Children
A child's natural form of communication is through play. Play Therapy can help a child to express their inner world through the symbolic and metaphoric representation of the toys and creative mediums in the play room. Children can play out their big and often overwhelming feelings to find an inner resolution and become more able to deal with or adjust to problems. Through the therapeutic relationship with the Play Therapist children can learn to manage relationships and manage conflict in more appropriate ways.
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We're Here to Support
We understand that it can take a lot of courage for a parent/carer to ask for help and make the decision for their child to enter therapy. We also recognise that the journey through therapy can prove quite bumpy at times for the child and family. This is why we are fully committed in supporting parents and carers through the whole process; including a bespoke support plan and parenting interventions.
(Concession rates are available)
Who is Play Therapy For?
Play Therapy can be used to help children when experiencing difficulties - some examples of these are:
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Developmental and relational trauma
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Anxiety and panic disorders
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Emotional abuse, physical or sexual abuse
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Phobias, Fears, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
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Domestic Violence
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Bereavement or Loss
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Divorced or Separated Parents/Carers
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Autism, ADHD, ADD
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Delayed development and/or learning difficulty
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Physical disability
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Sensory Issues
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Medical Condition/Illness/Hospital Stay
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Social Exclusion
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Difficulties with self-expression, confidence and self-esteem
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Withdrawn and/or Low Mood
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Under Performing - not realising potential (socially or academic performance)
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Friendship issues
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Behavioural Difficulties
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Bullying
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Exclusion from School
Our Advice
1
Consistency is Key
Be consistent and encourage your child to attend planned sessions - regular attendance leads to improved outcomes of the therapy and helps to create a safe and held space for the child.
2
Don't Push
Please resist the urge to ask your child what they did or said in their play therapy session. This can put pressure on them to comment on something that they may have difficulty in understanding themselves.
3
Let Them Be
Please don't ask your child to ‘be good' or check they have been. Therapy is not about being ‘good' or ‘bad' and your child must feel free to express ‘bad' feelings in an uncensored way.
4
Let Them Share
Refrain from insisting your child tell the play therapist specific things. It is their special time and must feel free to express themselves at their own pace if they choose to do so. Instead, please share any concerns or information with the Play Therapist directly.
5
Wear Old Clothes
Play can be messy and it is helpful if your child can wear old clothes to minimise their anxiety about this.
6
It May Get Worse First
During any therapeutic intervention, behaviour may appear to get worse before it gets better – please tell your child's Play Therapist if you have any concerns. Please also feel free to ask your child's Play Therapist any questions throughout the process.