Play Therapy Counselling in Watford

Photo of Nicola Goulooze, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicola Goulooze
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Watford WD24
Counselling could involve talk therapy, play or something creative – whatever the young person feels comfortable with and helps them work through their difficulties.
As parents when our children are struggling we just want to help but often don’t know how. What they are facing can feel overwhelming but there is hope. Counselling provides children and young people with a safe space where they can explore, work things out, heal and move on from difficulties that they experience. Working with someone who is not a family member or friend, but who is supportive, non-judgmental and accepting, who helps us make sense of what we are going through and move forward, can be really beneficial. I aim to help young people accept and value themselves, raise their resilience, gain coping skills and thrive.
Counselling could involve talk therapy, play or something creative – whatever the young person feels comfortable with and helps them work through their difficulties.
As parents when our children are struggling we just want to help but often don’t know how. What they are facing can feel overwhelming but there is hope. Counselling provides children and young people with a safe space where they can explore, work things out, heal and move on from difficulties that they experience. Working with someone who is not a family member or friend, but who is supportive, non-judgmental and accepting, who helps us make sense of what we are going through and move forward, can be really beneficial. I aim to help young people accept and value themselves, raise their resilience, gain coping skills and thrive.
01923 961757 View 01923 961757
Photo of Luisa Picciuto, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Luisa Picciuto
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watford WD17
Hello, I'm Luisa. I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist for children and young people. Being an Integrative therapist means I am trained to use various therapeutic modalities and skills to support each young person, including using Play-Based techniques, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic approaches, Person-Centred approach and using Systemic thinking. I work with warmth, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, holding space for any young person to explore their feelings and experiences in a safe, ethical environment. I offer a modern and fresh perspective, bringing a warm, ‘human’, welcoming vibe to sessions.
Hello, I'm Luisa. I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist for children and young people. Being an Integrative therapist means I am trained to use various therapeutic modalities and skills to support each young person, including using Play-Based techniques, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic approaches, Person-Centred approach and using Systemic thinking. I work with warmth, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, holding space for any young person to explore their feelings and experiences in a safe, ethical environment. I offer a modern and fresh perspective, bringing a warm, ‘human’, welcoming vibe to sessions.
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Photo of Naomi Castle, MBACP, Counsellor
Naomi Castle
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Watford WD18
And, for younger children, play aids their journey to emotional well-being.
Hi, I am Naomi. If you are worried about a child, adolescent or young adult as a fully qualified therapeutic counsellor for young people, I can help, so please feel you are not alone. Being ‘in the bubble’ is a safe space that allows us to explore and reflect on personal experiences. This helps support self-growth. My approach is centered on truly listening, ensuring that inner feelings are heard and valued. In a nurturing and warm atmosphere, I adapt to the needs of each person where they lead the session and tell their story.
And, for younger children, play aids their journey to emotional well-being.
Hi, I am Naomi. If you are worried about a child, adolescent or young adult as a fully qualified therapeutic counsellor for young people, I can help, so please feel you are not alone. Being ‘in the bubble’ is a safe space that allows us to explore and reflect on personal experiences. This helps support self-growth. My approach is centered on truly listening, ensuring that inner feelings are heard and valued. In a nurturing and warm atmosphere, I adapt to the needs of each person where they lead the session and tell their story.
07367 290305 View 07367 290305
Photo of Alison Tureck - Alison Play Therapy, MA
Alison Play Therapy
MA
Verified Verified
Watford WD25
I can offer one-to-one support, providing a safe space and trusting environment through the therapeutic relationship, allowing a child to communicate at their own level and pace to express, explore and make sense of their difficult and feelings and experiences and problems through play.
My name is Alison and I have 13 years experience of working with vulnerable children and their families. I provide Play Therapy for children, which allows them to use toys and creative materials to safely play out and express, explore and make sense of their thoughts, feelings and painful life experiences and cope better with the future. I'm a registered member of the British Association of Play Therapy and DBS checked. I cover the areas of Hertfordshire, North London, and surrounding areas. Please view my website for more information and testimonials; www.alisonplaytherapy.com
I can offer one-to-one support, providing a safe space and trusting environment through the therapeutic relationship, allowing a child to communicate at their own level and pace to express, explore and make sense of their difficult and feelings and experiences and problems through play.
