Play Therapy as a Strengths-Based Intervention in Child and Family Social Work

Play therapy has become a crucial intervention for children experiencing trauma, attachment disruptions, and emotional difficulties. This chapter situates play therapy within child and family social work, framing it as a strengths-based and culturally adaptable practice. Drawing on case examples, this chapter illustrates how play creates safe spaces for children to express experiences of loss, abuse, and family conflict. The chapter reviews evidence on the effectiveness of play therapy in improving emotional regulation, resilience, and relational functioning. It also explores adaptations for diverse cultural contexts and resource-constrained settings, including the use of creative tools, community-based delivery, and integration with family work. Challenges such as accessibility, supervision needs, and the risk of diagnosing children’s behavior are critically discussed. Policy and practice implications include recognizing play therapy within social work training, expanding access in schools and child welfare systems, and embedding it in multidisciplinary interventions. By foregrounding children’s voices, the chapter advances a rights-based, strength-oriented approach to therapeutic social work.