Play Therapy vs. Talk Therapy: Choosing the Right Approach for Children in Voorhees, NJ
When a child is struggling emotionally or behaviorally, it’s a good idea to consult a mental health professional. But child and adolescent therapists in Voorhees, New Jersey, all use different approaches—how do you determine who to reach out to? First, you may want to explore what type of therapy will be most helpful. Two of the most common approaches for children and adolescents are play therapy and talk therapy. While both are effective, they serve different developmental needs. Understanding how each works—and when they’re most appropriate—can help you make an informed decision for your child’s care.
What Is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a developmentally informed approach that uses toys, games, art, movement, and imaginative play as a form of communication. For younger children, play is their natural language. Through play, they express emotions, process experiences, and explore relationships in ways that feel safe. Rather than requiring children to put their feelings into words, play therapy allows healing to happen through action, creativity, and symbolic expression. It is often useful to help children manage:
- Anxiety
- Trauma
- Grief
- Behavioral challenges
- Social difficulties
- Major life transitions
A trained play therapist will be present during sessions, observing themes, patterns, and emotional expressions and taking notes throughout. They will provide gentle guidance or ask leading questions. After sessions, they share insights with parents or guardians so that the family can be involved in care.
What Is Talk Therapy?
Talk therapy, sometimes called traditional psychotherapy, relies on verbal communication between the patient and therapist. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most common—a type of supportive counseling used to identify thoughts, understand emotions, and practice coping strategies. Sessions encourage reflection, skill-building, and problem-solving. Talk therapy is commonly used to address:
- Anxiety and depression
- Stress
- Relationship concerns
- Self-esteem issues
- Mood regulation
It can be effective for children and teens who have the language skills and emotional insight to discuss their experiences.
Determining the Best Type of Therapy by Age and Development
Age and developmental stage play a significant role in determining the best therapeutic approach between talk therapy and play therapy.
Treating Younger Children
For younger children (approx. ages 3–8), play therapy is often preferred. At this stage, most children won’t have the vocabulary or abstract thinking skills needed for traditional talk therapy. Play allows them to communicate complex feelings in a more natural, engaging way, and the feedback from these sessions will inform treatment.
Treating Older Children and Adolescents
For older children and adolescents, talk therapy can be used. Teens benefit from structured conversations, goal-setting, and insight-oriented work. That said, many adolescents still respond well to creative or experiential elements, especially when emotions are overwhelming or difficult to articulate, such as in the case of trauma.
Some clinicians may blend talk therapy and experiential approaches depending on the child’s needs, comfort level, and treatment goals. For example, a therapist might use play or art to help a child open up, then incorporate conversation and skills training. Having flexibility allows therapy to evolve alongside the child.
Finding the Right Fit for You
The most effective therapy is one that meets your child where they are, and that’s what you’ll find at Bridge to Balance. Whether through play, conversation, or a thoughtful combination of both, our goal is for your child to feel understood and supported. Reach out today to learn how a child therapist from our team can tailor treatment to your child’s unique strengths and needs! We offer play therapy at our offices in Voorhees, Hamilton, and Piscataway. Talk therapy is available in-person or online at most locations.