My name is Alison and I have 13 years experience of working with vulnerable children and their families. I provide Play Therapy for children, which allows them to use toys and creative materials to safely play out and express, explore and make sense of their thoughts, feelings and painful life experiences and cope better with the future. I'm a registered member of the British Association of Play Therapy and DBS checked. I cover the areas of Hertfordshire, North London, and surrounding areas. Please view my website for more information and testimonials; www.alisonplaytherapy.com
020 4538 6745 View 020 4538 6745
Photo of Adriana Coelho, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Adriana Coelho
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Watford WD17
I have experience working with individuals of all ages and addressing a wide range of mental health issues. I deliver person-centered and evidence-based interventions to help patients gain a deeper understanding of themselves. The aim of my therapy is to promote personal growth and wisdom, empowering patients to explore their feelings and find joy in their lives.
I have experience working with individuals of all ages and addressing a wide range of mental health issues. I deliver person-centered and evidence-based interventions to help patients gain a deeper understanding of themselves. The aim of my therapy is to promote personal growth and wisdom, empowering patients to explore their feelings and find joy in their lives.
01923 961147 View 01923 961147
Photo of Silvia @ Center Therapy, BACP, Counsellor
Silvia @ Center Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Watford WD25  (Online Only)
Change and being your unapologetically authentic self. This discovery led me to become a therapist/counsellor. As an integrative counsellor, I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches to create sessions that are uniquely tailored to your needs. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you will feel truly seen and heard. With full presence, empathy, and curiosity, I will support you in exploring your inner world. Together, we can work with playfulness, creativity, inquisitiveness and humour at times, as you embark on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Change and being your unapologetically authentic self. This discovery led me to become a therapist/counsellor. As an integrative counsellor, I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches to create sessions that are uniquely tailored to your needs. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you will feel truly seen and heard. With full presence, empathy, and curiosity, I will support you in exploring your inner world. Together, we can work with playfulness, creativity, inquisitiveness and humour at times, as you embark on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
01923 961898 View 01923 961898
Photo of Tania Cohen, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Tania Cohen
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watford WD25
Welcome to my profile. I am a BACP senior accredited psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years, qualifying as an integrative counsellor in 2004, and am experienced in working with children and adults for a wide range and depth of issues. I work from a humanistic perspective which provides a foundation for me to work with you using a combination of therapeutic approaches such as CBT and mindfulness that are best suited to individual requirements and the issues that you would like to work through. I work confidently and from an empathic, gentle yet focused heartspace in both long and short term frameworks.
Welcome to my profile. I am a BACP senior accredited psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years, qualifying as an integrative counsellor in 2004, and am experienced in working with children and adults for a wide range and depth of issues. I work from a humanistic perspective which provides a foundation for me to work with you using a combination of therapeutic approaches such as CBT and mindfulness that are best suited to individual requirements and the issues that you would like to work through. I work confidently and from an empathic, gentle yet focused heartspace in both long and short term frameworks.
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Photo of Thomas Brosnan, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Thomas Brosnan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Watford WD25
My name is Thomas Brosnan and I am a Psychotherapist and Behaviour Change Expert. I specialise in Addiction and Relationships where for over 20 years now, I have supported the most amazing and beautiful people, because that’s what I believe we all are, to see what’s true about our experience of life.
My name is Thomas Brosnan and I am a Psychotherapist and Behaviour Change Expert. I specialise in Addiction and Relationships where for over 20 years now, I have supported the most amazing and beautiful people, because that’s what I believe we all are, to see what’s true about our experience of life.
020 8059 4365 View 020 8059 4365
Photo of L Wykes - Home Counties Therapy, MSc
Home Counties Therapy
MSc
Verified Verified
Watford WD18
We specialise in working with people with Borderline Personality Disorder, Dual Diagnosis, Addiction and Autistic Spectrum Disorder/Pathological Demand Avoidance. Our highly skilled team will work with you to find the solutions that you are looking for.
We specialise in working with people with Borderline Personality Disorder, Dual Diagnosis, Addiction and Autistic Spectrum Disorder/Pathological Demand Avoidance. Our highly skilled team will work with you to find the solutions that you are looking for.
