play therapy

noun

: psychotherapy in which a child is encouraged to reveal feelings and conflicts in play rather than by verbalization

Examples of play therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Some kids might also need play therapy, OT, PT, or other types of treatments. Taylor Grothe, Parents, 7 Aug. 2024 Both specialize in child psychology and have years of experience conducting play therapy to support the behavioral, social and emotional goals of children. Christina Mayo, Miami Herald, 10 July 2024 Healthcare: Healing Through Play In healthcare, play therapy has emerged as a powerful tool for healing. Shirin Etessam, Rolling Stone, 26 Jan. 2024 The center offers family services; educational enrichment; occupational, speech and play therapy; and onsite medical and dental care. Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 31 Jan. 2024 See all Example Sentences for play therapy 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'play therapy.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of play therapy was in 1936

Dictionary Entries Near play therapy

Cite this Entry

“Play therapy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/play%20therapy. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

play therapy

noun
: psychotherapy in which a child is encouraged to reveal feelings and conflicts in play rather than by verbalization

More from Merriam-Webster on play therapy

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