What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a form of counselling or psychotherapy, in which play is used as a means of helping children express or communicate their feelings. Play Therapy is one of the Creative Arts Therapies, and is commonly used to help children move forward from traumatic events or difficult periods in their lives. It is believed by many that Play Therapy is the most effective form of counselling for children, as they are not required to use language skills to communicate.

Who could benefit from Play Therapy?

  • Children struggling emotionally, socially, or behaviourally
  • Those experiencing trauma, abuse, or bereavement
  • Children affected by family separation or divorce
  • Those with anxiety, stress, or phobias
  • Children with learning difficulties, illness, or disabilities
  • Those excluded from school or at risk of exclusion
  • Children who are withdrawn, unhappy, or have sleep problems
  • Those who find it hard to make friends, are bullied, or bully others
  • Children showing inappropriate or limited play behaviour
Lego figure diving into a pool

Play therapy sessions last 50 minutes and can take place in the child's school. Most children need a minimum of 12 sessions, some far more, to help them cope with the challenges presenting. Please contact me for an informal chat about whether play therapy is suitable for your child.