How Do You Know If Play Therapy Is Working?
Measuring Progress
Consistency in play therapy has long-term benefits for the child.
Play therapy is a powerful form of counseling for children, offering a safe and creative space to express emotions, process experiences, and develop healthier behaviors. But a question I often hear from parents is, “How do you know when it's actually working?” At Emmaus Counseling, I often hear this question from curious parents and caregivers. Here’s a breakdown of how progress in play therapy is observed—and how you’ll likely notice it too.
Stages of Change in the Playroom
Progress in play therapy doesn’t happen all at once. Instead, it unfolds in stages:
Exploration – Children start by exploring the space and toys, often repeating familiar actions or rituals.
Insight – Over time, patterns start to shift, and children may begin to express more emotional awareness through play.
Change – Gradual shifts in play behaviors indicate growth, healing, and readiness for new experiences.
Even small changes—like a child switching from bouncing a ball every session to choosing a new toy—signal that something important is happening. These shifts often reflect a deeper transformation, whether it’s increased trust, emotional regulation, or readiness to process more complex experiences.
What Progress Looks Like in the Therapy Room
Progress in play therapy can be subtle but meaningful. For example, a child who once played in isolation might start involving the therapist in cooperative play. They may start creating more elaborate or emotional storylines with figures or begin expressing real-life situations through their play themes.
Children will begin to share more about their lives, something that happened at school or home. That’s when I know that change is happening.
Play becomes their language, and through it, they begin to reveal more of their thoughts, fears, hopes, and experiences.
How Parents Can Recognize Change at Home
You don’t have to sit in on therapy sessions to see the results. Many parents begin to notice:
Fewer tantrums
Shorter emotional outbursts
Improved behavior at school or daycare
Faster recovery after conflict or disappointment
Even if progress feels slow at first, consistency pays off. As children feel more secure and emotionally grounded, they’re better equipped to handle challenges, communicate needs, and connect with others.
❤️ The Takeaway: Progress Is Personal
Every child moves at their own pace, and play therapy respects that journey. At Emmaus Counseling, I focus on creating a safe and nurturing environment for children to heal, grow, and thrive. As a parent, you don’t have to interpret every play session—I’ll help you understand what’s happening and celebrate the wins along the way.
Learn more about my play therapy services available in South Austin, Buda, and Kyle by visiting https://www.emmaus-counseling.net .
