Play Therapy for Children
in Folsom, CA
Children often face challenges they cannot fully express through words. Play therapy offers a safe and supportive way for children to process their emotions, develop coping skills, and navigate difficult experiences. Parents often seek play therapy to address issues such as behavioral changes, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or difficulties in social interactions. By using play as a medium, children can communicate their feelings and gain insights in a way that feels natural and comfortable to them.
At Family Tree Counseling, Suzette James, LMFT, provides expert play therapy services designed to help children and families thrive. With over 30 years of experience working with children and families, Suzette offers compassionate, personalized care to meet each child’s unique needs.
What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a proven therapeutic approach that uses play as a way for children to express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. In a play therapy session, children engage in activities such as drawing, role-playing, storytelling, and working with toys. These activities allow children to:
Explore their feelings and express emotions they may not be able to verbalize
Develop problem-solving skills and emotional resilience
Build confidence and self-esteem
Process trauma or grief in a safe and structured environment
The Role of a Child Therapist in Play Therapy
A child therapist plays a vital role in facilitating the play therapy process. During sessions, the therapist observes and interprets the child’s play to understand their emotional and psychological needs. By creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment, the therapist helps the child feel comfortable expressing themselves. The therapist also works collaboratively with parents to provide insights and strategies that support the child’s progress outside of therapy sessions. Through skilled guidance, a child therapist empowers children to overcome challenges and achieve emotional growth.
Common Issues Addressed in Play Therapy
Suzette James uses play therapy to help children work through a variety of challenges, including:
Behavioral Issues: Addressing defiance, aggression, or difficulties with self-control
Anxiety and Depression: Helping children manage overwhelming feelings and find balance
Grief and Loss: Supporting children as they process the death of a loved one or other significant losses
Trauma and Abuse: Providing a safe space for children to heal from traumatic experiences
Social Skills Development: Enhancing children’s ability to form positive relationships and navigate social settings
Why Choose Family Tree Counseling?
Suzette James’s approach to play therapy is compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to each child’s unique needs. She creates a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe to explore and grow. With her extensive experience and deep understanding of family dynamics, Suzette collaborates with parents to ensure lasting, meaningful change.
Highlights of Suzette’s play therapy services include:
A child-centered approach that fosters trust and comfort
Expertise in child development and emotional regulation
A collaborative process that involves parents in the journey toward healing
Start Your Child’s Healing Journey Today
Your child doesn’t have to face their struggles alone. With Suzette James’s guidance, play therapy can help your child build resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being.
Contact Family Tree Counseling in Folsom, CA, today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a brighter future for your child.