Understanding Play Therapy

Play therapy leverages the natural way children learn and communicate—through play. It is a dynamic and often non-verbal form of therapy that allows children to explore their emotions and experiences in a safe and controlled environment. By engaging in play, children can express thoughts and feelings they might not be able to articulate verbally.

Emergence of Video Games in Therapy

Video games have evolved from simple entertainment tools to complex systems capable of simulating real-life scenarios, promoting problem-solving, and fostering social interaction. Given these attributes, it is no surprise that therapists are exploring their potential in clinical settings.

Benefits of Using Video Games in Play Therapy

1. Engagement and Motivation

Children are naturally drawn to video games, which can increase their motivation to participate in therapy. The immersive and interactive nature of video games can make therapy sessions more engaging, especially for children who might resist traditional therapeutic methods.

2. Safe Environment for Expression

Video games can provide a virtual space where children feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings. Games designed with therapeutic purposes in mind often include scenarios that encourage emotional expression and exploration, allowing children to confront and manage their emotions indirectly.

3. Development of Cognitive and Social Skills

Many video games are designed to enhance cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, strategic thinking, and memory. Multiplayer games, in particular, can help children develop social skills like teamwork, communication, and empathy as they interact with other players.

4. Real-Time Feedback

Video games provide instant feedback on a player's actions, which can be beneficial for reinforcing positive behaviors and strategies. This immediate feedback loop helps children understand the consequences of their actions in a controlled environment, aiding in behavioral modification.

5. Customizable and Scalable

Therapists can choose or design video games tailored to the specific needs of the child. This flexibility allows for scalable difficulty levels and customizable content that aligns with therapeutic goals, ensuring a personalized approach to therapy.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

1. Screen Time Concerns

One of the main concerns with using video games in therapy is the potential increase in screen time. It is essential to balance game-based therapy with other activities to ensure children do not spend excessive time in front of screens.

2. Game Content

Not all video games are suitable for therapeutic purposes. Therapists must carefully select games that are age-appropriate, free from violent content, and aligned with the therapeutic objectives. Games with educational or therapeutic designs are preferred.

3. Technological Accessibility

Access to the necessary technology can be a barrier. Not all therapy practices or families may have the resources to implement video game-based therapy. Ensuring equitable access is important for the widespread adoption of this approach.

Integrating Video Games into Play Therapy

To effectively integrate video games into play therapy, therapists should:

• Conduct thorough assessments to determine if video game therapy is suitable for the child.

• Choose appropriate games that align with therapeutic goals and are suitable for the child's age and development level.

• Set clear boundaries and limits on game usage to prevent excessive screen time and dependency.

• Use video games as a complement to traditional play therapy methods rather than a replacement.

• Involve parents and caregivers in the process to ensure they understand the therapeutic purpose of the games and can support the child's progress at home.

Resources for Training in Video Game-Based Play Therapy

There are trainings and books available for those clinicians interested in using virtual apps and video games in play therapy. They include the works of psychologist Jessica Stone, and expert in this area of the field.

• Jessica Stone: Dr. Stone’s interest in therapeutic digital tools, specifically using virtual reality, tablets, and consoles, has have been used in mental health, medical and crisis settings. She is the co-creator of the Virtual Sandtray App for iPad (VSA) and the Virtual Sandtray for Virtual Reality (VSA-VR). Dr. Stone has numerous publications to date including Integrating Technology into Modern Therapies, Game Play, Play Therapy Theory and Perspectives, Play Therapy and Telemental Health, and Digital Play Therapy in addition to numerous chapters in a variety of books.