Play Therapy Counselling in Hinckley

Photo of Cara Cramp - Cara Cramp, MBACP at Freedom Creative Arts Therapy, MA, Psychotherapist
Cara Cramp, MBACP at Freedom Creative Arts Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Hinckley LE10
As a Creative Arts Therapist I can help your child and or teenager to express themselves, at their own pace, through the use of art, play, clay, sand tray and other therapeutic interventions, which can have a profound effect for resolving difficult issues.
Hello, my name is Cara, I’m a Creative Arts Therapist and a qualified Clinical Supervisor. Maybe your child/teenager is acting out and you just don’t know what to do next, maybe they’ve been through a difficult experience recently or in the past and need some help processing what happened to them. I’ve worked with many children and I want to be able to offer your child a safe and confidential environment to explore what is going on for them right now They can then begin to feel better about themselves and continue to have the positive experiences from life that they deserve.
As a Creative Arts Therapist I can help your child and or teenager to express themselves, at their own pace, through the use of art, play, clay, sand tray and other therapeutic interventions, which can have a profound effect for resolving difficult issues.
Hello, my name is Cara, I’m a Creative Arts Therapist and a qualified Clinical Supervisor. Maybe your child/teenager is acting out and you just don’t know what to do next, maybe they’ve been through a difficult experience recently or in the past and need some help processing what happened to them. I’ve worked with many children and I want to be able to offer your child a safe and confidential environment to explore what is going on for them right now They can then begin to feel better about themselves and continue to have the positive experiences from life that they deserve.
01455 243634 View 01455 243634
Photo of Clare Hammond Child Therapist, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Clare Hammond Child Therapist
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hinckley LE10
Play Therapy uses a range of techniques which are usually non directive-the child chooses and the therapist follows.
Often children show through their behaviour that they are in need of extra support. Play and creative arts are a child’s natural way of expressing themselves and the child can make sense of what is going on in their lives through this. I support children who are dealing with a range of difficulties for example bereavement, anxiety, anger, bullying or parental separation- for example domestic abuse or divorce. At Apex House in Lutterworth, I create a warm and welcoming environment where children feel safe and are able to express how they are feeling, this may be consciously or unconsciously.
Play Therapy uses a range of techniques which are usually non directive-the child chooses and the therapist follows.
Often children show through their behaviour that they are in need of extra support. Play and creative arts are a child’s natural way of expressing themselves and the child can make sense of what is going on in their lives through this. I support children who are dealing with a range of difficulties for example bereavement, anxiety, anger, bullying or parental separation- for example domestic abuse or divorce. At Apex House in Lutterworth, I create a warm and welcoming environment where children feel safe and are able to express how they are feeling, this may be consciously or unconsciously.
0116 478 6730 View 0116 478 6730
Photo of Clare Boulton - Clare Boulton -Counsellor / Clinical Supervisor, SNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Clare Boulton -Counsellor / Clinical Supervisor
Psychotherapist, SNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Hinckley LE10
If you want to change a pattern in your life, want to think or feel differently about anything, confidential counselling may be right for you. I am offering you a comfortable and private space so that we can work together through any issues that you may bring to the session. Within this non-judgemental and confidential setting you have time to explore, reflect and understand your emotions, feelings and what is happening to you, wherever you are in your life right now. FREE Initial Consultation, daytime, evening and weekends appointments. Please feel free to get in touch for more information.
If you want to change a pattern in your life, want to think or feel differently about anything, confidential counselling may be right for you. I am offering you a comfortable and private space so that we can work together through any issues that you may bring to the session. Within this non-judgemental and confidential setting you have time to explore, reflect and understand your emotions, feelings and what is happening to you, wherever you are in your life right now. FREE Initial Consultation, daytime, evening and weekends appointments. Please feel free to get in touch for more information.
0116 464 9964 View 0116 464 9964
Photo of Emma Louise Jacques, BACP, Counsellor
Emma Louise Jacques
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Hinckley LE10
I am a person centered and psychodynamic counsellor incorporating CBT and solution focused creative techniques such as art therapy, guided imagery and visualisation, meditation and the Rewind technique (for trauma). I offer therapy to couples, young people, adults and families.
I am a person centered and psychodynamic counsellor incorporating CBT and solution focused creative techniques such as art therapy, guided imagery and visualisation, meditation and the Rewind technique (for trauma). I offer therapy to couples, young people, adults and families.
