Play Therapy in the Treatment of Children with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Play therapy constitutes a specialized psychotherapeutic approach that utilizes play as a primary means of communication, expression, and processing of emotional experiences, particularly in cases where verbal expression is limited. Within the context of addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), play therapy provides a safe and structured environment in which the individual can engage with the traumatic event indirectly, thereby reducing the risk of re-traumatization. The aim of the present study is to highlight the contribution of this approach to the treatment of individuals who have experienced traumatic events. This topic was selected to emphasize the significance of play, in all its forms, and its efficacy in approaching traumatic experiences with a therapeutic purpose.Through techniques focused on art, such as role-playing, figurine enactment, and creative activities, play therapy facilitates emotional discharge, supports the reconstruction of personal narratives, and enhances the sense of control. The present study takes the form of a literature review, based on the identification and selection of research articles published in international scientific journals related to the topic under investigation. The collection of articles was conducted using reliable search platforms, including Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Academia.edu, and other comparable databases.Findings from the reviewed studies indicate that play therapy can reduce symptoms of hyperarousal, avoidance, and re-experiencing, while also contributing to improved emotional regulation and psychological resilience. Received: 28 January 2026 / Accepted: 28 February 2026 / Published: January 2026