Play Therapy Counselling in Chelmsford

Photo of Nathalie Macleod, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Nathalie Macleod
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Welcome. I am a BACP Accredited counsellor with experience working with adults, couples and young people. At times in our lives, events can swamp us and we can struggle to cope. I have experience working with clients with various backgrounds. I can help you with anxiety, stress, self esteem issues, low mood, depression, relationship issues, experiencing chronic illness, along with suicidal ideation. My approach can help you understand yourself better and explore ways to bring about positive change.
Welcome. I am a BACP Accredited counsellor with experience working with adults, couples and young people. At times in our lives, events can swamp us and we can struggle to cope. I have experience working with clients with various backgrounds. I can help you with anxiety, stress, self esteem issues, low mood, depression, relationship issues, experiencing chronic illness, along with suicidal ideation. My approach can help you understand yourself better and explore ways to bring about positive change.
01245 950892 View 01245 950892
Photo of Diane Munday, Counsellor, MBACP
Diane Munday
Counsellor, MBACP
Most clients that I see are suffering with anxiety, depression and stress. Most of this is caused by underlying issues such as low self-esteem, relationships issues and addiction to name a few. We're often aware of what our problems are but do not feel able to cope and need some support. Distressing situations and feelings can have such a destructive impact on our lives and therapy works by accepting your feelings, helping you to gain a different perspective, whilst challenging old negative beliefs; so you can move forward with a happier and healthier outlook on life.
Most clients that I see are suffering with anxiety, depression and stress. Most of this is caused by underlying issues such as low self-esteem, relationships issues and addiction to name a few. We're often aware of what our problems are but do not feel able to cope and need some support. Distressing situations and feelings can have such a destructive impact on our lives and therapy works by accepting your feelings, helping you to gain a different perspective, whilst challenging old negative beliefs; so you can move forward with a happier and healthier outlook on life.
01708 989896 View 01708 989896
Photo of Nadia Sturrock, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Nadia Sturrock
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
I am an Integrative Arts Psychotherapist and cofounder of the Creative Therapy Studio in Chelmsford offering holistic evidence-based counselling and art therapy. I work with empathy and in-depth with issues, including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, isolation, grief, identity, difficult relationships, trauma, attachment, and neurodiversity. I support clients to process emotions, reflect on issues, access resources, and increase their sense of fulfilment and well-being. Helping clients to identify and develop their unique creative and imaginative capabilitys is a key part of my practice.
I am an Integrative Arts Psychotherapist and cofounder of the Creative Therapy Studio in Chelmsford offering holistic evidence-based counselling and art therapy. I work with empathy and in-depth with issues, including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, isolation, grief, identity, difficult relationships, trauma, attachment, and neurodiversity. I support clients to process emotions, reflect on issues, access resources, and increase their sense of fulfilment and well-being. Helping clients to identify and develop their unique creative and imaginative capabilitys is a key part of my practice.
01245 823408 View 01245 823408
Photo of Karen Louise Hardy, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Karen Louise Hardy
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Everyone is an individual who experiences life and the issues it throws, in very different ways. No 'one' sure way fits all - that is my Moto. We are individuals. Whatever anyone is feeling they shouldn't believe that they can "just cope" because everyone else seems to be doing ok. Its all relative! Depression/anxiety/stress/ lack of self worth and esteem are all problems in todays society and many suffer in silence. You don't need to. Often by talking and getting your problems out in the open is the first step to healing. Their voice to be heard and feelings to be listened to. Trust and the therapeutic relationship are key.
Everyone is an individual who experiences life and the issues it throws, in very different ways. No 'one' sure way fits all - that is my Moto. We are individuals. Whatever anyone is feeling they shouldn't believe that they can "just cope" because everyone else seems to be doing ok. Its all relative! Depression/anxiety/stress/ lack of self worth and esteem are all problems in todays society and many suffer in silence. You don't need to. Often by talking and getting your problems out in the open is the first step to healing. Their voice to be heard and feelings to be listened to. Trust and the therapeutic relationship are key.
01621 730627 View 01621 730627
Photo of Jenny Wayne - Jenny Wayne, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Jenny Wayne
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Hi, I am Jenny from Behind the Behaviour, looking to help you to understand the emotional and mental health need behind behaviour, whether it is a child’s, a family member or your own. I have over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I have worked at the Priory hospital, CAMHS, pupil referral units, youth offending and Five River Childcare in fostering. I also run a private practice for children, adolescents, parents and adults alongside delivering training to teachers, social workers and carers.
