Play Therapy Counselling in Edgware

Photo of Alison Tureck - Alison Play Therapy, MA
Alison Play Therapy
MA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 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. I also support the significant adults in the child's lives.
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 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. I also support the significant adults in the child's lives.
020 4538 6745 View 020 4538 6745
Photo of Amy Lyons, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Amy Lyons
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I also play netball every week where I engage in my competitive side!
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!
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 Adele Treger, Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
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 Lucy Davies, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Lucy Davies
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Do you feel the need to be listened to without judgement? Do you need a safe place to talk through your thoughts and feelings? I work with all aspects of emotional well being and truly believe that a person has the potential for growth and change given the space, time and acceptance. In turn, finding your own answers and finding a way of moving towards an emotionally healthier way of living . I work with a wide range of issues including anger, anxiety disorders, depression, low self esteem, relationships, suicide, loss and bereavement and domestic abuse.
Do you feel the need to be listened to without judgement? Do you need a safe place to talk through your thoughts and feelings? I work with all aspects of emotional well being and truly believe that a person has the potential for growth and change given the space, time and acceptance. In turn, finding your own answers and finding a way of moving towards an emotionally healthier way of living . I work with a wide range of issues including anger, anxiety disorders, depression, low self esteem, relationships, suicide, loss and bereavement and domestic abuse.
01895 547557 View 01895 547557
Photo of Divina Vyas, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Divina Vyas
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Life can be challenging, hard and demanding at times and we could all use someone to talk to and explore our thoughts, feelings and ideas with. As an experienced, qualified and an accredited person-centred therapist, I can offer a safe, confidential and freeing space where I can support you and your needs in a non-judgemental, open and honest environment, which can enable genuine change to occur in your life. Having worked alongside clients who have presented with issues such as, abuse, depression, anxiety, loss, stress and more I can understand how scary seeking counselling can be - however my role is to support you through this.
Life can be challenging, hard and demanding at times and we could all use someone to talk to and explore our thoughts, feelings and ideas with. As an experienced, qualified and an accredited person-centred therapist, I can offer a safe, confidential and freeing space where I can support you and your needs in a non-judgemental, open and honest environment, which can enable genuine change to occur in your life. Having worked alongside clients who have presented with issues such as, abuse, depression, anxiety, loss, stress and more I can understand how scary seeking counselling can be - however my role is to support you through this.
01895 547516 View 01895 547516
Photo of Elizabeth Stennett, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Elizabeth Stennett
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My clients are individuals, couples and families who are in search of effective tools and strategies to address any communication and relationship difficulties which may be leaving them feeling stuck, overwhelmed and unhappy. I have several years of experience of work in private & public sector settings, particularly with children and families & high performing professionals. I also have a particular interest in providing neuro-affirming therapy and coaching to anyone who maybe grappling with difficulties related to neurodiversity. Some of these include Autism, ADHD, ADD, Sensory Processing Difficulties, Dyslexia & Dyspraxia.
My clients are individuals, couples and families who are in search of effective tools and strategies to address any communication and relationship difficulties which may be leaving them feeling stuck, overwhelmed and unhappy. I have several years of experience of work in private & public sector settings, particularly with children and families & high performing professionals. I also have a particular interest in providing neuro-affirming therapy and coaching to anyone who maybe grappling with difficulties related to neurodiversity. Some of these include Autism, ADHD, ADD, Sensory Processing Difficulties, Dyslexia & Dyspraxia.
01923 961263 View 01923 961263

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marian Claudiu Ciuhan - Psiholog Roman - Marian Claudiu Ciuhan - P.C.C, Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Psiholog Roman - Marian Claudiu Ciuhan - P.C.C
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
As a psychologist skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy, I invite you to embark on a transformative journey.
Within the sphere of mental health, my focus extends beyond expertise to genuine understanding. As a psychologist specializing in Family and Couples Therapy, my toolkit includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. Together, we create a safe, empathetic space for your personal growth, resilience, and the positive change you seek.
As a psychologist skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy, I invite you to embark on a transformative journey.
Within the sphere of mental health, my focus extends beyond expertise to genuine understanding. As a psychologist specializing in Family and Couples Therapy, my toolkit includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. Together, we create a safe, empathetic space for your personal growth, resilience, and the positive change you seek.
