Children can find it hard to put their difficult experiences, feelings and worries into words. Play Therapy provides healing and repair through play. In child-centered play therapy the therapist creates a safe, confidential play environment that a child needs to explore and express his or her feelings and experiences.
Play therapy is for children and young people with a wide range of emotional and behavioral difficulties. It uses play as its primary medium of communication and expression. Play Therapy has been practiced since the 1950’s and is suitable for children aged 3-16 years.
Play therapists have extensive training in child development and understanding children’s play and thoughts. The playroom provides a wide range of toys/materials that encourage expression and release of feelings.
For children play is the most natural thing in the world. It is an instinctive way of learning, making sense of their world, and communicating. It is a drive. It’s a brain building must-do!
Play therapy has children in mind. Instead of having to explain what they are finding difficult, in Play Therapy children use play to communicate at their own pace, without feeling quizzed or pressured.
Play therapy will provide emotional support for your child and help him/her to make sense of and understand their difficult feelings and experiences. Once they gain understanding in this way they will be able to adjust their thinking and behaviors.
Children come to play therapy for various reasons. Adults may notice a change or difficulty in a child’s character, behaviour or ability to cope. Difficulties may relate to life experiences such as:
There is an initial meeting with the parents. At this your child’s history will be discussed and issues that are causing concern are identified. There will be an agreement of the number of sessions depending on the issue. Sometimes 10 sessions can be adequate. Therapy sessions which are 50mins long, usually take place in the playroom once a week at the same time.
Before play therapy commences the therapist will meet with your child at their home. All therapy is reviewed regularly with your child and parents/carers. These meetings will include feedback from your child’s sessions, parenting support, and ideas for helping your child outside of the session.