Play Therapy Counselling in Oxford

Photo of Jenny Pillar, Psychotherapist, BACP
Jenny Pillar
Psychotherapist, BACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I'm Jenny and I have over 16 years’ experience supporting clients through life's challenges. You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, family problems, early years trauma, exploring your identity or a whole host of other issues and I am here to listen and support you with an open mind. Through counselling you will have space to process your feelings, find restoration and healing, and be empowered to be resilient. I work with people from a wide range of backgrounds with all kinds of different experiences.
Hello, I'm Jenny and I have over 16 years’ experience supporting clients through life's challenges. You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, family problems, early years trauma, exploring your identity or a whole host of other issues and I am here to listen and support you with an open mind. Through counselling you will have space to process your feelings, find restoration and healing, and be empowered to be resilient. I work with people from a wide range of backgrounds with all kinds of different experiences.
020 3960 5173 View 020 3960 5173
Photo of Stephanie Gittos Lacape, Counsellor, MBACP
Stephanie Gittos Lacape
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Oxford OX4
I am an experienced Psychotherapeutic Counsellor based in Oxford working with young adults, teens and parents. I offer psychotherapy and counselling, short and long term, face-to-face and online. I work collaboratively with my clients, supporting them through difficulties and challenges in a safe and trusting environment.
I am an experienced Psychotherapeutic Counsellor based in Oxford working with young adults, teens and parents. I offer psychotherapy and counselling, short and long term, face-to-face and online. I work collaboratively with my clients, supporting them through difficulties and challenges in a safe and trusting environment.
01865 638220 View 01865 638220
Photo of Sophie Phipps, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Sophie Phipps
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Oxford OX3
I have significant experience working with teenagers facing mental and emotional health challenges, particularly young victims of crime. My approach is centered on helping young people feel safe within themselves and the world around them. Having mentored students at Oxford University for five years, I also offer a mentoring service when appropriate. I work uniquely with each individual, and with a deep understanding of family dynamics, I always consider the wider family context in supporting an individual’s growth and well-being.
I have significant experience working with teenagers facing mental and emotional health challenges, particularly young victims of crime. My approach is centered on helping young people feel safe within themselves and the world around them. Having mentored students at Oxford University for five years, I also offer a mentoring service when appropriate. I work uniquely with each individual, and with a deep understanding of family dynamics, I always consider the wider family context in supporting an individual’s growth and well-being.
01865 537417 View 01865 537417
Photo of Dolly (Wendy) McLaughlin, Counsellor, MUKCP
Dolly (Wendy) McLaughlin
Counsellor, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Oxford OX1
Adults, Children, couples and families. Suffering anxiety, depression, effects of trauma or just want to review some difficult years?
Adults, Children, couples and families. Suffering anxiety, depression, effects of trauma or just want to review some difficult years?
01865 671997 View 01865 671997
Photo of Joanna Thornton Jones, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Joanna Thornton Jones
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Oxford OX4
Things like picture or word games, painting, clay or play dough, sand tray, theatre and just sitting and talking.
Before you read my profile, please be aware that I am not currently taking on new private clients. I am a BACP qualified child and adolescent counsellor (MBACP). I help children and adolescents navigate life’s challenges. With ten years of experience, I help young people with difficulties like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family transitions, and academic stress, identity issues. I am committed to fostering a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their emotions as well as using the therapeutic relationship to inspire positive change.
Things like picture or word games, painting, clay or play dough, sand tray, theatre and just sitting and talking.
Before you read my profile, please be aware that I am not currently taking on new private clients. I am a BACP qualified child and adolescent counsellor (MBACP). I help children and adolescents navigate life’s challenges. With ten years of experience, I help young people with difficulties like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family transitions, and academic stress, identity issues. I am committed to fostering a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their emotions as well as using the therapeutic relationship to inspire positive change.
