In our fast-paced, tech-driven world, play often takes a backseat to endless tasks. But what if it’s the key to joy and balance? Cathy Canfield, LICSW, reveals how play therapy transforms lives—at any age. From kicking a soccer ball to crafting a collage, she shows us why stepping away from the grind can spark creativity and healing. Let’s dive into the power of play.
The Power of Play: What Is Play Therapy?
At her Alexandria practice, Cathy Canfield, LICSW, uses play therapy to bring relaxation and joy to clients. It’s a simple idea: using free-form play to unlock emotions and growth. For kids, kicking a soccer ball or inventing games fosters imagination and independence—far more than structured activities. “Rigid rules can limit expression and problem-solving,” Cathy explains, “stifling intellectual growth.” At its core, play therapy is about freedom to explore, for children and adults alike.
Why Kids Need Free-Form Play
Cathy’s approach shines brightest with kids. Free-form play isn’t just fun—it’s foundational. Here’s how it helps:
- Sparks creativity and problem-solving: Think inventing games with a soccer ball.
- Builds independence: Kids lead their play, gaining confidence.
- Boosts brain growth: Essential for learning and resilience.
Structured play, Cathy warns, can hinder these benefits. By letting kids roam free in their imagination, we nurture their cognitive and emotional development—setting them up for life.
The Science of Play: Experts Weigh In
Science backs Cathy’s approach. In his 2008 TED Talk, Dr. Stuart Brown called play “essential to humanity,” arguing it “lights up the brain like nothing else.” A 2001 TIME article by Walter Kirn and Wendy Cole echoed this, quoting Alvin Rosenfeld: “Play doesn’t just make kids happy—it may make them smarter.” Fast forward to 2023, and studies (like those from the APA) show play reduces stress hormones in kids and adults alike. As Cathy puts it, play isn’t a luxury—it’s healthy and productive for everyone.
Play Therapy for Adults: Rediscovering Joy
Think play is just for kids? Think again. Cathy explains that adults often lose themselves in stress: “I should’ve done this, I need to do that.” Play therapy for adults flips that script. Through collage-making or other free-form fun, it pulls us into the present, where joy lives. “We’re wired to have fun our whole lives,” Cathy says. “We don’t stop needing it at a certain age.”
What brought you joy as a kid—drawing, dancing, sports? Try it again this week and feel the difference. Pure enjoyment, no agenda required.
Cathy’s takeaway? “We’re wired to have fun our whole lives.” So, whether you’re a parent watching your child thrive or an adult craving balance, play might be your missing piece. What’s your favorite way to unwind? Let us know.
