In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Mary Clare in Illinois, who is working with a 10-year-old client and feeling unsure if child-centered play therapy (CCPT) is the right approach for him. I address her concerns about the child’s resistance, performative play, social challenges, and low self-esteem. I explain how these behaviors align perfectly with what CCPT is designed to address, particularly for children struggling with anxiety and emotional avoidance.

I also discuss the healing power of CCPT, emphasizing that “just playing” allows children to self-actualize and work through their issues in ways they might not consciously realize. By continuing to provide the right relationship, environment, tools, and time, Mary Clare is giving her client exactly what he needs to grow. This episode serves as a reminder that CCPT is the right approach for any child under 14, as long as we stay consistent and trust the process.

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Common References: Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley. VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press. Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group. Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.