FAQ
Play therapy is primarily designed for children aged 3 to 13, but it can also be adapted for older children, teens, and even adults in certain situations. It is especially effective for children who have difficulty expressing their feelings through words, as play provides a natural way for them to communicate.
Nature-based therapy involves incorporating natural elements, such as outdoor spaces, plants, animals, and natural materials, into play therapy sessions. It provides a calming, grounding environment for children to engage in therapeutic activities like nature walks, gardening, or interacting with therapy animals. Nature can help reduce anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and foster creativity and connection.
While play therapy is often used to address behavioural issues, it is also helpful for children facing a variety of challenges, such as anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, social difficulties, or difficulties with self-esteem. It offers children a non-threatening way to express and process their emotions, no matter what they are going through.
If your child is experiencing emotional difficulties such as anxiety, sadness, trauma, or social issues, play therapy may be beneficial. Behavioural changes like increased aggression, withdrawal, or difficulty managing emotions are also signs that therapy could help. If you're unsure, feel free to discuss your child’s needs and determine if play therapy is a good fit.
During a play therapy session, your child is free to engage in the ‘toolkit’ using activities like art, games, storytelling, or role-playing. These activities are designed to help them express their thoughts and emotions in a safe and supportive environment. The therapist will observe and guide the play to help your child process their feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
While talking is often a part of play therapy, the focus is on non-verbal expression through play, which can be more natural and comfortable for children. This allows them to express complex emotions that they might not be able to verbalise. The therapist will help guide the process and interpret the child's actions and play themes.
The length of time needed for play therapy varies depending on the child’s specific needs. Typically, play therapy sessions last between 30 to 50 minutes, and the overall length of therapy can range from a minimum of 12 sessions to several months or years, depending on progress, complexity and the issues being addressed. It is vital that therapy does not end in an unplanned way for the well-being of the child.
Either school staff or parents can make a referral. All therapy is currently undertaken in the school setting but can be funded by either party.
Yes! I believe in family involvement in therapy. While the child is the primary focus during play therapy, I encourage open communication with parents to discuss progress and strategies to support their child’s growth.
Nature-based therapy can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, increase self-esteem, and promote emotional regulation. The natural environment encourages relaxation and mindfulness, which can help children feel more connected to themselves and the world around them.
Confidentiality in the playroom is important, without this a child or young person may not fully process their thoughts and feelings. If they choose to share with you what they have done in a session that is acceptable. It is important though that the child or young person is not asked about their session. I also will not tell you what has occurred in a session.
To ensure you are aware of their progress a review is offered after about 8 sessions.
To get started, simply contact me to discuss your child’s needs further. I’ll discuss your child’s specific needs; answer any questions you may have at this stage.
Prices depend upon location, number of sessions and other factors. Please enquire for prices.
I can provide a full or half-day for schools wishing me to provide individual sessions for 2 or more children, please discuss this if interested. I can also offer schools group therapy for children with the same referral reason and developmental stage. Please enquire for more details.