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Photo of Melike Guray, MBBS
Melike Guray
Verified Verified
Oxford OX3
I can help you if you are feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of life. You might be grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. You seek a way out of your emotional and mental struggles, yearning to realize your true potential. Your deepest desire is to cultivate healthier and more meaningful relationships with yourself and others, ultimately leading a more fulfilling life. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), you aim to reconstruct your thoughts and emotions, enhancing your self-confidence and resilience. For you, CBT is a crucial tool in your journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
I can help you if you are feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of life. You might be grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. You seek a way out of your emotional and mental struggles, yearning to realize your true potential. Your deepest desire is to cultivate healthier and more meaningful relationships with yourself and others, ultimately leading a more fulfilling life. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), you aim to reconstruct your thoughts and emotions, enhancing your self-confidence and resilience. For you, CBT is a crucial tool in your journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
020 3772 3393 View 020 3772 3393
Photo of Rebecca F - Rebecca F, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Rebecca F
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Oxford OX4
role play game (RPG) therapy.
Hi! I'm Rebecca, a qualified therapist with over 300 hours of trauma informed counselling experience. I offer compassionate support via online sessions to help you process your experiences safely and at your own pace. I am LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse affirming, meaning I welcome everyone with warmth and unconditional acceptance. I offer a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I have supported clients with a range of issues including trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress and more.
role play game (RPG) therapy.
Hi! I'm Rebecca, a qualified therapist with over 300 hours of trauma informed counselling experience. I offer compassionate support via online sessions to help you process your experiences safely and at your own pace. I am LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse affirming, meaning I welcome everyone with warmth and unconditional acceptance. I offer a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I have supported clients with a range of issues including trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress and more.
01235 425743 View 01235 425743
Photo of Zaira Sophie McIntyre
Zaira Sophie McIntyre
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi I’m Zaira, I’m a qualified teacher, accredited integrative counsellor MBACP (Accred), and certified NLP coach with over 20 years' experience supporting young people, families, and adults. I work holistically, helping clients understand the past while focusing on meaningful goals for the future.
Hi I’m Zaira, I’m a qualified teacher, accredited integrative counsellor MBACP (Accred), and certified NLP coach with over 20 years' experience supporting young people, families, and adults. I work holistically, helping clients understand the past while focusing on meaningful goals for the future.
01543 396533 View 01543 396533
Photo of Dr Oliver Klott, Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACP
Dr Oliver Klott
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACP
Serves Area
I’m a Child, Adolescent & Young Adult Psychotherapist based in Oxfordshire. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families who may be struggling with emotional, behavioural, or relational difficulties. My approach offers a thoughtful and containing space to explore feelings, understand underlying issues, and support growth and change. Since 2004, I have worked with children and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, distressing thoughts, emotional and behavioural difficulties, the effects of traumatic experiences, and neurodiversity.
I’m a Child, Adolescent & Young Adult Psychotherapist based in Oxfordshire. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families who may be struggling with emotional, behavioural, or relational difficulties. My approach offers a thoughtful and containing space to explore feelings, understand underlying issues, and support growth and change. Since 2004, I have worked with children and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, distressing thoughts, emotional and behavioural difficulties, the effects of traumatic experiences, and neurodiversity.
020 3984 9142 View 020 3984 9142
Photo of Jessica Barratt - Your Ultimate You therapies with Jessica Barratt, MA
I work with ages spanning from the tender age of 3 to adulthood. I work within trauma and attachment-related challenges, seeking solace and healing. Rooted in past experiences, and how the issues manifest in strained relationships, emotional dysregulation, and a pervasive sense of disconnection. Individuals needs transcend age barriers, encompassing a safe space for expression, empathetic understanding, and tools for coping and resilience. Through therapy, individuals will aspire to reclaim a sense of security, rebuild trust in relationships, and cultivate a healthy sense of self-worth.
I work with ages spanning from the tender age of 3 to adulthood. I work within trauma and attachment-related challenges, seeking solace and healing. Rooted in past experiences, and how the issues manifest in strained relationships, emotional dysregulation, and a pervasive sense of disconnection. Individuals needs transcend age barriers, encompassing a safe space for expression, empathetic understanding, and tools for coping and resilience. Through therapy, individuals will aspire to reclaim a sense of security, rebuild trust in relationships, and cultivate a healthy sense of self-worth.
01865 638474 View 01865 638474
Photo of Natilie Cocker, Counsellor, MBACP
Natilie Cocker
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I use traditional methods of therapy such as counselling and play therapy as well cutting edge research based sound healing called the Safe and Sound Protocol alongside Energy Alignment which has proved invaluable in my own personal development.
