02/02/2026
This week, we’re celebrating the incredible work of our school clinicians—like Larissa Marceau, MSW, SWC—who use the power of play to help children heal, grow, and thrive.
Many parents understandably wonder how an hour of “just playing” can make a meaningful difference. But for children, play is the language of healing. While adults use words to process their experiences, children express their emotions, fears, and hopes through imagination, storytelling, and play.
Larissa shared a beautiful window into what happens inside a play therapy session:
• Children choose the toys, themes, and stories they want to explore.
• They’re given a safe, non judgmental space to express big feelings and lived experiences.
• As they play, Larissa weaves in regulation strategies and self awareness skills—meeting them exactly where they are.
Over time, something remarkable happens. Children begin to:
• Rewire their brains to stay grounded during challenges
• Reach for healthy regulation skills naturally
• Feel more confident in who they are
• Communicate their emotions more clearly
• Show greater resilience in everyday life
Parents often share that they see their children becoming more connected—to themselves, to family, and to friends—as they move toward a healthier, more empowered future.
Play therapy isn’t “just play.” It’s a profound, evidence based path to healing—and we’re grateful for clinicians like Larissa who make that journey possible for our students every day.
