What Is Play Therapy – Play Therapy

The more healthy relationships a child has, the more likely he will be to recover from trauma and thrive. Relationships are the agents of change and the most powerful therapy is human love."

— Bruce D. Perry

As a play therapist, I offer a specialised therapeutic approach designed to help children and
young people express and process their emotions through play and creative activities. This
method is particularly beneficial for those young people who find it challenging to articulate
their feelings verbally.

What Is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a form of child-centred therapy that utilises play and art materials as primary tools for expression. Children often communicate their experiences and emotions through play, especially when they struggle to find the right words. In our sessions, your child can explore their thoughts and feelings using various media, including drawing, painting, clay, sand trays, puppetry, and music. This creative process allows them to convey complex emotions and experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

How Does Play Therapy Work?

In our play therapy sessions, I provide a consistent and secure space where your child feels comfortable to express themselves. Each session is structured with predictable boundaries, allowing your child to explore their emotions at their own pace. Through the therapeutic relationship we build, your child is not alone in their experiences; I am there to support and understand them.

Engaging in play allows your child to experiment with different scenarios, understand their feelings, and develop healthier coping strategies. This process not only aids in emotional regulation but also contributes to their overall development and well-being.

My Approach – Integrative Holistic Therapy

In my practice, I use an integrative holistic model of play therapy. This combines
various therapeutic techniques to address the individual needs of each child. This
approach considers the whole child—emotionally, mentally, and socially—and
tailor’s interventions to their unique situation.

By integrating a variety of therapeutic modalities like sand, clay, creative visualisation, therapeutic storytelling, art, music and more, I create an inclusive, flexible, child-led
plan that promotes healing and growth.

This holistic approach ensures that therapy is not only effective but also respects and
incorporates the child and young persons personal experiences and cultural background, providing a
well-rounded and empathetic support system.

The Importance Of The Therapeutic Relationship

A crucial aspect of play therapy is the therapeutic relationship between your child and me, the therapist. Through our interactions, your child learns to trust and feel understood, which is essential for effective therapy. This relationship provides a foundation for your child to explore difficult emotions and experiences, leading to positive changes in their behaviour and emotional health.

If you have any further questions or would like to discuss how play therapy can support your child, please feel free to reach out.