Play Therapy Counselling in Tiverton

Photo of Andrew Cowlin - Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tiverton EX16
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
01884 219224 View 01884 219224
Photo of Laura Jayne Sollis, MBACP, Counsellor
Laura Jayne Sollis
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Tiverton EX16  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
01363 720245 View 01363 720245
Photo of Simone Pharo
Simone Pharo
Verified Verified
Tiverton EX16
I am an integrative counsellor with specialised experience working with young people and a sensitivity to neurodiversity. I work creativity and intuitively to develop a nurturing counselling relationship.
I am an integrative counsellor with specialised experience working with young people and a sensitivity to neurodiversity. I work creativity and intuitively to develop a nurturing counselling relationship.
01598 728707 View 01598 728707
Photo of Claire Annette Williams, MBACP, Counsellor
Claire Annette Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Tiverton EX16
I am an experienced, registered MBACP counsellor, and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
I am an experienced, registered MBACP counsellor, and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
01392 537143 View 01392 537143

Online Therapists

Photo of Helen Fenton - Helen Fenton: Face-to-Face & Online Counselling, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen Fenton: Face-to-Face & Online Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stroud GL5
You may be finding it difficult to cope, and feel alone? You may be struggling after a trauma or bereavement, separation, or with ill-health? Or maybe feel that your life is stuck, or lacking purpose? At times like these, counselling offers a space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, with someone who will strive to understand without judgement, & help you make sense of your feelings, find clarity, or make decisions. I offer all my clients Empathy, Congruence, and Unconditional Positive Regard. I also offer play, sand-tray, art and creative therapies to my younger clients. Home visits are available.
You may be finding it difficult to cope, and feel alone? You may be struggling after a trauma or bereavement, separation, or with ill-health? Or maybe feel that your life is stuck, or lacking purpose? At times like these, counselling offers a space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, with someone who will strive to understand without judgement, & help you make sense of your feelings, find clarity, or make decisions. I offer all my clients Empathy, Congruence, and Unconditional Positive Regard. I also offer play, sand-tray, art and creative therapies to my younger clients. Home visits are available.
01666 336813 View 01666 336813
Photo of Angharad E Rees - Turning Point Child Therapy Ltd, MSc, Psychotherapist
Turning Point Child Therapy Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Haverfordwest SA62
Play therapy supports a child to being able to trust, respect, empathise, share, and co-operate with people.
My name is Angharad and I have over 20 years of primary teaching experience, including 8 years as a head teacher, I have seen first hand the difficulties many children face, coupled with the lack of provision available to support their emotional and mental health needs. I am a qualified Child Therapist specialising in Play Therapy, with a MSc in Play Therapy. I believe the benefits of play therapy to be transformative - hence retraining to become a child therapist. Play Therapy is an effective therapy that helps children modify their behaviours, clarify their self-concept, and build healthy relationships.
Play therapy supports a child to being able to trust, respect, empathise, share, and co-operate with people.
My name is Angharad and I have over 20 years of primary teaching experience, including 8 years as a head teacher, I have seen first hand the difficulties many children face, coupled with the lack of provision available to support their emotional and mental health needs. I am a qualified Child Therapist specialising in Play Therapy, with a MSc in Play Therapy. I believe the benefits of play therapy to be transformative - hence retraining to become a child therapist. Play Therapy is an effective therapy that helps children modify their behaviours, clarify their self-concept, and build healthy relationships.
01437 809025 View 01437 809025
Photo of Gemma Greenland, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Gemma Greenland
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cardiff CF23
I am a qualified counsellor, hypnotherapist and play therapist and I can use all of these skills to help you.
I can only imagine how hard it feels to reach out for help for yourself or your child; to want things to feel better and not know how to make it happen. This is what I can help you with. Maybe you or your child feel anxious all the time and just want to feel safe? Or perhaps you can't seem to get rid of that little voice inside that tells you you'll never be good enough? Maybe your child is struggling with understanding themselves and the world around them and you just want them to feel happy and safe? I understand that situations like these can feel overwhelming and I am passionate about helping people overcome them and feel better
I am a qualified counsellor, hypnotherapist and play therapist and I can use all of these skills to help you.