07480 789942 View 07480 789942
Photo of Yasmin Genevieve Watson, Counsellor, BACP
Yasmin Genevieve Watson
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
If a young person in your family is feeling down, anxious or worried, coming to play and arts therapy can make all the difference.
I am fully insured and DBS checked and offer sessions at the Cherry Tree Centre in Henley. Included in the sessions is a complimentary copy of my emotions workbook for children and young people to work on at home or in the sessions. Have a look at my website for more details.
If a young person in your family is feeling down, anxious or worried, coming to play and arts therapy can make all the difference.
I am fully insured and DBS checked and offer sessions at the Cherry Tree Centre in Henley. Included in the sessions is a complimentary copy of my emotions workbook for children and young people to work on at home or in the sessions. Have a look at my website for more details.
01586 805832 View 01586 805832
Photo of Ioanna Baliou, Counsellor, MBACP
Ioanna Baliou
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW19
My approach is person-centred as I adopt a non-directive stance, allowing the child or the young person to lead the session to support their sense of autonomy by utilising elements of art, drama and play therapy.
I work with neurotypical and neurodiverse children and teenagers aged 8-18 years old, who are facing challenges with anxiety, depression, and socialising difficulties. I also work with children and young people navigating the complexities of bereavement, and the challenges of changes in family dynamics. I am an integrative Child and Adolescent Counsellor, qualified to work with children, adolescents, and their families. I am registered with the BACP (British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists) and adhere to their Ethical Framework. I offer counselling services in English and Greek.
My approach is person-centred as I adopt a non-directive stance, allowing the child or the young person to lead the session to support their sense of autonomy by utilising elements of art, drama and play therapy.
I work with neurotypical and neurodiverse children and teenagers aged 8-18 years old, who are facing challenges with anxiety, depression, and socialising difficulties. I also work with children and young people navigating the complexities of bereavement, and the challenges of changes in family dynamics. I am an integrative Child and Adolescent Counsellor, qualified to work with children, adolescents, and their families. I am registered with the BACP (British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists) and adhere to their Ethical Framework. I offer counselling services in English and Greek.
020 3856 7859 View 020 3856 7859
Photo of Tamsin Marriott, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Tamsin Marriott
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
I also work with children using a play therapy and attachment-based approach, and support parents and families.
As an integrative therapist, with a strong basis in person-centred therapy, my focus is on building a safe, trusting relationship within which you feel free to express yourself fully and explore your feelings and experiences. I bring in different ways of working based on other theories and approaches, depending on what feels appropriate and helpful to you.
I also work with children using a play therapy and attachment-based approach, and support parents and families.
As an integrative therapist, with a strong basis in person-centred therapy, my focus is on building a safe, trusting relationship within which you feel free to express yourself fully and explore your feelings and experiences. I bring in different ways of working based on other theories and approaches, depending on what feels appropriate and helpful to you.
020 4538 9340 View 020 4538 9340
Photo of Sinead M Jones, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Sinead M Jones
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
As well as offering free space to talk, I draw on a wide range of creative interventions such as sand tray, art, music, drama and play.
I am specifically trained, at Masters level, to work therapeutically with children, young people, and families as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I am also a qualified teacher with experience of working with children who have been diagnosed, and or who identify as neurodiverse. In addition to my private practice, I work as a school counsellor and I volunteer in a Youth Counselling Service. My therapeutic approach is integrative, meaning I use the ideas and strategies from a range of therapeutic models, matching the best approach suited specifically to you or your child’s needs.
As well as offering free space to talk, I draw on a wide range of creative interventions such as sand tray, art, music, drama and play.
I am specifically trained, at Masters level, to work therapeutically with children, young people, and families as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I am also a qualified teacher with experience of working with children who have been diagnosed, and or who identify as neurodiverse. In addition to my private practice, I work as a school counsellor and I volunteer in a Youth Counselling Service. My therapeutic approach is integrative, meaning I use the ideas and strategies from a range of therapeutic models, matching the best approach suited specifically to you or your child’s needs.
020 3857 8062 View 020 3857 8062
Photo of Rosalind Ukoko-Rivers, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Rosalind Ukoko-Rivers
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use Person-centred, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis, Humanistic, Play Therapy, Solution focused, Brief therapy, Behavioural and emotionally focused therapy, and CBT.
