The Power of Play and Art Therapy at Maliya Wellness Centre
Unlocking the Power of Play and Art Therapy at Maliya Wellness Centre
Children are often exposed to various stressors, it's essential to remember the importance of play in child development. At Maliya Wellness Centre, we recognize that every child is unique, and their journey towards emotional and mental well-being requires a tailored approach. One of the forms of therapy we offer, under the expert guidance of Tessa Wihak, is Play and Art Therapy. This therapeutic approach creates a bridge between children and their inner worlds, fostering holistic growth and development.
Tessa Wihak: Your Guide to Child Therapy
Tessa Wihak, a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists, is a cornerstone of our team at Maliya Wellness Centre. She earned her Master's degree in Psychology from Boston University in 2016 and has since gathered extensive experience working with families impacted by neurodevelopmental and mental health disorders. Her expertise spans across various settings, including outpatient mental health clinics, special education environments, and non-profit organizations. Tessa is committed to a client-centered and strengths-based framework, focusing on areas of accomplishment while supporting areas of growth.
Tessa's background in pediatric pain clinics has strongly influenced her approach, allowing her to integrate the biopsychosocial model into treatment effectively. Her therapy arsenal includes evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. What sets Tessa apart is her ability to connect with children and youth through play, art, and games, making therapy a fun and engaging process.
Play is a fundamental aspect of a child's life, and it plays a crucial role in their development. While it may seem like fun and games, it's actually much more than that. Play is how children explore the world around them, learn new concepts, develop social skills, and process their emotions. It's the bridge between imagination and reality, and it's a child's way of communicating their thoughts and feelings.
But why is play so important in child development?
Cognitive and Emotional Growth: Play stimulates a child's imagination and creativity. It helps them build problem-solving skills, think critically, and learn to navigate complex situations. Through play, children can express their emotions and develop emotional intelligence.
Social Interaction: Play provides an opportunity for children to interact with peers, siblings, and adults. It teaches them how to cooperate, negotiate, and communicate effectively. These social skills are vital for healthy relationships later in life.
Physical Development: Different types of play, such as active play or sports, contribute to physical health and development. It helps build strength, coordination, and fine motor skills.
Stress Reduction: Play is a natural stress reliever for children. It offers a safe space where they can release pent-up energy and alleviate anxiety.
Self-Expression: Play allows children to express themselves freely, which can be particularly important when they're facing challenges or stressors in their lives.
Tessa Wihak recognizes the critical role of play in child development and leverages it as a therapeutic tool to help children overcome obstacles and flourish.
Play & Art Therapy: Meeting Children in Their World
Play and Art therapy is a specialized form of therapy that Tessa uses at Maliya Wellness Centre to connect with children on their terms. This approach acknowledges that children often communicate best through play and creativity. It allows them to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that feels natural and safe.
Here's why Play and Art therapy is invaluable:
Non-Threatening Environment: Play and Art therapy creates a non-threatening environment where children feel comfortable opening up. Instead of sitting in a formal office setting, children engage in activities that are familiar and enjoyable to them.
Expression Through Play: Children may find it challenging to articulate their feelings or experiences verbally. Through play and art, they can express themselves more easily. This can lead to breakthrough moments in therapy.
Developing Coping Skills: Play therapy helps children develop healthy coping mechanisms to deal with stress, anxiety, and difficult situations. It equips them with the tools they need to navigate challenges successfully.
Building Trust and Rapport: Tessa excels at creating a safe and welcoming space where children and teens can express themselves openly. She builds trust and rapport with her clients, ensuring they feel heard and understood.
A Fun and Engaging Approach: Therapy should not be seen as a chore but as a valuable experience. Tessa incorporates play, art, and games into her sessions, making therapy fun and engaging for children and teens.
By meeting children in their world through Play and Art therapy, Tessa ensures that therapy is a positive and constructive experience for her clients.
At Maliya Wellness Centre, we understand that children face unique challenges on their path to healthy development. Tessa Wihak, a Registered Psychologist with a wealth of experience, uses Play and Art therapy to help children express themselves, develop crucial skills, and overcome obstacles. The importance of play in child development cannot be understated, and by meeting children in their world, Tessa creates a safe and engaging environment for therapy.
