How to Find the Right Play Therapist in Denver
Finding the right therapist for your child can feel overwhelming. If you've started searching for a play therapist in Denver, you've likely come across dozens of websites, credentials, and therapy approaches. As a parent, you want someone who will connect with your child, understand their unique needs, and help your family move forward.
The good news is that there are a few key things to look for that can help you find the right fit.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate form of counseling designed specifically for children. Because children often lack the words to fully express their thoughts and feelings, they naturally communicate through play.
In play therapy, toys become a child's language and play becomes their way of processing experiences, emotions, and challenges. Through the therapeutic relationship, children can develop emotional regulation, confidence, problem-solving skills, and healthier ways of coping with life's difficulties.
Play therapy can help children struggling with:
Anxiety and excessive worry
Emotional outbursts
Behavioral challenges
Grief and loss
Family transitions and divorce
Trauma and stressful experiences
Social difficulties
Low self-esteem
Look for Specialized Training in Play Therapy
Not all therapists who work with children have specialized training in play therapy.
When searching for a play therapist in Denver, consider asking about their education, training, and experience working with children. Therapists who have pursued additional play therapy training have spent significant time learning how children communicate through play and how to use the therapeutic relationship to support healing and growth.
One credential you may see is Registered Play Therapist (RPT), which indicates advanced training, supervision, and experience in play therapy.
Ask About Specialized Training With Children
Many therapists work with children, but not all therapists have specialized training in play therapy.
Because play is a child's primary language, effective play therapy involves much more than simply having toys in the therapy room. Play therapists receive specialized training in child development, attachment, emotional regulation, and therapeutic play interventions that help children process emotions and experiences in developmentally appropriate ways.
In today's mental health landscape, it is increasingly common for group practices to hire clinicians who are early in their careers and may have limited experience working with children or providing play therapy. While these clinicians can be compassionate and skilled therapists, parents should feel comfortable asking about a therapist's specific training and experience with children.
When researching therapists, consider asking:
What training have you completed in play therapy?
How long have you been working with children?
Do you have experience with my child's specific concerns?
Are you currently pursuing advanced training or certification in play therapy?
How do you involve parents in the therapy process?
Understanding a therapist's background can help you make an informed decision about who is the best fit for your child and family.
Consider Your Child's Specific Needs
Every child is different, and finding a therapist who has experience with your child's concerns can be helpful.
You may want to look for a therapist who specializes in:
Child anxiety
ADHD and executive functioning challenges
Emotional regulation
Trauma and PTSD
Divorce and family transitions
Grief and loss
School-related concerns
A therapist's website can often provide valuable information about the populations they serve and the approaches they use.
Pay Attention to Parent Involvement
One of the biggest misconceptions about play therapy is that parents simply drop their child off and wait for change to happen.
Effective play therapy often includes regular parent consultations. These meetings help parents understand what their child is working through, learn new strategies, and support progress outside of the therapy room.
When researching therapists, consider asking:
How often are parent meetings scheduled?
How do you communicate progress?
How are parents involved in treatment?
A strong partnership between therapist and parent often leads to better outcomes for children.
Find Someone Your Child Can Connect With
Research consistently shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy outcomes.
While credentials and training are important, it is equally important that your child feels safe, understood, and comfortable with their therapist.
Many therapists offer a consultation call before beginning services. This can be a helpful opportunity to ask questions, learn about their approach, and determine whether they feel like a good fit for your family.
Ask About Their Therapy Approach
Play therapists may use different approaches depending on their training and philosophy.
Some common approaches include:
Child-Centered Play Therapy
Synergetic Play Therapy
Directive Play Therapy
Trauma-Informed Play Therapy
EMDR for Children
There is no single "best" approach. Instead, look for a therapist who can explain how they work and how their approach supports your child's needs.
Final Thoughts
Searching for a play therapist in Denver can feel overwhelming, but focusing on training, experience, parent involvement, therapeutic approach, and overall fit can help narrow your options.
The right therapist can provide a safe space for your child to express emotions, develop new skills, and build resilience while supporting you as a parent throughout the process.
If you're considering play therapy for your child, a consultation can be a helpful first step toward understanding what support might be most beneficial for your family.