Which type of therapy is often used by school social workers to help students express their feelings?

Play therapy is an effective therapeutic approach used by school social workers to help students express their feelings. This form of therapy leverages the natural way that children communicate and understand the world, primarily through play. Since young children may struggle to articulate their emotions verbally, play therapy allows them to express complex feelings and experiences through toys, games, and creative activities. It creates a safe space for children to explore their thoughts and emotions, facilitating emotional communication and problem-solving, ultimately helping them process their experiences in a developmentally appropriate manner.

While the other therapies listed also have their benefits—group therapy can foster social skills and interpersonal connections, cognitive-behavioral therapy addresses specific thought patterns and behaviors, and art therapy enables expression through creative outlets—they may not be as universally accessible for younger students or those who find it challenging to articulate their feelings in traditional ways. In contrast, play therapy is specifically designed to meet children where they are developmentally, making it a preferred method for school social workers when working with younger populations.