While there are many different approaches to play therapy, The Healing Branch offers primarily Child-Centered Play Therapy. The counselor may also incorporate strategies from other play therapy modalities to address specialized concerns that may require a different approach.

Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is a developmentally appropriate mental health intervention for children ages 3-10 (Landreth, 1991, 2002, 2012, 2023). Children participating in CCPT use symbolic play to explore their inner experiences and develop more adaptive ways of meeting their needs. A CCPT therapist uses advanced play therapy skills to create a healing therapeutic relationship in which the child feels unconditional acceptance, empathy, and understanding. The child is encouraged to solve their own problems and develop self-control when they participate in self-directed play while experiencing the support of the CCPT therapist. This therapeutic relationship is the primary factor for creating long-term positive change in the child’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.