01455 247617 View 01455 247617
Photo of Donna Marie Periam, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Donna Marie Periam
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Hinckley LE10
Hello my name is Donna. The decision to see a counsellor can be very frightening, but if you are reading this, then you have made a very brave step with your own self care. There are times in our lives, especially in current times when we are instructed to self Isolate, when it is even more important to have someone to talk too. I will make every attempt to provide you with a safe and comfortable space in which to explore whatever may be concerning you. My main aim is provide a safe, non- judgemental space where we can build an open & honest relationship.
Hello my name is Donna. The decision to see a counsellor can be very frightening, but if you are reading this, then you have made a very brave step with your own self care. There are times in our lives, especially in current times when we are instructed to self Isolate, when it is even more important to have someone to talk too. I will make every attempt to provide you with a safe and comfortable space in which to explore whatever may be concerning you. My main aim is provide a safe, non- judgemental space where we can build an open & honest relationship.
01455 242980 View 01455 242980

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tasha Conn - The Therapeutic Rainbow , MA, PTUK Accred, Counsellor
The Therapeutic Rainbow
Counsellor, MA, PTUK Accred
Verified Verified
Lutterworth LE17
Hi I'm Tash and I'm a fully qualified and accredited Play Therapist & Filali Play Coach. Play is a child's natural language: it speaks the worries and feelings too confusing for words. Where adults may speak about their worries and problems, children can express themselves through play long before they can articulate thoughts and feelings through the complexities of language. Often they do not know the words to describe their internal world but are ready to share it with opportunities through play and creative arts. Play builds trust, tells stories and takes us on brave adventures to wonderful places of safety, hope and happiness.
Hi I'm Tash and I'm a fully qualified and accredited Play Therapist & Filali Play Coach. Play is a child's natural language: it speaks the worries and feelings too confusing for words. Where adults may speak about their worries and problems, children can express themselves through play long before they can articulate thoughts and feelings through the complexities of language. Often they do not know the words to describe their internal world but are ready to share it with opportunities through play and creative arts. Play builds trust, tells stories and takes us on brave adventures to wonderful places of safety, hope and happiness.
01455 243895 View 01455 243895
Photo of Letitia Daniel, MA
Letitia Daniel
MA
Verified Verified
Leicester Forest East LE3
My creative expressive tools give the opportunity for clients to use play, stories, character work, metaphors, writing and sensory play in order to explore and express themselves.
No matter what you wish to explore I offer an open and confidential service that provides my clients with the utmost safety, professionalism and care. As I work from a creative expressive model I use creative techniques to allow my clients to be distanced from experiences or memories they may find difficulty accessing but know they want to explore. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, this is your therapy I am the facilitator who will offer you a safe space, guidance and support.
My creative expressive tools give the opportunity for clients to use play, stories, character work, metaphors, writing and sensory play in order to explore and express themselves.
No matter what you wish to explore I offer an open and confidential service that provides my clients with the utmost safety, professionalism and care. As I work from a creative expressive model I use creative techniques to allow my clients to be distanced from experiences or memories they may find difficulty accessing but know they want to explore. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, this is your therapy I am the facilitator who will offer you a safe space, guidance and support.
0116 478 2909 View 0116 478 2909
Photo of Maisie Matthews - Maisie Matthews Counselling, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Maisie Matthews Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coventry CV6
Working with children and young people I have found it is useful to use arts and play to keep it engaging and allow them a voice when they do not know what to say.
I am currently out of office from 25th July to 12th August, if you contact me between these dates, I will be in contact when I am back! Hello! My name is Maisie Matthews. I am a children and young people’s counsellor. I work with clients between the ages of 11-25. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental space for clients to feel heard. This space will allow clients to speak freely and explore their thoughts and feelings to understand and overcome the difficulties they are experiencing.
Working with children and young people I have found it is useful to use arts and play to keep it engaging and allow them a voice when they do not know what to say.
I am currently out of office from 25th July to 12th August, if you contact me between these dates, I will be in contact when I am back! Hello! My name is Maisie Matthews. I am a children and young people’s counsellor. I work with clients between the ages of 11-25. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental space for clients to feel heard. This space will allow clients to speak freely and explore their thoughts and feelings to understand and overcome the difficulties they are experiencing.
