The Value of Play

The Value of Play

Recently I became involved in creating an improv group for NYC-area actors. For those unfamiliar with improv, this is a type of live performance in which actors make up the scenes, characters, dialogue and action on the spot. Short for “improvisation,” this activity demands flexibility and thinking on our feet.

I categorize improv and related types of role-playing games as both fun and potentially therapeutic. It is a type of play, or interaction with a goal of enjoyment, that can bring about growth as well as possible healing. Play allows us to enter a zone outside of work, pressure, “shoulds” and “musts.” Improv, as a form of play, places us with others who have a similar goal. We enter the arena for play, typically a theater or stage, to engage in this particular format. But sometimes we enter this place within a therapy session with a therapist versed in play-based or dramatic modalities, and it can be a place to explore emotions by taking on new roles for ourselves.

When I have sessions with clients, I frequently invite the client to role-play a scenario of importance in their life. Perhaps they are nervous about opening a particular conversation, asking for help, or engaging with a significant person. Sometimes we will do multiple “scenes” or “takes” of the same interaction to practice different responses and become more confident with multiple options. Sometimes we may want to rehearse one consistent response no matter the other person’s reaction. In this type of exercise, I as the clinician might use a bit of improv given what I understand about the situation and its potential outcomes. A client will also feel free to improvise and observe emotions that arise while in a safe, controlled environment.

When I go into the performing arts world and use these exercises with actors, I maintain my therapeutic lens by observing individuals and their needs as the scenes emerge. It is important that participants in this type of structured play feel safe in their self-expression and also in their autonomy to opt in or out of the activity. I like to keep these parameters in mind in all types of play activities, whether in dramatic arts, creation of visual arts, turn-taking games, free movement or simply enjoying a sensory toy like a squishy ball or plush.

Some questions I like to ask include these: 

What types of play did you enjoy when you were younger, and do you still enjoy it? 

Is there room in your day or week for a play break, to interact with someone else or take a moment for yourself for fun? 

Is there a toy that you have or can get for yourself, to hold on to or squeeze when you need a break?

Is there a movement that feels good, like skipping or swinging, that you can use to break up your routine? 

Play is beneficial at every age and stage, allowing us to release tension, see new perspectives and have a good time. For more information on these benefits, check out Core Wellness’ article on Why Adults Need Play Therapy Just As Much as Kids and American Counseling Association’s article Yes, And... Improv Can Be Therapeutic. Have fun!