I can only imagine how hard it feels to reach out for help for yourself or your child; to want things to feel better and not know how to make it happen. This is what I can help you with. Maybe you or your child feel anxious all the time and just want to feel safe? Or perhaps you can't seem to get rid of that little voice inside that tells you you'll never be good enough? Maybe your child is struggling with understanding themselves and the world around them and you just want them to feel happy and safe? I understand that situations like these can feel overwhelming and I am passionate about helping people overcome them and feel better
029 2010 3039 View 029 2010 3039
Photo of Paulette Kynanne Montroe - Sunnycove Counselling and Supervision Services, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Sunnycove Counselling and Supervision Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Weston-super-Mare BS24
For children and young people I offer sand tray, play dough, Lego, games, painting and drawing, or a space that's quiet and reflective.
Hi my name is Paulette and I have been a therapist for over twenty years. I work with adults, children 5+ and young people. I have worked in various organisations, charities, secondary schools and colleges. If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, addiction, relationship problems, work based problems, family dysfunction, stress, anger, etc. I offer a confidential and safe space where you would be heard and not judged. Together we will work on the problems, identify what needs to done and ensure you have the right skills for the future. A healthy positive future is possible.
For children and young people I offer sand tray, play dough, Lego, games, painting and drawing, or a space that's quiet and reflective.
Hi my name is Paulette and I have been a therapist for over twenty years. I work with adults, children 5+ and young people. I have worked in various organisations, charities, secondary schools and colleges. If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, addiction, relationship problems, work based problems, family dysfunction, stress, anger, etc. I offer a confidential and safe space where you would be heard and not judged. Together we will work on the problems, identify what needs to done and ensure you have the right skills for the future. A healthy positive future is possible.
01934 311516 View 01934 311516
Photo of Dr Hannah Marie Galvin, PhD, ACP, Psychotherapist
Dr Hannah Marie Galvin
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
Children can use play materials provided by me as a means of understanding the internal world of the child.
I'm a psychoanalytic psychotherapist trained to MA and Doctoral level respectively with adults and children and adolescents. I'm also a visiting lecturer at The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. I have experience of working across the age range with a wide variety of mild to moderate, sometimes more severe presenting problems. Some people see me because they're very unhappy, distressed or worried, others come because they want to understand themselves better and they're curious about why they encounter the same patterns.
Children can use play materials provided by me as a means of understanding the internal world of the child.
I'm a psychoanalytic psychotherapist trained to MA and Doctoral level respectively with adults and children and adolescents. I'm also a visiting lecturer at The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. I have experience of working across the age range with a wide variety of mild to moderate, sometimes more severe presenting problems. Some people see me because they're very unhappy, distressed or worried, others come because they want to understand themselves better and they're curious about why they encounter the same patterns.
01392 321462 View 01392 321462
Photo of Emily Burns - Emily Burns Child Therapy, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Emily Burns Child Therapy
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Tavistock PL19
Emily is a Child and Adolescent Therapist who has worked therapeutically with children and families for over twenty years. She has helped many children through difficult times using play and the arts to communicate emotions, often in ways words cannot. She works with play, creative arts, mindfulness, visualisations and other techniques to help children and young people cope with and make sense of anxiety and strong emotions. She is experienced in child-parent work and offers support to parents and professionals. She has specialisms in trauma and attachment and works with vulnerable children at Trevi and Psychology Associates.
Emily is a Child and Adolescent Therapist who has worked therapeutically with children and families for over twenty years. She has helped many children through difficult times using play and the arts to communicate emotions, often in ways words cannot. She works with play, creative arts, mindfulness, visualisations and other techniques to help children and young people cope with and make sense of anxiety and strong emotions. She is experienced in child-parent work and offers support to parents and professionals. She has specialisms in trauma and attachment and works with vulnerable children at Trevi and Psychology Associates.
01822 668324 View 01822 668324
Photo of Maria Stride - Taking Strides Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Taking Strides Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Weston-super-Mare BS23
My name is Maria, and at Taking Strides Counselling, my goal is to provide a warm and compassionate space where we can explore your inner world together. My philosophy centers on viewing clients as unique individuals, catering to their comfort and needs rather than imposing my own perspectives. I offer a warm, empathetic, and open atmosphere, utilizing a range of techniques to support them. Recognizing that verbal communication can be challenging for some, I incorporate art and play therapy to help clients express themselves and begin their journey of self-exploration.
My name is Maria, and at Taking Strides Counselling, my goal is to provide a warm and compassionate space where we can explore your inner world together. My philosophy centers on viewing clients as unique individuals, catering to their comfort and needs rather than imposing my own perspectives. I offer a warm, empathetic, and open atmosphere, utilizing a range of techniques to support them. Recognizing that verbal communication can be challenging for some, I incorporate art and play therapy to help clients express themselves and begin their journey of self-exploration.