024 7542 0536 View 024 7542 0536
Photo of Paramjit Sall, BACP, Counsellor
Paramjit Sall
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bedworth CV12
I am a registered member of British Association of Counselling Practise (BACP) and comply with their practise Ethics and Standard. I am an Integrative counsellor with Humanistic approach using Person Centred, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behaviour and Systemic Family Therapy as my core models. Each individual I work with is unique and come with issues that get in the way of their life from time to time. I respect everyone is different and I work with clients according to their personality and presenting issues.•I know it can be really hard at times to reach out for help but please remember you are important.
I am a registered member of British Association of Counselling Practise (BACP) and comply with their practise Ethics and Standard. I am an Integrative counsellor with Humanistic approach using Person Centred, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behaviour and Systemic Family Therapy as my core models. Each individual I work with is unique and come with issues that get in the way of their life from time to time. I respect everyone is different and I work with clients according to their personality and presenting issues.•I know it can be really hard at times to reach out for help but please remember you are important.
024 7610 1157 View 024 7610 1157

Online Therapists

Photo of Christine Langhoff - Circle Psychology Partners Ltd, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Circle Psychology Partners Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE21
My team at Circle Psychology Partners is made up of highly skilled Doctors of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Counsellors, CBT Therapists, Psychotherapists and Play Therapists.
I am Dr Christine Langhoff, Clinical Psychologist and the director of Clinical Psychology Partners. I have worked as a psychologist since 2008. I manage a team of more than 30 therapists (clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists, CBT therapists) who offer therapy for children, adolescents, families, adults and couples in Southeast London and Sutton. We offer therapy incl. CBT, CFT, EMDR and ACT therapy for Depression (incl. Postnatal), Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Stress, Bereavement, Bereavement and More.
My team at Circle Psychology Partners is made up of highly skilled Doctors of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Counsellors, CBT Therapists, Psychotherapists and Play Therapists.
I am Dr Christine Langhoff, Clinical Psychologist and the director of Clinical Psychology Partners. I have worked as a psychologist since 2008. I manage a team of more than 30 therapists (clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists, CBT therapists) who offer therapy for children, adolescents, families, adults and couples in Southeast London and Sutton. We offer therapy incl. CBT, CFT, EMDR and ACT therapy for Depression (incl. Postnatal), Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Stress, Bereavement, Bereavement and More.
020 3823 6543 View 020 3823 6543
Photo of Emily Gomes, MBACP, Counsellor
Emily Gomes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Farnborough GU14
As children/adolescents do not usually talk openly about their difficulties, they will often communicate their feelings and thoughts through play, the arts and verbal communication to explore how they feel and think.
I am an experienced and fully qualified therapeutic counsellor for children and adolescents aged 4-19 years old, and provide counselling in a confidential, non judgemental and safe setting. My therapy room is based in Farnborough and I am able to offer support and relief from the overwhelming and anxious feelings that can leave a child or adolescent feeling vulnerable. I have found that through the therapy process, children and young people can develop their communication skills and confidence levels, as well as learning how to cope with difficult feelings.
As children/adolescents do not usually talk openly about their difficulties, they will often communicate their feelings and thoughts through play, the arts and verbal communication to explore how they feel and think.
I am an experienced and fully qualified therapeutic counsellor for children and adolescents aged 4-19 years old, and provide counselling in a confidential, non judgemental and safe setting. My therapy room is based in Farnborough and I am able to offer support and relief from the overwhelming and anxious feelings that can leave a child or adolescent feeling vulnerable. I have found that through the therapy process, children and young people can develop their communication skills and confidence levels, as well as learning how to cope with difficult feelings.
01689 666184 View 01689 666184
Photo of Carima Nolten, MBACP, Counsellor
Carima Nolten
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Enfield EN2
Waitlist for new clients
As a counsellor, I embrace a responsive and flexible approach, offering an empathic, non-judgemental and safe space for you/child to explore and express feelings and thoughts around life experiences and challenges being faced in your own chosen way, whether it is through talking therapy or through various creative/play/art -based mediums.
I am a trauma-informed Integrative Counsellor (MBACP) with expertise in SEND, Neurodiversity and SEMH supporting children, young people and adults, both online and face-to-face . I offer a combination of Talking and Creative Therapies that are beneficial in working with trauma, bereavement, stress management, anxiety and burnout. Life is full of opportunies and hurdles to overcome, and its vital that we all have a strong sense of self, to be able to draw from a toolkit of coping tools, in order to navigate life's challenges as best we can and reach our full potential- It's what we all deserve. Are you ready to take the first step...
