What is Play Therapy?

Children don’t always have the words to explain how they’re feeling — but they don’t need to. Play is a child’s natural language and one of the ways they make sense of the world around them. Play therapy provides a safe and supportive space where children can express themselves through play, helping them explore difficult experiences and work through big emotions at their own pace.

Play therapy is a specialist, evidence-based form of therapy designed specifically for children. Rather than sitting and talking about their problems — which can be difficult for young minds — children are supported to express their thoughts and feelings through play, creativity, art, sand, and storytelling, in a safe and nurturing environment.

As a trained play therapist, I act as a supportive guide in this process. I observe and gently engage with your child's play, helping them to explore difficult emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy ways of coping — all at their own pace, and in their own way.

What Happens in a Session?

Sessions take place in a specially designed therapy room filled with carefully chosen toys and materials. Your child is free to explore and play in a way that feels natural to them — there is no right or wrong way to use the space.

A typical session lasts 40 minutes, and children attend weekly for consistency. The number of sessions varies depending on each child's individual needs, but I will keep you informed throughout the process and we will review progress together regularly.

How Many Sessions Will My Child Need?

Every child is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some children benefit from a short block of 12 sessions, while others may need longer-term support. After an initial assessment, I will share my recommendations with you, and we will agree a plan that feels right for your family.

What Can Play Therapy Help With?

Play therapy can support children experiencing a wide range of emotional and behavioural challenges, including:

  • Anxiety, worry, or low mood

  • Behavioural challenges at home or school

  • The impact of family changes, such as separation or divorce

  • Bereavement and loss

  • Trauma or distressing experiences

  • Difficulties with friendships or social situations

  • Low self-esteem or confidence

  • Anger and emotional dysregulation

  • School refusal or transitions

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Play therapy sessions are confidential, which means your child has a safe space to express themselves freely. However, I will keep you informed about your child's progress through regular parent meetings. Confidentiality would only be broken if there were serious concerns about your child's safety.

  • Sessions are one-to-one between your child and me, which helps your child feel free to explore and express themselves.

  • Absolutely. Many children are unsure at first, and that's completely understandable. Children often settle quickly once they discover the playroom, and I use a gentle, child-led approach to help them feel comfortable from the very first session.

  • Play therapy and talking therapies like counselling work towards similar goals, but play therapy is specifically designed for children. Rather than relying on language — which is still developing in young people — play therapy uses the child's natural way of communicating: play.