01275 402823 View 01275 402823
Photo of Franeen McDonald, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Franeen McDonald
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), BSP (Brainspotting), NLP (Neurolinguistic Programming), Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Psychotherapy, Hypnosis, , Timeline therapyTM), Counselling, Family Therapy, Life- and Executive Coaching.
I am an accredited Psychotherapist, CBT and Brainspotting Practitioner, providing help and guidance to adults, children, and teenagers. I use a variety of proven approaches and with 38 years of experience, I take great care to consider your specific needs to establish the best approach to help you with any emotional block or problem you are experiencing. My aim is to help you to achieve your goals for therapy and together we work collaboratively to achieve them. My office is situated in such a way that clients can access therapy in a private and confidential setting.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), BSP (Brainspotting), NLP (Neurolinguistic Programming), Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Psychotherapy, Hypnosis, , Timeline therapyTM), Counselling, Family Therapy, Life- and Executive Coaching.
I am an accredited Psychotherapist, CBT and Brainspotting Practitioner, providing help and guidance to adults, children, and teenagers. I use a variety of proven approaches and with 38 years of experience, I take great care to consider your specific needs to establish the best approach to help you with any emotional block or problem you are experiencing. My aim is to help you to achieve your goals for therapy and together we work collaboratively to achieve them. My office is situated in such a way that clients can access therapy in a private and confidential setting.
01452 941705 View 01452 941705
Photo of Katie Ruddy - The Family and Therapy Wellbeing Clinic , MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
The Family and Therapy Wellbeing Clinic
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Swansea SA1
We provide a range of support, including Play Therapy, Counselling, Psychotherapy and Family Therapy for all individuals experiencing emotional distress.
At Family and Therapy, we provide comprehensive support for individuals of all ages, from young children to adults, embracing families and couples across Wales and online. Our approach is holistic and tailored, ensuring that every person, regardless of their age or stage in life, receives the support and care they need to thrive. Our team of professionals is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where individuals can explore, grow, play and heal.
We provide a range of support, including Play Therapy, Counselling, Psychotherapy and Family Therapy for all individuals experiencing emotional distress.
At Family and Therapy, we provide comprehensive support for individuals of all ages, from young children to adults, embracing families and couples across Wales and online. Our approach is holistic and tailored, ensuring that every person, regardless of their age or stage in life, receives the support and care they need to thrive. Our team of professionals is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where individuals can explore, grow, play and heal.
01792 949783 View 01792 949783
Photo of Avery Rabbitt, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Avery Rabbitt
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Cardiff CF10  (Online Only)
We may use analysis, play, and more meditative approaches in a session, depending on clients' needs and desires.
Hi, there! I'm Avery. If you're suffering from anxiety and/or depression brought on by things outside your control, if the tools you've used to cope with life's challenges and hardships are currently hindering you more than they're helping you, or if you need a support reframing how you see yourself and your part in the world, I'd like to help you unwind those tensions. I offer a a gentle space for clients to release, even if for a moment, the things that demand so much of our energy as we power through our daily lives. Just having that space can empower us to approach life creatively and reconnect to our sense of play.
We may use analysis, play, and more meditative approaches in a session, depending on clients' needs and desires.
Hi, there! I'm Avery. If you're suffering from anxiety and/or depression brought on by things outside your control, if the tools you've used to cope with life's challenges and hardships are currently hindering you more than they're helping you, or if you need a support reframing how you see yourself and your part in the world, I'd like to help you unwind those tensions. I offer a a gentle space for clients to release, even if for a moment, the things that demand so much of our energy as we power through our daily lives. Just having that space can empower us to approach life creatively and reconnect to our sense of play.
020 3856 3714 View 020 3856 3714
Photo of Claire Kennaby - Pinch of Positivity Centre, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Pinch of Positivity Centre
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Gloucester GL2
This can involve elements of talking, art, music, games, creative expression, CBT, play or systemic exploration.
Hi, and a warm welcome. I'm a qualified counsellor and have been for many years offering therapeutic support for adults, adolescents, children and families either together or individually, in my private practice and within primary and secondary schools. I can offer support too many for many reasons and offer flexible Integrative approaches to suit you. I always welcome a free initial email or chat or meet and briefly discuss ways of support that suits all. This can also give you all an opportunity to see the space, meet and talk with me with no obligation. This helps in deciding what is best for you.