As a counsellor, I embrace a responsive and flexible approach, offering an empathic, non-judgemental and safe space for you/child to explore and express feelings and thoughts around life experiences and challenges being faced in your own chosen way, whether it is through talking therapy or through various creative/play/art -based mediums.
I am a trauma-informed Integrative Counsellor (MBACP) with expertise in SEND, Neurodiversity and SEMH supporting children, young people and adults, both online and face-to-face . I offer a combination of Talking and Creative Therapies that are beneficial in working with trauma, bereavement, stress management, anxiety and burnout. Life is full of opportunies and hurdles to overcome, and its vital that we all have a strong sense of self, to be able to draw from a toolkit of coping tools, in order to navigate life's challenges as best we can and reach our full potential- It's what we all deserve. Are you ready to take the first step...
020 3835 2662 View 020 3835 2662
Photo of Deb Haynes, MBACP, Counsellor
Deb Haynes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nantwich CW5
Hello, I'm Deb Haynes and I hope that I can help you. I work primarily with children and families, but also with individuals. I use a person centred approach and other techniques which I have trained in such as play therapy. Some of the stressful issues that a lot of people experience are, anxiety, bereavement (including pet bereavement), trauma, behavioural/trust issues, self-esteem issues, self-harming and harmful sexualized behaviour issues. Please get in touch.
Hello, I'm Deb Haynes and I hope that I can help you. I work primarily with children and families, but also with individuals. I use a person centred approach and other techniques which I have trained in such as play therapy. Some of the stressful issues that a lot of people experience are, anxiety, bereavement (including pet bereavement), trauma, behavioural/trust issues, self-esteem issues, self-harming and harmful sexualized behaviour issues. Please get in touch.
01270 906390 View 01270 906390
Photo of Tracy Sapier, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Tracy Sapier
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leeds LS17
For your children, play and art therapies can enable self-expression in ways that talking may not.
I trained as a person-centred counsellor, which simply means our sessions are all about you. I’d like to welcome you to a confidential and non-judgemental safe space where you can talk freely to explore your inner-self. Together, we can discover any underlying issues behind the difficulties you are experiencing and by overcoming the ghosts of your past, you will be in a better place to move forward with your life.Having counselling enables you to rediscover yourself in a safe place, where you can go at your own pace and allow yourself to release your true emotions that you may have locked away.
For your children, play and art therapies can enable self-expression in ways that talking may not.
I trained as a person-centred counsellor, which simply means our sessions are all about you. I’d like to welcome you to a confidential and non-judgemental safe space where you can talk freely to explore your inner-self. Together, we can discover any underlying issues behind the difficulties you are experiencing and by overcoming the ghosts of your past, you will be in a better place to move forward with your life.Having counselling enables you to rediscover yourself in a safe place, where you can go at your own pace and allow yourself to release your true emotions that you may have locked away.
0113 487 2769 View 0113 487 2769
Photo of Agnieszka Jacewicz, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Agnieszka Jacewicz
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Brentford TW8
Welcome to my practice, where your personal growth and transformation journey is supported with compassion. Together, we'll identify and change the thought and behaviour patterns that keep you from being your best. ​ I know from personal experience that therapy can be both enjoyable and, at times, challenging. I draw on many techniques, including visualisation, dream exploration, drawing, bodywork, role-play, and the most familiar method: conversation between two people.
Welcome to my practice, where your personal growth and transformation journey is supported with compassion. Together, we'll identify and change the thought and behaviour patterns that keep you from being your best. ​ I know from personal experience that therapy can be both enjoyable and, at times, challenging. I draw on many techniques, including visualisation, dream exploration, drawing, bodywork, role-play, and the most familiar method: conversation between two people.
01748 902215 View 01748 902215
Photo of Jo Phillips - Jeau Therapy (Austim/ADHD specialist), MBACP, Psychotherapist
Jeau Therapy (Austim/ADHD specialist)
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
In addition to the traditional talking therapy I like to use art, sand play, pebbles and gestalt therapy in my sessions.
Im a neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. Struggles with anxiety, depression, trauma, overwhelm & relationship problems? My therapy room is a place where clients can unmask and be their authentic selves, and Autistic/ADHD clients can stim freely without judgment.I work with all neurotypes but my experience and training has enabled me to work effectively with neurodivergent clients,(ASD/ADHD) I am aware of sensory overload, overstimulation and autistic burnout and for those struggling with eye contact my rooms can easily be adapted to suit clients needs. I also have additional qualifications in Child Sexual Abuse and Shame
In addition to the traditional talking therapy I like to use art, sand play, pebbles and gestalt therapy in my sessions.
