How can I help?
Could Play Therapy Help Your Child?
If you've noticed a change in your child — whether in their mood, their behaviour, their sleep, or the way they interact with others — it's natural to feel concerned. Children often don't have the language to tell us what's wrong, but their feelings show up in other ways.
Play therapy can help children who are going through a difficult time, whatever the reason. Below are some of the situations and challenges I commonly work with.
Anxiety and Worry
Some children carry a lot of worry — about school, friendships, the future, or things they can't quite name. Play therapy helps children to externalise their anxieties in a safe space, develop coping strategies, and build a greater sense of inner calm and security.
School Refusal and Transitions
Starting a new school, moving up a year, or refusing to attend at all — school-related anxiety is increasingly common. Play therapy can help children build the resilience and emotional tools they need to face these challenges with greater confidence.
Behavioural Difficulties
Challenging behaviour is often a child's way of communicating that something is wrong. Rather than focusing on the behaviour itself, Play therapy helps to uncover and address the emotional root cause, supporting children to develop healthier ways of expressing their needs.
Family Changes
Divorce, separation, the arrival of a new sibling, or moving house — even positive changes can feel overwhelming for a child. Play therapy offers a consistent, stable space during times of transition, helping children to process change and adjust at their own pace.
Trauma
Children who have experienced frightening or overwhelming events may struggle to make sense of what happened. Play therapy provides a gentle, trauma-informed approach to support children in processing their experiences safely, without the need for words.
Bereavement and Loss
Losing someone — or something — important is incredibly hard for a child to navigate. Play therapy creates a safe place to explore grief without pressure, giving children the freedom to express and process their loss in whatever way feels right for them.
Low Self-Esteem and Confidence
Children who seem withdrawn, self-critical, or reluctant to try new things often benefit greatly from the nurturing environment of the playroom. Play therapy helps children to develop a stronger sense of self, greater confidence, and a more positive relationship with themselves and others.
Social and Friendship Challenges
Struggling to make or keep friendships can be isolating for a child. Play therapy can help children to develop the emotional skills and self-awareness that underpin positive relationships with their peers.
Not Sure if Play Therapy is Right for Your Child?
That's completely understandable. I offer a free initial consultation where we can talk through your concerns and I can help you decide whether play therapy might be the right next step. There is absolutely no obligation — I simply want to help you find the right support for your child.