Play Therapy in Toronto
Play Therapy in Toronto
Children rarely say "I've been feeling anxious since the move." They show it: in meltdowns at bedtime, a stomach ache before school, a stuffed animal that keeps getting lost in the story. Play is how children make sense of their world. Play therapy meets them there.
We offer play therapy for children in person at our Dundas West office.
What is play therapy?
Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate form of psychotherapy for children. Using toys, art materials, sand trays, puppets and games, a trained therapist helps a child express feelings, work through experiences and practise new ways of coping. For children, play is language, and toys are words.
Where it comes from
Play has been part of child therapy since the early 20th century. In the 1940s, psychologist Virginia Axline developed child-centred play therapy, built on the belief that children have a natural capacity to heal given the right relationship. Garry Landreth and others expanded it into the widely used model it is today.
How play therapy works
A safe, consistent space with carefully chosen materials
Following the child's lead — the therapist watches, reflects and joins the play
Themes emerge — through repeated stories, conflicts and resolutions, children work through what's on their mind
Building skills — naming feelings, calming the body, problem-solving
Parent involvement — regular check-ins so you understand what's happening and how to support it at home
What play therapy can help with
Anxiety and worries
Big emotions and meltdowns
Divorce, separation or family changes
Grief and loss
Trauma or frightening experiences
School difficulties
Social struggles
ADHD-related challenges
How we use play therapy at Noema
Children's nervous systems are still learning to regulate, and they borrow calm from the adults around them. We pay close attention to how a child's body settles and activates during play, and we help parents understand what their child's behaviour may be communicating. Change sticks best when home is part of it.
Play therapy at Noema is offered by: Aidan Roman-Crossland
Is play therapy right for my child?
It may help if your child is struggling with emotions or behaviour, has been through a hard experience, or is having trouble at school or with friends. A consultation with you, the parent, is always our first step.
Play therapy in Little Portugal
Visit us at 1364 Dundas Street West on the 505 streetcar, near Trinity Bellwoods, Parkdale and Roncesvalles.
FAQs
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It looks like play — that's the point. Underneath, the therapist is tracking themes, feelings and patterns, and responding in ways that help your child grow.
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Usually not during sessions, though sometimes parents join. You'll have regular parent meetings.
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It varies. Many families notice shifts within a few months.
Here’s How to Connect
Fill out the form to schedule your free 20-minute intro call to explore how therapy can support you. We’ll help you get matched with the right therapist for you.
Email us with any questions you might have.
To book an appointment via JaneApp use the link below.
Book your free 20-minute intro call today. Schedule at your convenience.
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