Many young children experience crises resulting from psychological, physical, or environmental events.  Compounding such situations, children do not have the developed coping mechanisms of adults, and they often lack adequate familial support to console them.  In addition, if they are of preschool or elementary school age, they may be unable to communicate their needs verbally to a mental health worker.  Practitioners may need to utilize nonverbal communication methods such as play therapy to engage and help these young children.