Play Therapy in Calgary

Play Therapy at Refresh Counselling gives children a safe, supportive space to express big feelings, process challenges, and build emotional resilience—through the natural language of play.

Helping Kids Heal Through Play

Children don’t always have the words to explain what they’re feeling—but they do have play. Play Therapy creates a safe space for children to explore their inner world, express emotions, and work through difficulties using toys, stories, art, and games.

You may have heard:

The truth? Children experience stress, grief, anxiety, and trauma too—but they process it differently. Play Therapy meets them where they are, helping them feel seen, safe, and supported.

How Play Therapy Supports Emotional Growth

Play is how children make sense of the world. In therapy, it becomes a powerful tool for healing, helping kids work through emotional, behavioural, and social challenges in a safe, supportive way.

At Refresh Counselling, Play Therapy helps children:

Express feelings like fear, sadness, or anger
Process trauma, loss, or big life changes (like divorce or moving)
Develop problem-solving and coping skills
Improve communication and self-confidence
Strengthen relationships with parents and caregivers

Beside You On Your Journey

We provide a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where you can explore your emotions, heal from past wounds, and overcome internal or external challenges. Our team of registered Calgary Psychologists and Counsellors are here to walk beside you—offering compassionate care, professional insight, and evidence-based strategies to help you move forward.

Common Reasons People Seek Counselling

Our clients come to us with a wide range of concerns, including:

Anger Management
Anxiety
Body Image
Boundaries
Cancer
Cultural Issues
Decision-Making
Depression
Eating Issues
Emotional Regulation

Family of Origin Issues
Fear
Guilt
Shame
Grief & Loss
Parenting Issues
Perfectionism
Phobias
Relationships

Self-Care
Self-Development
Self-Esteem
Sleep Problems
Spirituality
Stress Management
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
Work & Career

Whether you’re dealing with one issue or a mix of interconnected challenges, our therapists help you unpack what’s really going on and create a path forward—rooted in self-awareness, healing, and personal growth.

What to Expect from From Play Therapy

Every person’s path is different. Our registered Psychologists and Counsellors use a customized approach to fit your unique situation and goals. While your experience will be your own, many clients find therapy helpful in:

Processing past traumas and losses
Exploring core emotions and unmet needs
Developing healthier thinking patterns
Improving emotional regulation and communication
Building coping skills and resilience
Gaining clarity around identity, values, and direction

Evidence-Based Therapy Approaches We Use

We draw on a range of proven therapeutic models to support your growth, including:

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): Reshape negative thoughts and build better behaviours
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Understand and express your emotions in healthier ways
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT): Identify strengths and set practical, future-focused goals
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Heal from trauma and reduce distress tied to painful memories

Why Choose Refresh Counselling?

At Refresh Counselling, we provide high-quality, personalized mental health care that respects your unique story. Our team takes the time to truly understand your challenges and tailor a treatment plan that fits your goals.

Mental Health Matters

We’re passionate about helping people heal—with genuine care, empathy, and respect for every journey.

Licensed & Certified

You can trust that our therapists are not only qualified but committed to staying informed and improving their practice.

Holistic & Collaborative

Our care is rooted in a holistic view of well-being, nurturing every part of you with the help of our dedicated team.

Specialized Care

With varied specialties, our team tailors care to each client—drawing from approaches like EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, and more.

Meet our Play Therapy Specialists

Below is a list of our Therapists who offer play therapy.

Give Your Child a Safe Space to Thrive

When children feel safe to express themselves, healing happens. Play Therapy can help your child build emotional strength, confidence, and connection.

Have Questions About Play Therapy?

Find quick answers about what to expect, how it works, and how to get started with the right play therapist for you.

What are the benefits of Play Therapy?

Play Therapy helps support your child in developing coping skills, social skills, emotional regulation, and healthy problem-solving skills. Through imaginative play and emotional expression, children learn to process stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, and big transitions in a safe space where they feel comfortable and understood.

Is Play Therapy just playing?

Although sessions involve toys, art, and role play, Play Therapy is a form of psychotherapy. Children learn to express their thoughts and feelings through play, while the therapist gently guides them toward growth and emotional healing.

What ages are appropriate for Play Therapy?

Play Therapy is ideal for children roughly ages 3 to 12, when play is still their most natural way to communicate. It can be adapted for older children who benefit from creativity and movement during sessions.

How long does Play Therapy take?

The length of therapy depends on your child’s needs and history. Some families notice changes within a few sessions, while others continue longer to reinforce coping skills and emotional resilience. Your therapist will check in regularly and ensure your child is progressing at their own pace.

What if my child doesn’t want to talk or only plays quietly?

Talking is not required for progress in Play Therapy. Children process experiences through play, even when they are silent. Feeling safe comes first, and communication naturally grows as trust develops.

Is Play Therapy effective for neurodiverse children including autism or ADHD?

Yes. Play Therapy can help children has been shown to help with ADHD, autism, or behavioural challenges enhance emotional regulation, connection, and communication. It supports how children learn best: through play that matches their strengths and sensory needs.