Hi, I am Jenny from Behind the Behaviour, looking to help you to understand the emotional and mental health need behind behaviour, whether it is a child’s, a family member or your own. I have over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I have worked at the Priory hospital, CAMHS, pupil referral units, youth offending and Five River Childcare in fostering. I also run a private practice for children, adolescents, parents and adults alongside delivering training to teachers, social workers and carers.
01245 943110 View 01245 943110
Photo of Cindy Yeates, Counsellor, MBACP
Cindy Yeates
Counsellor, MBACP
I work with children, young people and adults. I provide a safe and trusting space to enable my clients to explore what it is that has brought them to counselling. I believe in empowering my clients so they explore their feelings and experiences, to work towards liberating themselves from these restricting and overwhelming feelings in order to live a happier life, with more self worth and confidence.
I work with children, young people and adults. I provide a safe and trusting space to enable my clients to explore what it is that has brought them to counselling. I believe in empowering my clients so they explore their feelings and experiences, to work towards liberating themselves from these restricting and overwhelming feelings in order to live a happier life, with more self worth and confidence.
01245 968137 View 01245 968137
Photo of Celia Parks - Chelmsford Counselling and Therapy Centre, Counsellor, MBACP
Our aim at the Chelmsford Counselling and Therapy Centre is to inspire growth , help clients bring about change leading to self - fulfilment. I work along side a group of 25 Counsellors and Therapists so be can be very responsive to client needs. We work with adults, children as well as couples.We also offer a low cost (£20) Counselling Service for individual adults provided by Counsellors in training.
Our aim at the Chelmsford Counselling and Therapy Centre is to inspire growth , help clients bring about change leading to self - fulfilment. I work along side a group of 25 Counsellors and Therapists so be can be very responsive to client needs. We work with adults, children as well as couples.We also offer a low cost (£20) Counselling Service for individual adults provided by Counsellors in training.
01245 951116 View 01245 951116
Grace Ellice Stlouis
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Within my practice, the highest importance to me is that I am there to listen to my client, to offer empathy, to provide them with a safe space where they can trust in the confidentiality of the sessions, and also where they will be respected no matter the reasoning they want counselling. I understand that taking the first step, making the call to enquire or sending the email can be daunting; but no question is too big or small - nor irrelevant. When you enquire, I will see if I am the right person for you and what you need, and go at a pace that best suits you if I am.
Within my practice, the highest importance to me is that I am there to listen to my client, to offer empathy, to provide them with a safe space where they can trust in the confidentiality of the sessions, and also where they will be respected no matter the reasoning they want counselling. I understand that taking the first step, making the call to enquire or sending the email can be daunting; but no question is too big or small - nor irrelevant. When you enquire, I will see if I am the right person for you and what you need, and go at a pace that best suits you if I am.
01245 673766 View 01245 673766
Photo of Laura Lucia - Blossom Therapeutic Services, MA
I am trained to work through a wide range of mediums including talking, play, drama and art.
I am an Integrative Psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I offer a safe, judgement-free space for you to explore your experiences and feelings. It can be an ongoing issue that you or a young person has been suffering from, or, it may be a more recent concern. I am flexible and adaptable in my approach. I work with clients who have a wide range of experiences/difficulties, including; Sexual, Physical and Emotional Abuse, Anxiety & Depression, Suicide, Self-harm, Attachment difficulties, Addiction, Autism, Looked-After-Children, ADHD and Bereavement.
I am trained to work through a wide range of mediums including talking, play, drama and art.
I am an Integrative Psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I offer a safe, judgement-free space for you to explore your experiences and feelings. It can be an ongoing issue that you or a young person has been suffering from, or, it may be a more recent concern. I am flexible and adaptable in my approach. I work with clients who have a wide range of experiences/difficulties, including; Sexual, Physical and Emotional Abuse, Anxiety & Depression, Suicide, Self-harm, Attachment difficulties, Addiction, Autism, Looked-After-Children, ADHD and Bereavement.
01245 950365 View 01245 950365
Photo of Melissa Purnell - Dynamic-Minds Counselling, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Dynamic-Minds Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Are you struggling with the stresses and strains that family, friendship, and/ or work life can bring and unsure what to do? Life is not always easy or straightforward, our lives can become challenging at times, causing us to feel overwhelmed with an array of complex emotions which can have an impact on our daily lives. Very often we don’t have someone that we can completely share our innermost thoughts and feelings with so having someone who is a trained professional, allows the opportunity to open up and confide in. I trust that I am able to provide a safe, non-judgemental space to work collaboratively with you.
Are you struggling with the stresses and strains that family, friendship, and/ or work life can bring and unsure what to do? Life is not always easy or straightforward, our lives can become challenging at times, causing us to feel overwhelmed with an array of complex emotions which can have an impact on our daily lives. Very often we don’t have someone that we can completely share our innermost thoughts and feelings with so having someone who is a trained professional, allows the opportunity to open up and confide in. I trust that I am able to provide a safe, non-judgemental space to work collaboratively with you.
