Adults often use counselling to assist them through difficult times, however traditional talk therapy isn’t always so suitable for children.

This is because a child’s verbal skills and cognitive abilities are still developing and using words may not be the best way to connect with them.

Children may feel something but they can struggle to find the words to describe and understand complex and confusing feelings.

When they can’t find the words or a way to express their feelings they can often then become expressed in undesirable ways (meltdowns, aggression)

This is where Play Therapy comes in.

Play Therapy is an evidenced based, well researched, trauma informed method of counselling that has been around since the 1940’s.

It is a highly specialised approach for children aged 3-12 years old that is suitable for a variety of childhood emotional, developmental, social, behavioural or psychological concerns.

In Play Therapy,

" toys are used like words, and play is the child's language" 

Quite often a child will naturally “play out” their experiences through their play.

In Play Therapy, the play therapist is specifically trained to create an environment of acceptance, empathy and understanding in a therapeutic playroom. The therapist uses their specialist skills to create a feeling of safety and permissiveness by expressing genuine interest in the child and displaying unconditional positive regard whilst being sensitive to the child’s feelings. This is applied in a consistent and predictable manner. This then enables the child to feel accepted and understood and a trusting and positive relationship can develop between the therapist and child. When this occurs, the child begins to express their feelings and thoughts using the toys and materials in the playroom.

Because a child can’t effectively express themselves in the adult world, the therapist joins the child in their world, on their level.

The child is invited into the world of play and provided with a range of with therapeutic play materials. More than just toys, these items are chosen for their ability to offer the children many different opportunities for self-expression and creativity. These play materials enable the child to explore and express themselves completely. They can act out their inner feelings and deepest emotions.

The therapist will pay close attention as toys can act as symbols and take on greater meanings. Play Therapists undergo intensive post graduate training that enables them to reflect how the child is engaging with the toys, the underlying emotions that accompany their actions and the symbolic meaning behind a child’s play.

These play therapy sessions work on developing the child’s awareness and understanding around their own personal experiences, thoughts and feelings and to gain a sense of control over their challenging situations and sometime painful life experiences. The therapeutic process helps the child work through difficult memories, feelings and experiences.

Play Therapy builds on the child’s inner resources and strengths. It helps children find healthier ways of communicating and to develop a greater sense of identity and self-esteem while increasing resilience and their emotional intelligence.