The use of puppets and or play in therapy encourages the building of a strong rapport with children, youth and young adults. It encourages the individual to interact verbally and nonverbally with the puppet or play object and rebuild and restore positive relationships with themselves, peers, parents or other important people in their lives.
As a recreation therapist (in addition to being a counsellor now) the use of a variety of play interventions help to encourage a safe space that is both engaging and stimulating for the individual to express themselves. The effectiveness or this approach varies depending on the child, youth or young adult but the hope is that the client feels comforted and safe in the session. Other forms of play interventions include: toys, books, costumes, sand trays, and playrooms (I often use a virtual playroom for online sessions- ask me more about this!) to help a child resolve distress and interpersonal relationships.
Play encourages a child to communicate their feelings, experiences and ideas that contribute to their own self efficacy and resilience.