It is appropriate, when using play or other media during counseling sessions, to view it in conjunction with other behaviors during the session.

• A. See it as unconnected to relationship-building
• B. View it in conjunction with other behaviors during the session
• C. Give evaluative feedback to the young client for whatever products are produced
• D. Assume that the play or artistic expression is independent of counseling content

Answer: (B)

In child counseling, play and media are best understood in the context of the whole session. Children express feelings, worries, and conflicts through play, but the meaning of a scene or product comes alive when you read it alongside how the child is behaving overall—their engagement, mood, communication, and interactions with you and others during that same session. This integrated view helps you notice patterns, themes, and progress, and it guides how you support coping and growth. When you discuss the play, focus on the feelings and meanings it reveals and connect those insights to real-life goals, rather than judging the artifact itself. Play also strengthens the relationship and rapport, which is essential for therapy to be effective, so it should never be treated as separate from the therapeutic relationship. Keep in mind that treating play as independent from counseling content or giving evaluative judgments about the products can derail the process; instead, invite exploration, reflect feelings, and weave insights back into goals and interventions.