Supporting Children with Compassion, Experience, and Play
About
Kathryn McNamara
Hello, I’m Kathryn McNamara. I’ve worked with children and families for nearly 30 years — first as a primary school teacher, then as a SENCo and Thrive practitioner, and now as a qualified Play Therapist. Throughout my career, my focus has always been the same: helping children feel safe, understood, and able to thrive.
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Over the years, I’ve seen how children often struggle to put their feelings into words — especially when they're overwhelmed, anxious, or dealing with big changes. That’s what led me to train in Play Therapy, where children can express themselves through play — their natural language — and begin to heal in a way that feels safe and respectful to them.
My Qualifications
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BA (Hons) History
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PGCE (Primary Education)
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NASENCo (National Award for SEN Coordination)
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PGCert in Therapeutic Play
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PGDip in Play Therapy
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Trainee Clinical Supervisor
I am a registered member of Play Therapy UK (PTUK) and work to their high standards of ethical practice and clinical supervision.
My Approach
I offer a warm, child-centred, and non-judgemental environment where children can explore their feelings through play and creativity. My work is grounded in the PTUK integrative model, which means I draw on a range of psychological theories and approaches to meet each child’s unique needs.
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I believe in the power of relationship, consistency, and emotional safety. Whether I’m working with a child one-to-one or supporting a parent through the process, I aim to be calm, clear, and compassionate every step of the way.