Please note: this is a guide designed to give you initial information on the process of play therapy and child-parent play therapy consultation. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or give specific answers about your child, but rather to serve as an overview to help you learn more about play therapy as a therapeutic modality.
These healing opportunities for children (and adults) of color use a trauma-informed and culturally-aware approach to effectively treat psychological distress caused by racial trauma.
Using the therapeutic powers of play, we can begin processing (not minimizing or ignoring) by making meaning of experiences, understanding emotions, and releasing worries. Cheryl teaches self-regulation as well as self-expression, which cultivates a sense of personal identity.
During the initial intake process, we’ll talk about the racial life experiences of families and discuss intergenerational history. Play therapy materials used in the playroom are intentionally selected to be diverse and reflective of all the families. Cheryl strives to be inclusive of gender, ethnicity, culture, and abilities.
ABOUT CHERYL
Cheryl Hurst, LCSWR (she/her/hers), is a child development expert and play therapist with over 19 years of specialized training in therapeutic modalities of sand play and play therapy. Cheryl is a long-standing member of The Association for Play Therapy.
As a play therapist, Cheryl believes in the power of symbolism which can shed light when words fail us. Cheryl is patient, warm, culturally astute, and welcoming. She holds the belief that one size doesn’t actually fit all, she honors the unique characteristics of each person she works with.
Q: HOW WILL I KNOW IF PLAY THERAPY IS A GOOD FIT FOR MY CHILD?
A: This is a question that can best be answered once a play therapist gathers a detailed history of the child’s early history. From there, the child is observed during 1-3 play sessions. Initial (preliminary) impressions, along with a recommended therapy plan, will be shared with the caregiver.
You can take the first step by beginning to notice changes in your child’s behaviors, emotions, and sleep patterns, which offer insight of your child’s developmental progress and emotional well-being. Your child’s care team (teachers, daycare providers, PCP, coaches, etc.) can give you insight into how your child is doing outside of your care.
Play therapy has many benefits for children experiencing a range of emotional distresses and life experiences. Play therapy can also stimulate children’s self-awareness and problem solving skills. The choice to engage in any kind of therapy process for your child is one that parents may feel uncertain about. Don’t hesitate to book a free 15 minute consult or ask me anything.
Q: WHAT IS THE CAREGIVER’S ROLE IN THE PLAY THERAPY PROCESS?
A: Play therapy works best when the child’s trusted adult guardians are consistently involved in the process - this involves regular communication such as the initial assessment meeting, feedback sessions, take-home projects, and consistent consultation meetings throughout the process.
Parents and caregivers are invited to see this process as a special time with their child aimed at seeing their child’s strengths. This a unique opportunity to learn new ways of understanding and communicating. Cheryl encourages parents and guardians to approach this process with an open heart.
Q: WHAT SORTS OF ACTIVITIES ARE COMMON IN PLAY THERAPY?
A: Both games and toys are both utilized in this approach. Shop my favorites here!
Q: I’M A MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL, DO YOU PROVIDE PLAY THERAPY SUPERVISION
A: Yes! Based on my 19+ years of experience as a licensed clinician, I provide practical and unbiased supervision to build professional confidence and competence. Learn more about professional supervision here.
For practicing play therapists, I also offer a play therapy toy subscription box to provide you with great toys and fresh ideas on a regular basis!
Muscles Mind and Heart™️, LLC, run by CEO Cheryl Hurst (she/her/hers), LCSW-R, is a mental health resource for men of color & those who care about them, aiming to better their lives.
