Play therapy

Play is vital in supporting all aspects of a child’s emotional, social, physical and cognitive development. Play therapy today is therefore widely recognised as an effective therapy that can help to improve children’s mental health and well-being.

Play provides opportunities for children to learn about their world and experiences through self-discovery and exploration of the toys and art materials provided each week. These materials are critical in providing a safe distance for the child to play out and work through more difficult life experiences and at a pace that feels comfortable for them. This distance created through roles, narratives and stories in the playroom allows the child to come closer to these experiences and remain in control of their world.

In therapy the toys become their words and play is their language, as it offers the child a way to communicate something about the way they are feeling, and in the best way they know how…. through play. As often children find it extremely difficult to put their feelings into words which limits the way in which they can express themselves with more traditional therapies.

What might be the reasons for a referral?

• Family issues such as separation, divorce, or bereavement

• Grief, depression and emotional support

• Medical issues, family illness or palliative care

• Children with ASD, ADHD or other developmental or learning needs

• Fostered or adopted children

• Domestic violence

• Physical, emotional and sexual abuse

• Neglect

• Challenging or aggressive behaviours

• Anxiety

• Low self confidence and self-esteem

• Difficulties with relationships in the family or peers

• A traumatic life event or natural disasters

What is the referral process?

Play Therapy referrals can be made by contacting me either through a telephone call consultation or via the enquiry form. I will then forward the referral pack to you and we can arrange for a day and time most suitable for you to carryout a fully comprehensive play therapy assessment. Please note telephone consultations are approximately fifteen minutes long.

Referrals can be made by parents, carers, head teachers, SENCO, social workers, charities, General Practitioners or other agencies.

It is important to note that consent must be obtained by the legal guardian of the child, as well as assent being given by the child before the play therapy intervention can take place.