I offer online, phone and face to face and walk therapy sessions, working under up to date risks assessments and client guidelines. I believe that each client is unique and an individual. This client - therapist working relationship, regardless of race, gender, religion, and sexual orientation, is the key to a positive and collaborative experience that offers insight and deeper understanding of our true needs and desires. I am proactive, flexible and adaptable according to your needs and requirements. I also work for Victim Support organisation. I am a qualified teacher with BA, MSc and PGCE qualifications, and DBS enhanced checked.
I use Person-centred, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis, Humanistic, Play Therapy, Solution focused, Brief therapy, Behavioural and emotionally focused therapy, and CBT.
I offer online, phone and face to face and walk therapy sessions, working under up to date risks assessments and client guidelines. I believe that each client is unique and an individual. This client - therapist working relationship, regardless of race, gender, religion, and sexual orientation, is the key to a positive and collaborative experience that offers insight and deeper understanding of our true needs and desires. I am proactive, flexible and adaptable according to your needs and requirements. I also work for Victim Support organisation. I am a qualified teacher with BA, MSc and PGCE qualifications, and DBS enhanced checked.
01273 092694 View 01273 092694
Photo of Tanya Hend, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Tanya Hend
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London EC1R
I integrate art and play therapy to foster creative expression.
I create a safe space for exploration and effective navigation of challenges, tailoring my approach by incorporating CBT techniques for children and adolescent and adults.
I integrate art and play therapy to foster creative expression.
I create a safe space for exploration and effective navigation of challenges, tailoring my approach by incorporating CBT techniques for children and adolescent and adults.
020 3856 3615 View 020 3856 3615
Photo of Heather Page, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Heather Page
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London EC1Y
Working with children, through metaphor and play therapy, my aim is to enable children to understand and more effectively manage their emotions and behaviour, to find their voice and tell their story.
You may come to therapy to speak about issues that make you angry, afraid or unhappy or that simply don't make sense. Understanding that we are all unique, with our own strengths, qualities and interests, as well as challenges, is hugely important for our well-being. We also know that through having a balanced view of ourselves, we can feel better equipped to cope with difficult emotional and psychological experiences and make positive connections with others. In our sessions, we will have the chance to explore whatever is troubling you to help you identify and confront such issues and feel more confident about yourself.
Working with children, through metaphor and play therapy, my aim is to enable children to understand and more effectively manage their emotions and behaviour, to find their voice and tell their story.
You may come to therapy to speak about issues that make you angry, afraid or unhappy or that simply don't make sense. Understanding that we are all unique, with our own strengths, qualities and interests, as well as challenges, is hugely important for our well-being. We also know that through having a balanced view of ourselves, we can feel better equipped to cope with difficult emotional and psychological experiences and make positive connections with others. In our sessions, we will have the chance to explore whatever is troubling you to help you identify and confront such issues and feel more confident about yourself.
020 3870 4185 View 020 3870 4185
Photo of Michelle Madlene Craig - Freedom2be, Psychotherapist, ACC-AC
Freedom2be
Psychotherapist, ACC-AC
Verified Verified
London E4
My degree is in Psychotherapy and I am also CPAB registered and trained as a play therapist.
I am an integrative psychotherapist that works with children and adults. I work intuitively and use whatever theory & practice best suits my clients' needs. I believe that when we are able to make sense of our responses to life, we are then able to choose and journey towards a healthier happy future. I have been counselling since 2013 and have worked in several schools with parents and children. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression or keep finding yourself in patterns of behaviour that are hindering you from your full potential, I would love to offer some support and explore possibilities.
My degree is in Psychotherapy and I am also CPAB registered and trained as a play therapist.
I am an integrative psychotherapist that works with children and adults. I work intuitively and use whatever theory & practice best suits my clients' needs. I believe that when we are able to make sense of our responses to life, we are then able to choose and journey towards a healthier happy future. I have been counselling since 2013 and have worked in several schools with parents and children. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression or keep finding yourself in patterns of behaviour that are hindering you from your full potential, I would love to offer some support and explore possibilities.