01245 945183 View 01245 945183
Photo of Marianne Mikhail - 5th Avenue Counselling, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
5th Avenue Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Established in 2014, 5th Avenue Counselling is the practice of Marianne Mikhail Msc, offering an accessible option when you need therapeutic support, or just a space to talk and be heard.
Established in 2014, 5th Avenue Counselling is the practice of Marianne Mikhail Msc, offering an accessible option when you need therapeutic support, or just a space to talk and be heard.
01279 351971 View 01279 351971
Photo of Wendy Robyn Corfe, Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Wendy Robyn Corfe
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Together, by communicating their inner worlds through art, sandtray work and through play, we can put words to their distress, build self-regulation and coping skills, process their experiences and make the changes necessary to help them thrive.
Is your child or young person struggling emotionally? Are they shut down and difficult to reach? Do they seem to have lost some of their spark, energy or joy for life? They might be isolating in their room, resisting going out or refusing to attend school. They might be very anxious, rigid, controlling or unable to cope with any of the expectations placed on them. Do you sometimes feel like you walk on eggshells around them, trying to avoid triggering conflict, unsure whether they’ll be angry and reactive, low and tearful or just numb? Do you feel like you have no real idea what is causing their distress let alone how to help them?
Together, by communicating their inner worlds through art, sandtray work and through play, we can put words to their distress, build self-regulation and coping skills, process their experiences and make the changes necessary to help them thrive.
Is your child or young person struggling emotionally? Are they shut down and difficult to reach? Do they seem to have lost some of their spark, energy or joy for life? They might be isolating in their room, resisting going out or refusing to attend school. They might be very anxious, rigid, controlling or unable to cope with any of the expectations placed on them. Do you sometimes feel like you walk on eggshells around them, trying to avoid triggering conflict, unsure whether they’ll be angry and reactive, low and tearful or just numb? Do you feel like you have no real idea what is causing their distress let alone how to help them?
01206 487826 View 01206 487826
Photo of Claire Gotts, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Claire Gotts
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Hi, I am a BACP registered and NCS Accredited integrative counsellor. I work with adults, families, couples, children and young people. I provide an empathic, genuine, non-judgemental, safe space for you to have the freedom to talk and explore your thoughts and feelings where you are really heard. I strongly believe in forming a therapeutic relationship that will enable you to feel more empowered as well as building hope.
Hi, I am a BACP registered and NCS Accredited integrative counsellor. I work with adults, families, couples, children and young people. I provide an empathic, genuine, non-judgemental, safe space for you to have the freedom to talk and explore your thoughts and feelings where you are really heard. I strongly believe in forming a therapeutic relationship that will enable you to feel more empowered as well as building hope.
01376 315865 View 01376 315865
Photo of Kim Stead, Counsellor, MUKCP
Kim Stead
Counsellor, MUKCP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that seeking counselling can be daunting, but I have experienced it to be very rewarding for many people. As an Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor I can offer a confidential, safe and stimulating space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and personal story. Being client-centred, I tailor therapy to your needs as an individual and work with what you decide to bring to each session. 'Integrative' means that I draw upon different models according to you the client.
I understand that seeking counselling can be daunting, but I have experienced it to be very rewarding for many people. As an Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor I can offer a confidential, safe and stimulating space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and personal story. Being client-centred, I tailor therapy to your needs as an individual and work with what you decide to bring to each session. 'Integrative' means that I draw upon different models according to you the client.
07480 559803 View 07480 559803
Photo of Claire louise Appleby, Counsellor, BACP
Claire louise Appleby
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
My name is Claire, I am a counsellor and life coach I am able to offer both professional and empathic support to enable you to overcome any difficulties you maybe experiencing. I have trained to work in an integrative way therefore I am able to draw from a range of theories including person centred, psycho dynamics and cognitive behavioural therapy, to enable you to gain understanding, create solutions strategies and process positively.
My name is Claire, I am a counsellor and life coach I am able to offer both professional and empathic support to enable you to overcome any difficulties you maybe experiencing. I have trained to work in an integrative way therefore I am able to draw from a range of theories including person centred, psycho dynamics and cognitive behavioural therapy, to enable you to gain understanding, create solutions strategies and process positively.
