What stance does a therapist take by engaging in play with children during a therapy session?

Engaging in play with children during a therapy session indicates that the therapist takes an attached and proximate stance. This approach allows the therapist to build rapport and establish a safe and trusting environment for the child. When a therapist participates in play, they demonstrate openness, accessibility, and supportiveness, which are crucial for effective therapeutic relationships, particularly with younger clients who may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally.

This method also acknowledges the importance of play as a means for children to communicate their feelings, thoughts, and experiences, thereby facilitating emotional expression and insight in a natural and developmentally appropriate way. By being actively involved in play, the therapist shows that they are down at the child’s level, both physically and emotionally, fostering connection and enhancing the therapeutic alliance.