07480 736566 View 07480 736566
Photo of Marta Benko, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Marta Benko
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London NW3
Additionally trained in different therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, CFT, mindfulness, play and creative arts therapy, filial therapy, narrative approaches.
Supporting kids, YP, parents and adults with: mental health difficulties in the context of a physical illness (especially with endometriosis, asthma, CF, oncology, haematology, gastroenterology, dermatology, neurosurgery, and surgery), health anxiety, functional presentation/ medically unexplained symptom, relationship breakdown and divorce, children and young people, school avoidance/school anxiety, ex-pats and 3rd country children, mood difficulties (anxiety, panic attacks, fear and phobias, low mood) , stress , OCD, body repetitive behaviours (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting) , sleep, non-underweight eating disorders.
Additionally trained in different therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, CFT, mindfulness, play and creative arts therapy, filial therapy, narrative approaches.
Supporting kids, YP, parents and adults with: mental health difficulties in the context of a physical illness (especially with endometriosis, asthma, CF, oncology, haematology, gastroenterology, dermatology, neurosurgery, and surgery), health anxiety, functional presentation/ medically unexplained symptom, relationship breakdown and divorce, children and young people, school avoidance/school anxiety, ex-pats and 3rd country children, mood difficulties (anxiety, panic attacks, fear and phobias, low mood) , stress , OCD, body repetitive behaviours (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting) , sleep, non-underweight eating disorders.
020 8016 3516 View 020 8016 3516
Photo of Kristen Cook, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Kristen Cook
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London NW10
My client-centred approach combines techniques like play, creative arts, and talking therapies, all tailored to individual needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or disconnected from yourself or others? Are you navigating life’s transitions whether as a young adult searching for direction, a parent supporting a child through their growth, or someone facing personal or professional challenges? Or perhaps you have a child or adolescent who needs extra support? As an integrative psychotherapist, I tailor my approach to create a safe, supportive space for you to explore challenges, build resilience, and gain clarity. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or your child, I’m here to support you in finding balance and moving forward with confidence.
My client-centred approach combines techniques like play, creative arts, and talking therapies, all tailored to individual needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or disconnected from yourself or others? Are you navigating life’s transitions whether as a young adult searching for direction, a parent supporting a child through their growth, or someone facing personal or professional challenges? Or perhaps you have a child or adolescent who needs extra support? As an integrative psychotherapist, I tailor my approach to create a safe, supportive space for you to explore challenges, build resilience, and gain clarity. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or your child, I’m here to support you in finding balance and moving forward with confidence.
020 4572 3671 View 020 4572 3671
Photo of Dr Ilan Ben-Zion, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
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 Samantha Hurlock, Counsellor, MBACP
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 Tracey Slater, Counsellor, MBACP
Tracey Slater
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sidcup DA14
Whether you like to talk, enjoy a little psycho education connecting brain to body and understanding 'why' and 'what's going on' a little better, or you want to understand the roles you play in relationships and how they impact yourself and others, maybe you want to be a little more creative in sessions, or walk and talk in the beauty of nature, I work with you.
Hello and welcome. The thought of therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when we already live in a world that may feel unsafe. I will work with you to build a trusting therapeutic relationship allowing you to feel seen and heard, maybe for the first time. I bring with me a wealth of experience in working with children, teens and adults using a variety of tools and techniques. I can help you to understand why you feel the way you do help you to build resilience and emotional well-being using a trauma informed, neurodivergent approach helping to prevent re-traumatization.
Whether you like to talk, enjoy a little psycho education connecting brain to body and understanding 'why' and 'what's going on' a little better, or you want to understand the roles you play in relationships and how they impact yourself and others, maybe you want to be a little more creative in sessions, or walk and talk in the beauty of nature, I work with you.
Hello and welcome. The thought of therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when we already live in a world that may feel unsafe. I will work with you to build a trusting therapeutic relationship allowing you to feel seen and heard, maybe for the first time. I bring with me a wealth of experience in working with children, teens and adults using a variety of tools and techniques. I can help you to understand why you feel the way you do help you to build resilience and emotional well-being using a trauma informed, neurodivergent approach helping to prevent re-traumatization.
020 4572 1116 View 020 4572 1116

See more therapy options for Edgware

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.