Starting Play Therapy: Gaining New Perspectives as a Parent and Therapist

Navigating therapy for your own child offers a unique perspective, especially when you’re a therapist yourself. Our family isn’t a stranger to therapy - we’ve done feeding therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and a humble NICU stay.
It is time consuming and expensive and it is so much HARD WORK for your kiddo (and you as you’re learning how to best support your child in a new way!) This is hard brain and heart work for everyone involved. Make no mistake, I understand how challenging it is to manage therapies as a family. As our family steps into the world of play therapy, I find myself both intrigued and comforted, reflecting on the experience not only as a parent but also through the lens of a speech-language pathologist. Experiencing the process as a client rather than a provider brings an entirely new appreciation for what it means to entrust someone else with my child’s growth and well-being.

The play therapist we visit practices out of a charming old building in St. Louis city, built in 1886. Its architecture adds a layer of warmth and history, a visually intriguing backdrop to our weekly sessions. There’s something exciting about the thick stone walls and old glass windows—we’re stepping into a building filled with stories.

One of the things I find particularly inspiring about this play therapist is the thoughtfulness they bring to their practice. For families who might not be able to afford or have space for large playroom toys, they offer a unique rental option, allowing parents to borrow toys to use at home. As a therapist myself, Iit’s wonderful to see this accessibility offered in a private practice setting.

Additionally, the open play hour they host is such a beautiful concept. It allows kids to explore freely while parents can connect, enjoy a coffee, and share their experiences. This kind of supportive environment not only brings joy but also serves as a reminder of the healing that can happen when families are able to gather and find community.

I'm always looking for ways to make my own practice stand out, and one thing I really appreciate about this play therapist is the social story they provided before our first visit. It included pictures and a simple explanation of what to expect, giving my child a preview of who we would meet, easing the transition and setting the stage for a positive experience. It’s a thoughtful touch that speaks to the value of making small efforts that have a big impact for our families.

In this new journey, I am grateful to be able to support another private practice therapist and observe firsthand how they’ve set up their space. It’s been a gift to see their dedication in providing creative, family-centered solutions that bring people together and make therapy accessible to everyone. I feel honored to have this dual perspective, as a mom and a therapist, and am excited to continue learning and growing alongside my child in this wonderful space.