To request a referral form, please click below.

I understand that making a decision about sending your child to play therapy is an important one, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect from my play therapy services:

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses play to help children express their feelings, process their experiences, and develop coping skills. It’s especially effective for children who may have difficulty articulating their thoughts and emotions. Play therapy can benefit children facing a wide range of emotional and behavioural issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, family changes, and social difficulties.

The Role of the Play Therapist

I am a highly skilled professional with many years of experience working with children. In my therapy room, I create a safe and supportive environment for your child. This enables them to explore and express their feelings, understand their experiences, and develop problem-solving skills.

The Play Therapy Process- what to expect

1. Referral form:

- Please click the above link to request a referral form. This helps me make the most of our initial meeting by allowing you to describe your child's needs and share your hopes and expectations for therapy.

2. Initial meeting with parent(s)/carer(s):

- I will arrange a Teams meeting with you to discuss your child’s history, current concerns, and therapy goals. This meeting will last 90 minutes. Your child does not attend this meeting as this helps us to freely explore your child's needs. 

- A typical course of play therapy involves a minimum of 12 sessions. The number of sessions will be agreed in our initial parent/carer meeting. If any further sessions are required beyond the 12th session, this decision will be reached following a discussion with you and I will have also discussed this with my clinical supervisor. 

3. Meeting with other professionals

- I will arrange a Teams meeting with your child's teacher or other relevant professional.  I strongly believe that having a partnership with school or other professionals is essential in providing comprehensive support for your child. 

4. First Play Therapy Session

- Your child will be introduced to the therapist and the playroom, allowing them to become comfortable in the new environment. 

- This session will last 50 minutes and is on a one-to-one basis. 

5. Ongoing sessions

- Subsequent sessions will occur weekly, on the same day each week.

- Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) is the model that is used in my work. The child leads the play and the therapist follows. I will support your child in this space to address specific emotional and behavioral issues, fostering self-expression and healing.

6. Regular Updates:

- Parent Meetings: Periodically, I will meet with you to discuss your child’s progress, any observed changes, and strategies to support your child at home.

- Confidentiality: While respecting your child’s privacy, I will share important insights that can help you understand and support your child better.

The Benefits of Play Therapy

- Emotional Expression: Helps children express feelings they might not be able to verbalise.

- Problem-Solving Skills: Develops coping mechanisms and problem-solving skills.

- Behavioural Improvement: Addresses behavioural issues and promotes positive changes.

- Self-Esteem: Builds self-esteem and confidence through positive interactions and achievements.

Your Role as a Parent

- Support: Provide encouragement and show interest in your child’s therapy without pressing them for details they might not be ready to share.

- Communication: Maintain open communication with the therapist and attend scheduled parent meetings.

- Consistency: Ensure your child attends sessions regularly to achieve the best outcomes.

How To Explain Play Therapy to Your Child

Please find below a sample informational leaflet, which will be provided to you to share with your child before the commencement of your child's therapy sessions.