With children under the age of 12, Dr. Fuller utilizes the therapeutic approach of play therapy, a validated and effective treatment. She has one entire room in her office dedicated to working specifically with children through play (seen above).
Why play therapy? Play is the language of a child. Play therapy builds upon the normal communication and learning style of children. As a play therapist strategically engages the child, the child will express what is bothering them through play when they do not have the cognitive ability to express their thoughts and feelings through language. Toys are to children what words are to grown ups.
Through play, therapists help children find and learn more adaptive behaviors, coping and social skills, improve self-esteem, and find hope in their current situation. Research has supported the efficacy of play therapy with a wide range of issues including: dealing with divorce grief, chronic illness, regular life stressors, depression, anxiety, school problems, physical and sexual abuse, social skills issues, domestic violence and natural disasters. When possible, Dr. Fuller will involve the family in play therapy to enhance the healing aspects of play therapy. See Dr. Fuller’s Scoop It page on PLAY.