What is Play Therapy?
Child-Centred Play Therapy is a developmentally appropriate therapeutic approach that recognises play as a child’s most familiar and effective form of expression. For many children, especially when verbal communication is difficult, play becomes a key way to share thoughts and feelings. In this approach, the therapist provides a safe, supportive, and creative environment where children can explore their emotions, process life experiences, and make sense of their world at their own pace. The toys and materials in the playroom act as symbolic tools, allowing children to express what they may not yet be able to say in words. Through this process, children are empowered to lead their own healing, develop emotional resilience, and build confidence within the security of a trusting therapeutic relationship.
“Toys are children’s words and play is their language.”
- Gary L. Landreth
Who is Play Therapy For?
I work with children aged 3 to 12 who may be experiencing emotional, social, or behavioural challenges. Play therapy can be especially supportive for children who are navigating:
Anxiety or frequent worries
Low confidence or self-esteem
Grief and loss
Separation, divorce, or family transitions
Difficulties at school or with peers
Adjustment to moves, changes, or new experiences
How Play Therapy Helps
In play therapy, children are supported in ways that strengthen both their inner world and their relationships. Within a consistent and secure therapeutic space, children can:
Express feelings they may not yet have words for
Develop coping strategies and emotional resilience
Strengthen self-confidence and self-expression
Explore healthier ways of relating to others
Experience empathy, acceptance, and understanding
Build trust in themselves and in safe relationships
My Approach
As a qualified play therapist, my role is to create a safe, responsive, and child-centred environment where growth can unfold at the child’s pace. I work with sensitivity to each child’s individual needs and strengths, tailoring the process to support their unique way of expressing and relating. The therapeutic relationship is central: it provides the security from which healing, confidence, and resilience can grow.
To ensure clear boundaries and the best possible care, I do not provide both play therapy for a child and parenting support for their parent or carer. If your family would benefit from both, I can recommend trusted colleagues so that each of you receives the dedicated support you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Each session takes place in a specially equipped playroom where children can use toys, art materials, and creative play to express themselves. My role is to provide a safe and supportive space where your child can explore feelings, experiences, and new ways of coping.
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Play therapy sessions are usually one-to-one with the child, as this creates the safety and freedom they need to express themselves. I will meet with you separately to discuss progress and offer support in understanding your child’s process.
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Sessions generally last 50 minutes.
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Play therapy can be helpful for children experiencing anxiety, low confidence, grief and loss, family transitions such as divorce or separation, difficulties at school or with peers, and other emotional or behavioural challenges.
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If your child is struggling to express feelings, showing changes in behaviour, or facing challenges that feel hard to manage, play therapy can provide a supportive space for them to work through these difficulties. I would be glad to discuss whether it may be a good fit.
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While everyday play is important for all children, play therapy is guided by a trained therapist who understands how to support emotional expression and growth through play. The therapeutic relationship and structured environment make the difference.