Im a neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. Struggles with anxiety, depression, trauma, overwhelm & relationship problems? My therapy room is a place where clients can unmask and be their authentic selves, and Autistic/ADHD clients can stim freely without judgment.I work with all neurotypes but my experience and training has enabled me to work effectively with neurodivergent clients,(ASD/ADHD) I am aware of sensory overload, overstimulation and autistic burnout and for those struggling with eye contact my rooms can easily be adapted to suit clients needs. I also have additional qualifications in Child Sexual Abuse and Shame
01483 968080 View 01483 968080
Photo of Tina Kilgallon - Our Space Play & Family Therapies, MSc
Our Space Play & Family Therapies
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester WR1
I am passionate about working with young people and their families. I am an integrative play and EMDR therapist working with clients from 3 years of age and up. I am also qualified to deliver Child Parent Relationship Therapy and have completed training in Sand Tray as well as being an Autplay practitioner. I have lots of experience in working with children, young people and their families SEND and/or with additional needs. I have experience of working with complex trauma, attachment, bereavement and loss.
I am passionate about working with young people and their families. I am an integrative play and EMDR therapist working with clients from 3 years of age and up. I am also qualified to deliver Child Parent Relationship Therapy and have completed training in Sand Tray as well as being an Autplay practitioner. I have lots of experience in working with children, young people and their families SEND and/or with additional needs. I have experience of working with complex trauma, attachment, bereavement and loss.
01905 975361 View 01905 975361
Photo of Jade Cammarata, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jade Cammarata
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE7
As well as talking therapy I can also bring art and play therapy into my practice as I understand that sometimes talking can be hard, it also allows deeper exploration at times.
Are you suffering from Anxiety, Depression? a Bereavement or Relationship issues? Im fully Accredited With 10 Years experience in many areas. It's not always easy talking to family or friends, this is where counselling can really help you. Together we can explore whatever it is that's troubling you whether its past or current events, this will enable you to have a clearer understanding, freeing you to live a happier more positive life. I am a qualified and experienced counsellor providing a safe, confidential and non judgmental place for you to talk and explore your inner thoughts and feelings. I use a variety of CBT tools.
As well as talking therapy I can also bring art and play therapy into my practice as I understand that sometimes talking can be hard, it also allows deeper exploration at times.
Are you suffering from Anxiety, Depression? a Bereavement or Relationship issues? Im fully Accredited With 10 Years experience in many areas. It's not always easy talking to family or friends, this is where counselling can really help you. Together we can explore whatever it is that's troubling you whether its past or current events, this will enable you to have a clearer understanding, freeing you to live a happier more positive life. I am a qualified and experienced counsellor providing a safe, confidential and non judgmental place for you to talk and explore your inner thoughts and feelings. I use a variety of CBT tools.
01733 942099 View 01733 942099
Photo of Claire Christine Wheeler, MBACP, Counsellor
Claire Christine Wheeler
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Darwen BB3
I offer a friendly listening ear to clients needing help with difficulties such as anxiety and depression, low self esteem, relationships and neurodiversity. My specialism is children however I do work with adults also. I have worked therapeutically with children using person centred therapy and play therapy and have experience within education. I can help children with attachment disorders, trauma, low self esteem and confidence, anxiety and friendship or family issues. I will help you explore what is happening and how you wish to move forward, I will not judge you but will accept you as you are and work with you at your pace.
I offer a friendly listening ear to clients needing help with difficulties such as anxiety and depression, low self esteem, relationships and neurodiversity. My specialism is children however I do work with adults also. I have worked therapeutically with children using person centred therapy and play therapy and have experience within education. I can help children with attachment disorders, trauma, low self esteem and confidence, anxiety and friendship or family issues. I will help you explore what is happening and how you wish to move forward, I will not judge you but will accept you as you are and work with you at your pace.
01254 786437 View 01254 786437
Photo of Dr Ilan Ben-Zion, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ilan Ben-Zion
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
I love to play and watch a variety of sports, and employ many of the skills I help others develop whilst watching my frustrating team, Arsenal, play football.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
I love to play and watch a variety of sports, and employ many of the skills I help others develop whilst watching my frustrating team, Arsenal, play football.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
020 3974 2820 View 020 3974 2820

See more therapy options for Hinckley

Play Therapy Counsellors

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behaviour and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behaviour.