What To Expect
Taking the First Step
Reaching out for support for your child can feel daunting — but it is also one of the most caring and important steps you can do as a parent. Here's what the process looks like from first contact to ongoing sessions, so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1:
Free initial consultation
Your journey begins with a free 20-minute phone or video consultation. This is a chance for us to talk through your concerns, for me to explain how play therapy works, and for you to ask any questions you might have. There is no pressure and no obligation — it's simply a conversation.
Step 2:
Initial assessment
If we decide to go ahead, I will arrange an initial assessment session. This involves a meeting with you (without your child present) to gather some background information about your child's history, needs, and the concerns that have brought you here. We will discuss hopes and expectations and complete an SDQ questionnaire.
Step 3:
Your Child begins sessions
Sessions are 40 minutes long and take place weekly at the same time each week. Consistency is important — it helps your child to feel safe and settled in the space.
During sessions, your child has free access to a range of carefully chosen toys, art materials, sand, and creative resources. They lead the session entirely — I follow their play, gently responding and reflecting in ways that support their emotional exploration.
Step 4:
Parent Check In
I believe parents and carers are a vital part of the therapeutic process. We will meet every 8 weeks and discuss general progress, answer any questions, and ensure you feel informed and supported throughout. These meetings do not break your child's confidentiality, but they do keep you connected to the process.
Step 5:
Review and Ending
As your child progresses, we will review together whether continued sessions are needed. When the time comes to end therapy, we will do so gradually and thoughtfully, giving your child the chance to process the ending in a positive and empowering way. I aim to give your child 4 weeks notice to work towards their ending.
We will have a final meeting to review work, reflect on initial hopes and expectations and discuss next steps.
I will write a final report for you.
A Note on Confidentiality
What your child explores in sessions is kept confidential. This is important — it allows your child to feel truly free to express themselves. The only exceptions to this would be if your child made a safeguarding disclosure during their session.