01277 674536 View 01277 674536
Photo of Claire Hedman, Psychotherapist
Claire Hedman
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with a variety of issues both complex and day-to-day. If you are looking for a counsellor to talk to we will build a caring, secure therapeutic relationship founded on respect empathy and honesty and care. New clients could be anyone with one or a combination of of issues such as anxiety, grief, loss, depression, stress, bereavement, abuse, addiction, OCD, relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ issues or any issues pertaining to identity/race/sex. Most importantly, they will be someone willing to open up no matter how much, and willing to share their story to generate a renewed outlook.
I work with a variety of issues both complex and day-to-day. If you are looking for a counsellor to talk to we will build a caring, secure therapeutic relationship founded on respect empathy and honesty and care. New clients could be anyone with one or a combination of of issues such as anxiety, grief, loss, depression, stress, bereavement, abuse, addiction, OCD, relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ issues or any issues pertaining to identity/race/sex. Most importantly, they will be someone willing to open up no matter how much, and willing to share their story to generate a renewed outlook.
01277 674390 View 01277 674390
Photo of Katharina Lea Schmitt- Eschle, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Katharina Lea Schmitt- Eschle
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Serves Area
In my counselling sessions I use an integrative approach combining aspects of play therapy, psychotherapeutically informed support, newest neuroscientific theories and young people's counselling.
I offer integrative child and young people's counselling and therapeutic child and teenage support. All our children and young people sometimes go through phases where not everything is going to plan. There might have been a bereavement, exam stress, bullying or sudden life changes have had an impact on their self esteem. Your might be concerned because your child has recently become angry, anxious, withdrawn, a bit more challenging or has developed difficulties in school. Sometimes they also struggle to find good friends, put themselves at risk or their physical health becomes affected.
In my counselling sessions I use an integrative approach combining aspects of play therapy, psychotherapeutically informed support, newest neuroscientific theories and young people's counselling.
I offer integrative child and young people's counselling and therapeutic child and teenage support. All our children and young people sometimes go through phases where not everything is going to plan. There might have been a bereavement, exam stress, bullying or sudden life changes have had an impact on their self esteem. Your might be concerned because your child has recently become angry, anxious, withdrawn, a bit more challenging or has developed difficulties in school. Sometimes they also struggle to find good friends, put themselves at risk or their physical health becomes affected.
01277 289554 View 01277 289554
Photo of Katie Fry, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Katie Fry
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use an integrative approach combining Person-Centred support, Psychodynamic insight and CBT techniques, as well as Inner Child, Hypnotherapy, Creative and Play Therapy.
I offer a safe, nurturing space where you can take time for you — to explore your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and beliefs, to build healthier coping mechanisms and a better relationship with the self.
I use an integrative approach combining Person-Centred support, Psychodynamic insight and CBT techniques, as well as Inner Child, Hypnotherapy, Creative and Play Therapy.
I offer a safe, nurturing space where you can take time for you — to explore your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and beliefs, to build healthier coping mechanisms and a better relationship with the self.
01959 584096 View 01959 584096
Photo of Daniel Scott, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Daniel Scott
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
My priority is always to understand you - your goals, challenges, and aspirations - so that we can create meaningful, lasting change together. I am passionate about making a difference in your life, whether that means helping you overcome pain, stress and trauma or supporting you in building resilience and reaching your fullest potential! I have worked extensively with people impacted by addiction, bereavement trauma and other major life changes, using a range of therapeutic techniques to provide comprehensive support. My approach will be tailored to you, continuously adapting to your evolving needs.
My priority is always to understand you - your goals, challenges, and aspirations - so that we can create meaningful, lasting change together. I am passionate about making a difference in your life, whether that means helping you overcome pain, stress and trauma or supporting you in building resilience and reaching your fullest potential! I have worked extensively with people impacted by addiction, bereavement trauma and other major life changes, using a range of therapeutic techniques to provide comprehensive support. My approach will be tailored to you, continuously adapting to your evolving needs.
01245 945394 View 01245 945394
Photo of Dr Michalla Gillbanks, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Michalla Gillbanks
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I am a qualified clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience working within NHS and private sectors. I have experience working with adults and young people experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. I take time to get to know you and your presenting issues taking into consideration past experiences, family dynamics and issues that you feel need addressing or are holding you back. We would then develop a person centered care plan to best suit your goals. I am experienced in dealing with a range of mental health conditions along with more exploratory work and have a special interest in neurodiversity and mental health
I am a qualified clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience working within NHS and private sectors. I have experience working with adults and young people experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. I take time to get to know you and your presenting issues taking into consideration past experiences, family dynamics and issues that you feel need addressing or are holding you back. We would then develop a person centered care plan to best suit your goals. I am experienced in dealing with a range of mental health conditions along with more exploratory work and have a special interest in neurodiversity and mental health
01702 908337 View 01702 908337

See more therapy options for Chelmsford

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.