What is play therapy?
Play Therapy is a form of creative psychotherapy providing children and young people with the opportunity for healing and personal growth, the development of problem-solving skills and coping strategies, as well as a deeper understanding of Self. The power of play therapy lies in the fact that clients do not need to rely on words to communicate their feelings and experiences. Play bridges the gap between concrete experience and abstract thoughts and feelings.
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​​​​During play therapy, the child or young person can explore and process anxiety, stresses and traumatic life experiences using symbolic and imaginative play and creativity within a safe consistent space. I facilitate a strong, trusting relationship with all my clients, accepting them with unconditional positive regard and as individuals with their own story. I offer carefully selected creative play and art materials to enable them to fully explore and express their feelings, thoughts, behaviours, and experiences without having to rely on words.
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Play Therapy gives children and young people an alternative means of self-expression for difficult or upsetting experiences or overwhelming feelings. For example, puppets or small world characters can give the child permission to express strong emotions through a character one step removed from their own experience. Art and craft materials and clay provide opportunities to express big feelings and reshape difficult memories. Natural materials support grounding and calming through connection to nature.​​
During play therapy sessions, I observe the child or young person’s play and creative processes with curiosity, empathy, and acceptance, making note of any recurring themes. I can then offer more directive therapeutic activities to help them work through their experiences and feelings. Offering opportunities for both self led and directive therapeutic activities can help children and young people change unhelpful behaviours and thought patterns.
