Empowering Young Minds Through the Healing Power of Play

Each Play Therapy session takes place in a carefully prepared space known as the playroom, a warm, welcoming environment designed to feel safe, secure, and free from judgment. At the heart of the process is the trusting relationship between the therapist and the child, which creates the foundation for emotional healing and self-expression. Sessions last 40 minutes and take place weekly. Within this time, your child is free to choose how they engage, selecting from a range of creative materials and play resources, or simply choosing to be present in the space. They lead the session, guided by their own instincts and inner world. This child led process allows for deep therapeutic work to unfold, often helping the child move from unconscious emotional experiences to conscious understanding, always at their own pace, and in a way that feels safe and natural to them.

The Play Therapist's role is to create a consistent, trusting relationship where the child feels truly seen, safe, and emotionally supported. Within this secure environment, the child is gently encouraged to express themselves in their own way and in their own time. By being fully present and attuned, the therapist offers a space where healing and self discovery can naturally unfold. Over time, this support helps the child gain greater awareness of their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and build the inner resilience needed to navigate both current challenges and future experiences.

Each child's therapeutic journey is unique, and as such, the duration of Play Therapy can vary. We begin with an initial commitment of 12 weekly sessions, which allows time for the child to settle into the process, build a trusting relationship with the therapist, and begin meaningful therapeutic work. Around week 10, we hold a review meeting with parents to reflect on the child's progress. If the initial goals have been met and positive changes are evident, the intervention may come to a natural close. However, if further support is needed, we may agree to continue with additional sessions until meaningful progress has been achieved and parents feel confident in their child's emotional well being.

Every child is a unique individual, and their therapeutic journey unfolds at their own pace. One of the core principles of Play Therapy is to honour this process, giving each child the time and space they need to explore their inner world safely and without pressure. During the initial parent consultation, we discuss hopes and expectations, and as therapy progresses, we reflect on any changes observed both in and outside of the playroom. However, true therapeutic growth cannot be rushed. Our role is to walk alongside your child, gently supporting them as they move through their emotional process in a way that feels right for them.

The therapeutic relationship is at the heart of the entire Play Therapy process. For meaningful therapeutic progress to occur, your child must first feel safe, seen, and accepted without judgment. Building trust with the therapist allows your child to explore their thoughts and feelings with confidence, knowing they are in a consistent, secure space where they are respected exactly as they are. This connection forms the foundation for emotional healing, self expression, and lasting growth.

Confidentiality is a key part of the therapeutic process, helping your child feel safe, respected, and free to express themselves without fear of being overheard or misunderstood. Just as adults in counselling are assured privacy, children in Play Therapy are also given this reassurance: 'What happens in here stays in here.' That said, I do keep parents informed with general updates on how the sessions are progressing. There are, however, important limits to confidentiality. If a child shares information that suggests they or someone else may be at risk of harm, I have a duty of care to respond. In such cases, I will always explain to the child, in a gentle and age appropriate way, that we will speak to someone who can help. As the parent or guardian, you will be informed of any concerns before any appropriate steps are taken.

Honesty and simplicity are key when introducing your child to the idea of Play Therapy. Using gentle, age appropriate language, you might say something like: 'We've found someone named Lisa who has a really nice space filled with toys, art, and games. It's a place where you can go to talk or play, especially if you've been feeling a bit sad, worried, angry, or confused. Sometimes, spending time there can help you feel better and understand your feelings a bit more.' The wording can be tailored to reflect your child's specific needs or concerns. The most important thing is to present therapy as a safe, supportive, and positive experience, something that's there to help them, not something to fear.

As a parent, your support plays a vital role in your child's therapeutic process. One of the most helpful things you can do is to remain consistent and encouraging about their attendance, reinforcing that therapy is a safe and positive space just for them. Be available to listen when your child wants to talk, and connect with them through calm, nurturing moments. This helps them feel understood, valued, and emotionally secure. It's important to avoid asking direct questions about what happens in the playroom, as this can create pressure and may interrupt their natural processing. Children often need time and space to make sense of their emotions, and Play Therapy honours their pace. Try not to prompt or insist they discuss certain topics, this is their special time to express themselves in their own way. Sometimes, emotional expression can bring unsettled feelings to the surface before things begin to improve. If you notice changes in your child's behaviour, please stay in touch with your child's therapist. Together, we can gently guide your child through this meaningful journey with care and understanding.