4 Basic Skills for Play Therapists


Play therapy is a transformative approach that goes far beyond simply introducing toys and games into therapy sessions. To truly make an impact in the lives of children, adolescents, and families, therapists need to develop proficiency in core play therapy skills. Today, we’ll explore four essential play therapy skills—tracking, reflecting feelings, limit setting, and pacing—and how they form the foundation for effective practice.


The Shift to Play Therapy

Play therapy represents a fundamental shift from traditional talk therapy. Instead of relying on adult models, play therapy is rooted in theory and tailored to the unique developmental needs of children. This approach not only fosters a deeper connection with clients but also creates a free and protected space where healing can take place.

As a seasoned play therapist, I remember the struggle of entering the field without proper guidance. Like many, I initially felt like a fraud, unsure of how to make the most of the play therapy process. It wasn’t until I received training and connected with an experienced supervisor that everything changed. My journey has shown me how critical these four skills are and why they should be at the heart of every play therapy practice.


The Four Essential Skills

1. Tracking

Tracking involves observing, noticing, and verbally acknowledging the client’s behaviors and interactions during the session. This skill is fundamental in creating a safe and validating environment.

  • What It Looks Like:
    In child-centered play therapy, tracking is about following the child’s lead, commenting on their actions without judgment or interpretation. For example, if a child uses a hammer to knock over furniture in a dollhouse, you might say, “You’re hitting the furniture with the hammer, and it’s all falling over.”
  • Why It’s Important:
    Tracking communicates to the child that you see and hear them. It establishes trust and a sense of safety, making it easier for them to explore their emotions and experiences.

2. Reflection of Feelings

Reflecting feelings involves identifying and labeling the emotions that the child expresses during the session.

  • What It Looks Like:
    If the child uses a figure to act out a scenario where a “bad guy” enters a house, scaring the “good guy,” you might say, “The good guy seems really scared of what’s happening.”
  • Why It’s Important:
    This skill helps children become more aware of their emotions, enabling them to process and express feelings in a healthy way. Reflecting feelings often goes hand in hand with tracking, particularly in child-centered play therapy.

3. Limit Setting

Limit setting involves establishing boundaries within the therapeutic space while maintaining the freedom necessary for the child to explore and express themselves.

  • What It Looks Like:
    If a child attempts to throw toys, you might say, “Toys are not for throwing. You can choose another way to play with them.”
  • Why It’s Important:
    Boundaries provide structure and safety, which are essential for effective therapy. Limit setting also teaches children self-regulation and respect for shared spaces.

4. Pacing

Pacing is about matching the child’s emotional and physical energy during the session to ensure a comfortable flow.

  • What It Looks Like:
    If a child is hesitant or slow to engage, you might slow your interactions to match their pace. Conversely, if they are energetic and expressive, you can mirror that energy while maintaining therapeutic focus.
  • Why It’s Important:
    Pacing helps create an attuned therapeutic relationship. By meeting the child where they are, you can foster trust and support their unique journey through therapy.


Why These Skills Matter

Each of these skills is deeply influenced by the theoretical model you use. Theory drives application, shaping how you implement tracking, reflecting feelings, limit setting, and pacing in your sessions. Mastery of these skills not only enhances the effectiveness of play therapy but also builds the confidence and competence of the therapist.


Support for Play Therapy Practitioners

Learning these skills takes time, training, and guidance. That’s why consultation and supervision are essential for new and experienced therapists alike. Programs like the Play Therapy Academy provide structured support, helping practitioners gain the confidence and expertise needed to make a lasting impact.


Conclusion

Play therapy is a powerful tool, but it requires intentionality and skill. By mastering the four essential skills—tracking, reflecting feelings, limit setting, and pacing—you can create a transformative experience for your clients. Remember, as you grow in your practice, trust the process and seek out opportunities for ongoing learning and support.

Categories: : Assessment, Case Conceptualization, Play Therapy, Play Therapy Model, Podcast, Supervision