The greatest gift we can give children is the space to explore their inner world through play."
As a play therapist, I work with children facing various emotional and behavioural
challenges. Play therapy is particularly beneficial for children who may find it difficult to
express their thoughts and feelings verbally.
Who Can Benefit from Play Therapy?
I offer play therapy to children aged between 3 and 13 years of age who are
experiencing:
- Emotional Challenges: Such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
- Behavioural Issues: Including aggression, defiance, or hyperactivity
- Trauma Recovery: For those who have experienced abuse, neglect, or significant loss.
- Developmental Disorders: Including autism spectrum disorders and other neurodiverse conditions.
- Social Difficulties: Such as trouble making friends or interacting with peer.
Emotional Overwhelm
- Addressing self-harm and unhealthy coping mechanisms
- Managing obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviours, and anxiety-related conditions (e.g., OCD, phobias)
- Developing healthy strategies for long-term well-being
Identity
- Supporting understanding of cultural and religious identities
- Navigating diversity, inclusion, belonging, and social integration
- Making sense of with cultural family expectations
Emotional Regulation
- Managing and expressing emotions in a healthy way
- Reducing anxiety and fear
- Coping with sadness and depression
Social Skills
- Enhancing communication and interaction skills
- Building and maintaining friendships
- Developing empathy and understanding others
Self-Esteem and Confidence
- Building self-worth and self-acceptance
- Overcoming shyness and social anxiety
- Encouraging independence and self-reliance
Developmental Issues
- Supporting children with developmental delays
- Enhancing motor skills and coordination
- Promoting cognitive development and problem-solving skills
Life Transitions
- Adjusting to new siblings or blended families
- Adapting to changes in living situations
- Managing the impact of moving or changing schools
Behavioural Issues
- Addressing aggressive or defiant behaviour
- Reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity
- Improving attention and focus
Trauma and Grief
- Processing traumatic experiences
- Coping with loss and bereavement
- Healing from abuse or neglect
Family Dynamics
- Improving parent-child relationships
- Facilitating better communication within the family
- Addressing family conflicts and changes (e.g., divorce, relocation)
School-Related Issues
- Coping with academic stress and pressures
- Addressing school refusal or avoidance
- Improving classroom behaviour and performance
Additional & Neurodiverse Needs
- Providing tailored support for children with ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and other special needs
- Enhancing adaptive and functional skills
- Promoting social and emotional development
Play therapy provides a safe and supportive environment where
children can explore their feelings, develop coping strategies, and work through
challenges in a way that feels natural and engaging to them.
If you're unsure whether play therapy is the right approach for your child, together, we can discuss their difficulties holistically. This can be helpful in supporting your decision on the level of support which may be required. This process can provide you clarity on the best way forward.
Determining The Need for Play Therapy
If you’re considering play therapy for your child, it’s important to assess the severity and
nature of their challenges.
For mild issues, therapeutic play or filial play (involving parents directly) might be beneficial.
Moderate to severe problems often require structured play therapy sessions with a certified therapist.
In cases of severe emotional or behavioural issues, alongside play therapy sessions, consulting with medical professional may be required.
For mild issues, therapeutic play or filial play (involving parents directly) might be beneficial.
Moderate to severe problems often require structured play therapy sessions with a certified therapist.
In cases of severe emotional or behavioural issues, alongside play therapy sessions, consulting with medical professional may be required.
© 2024 Ateka Azam, Certified Play Therapist | Edinburgh UK | All rights reserved
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