Play therapy allows children to explore their worries and challenges through play in a way that feels natural and safe.

 

Depending on the child’s needs, I may guide the process, or follow the child’s lead, using a variety of techniques to support emotional, behavioural, or developmental growth.

 

This work can take place with the child alone or with their parent/carer.

 

Play therapy can help if you are concerned about your child - they may appear unhappy and withdrawn, or aggressive and disruptive; you may be aware they have experienced something difficult that they are struggling to cope with, or unsure of what the issue may be.

 

Play is a child's natural medium of self expression.  Play therapy allows children to explore and express the feelings that are troubling them, make sense of their experiences and process their feelings within a safe space and with an accepting, understanding adult.  

 

Play therapy can include life story work to help children understand the possible triggers for their struggles.  Or directive creative work can focus on brain training and helping children connect their thoughts, feelings, body sensations and actions.  Therapeutic stories are also beneficial to help explain big feelings or life events.

 

If it is going to be helpful then parent/carers can join the sessions, and regular reviews are held to ensure they are involved in the process.