This can involve elements of talking, art, music, games, creative expression, CBT, play or systemic exploration.
Hi, and a warm welcome. I'm a qualified counsellor and have been for many years offering therapeutic support for adults, adolescents, children and families either together or individually, in my private practice and within primary and secondary schools. I can offer support too many for many reasons and offer flexible Integrative approaches to suit you. I always welcome a free initial email or chat or meet and briefly discuss ways of support that suits all. This can also give you all an opportunity to see the space, meet and talk with me with no obligation. This helps in deciding what is best for you.
01452 923058 View 01452 923058
Photo of Craig Philip Smith, MBACP, Counsellor
Craig Philip Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bath BA1  (Online Only)
Do you play the guitar? Do you have other ways to self-soothe or manage your emotions? Books maybe, reading and writing.
I can work with you around family issues, teen problems, child behaviour, ASC issues, illness and disability. I will support, collaborate and try to make sense of what is going on. All things eventually pass - I will offer to weather the storm with you. I won’t be judging you or not taking you seriously. We will work together - and it will be work - but we will also aim to have fun and be creative in our work.
Do you play the guitar? Do you have other ways to self-soothe or manage your emotions? Books maybe, reading and writing.
I can work with you around family issues, teen problems, child behaviour, ASC issues, illness and disability. I will support, collaborate and try to make sense of what is going on. All things eventually pass - I will offer to weather the storm with you. I won’t be judging you or not taking you seriously. We will work together - and it will be work - but we will also aim to have fun and be creative in our work.
01225 541093 View 01225 541093
Photo of Elaine Hutchinson, Counsellor
Elaine Hutchinson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wells BA5
I support children and young people with ASD and PANDAS and I am one of very few Aut Play and Trauma Play practitioners in the UK.
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, Trauma Play and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
I support children and young people with ASD and PANDAS and I am one of very few Aut Play and Trauma Play practitioners in the UK.
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, Trauma Play and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
01749 605317 View 01749 605317
Photo of Philippa Casement, MBACP, Counsellor
Philippa Casement
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Marlborough SN8  (Online Only)
CBT, creative counselling, play therapy, person-centred.
I am a BACP registered therapist working with people to make practical positive steps to making changes to improve their lives. You will be heard in a non-judgmental, confidential caring way.
CBT, creative counselling, play therapy, person-centred.
I am a BACP registered therapist working with people to make practical positive steps to making changes to improve their lives. You will be heard in a non-judgmental, confidential caring way.
01672 550788 View 01672 550788
Photo of Laura Denmead - Counselling and Creative Therapy , MBACP, Counsellor
Counselling and Creative Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8  (Online Only)
16 years of counselling and 10 years of Play Therapy experience supporting adults, teens, and children. Holistic person centred approach incorporating other therapeutic modalities when beneficial. Empathic and intuitive approach to supporting your exploration of self and any circumstances that you may be struggling with. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
16 years of counselling and 10 years of Play Therapy experience supporting adults, teens, and children. Holistic person centred approach incorporating other therapeutic modalities when beneficial. Empathic and intuitive approach to supporting your exploration of self and any circumstances that you may be struggling with. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
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Photo of Vikki Joy Fear, MBACP, Counsellor
Vikki Joy Fear
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Clevedon BS21
I use talking therapy, EFT, neuroscience and creative techniques suh as art, sand tray, journalling and play to help you process trauma and support you through difficulties.
I am a down to earth and approachable counsellor for children, young people and adults. I have 27 years experience working with young people in care struggling with CPTSD, ADHD and ASD. At times, emotions and behaviours can become difficult. Past trauma affects us physically as well as mentally and emotionally, sometimes blocking lifes natural progression. We often underestimate the impact an event or events has on us. I can help you make sense of your emotions and behaviours and manage your responses to triggers, allowing progression towrards your desired goals.
I use talking therapy, EFT, neuroscience and creative techniques suh as art, sand tray, journalling and play to help you process trauma and support you through difficulties.
I am a down to earth and approachable counsellor for children, young people and adults. I have 27 years experience working with young people in care struggling with CPTSD, ADHD and ASD. At times, emotions and behaviours can become difficult. Past trauma affects us physically as well as mentally and emotionally, sometimes blocking lifes natural progression. We often underestimate the impact an event or events has on us. I can help you make sense of your emotions and behaviours and manage your responses to triggers, allowing progression towrards your desired goals.
01275 402983 View 01275 402983

See more therapy options for Tiverton

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.