01296 827049 View 01296 827049
Photo of Rukhsana Khan, MBACP, Counsellor
Rukhsana Khan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Watford WD17
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to facilitate you, in the process of self exploration and growth. I work collaboratively with my clients to create an open and safe environment, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. Fostering a supportive and empowering relationship, I aim to support you by helping you to gain valuable insights into your self and develop self awareness, make changes and build resilience so that you can face life’s challenges and live a more fulfilling life.
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to facilitate you, in the process of self exploration and growth. I work collaboratively with my clients to create an open and safe environment, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. Fostering a supportive and empowering relationship, I aim to support you by helping you to gain valuable insights into your self and develop self awareness, make changes and build resilience so that you can face life’s challenges and live a more fulfilling life.
01442 953130 View 01442 953130

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Claire Jakobsson - CJ Therapies , DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
CJ Therapies
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Barnet EN5
I am an Integrative therapist registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I provide emotional support for Children, Young People and Parents. My approach with children is play based and creative therapy. My work with parents is taken from a relational approach helping parents to learn about their attachment styles building on their understanding of their child's development and improving relationships. My support helps children understand their feelings, improving confidence, self esteem, anxiety, behaviours, and emotional wellbeing.
I am an Integrative therapist registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I provide emotional support for Children, Young People and Parents. My approach with children is play based and creative therapy. My work with parents is taken from a relational approach helping parents to learn about their attachment styles building on their understanding of their child's development and improving relationships. My support helps children understand their feelings, improving confidence, self esteem, anxiety, behaviours, and emotional wellbeing.
07479 276687 View 07479 276687
Photo of Samantha Hurlock, MBACP, Counsellor
Samantha Hurlock
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrow HA3
I also have experience with Drama, Arts and Play Therapy tools,.
Reasons for coming to Therapy are unique to each person. You may have hopes and desires to be a better version of yourself, a willingness to change, to face the difficulties that may obstruct your personal growth. Life’s challenges may leave you anxious, stressed or depressed, feeling stuck, unable to move forward, alone with unwanted thoughts and feelings. Patterns in your life can keep you in a cycle of inner conflict and, at times, relationship conflicts, not knowing why. Talking to someone is a great way to start. Please don’t choose to fight this alone; it’s time to give yourself the time and space to explore.
I also have experience with Drama, Arts and Play Therapy tools,.
Reasons for coming to Therapy are unique to each person. You may have hopes and desires to be a better version of yourself, a willingness to change, to face the difficulties that may obstruct your personal growth. Life’s challenges may leave you anxious, stressed or depressed, feeling stuck, unable to move forward, alone with unwanted thoughts and feelings. Patterns in your life can keep you in a cycle of inner conflict and, at times, relationship conflicts, not knowing why. Talking to someone is a great way to start. Please don’t choose to fight this alone; it’s time to give yourself the time and space to explore.
020 8059 2503 View 020 8059 2503
Photo of Amy Lyons, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Amy Lyons
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edgware HA8
I also play netball every week where I engage in my competitive side! It’s also really important to me to spend time with my friends and loved ones.
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
I also play netball every week where I engage in my competitive side! It’s also really important to me to spend time with my friends and loved ones.
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
020 3870 2957 View 020 3870 2957
Photo of Sarah Zobin, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sarah Zobin
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London NW11
I work psychodynamically and I use play and art in my work with young children.
I am a psychotherapist and counsellor with lots of experience working in a variety of settings, including a Youth Support Service and Children's Service, Primary and Secondary schools and for a local charity organisation. I have a private practice in NW London where I offer a safe and confidential space that is non-judgemental, in which together with my clients I explore the difficulties that they may be experiencing. If you call me and do not get through please leave a message.
I work psychodynamically and I use play and art in my work with young children.
I am a psychotherapist and counsellor with lots of experience working in a variety of settings, including a Youth Support Service and Children's Service, Primary and Secondary schools and for a local charity organisation. I have a private practice in NW London where I offer a safe and confidential space that is non-judgemental, in which together with my clients I explore the difficulties that they may be experiencing. If you call me and do not get through please leave a message.
020 3984 8132 View 020 3984 8132
Photo of Richie Long - Richie hears you., BACP, Counsellor
Richie hears you.
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Greenford UB6
I offer sand and play therapy for both adults and children.
