choose how they want to play. This autonomy helps them process emotions at their own pace and in their own language.
3. Reflective, Non-Directive Therapist Responses
The therapist participates only as needed, responding in ways that:
- Reflect the child’s feelings
- Highlight their strengths
- Support decision-making
- Provide gentle limits for safety
- Reinforce their internal sense of capability
The therapist does not lead the child or “tell them what to play.” Instead, they follow the child’s emotional lead.
4. Safety + Structure
Clear limits (“I’m not for hurting,” “The toys are for the room”) help children understand boundaries while still feeling safe and accepted.
Why CCPT Works
CCPT helps children grow because it is:
Developmentally appropriate
Children naturally process experiences through play, not conversation.
Relationship-based
Healing happens within a warm, accepting, consistent relationship.
Emotion-focused
The therapist helps the child name, express, and tolerate feelings.
Strength-building
Children discover their own ability to solve problems and make decisions.
Non-judgmental
Children feel safe to express difficult emotions without fear of being “wrong.”
Over time, children begin to show increased confidence, improved coping skills, and healthier communication both in and outside of therapy.
What Parents Can Expect
Parents often notice changes such as:
- Fewer emotional outbursts
- Increased self-control
- Better problem-solving
- Improved communication
- Greater confidence and independence
- More emotional awareness
Therapists also provide parent sessions to help caregivers understand the play themes their child is processing, strengthen connection at home, and reinforce new skills.
Who CCPT Helps
Child-Centered Play Therapy is especially effective for children experiencing:
- Anxiety
- Behavioral challenges
- ADHD-related concerns
- Family transitions (divorce, moves, etc.)
- Social difficulties
- Trauma or grief
- Emotional regulation challenges
- Low self-esteem
- Bullying (victim or perpetrator)
It is appropriate for children typically ages 3–12.
A Safe, Supportive Space for Every Child
At JCCC, we believe children thrive when they feel seen, valued, and accepted. Child-Centered Play Therapy gives them a space where their emotions make sense, their voice matters, and their inner strengths can grow.
If you’ve noticed your child struggling or needing extra support, CCPT can be a transformative tool that helps them build resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being.
Our team is here to answer questions, guide you through the process, and support your family every step of the way.
