Therapeutic Approaches for
Toddlers to Teens

Therapy can be very helpful for children and teens who are dealing with emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges. Kids don’t think or express themselves the same way adults do, so therapy needs to be adjusted to fit their age and how they understand the world.

There are several types of therapy that work well for children and teens, including Child-Centered Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Activity Therapy, and Talk Therapy for older kids and teens. Each one offers different ways for young people to express their feelings, learn coping skills, and grow emotionally.

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1. Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT)

Child-Centered Play Therapy uses play to help young children express their feelings and work through tough experiences. Since little kids often don’t have the words to explain how they feel, play becomes their way of communicating.

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In this kind of therapy, the therapist creates a safe, caring space where the child can play freely. The therapist doesn’t tell the child what to do—they simply support and listen. Through play, children can show what’s bothering them, feel understood, and build confidence. This type of therapy can help kids learn how to handle emotions, deal with stress, and get along better with others.

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2. Expressive Arts Therapy

Expressive Arts Therapy lets children and teens use creative activities—like drawing, painting, music, dance, or writing—to share their thoughts and feelings. This is especially helpful for kids who find it hard to talk about what they’re going through.

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For example, a child might draw a picture to show what it feels like to be nervous or angry. A teen might write a song or poem about something upsetting. Creating art can help kids understand their emotions, lower stress, and feel more confident. The therapist helps guide the process but focuses on supporting the child’s creativity, not judging the work.

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3. Activity Therapy

Activity Therapy uses physical movement and hands-on activities—like games, sports, or outdoor challenges—to help kids express themselves and learn important life skills. This approach is great for kids who have a lot of energy, struggle to focus, or don’t like sitting and talking.

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Therapists might use teamwork games to help a child practice patience, cooperation, or problem-solving. They may also use things like yoga or obstacle courses to help a child calm down, manage anger, or feel more in control of their body and emotions.

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Activity Therapy can be fun and engaging while also teaching kids how to handle stress, build friendships, and feel more confident.

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4.​Talk Therapy for Teens

As kids get older, they usually become better at thinking about their feelings and talking about their problems. Talk therapy (also called “talking therapy” or “counseling”) is a good fit for many pre-teens and teens.

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In talk therapy, the teen and therapist talk through things like emotions, relationships, school stress, or big life changes. It’s a safe space where teens can say what’s on their mind without fear of judgment. The therapist helps them understand what they’re feeling and learn new ways to cope with challenges, communicate better, and build healthy habits.

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Choosing the Right Fit for Therapy

​Every child is different, and there’s no single “right” kind of therapy for everyone. What matters most is finding the approach that fits the child’s age, personality, and needs. Whether it’s playing, creating art, moving through activities, or talking things out, therapy gives children and teens the tools they need to grow, heal, and feel supported as they navigate life’s ups and downs.