Meet Richie, a compassionate psychotherapist specializing in adult talking therapies and unique approaches for children like play therapy and sand therapy. With a warm and friendly demeanor, he creates a welcoming space where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions. Richie seamlessly blends professionalism with a down-to-earth attitude, making therapy sessions feel more like heartfelt conversations with a trusted friend. His use of humor adds a refreshing touch, easing tension and fostering a sense of connection.
I offer sand and play therapy for both adults and children.
Meet Richie, a compassionate psychotherapist specializing in adult talking therapies and unique approaches for children like play therapy and sand therapy. With a warm and friendly demeanor, he creates a welcoming space where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions. Richie seamlessly blends professionalism with a down-to-earth attitude, making therapy sessions feel more like heartfelt conversations with a trusted friend. His use of humor adds a refreshing touch, easing tension and fostering a sense of connection.
020 4538 6409 View 020 4538 6409
Photo of Sophie Spiegler, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Sophie Spiegler
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London N3
I'm a trauma psychotherapist, breathwork facilitator, trainer, group holder 7 play therapist with over 17 years experience. Working somatically, relationally and collaboratively I support you to find balance between building trust & safety, whilst providing enough challenge to find deep lasting change from long standing painful relational patterns. Specialising in trauma, including relational trauma, family dysfunction, childhood and adult sexual trauma. Working with mind, body, soul and spirit, I view the human experience through a holistic lens - you are not a person who needs to be fixed, but have wounds that need attending to.
I'm a trauma psychotherapist, breathwork facilitator, trainer, group holder 7 play therapist with over 17 years experience. Working somatically, relationally and collaboratively I support you to find balance between building trust & safety, whilst providing enough challenge to find deep lasting change from long standing painful relational patterns. Specialising in trauma, including relational trauma, family dysfunction, childhood and adult sexual trauma. Working with mind, body, soul and spirit, I view the human experience through a holistic lens - you are not a person who needs to be fixed, but have wounds that need attending to.
020 3909 9880 View 020 3909 9880
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
Photo of Tracy Ritchie, BACP, Counsellor
Tracy Ritchie
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Uxbridge UB9
If you struggle to talk about your problems and perhaps do not feel that your emotional needs are being met, talking to an impartial person who is a good listener can often help make sense of what is happening for you. Sometimes family members are not useful in these situations and that is where counselling could be a proactive and empowering move forward for you.
If you struggle to talk about your problems and perhaps do not feel that your emotional needs are being met, talking to an impartial person who is a good listener can often help make sense of what is happening for you. Sometimes family members are not useful in these situations and that is where counselling could be a proactive and empowering move forward for you.
01895 541751 View 01895 541751
Photo of Adele Treger, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Adele Treger
Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Edgware HA8
I have worked as a Counsellor for over 30 years and can help you if you are struggling with Relationship issues, Bereavement, Anxiety and Depression. I treat both adults and adolescents and am also interested in helping people who are generally struggling with their identity and finding meaning in life. I am a warm and approachable person and am happy to offer therapy via FaceTime, What’s App or Skype
I have worked as a Counsellor for over 30 years and can help you if you are struggling with Relationship issues, Bereavement, Anxiety and Depression. I treat both adults and adolescents and am also interested in helping people who are generally struggling with their identity and finding meaning in life. I am a warm and approachable person and am happy to offer therapy via FaceTime, What’s App or Skype
07803 714869 View 07803 714869
Photo of Suneeta Gogna - Oceanic Counselling, PsychD, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Oceanic Counselling
Counsellor, PsychD, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Radlett WD7
This time of the year can be a struggle and a challenging time for many of us for so many reasons; it can remind us of loss or we can have difficulty connecting with family or friends. I offer a professional counselling service for Teenagers and Adults in Hertfordshire (Radlett), working in person or online/phone sessions. I have a certified therapy dog (Labrador) to assist in sessions if you would like. Working with children and parents in schools for 20 year, specialising in neurodiversity and SEND, I hold an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Checking Service) Certificate.
This time of the year can be a struggle and a challenging time for many of us for so many reasons; it can remind us of loss or we can have difficulty connecting with family or friends. I offer a professional counselling service for Teenagers and Adults in Hertfordshire (Radlett), working in person or online/phone sessions. I have a certified therapy dog (Labrador) to assist in sessions if you would like. Working with children and parents in schools for 20 year, specialising in neurodiversity and SEND, I hold an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Checking Service) Certificate.
01923 920465 View 01923 920465

See more therapy options for Watford

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.