What is play therapy?

Play therapy is a form of counselling or psychotherapy for children that uses play to help them express and explore their feelings. It provides a safe, supportive space where children can work through emotional difficulties using creative tools like toys, art, sand, and storytelling.

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How does play therapy work?

Children often struggle to talk about their thoughts or emotions directly. Play is their natural language. In a play therapy session, a child is free to explore their inner world at their own pace, supported by a trained therapist. Over time, this process can help them feel more confident, secure, and able to cope with challenges.

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What kinds of issues can play therapy help with?

Play therapy can support children who are experiencing:

• Anxiety or low self-esteem

• Behavioural difficulties

• Trauma, abuse, or neglect

• Bereavement or loss

• Family separation or change

• Friendship or school issues

• Neurodivergence (e.g. autism, ADHD)

• Frustration and anger issues

• Fears and phobias

• School issues (e.g. school attendance difficulties, transitions to new classes/schools, exam anxiety)

• Bullying

• Hospital stays and medical treatment

• Food anxiety and disorders

• Sleep issues and toileting issues
   

If you're unsure whether play therapy is right for your child, I’m happy to offer an initial consultation.

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What age children do you work with?

Play therapy is suitable for most children from the ages of 3-13.  However, it can also be appropriate for some slightly older children depending on their stage of development.

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How long does play therapy take?

Every child is different. Some may benefit from a short-term intervention (e.g. 12 sessions), while others may need longer-term support. We'll review progress regularly and discuss this with you throughout the process.

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What happens in a session?

Sessions last around 40-45 minutes and take place in a dedicated playroom. Your child will have access to a range of creative materials and will be free to choose what and how they play. The space is safe, confidential, and non-judgemental.

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Will I know what my child is doing in sessions?

To protect your child's sense of safety and confidentiality, I don’t share specific details about what happens in sessions. However, I offer regular review meetings with you to discuss your child’s progress and emotional wellbeing.  I will also talk about general themes seen in your child’s play.

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How do I get started?

You can get in touch via email, or the contact form to arrange an initial conversation. Following this, if you would like to go ahead I’ll invite you for a consultation to explore your child’s needs and how play therapy might help.

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Where are sessions held?

School-based sessions are delivered on-site during the school day.  I can also offer private sessions out of school time in a room at a local village hall.

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How much do sessions cost?

Please get in touch for current fees. I offer a free initial phone consultation and can discuss pricing for private sessions, school contracts, or clinical supervision.

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Are you qualified and registered?

Yes. I hold a PGDip in Play Therapy and am a member of Play Therapy UK (PTUK). I follow their ethical guidelines and receive regular clinical supervision.

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Still have questions?  Feel free to reach out — I’m happy to help.