Play Therapy in Calgary
Play therapy is a therapeutic approach primarily used with children, allowing them to express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences through play rather than traditional words. It allows kids to explore emotions, resolve conflicts and communicate issues they may not have words for.
There are different modalities, including directive (where the therapist guides the play) and non-directive (where the child lead the process). Techniques may involve role-playing, story-telling, art projects, and the use of puppets or dolls. Sand Tray Therapy is also very popular where kids use miniature objects and sand to create a symbolic world that reflects their inner experiences and emotions. The scenes created reflect a person’s own life and allows the opportunity to remove obstacles and gain acceptance of self.
Play Therapy will improve a child’s self-esteem, communication skills, and relationship abilities while offering a safe space to work through difficult emotions. It can also be used as a foundation for a parent or caregiver to reconnect with their child, rebuild a bond, and foster communication.
We want your Child to Succeed! A New Play Therapy Room proves it!
A main pillar of our clinic has always been to be “a place for everyone”. That’s why it was essential that our new space include a purpose built play therapy room. We have so many great kids come to us for support and it is so important that we have a special environment for them.
Bean Bag Chairs
Sand Tray Therapy (Kinetic Sand, Tray, Figurines)
Water, Slime, Playdough
Art Supplies, Paint, Markers
Games, Books, Puppets
Therapy Dog “Betty”
The exciting things is we started with a clean slate and we get to make it ourselves. Continue to check back for updated photos or come into the clinic to see the evolution for yourself. We are adding new touches on a weekly basis.
American Psychological Association research proves that play therapy is effective for trauma, anxiety, and improving child-parent relationships.
Find out how our therapists can use play to help your child develop emotional intelligence, coping skills, and problem-solving abilities in a new and engaging way. Reconnect and grow your relationship with your child.
Book a complimentary consultation with our Director of Client Care, Amy. A psychologist herself, she’ll make sure she pairs with you with the best therapist she believes can connect with your kid.
Theraplay Activity List
Try a different game everyday, play your kid’s favorite game, or use what you have around you. These are just a few ideas to build off. Try these 5 or download the list of 100+ to try :-)
Newspaper punch: Leader holds up a piece of newspaper for each child. On the count of three, the child punches a hole through the paper. The children then roll the paper up in a little ball and take turns throwing it in a “hoop.” This could be the trash can, or another peers’ arms.
Balloon balance: Partners must balance a balloon between a body part and walk across room without using hands.
Spoon and Ping Pong Ball: Children pass a ping pong ball from one spoon to another between teams.
Ball and blanket: Children sit in a circle holding onto a blanket. The children try to keep the ball on the blanket while bouncing the blanket up and down. They have to follow the cue to go fast or slow.
Musical bubbles: Leader sprays bubbles into the air while music is playing. The children begin popping the bubbles and when the music stops the children stop popping the bubbles.
Favorite Book List
From Hockey Super Stars: Conner Hellybuyck & Zach Hyman
Our Therapist Picks: Tiny T. Rex & The Boy with Big, Big Feelings
Everyone’s Favorite Animal Series: Wonder Pups! (CANADIAN)
Calgary Play Therapy Therapists
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Amy Antony (she/her) M.C., M.Ed.
Founder
Director of Client Care
Registered Provisional Psychologist
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Lindsay McNena (she/her), M.C.
Clinic Lead
Registered Psychologist
(Accepting Waitlist)
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Tyler Schamehorn (he/him), M.C.
Registered Provisional Psychologist
(Accepting Waitlist)