2024 is already shaping up to be a groundbreaking year for mental health care in the Philippines, and we’re absolutely thrilled to be part of it. Play therapy—long a staple in child therapy practices around the world and based on practices by Play Therapy International—is making its official debut, thanks to the dedication and hard work of the team at 4Freedom Philippines.
Spearheaded by Becky Clemison, in January, we celebrated a huge milestone: the first-ever play therapy training for Filipino practitioners. Fifteen passionate individuals—psychologists, counselors, educators, and mental health professionals—came together for this inaugural training event, all eager to learn how play therapy can unlock the potential for emotional healing and growth in children. The excitement in the room was palpable, with smiles, laughter, and even a few happy tears. It’s the beginning of something truly special, and we’re here for it!
What is Play Therapy and Why Does it Matter?
For those unfamiliar with it, play therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses play to help children express their emotions, work through trauma, and develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving. It’s based on the belief that play is the natural language of children, a safe and effective way for them to express feelings they might not have the words to explain.
Imagine a child sitting in front of a small table, surrounded by toys: dolls, cars, blocks, maybe some sand. A trained play therapist observes how the child interacts with these toys, using their imagination to tell stories or act out real-life situations. What might seem like simple play to the untrained eye is actually a powerful therapeutic tool. Through these interactions, children can express anxieties, fears, desires, and even resolve past trauma—all in a way that feels safe and comfortable to them.
The Growing Need for Play Therapy in the Philippines
Did you know that the Philippines has one of the highest rates of children experiencing mental health challenges in Southeast Asia? According to a 2021 study by the World Health Organization, approximately 17% of Filipino children face mental health issues, and of that group, more than 1 in 3 have never received any kind of mental health intervention.
The statistics are alarming, especially when you consider the ongoing challenges Filipino children face, including trauma from natural disasters, domestic violence, poverty, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The stigma around mental health in many communities can make it difficult for children to access the help they need.
This is where play therapy can make a transformative difference. With trained play therapists, we can reach children in ways that traditional talk therapy simply cannot. Play therapy doesn’t require children to verbalize their problems right away. Instead, it allows them to process and communicate in a way that feels natural. This non-threatening approach helps children feel more in control of their emotions, which is empowering and healing.
Our First Training—A Dream Come True!
The training conducted by 4Freedom Philippines was nothing short of magical. We had the privilege of working with an inspiring group of Filipino professionals who were ready to dive into the world of play therapy.
The workshop was hands-on, interactive, and deeply emotional. This training is only the start of a journey for this group who must go through 18 months of supervised practice in therapeutic play. However, at the end, they will receive a diploma to enable them to begin serving their communities.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
The launch of play therapy in the Philippines marks an important turning point in the country’s mental health landscape. It’s a beacon of hope for children and families struggling with emotional distress. As more Filipino mental health professionals get trained in play therapy techniques, we expect to see significant improvements in the way children’s mental health needs are met.
We envision a future where children can grow up with the tools they need to express their emotions, cope with life’s challenges, and thrive in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Play therapy offers a new path forward—a path where every child has a chance to heal, grow, and become the best version of themselves.
Let’s Celebrate This Milestone!
As we look ahead to what’s next, we’re filled with pride and excitement. The inaugural play therapy training was just the beginning, and we know that the ripple effects of this program will be felt for years to come. This isn’t just a new therapy technique—it’s a new way of thinking about children’s emotional well-being.
As we continue to build awareness and train more professionals, we’re optimistic that play therapy will become a vital part of the Filipino mental health ecosystem.
To all those who participated in the training, thank you for your commitment to making a difference in the lives of children. And to everyone else, stay tuned! The future of mental health care in the Philippines is bright, and play therapy is leading the way.
Let’s keep the play going! 🎉
