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The use of games in treatment is valuable.

Therapists approach the use of games in multilayered ways to maximize benefit.

There are various types of games and ways of using games effectively in therapy.

Utilizing games in therapy is common for those clinicians who work with children, teens, or families, but sometimes parents may not fully understand the value of games in a therapy setting.

Therapeutic game use can be a highly effective way of engaging clients while simultaneously getting to issues that are part of the presenting problem. They are not just for amusement or a time filler; games and playful activities can be used for action and change.

Why This Approach Can Be a Game-Changer

Therapists who work with families and young people tune into considering intervention methods that go beyond the traditional talking approach expected for most adults for much of a therapy session. While therapy with children sometimes involves direct discussion, inquiry into relevant issues, or teaching of skills, there are times when a playful activity within the context of a session can be highly beneficial. Even very mature or highly verbal children can benefit from a different way to engage, practice social-emotional skills in a pleasurable way, or take a break from highly intense material by shifting gears. Games or playful activities also help signal to a child that the therapy process doesn’t have to be scary or unpleasant.

When games are used therapeutically, they can be an excellent way to lower inhibition, increase engagement, target skills, and add lighthearted positivity when facing sometimes difficult issues. For example, a very shy or socially anxious child may find it easier to answer printed icebreaker-type questions on a card than to engage in direct dialogue to start. For a youngster coping with a parental divorce or a family transition, a game that highlights and validates many of the typical feelings and questions children have can be........

© Psychology Today