What is child-centred play therapy (CCPT)?

Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) is a psychotherapy approach for children that is based on their natural way of self-expression: Play.

With play seen as the child’s language and ‘toys’ as their words, the therapeutic materials in the playroom have been carefully selected to facilitate communication.

But the most important resource in the room is the therapist. Just like in other modalities, the child-clinician relationship is the highest predictor of positive treatment outcomes.

The therapist builds the relationship, understanding the child’s needs and experiences through play. So the underlying sources of challenges are addressed by focusing on the whole child and their needs. Change then happens from the inside out.

As internal growth increases, behavioural symptoms will decrease. This leads to a stronger person (resilience and inner strength), more able to tolerate triggers and changes.

Further information

There are various types of play therapy, which are grounded on different theoretical models. These approaches sit on a continuum ranging from non-directive to directive.

Child-centred play therapy (CCPT) is a Humanistic intervention and the most non-directive of all play therapy modalities. As an evidence-based approach, it has been proved to be one of the most effective for children aged 3 to 11.

To access the latest play therapy research, including meta analyses and reviews, please visit https://evidencebasedchildtherapy.com