Child Centred Play Therapy is a therapeutic approach that allows children to express themselves through play. Young children may struggle with traditional talk therapy as they often aren’t ready to verbally communicate their thoughts or feelings, especially in relation to difficult or traumatic events. Play therapy provides a developmentally appropriate form of counselling using a child’s most natural form of communication-play.

Play therapy provides a developmentally appropriate way for us to understand how a child views themselves and experiences their world. Within the safety of the therapeutic relationship and environment, children may feel safe to share any difficulties or worries they’re experiencing. We can then assist them in finding healthy ways to communicate their needs and feelings.

Child Centred Play Therapy is a non-directive approach which allows children to work through feelings or difficult experiences at their own pace. Sessions are child led and when possible take place weekly at the same time in a playroom. The toys and materials are carefully selected to facilitate exploration, emotional expression and creativity. The play materials are set up in the same way each week to provide consistency and familiarity for the child.

Who Would Benefit?

Play therapy is a suitable modality for children who may experience social, emotional, behavioural or learning difficulties.

Play Therapy may help:

• Children experiencing fears or anxiety

• Children who have experienced trauma or are living in complex circumstances

• Children experiencing difficulties with self-regulation or communication

• Children with behavioural issues

• Children who may feel anxious or overwhelmed on a regular basis

• Children experiencing grief and loss including parent separation

• Children living with developmental disorders including, but not limited to Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Children with developmental delay

• Children living with a family member suffering from a physical or mental illness

• Children who are pre-verbal or non-verbal and struggle to express their emotions, thoughts and feelings