My passion is to help children of all ages who may feel anxious; emotionally dysregulated; and mentally and physically exhausted feel at ease again in their bodies, their mind, their surroundings and their relationships. Alongside this, I support worried parents by empowering them to change the dynamics of their family in order to redress the balance and bring about harmony once again. It is crucial as a practitioner to view your family construct individually, to form a relationship with your family members and to create a bespoke package of treatment that you all feel comfortable with.
I use traditional methods of therapy such as counselling and play therapy as well cutting edge research based sound healing called the Safe and Sound Protocol alongside Energy Alignment which has proved invaluable in my own personal development.
My passion is to help children of all ages who may feel anxious; emotionally dysregulated; and mentally and physically exhausted feel at ease again in their bodies, their mind, their surroundings and their relationships. Alongside this, I support worried parents by empowering them to change the dynamics of their family in order to redress the balance and bring about harmony once again. It is crucial as a practitioner to view your family construct individually, to form a relationship with your family members and to create a bespoke package of treatment that you all feel comfortable with.
01865 638552 View 01865 638552
Photo of San Wong, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
San Wong
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Serves Area
Are you struggling for your kid's emotion and hyperactivity? I am here to help you. I am San Vtgotsky Wong. I am a Senior Clinical Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, expert in ADHD and autism clients for 25 years. I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness.
Are you struggling for your kid's emotion and hyperactivity? I am here to help you. I am San Vtgotsky Wong. I am a Senior Clinical Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, expert in ADHD and autism clients for 25 years. I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness.
020 8138 8672 View 020 8138 8672
Photo of Kim Lee - The Childrens Consultancy, Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
The Childrens Consultancy
Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Tcc. is run by Kim S Lee MA Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist. It works alongside mental health and social care disciplines. In February 2026 We are expanding our clinical services to provide online parental guidance courses, these include: 'Growing Healthy Small People' 'Parenting Adolescents in distress' 'Parenting a child with ADHD'. More details on request. Please email us.
Tcc. is run by Kim S Lee MA Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist. It works alongside mental health and social care disciplines. In February 2026 We are expanding our clinical services to provide online parental guidance courses, these include: 'Growing Healthy Small People' 'Parenting Adolescents in distress' 'Parenting a child with ADHD'. More details on request. Please email us.
01993 402090 View 01993 402090
Photo of Jennifer Glithero, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Jennifer Glithero
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
Jennifer takes a person-centred, holistic approach to working with young people, providing an environment for personal development that aligns with authentic experience of selfhood. Jennifer specialises her practice for Young People pre and post transplant. Through a paradigm of supportive interventions Jennifer works with the whole of the young persons being, enabling them to realised their ultimate potential with open, consistent confidence and hone skills imperative for resilience in all areas of their life. Patients are guided to find their unique qualities from within and master their environment of holistic health.
Jennifer takes a person-centred, holistic approach to working with young people, providing an environment for personal development that aligns with authentic experience of selfhood. Jennifer specialises her practice for Young People pre and post transplant. Through a paradigm of supportive interventions Jennifer works with the whole of the young persons being, enabling them to realised their ultimate potential with open, consistent confidence and hone skills imperative for resilience in all areas of their life. Patients are guided to find their unique qualities from within and master their environment of holistic health.
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Photo of Dr Ilan Ben-Zion, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Ilan Ben-Zion
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
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 Dr Amy Lyons, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Amy Lyons
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennie Canty - Chiltern Talking Therapies / Chiltern ADHD Clinic, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Hi, I'm Jennie! I'm a CBT/EMDR Therapist and owner of Chiltern TT/ADHD Clinic. My Associates and I offer face to face or virtual CBT, EMDR, Counselling, Schema, Coaching and Art Therapy sessions and ADHD Assessments. We can support adults and young people with a wide range of difficulties. We are non-judgemental and have a wealth of experience between us, from working with addictions, offenders, children, clients with brain injuries and couples. I pride our team on being non-judgemental and accepting of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. We all hold DBS checks and indemnity insurance, which you can view at any time.
Hi, I'm Jennie! I'm a CBT/EMDR Therapist and owner of Chiltern TT/ADHD Clinic. My Associates and I offer face to face or virtual CBT, EMDR, Counselling, Schema, Coaching and Art Therapy sessions and ADHD Assessments. We can support adults and young people with a wide range of difficulties. We are non-judgemental and have a wealth of experience between us, from working with addictions, offenders, children, clients with brain injuries and couples. I pride our team on being non-judgemental and accepting of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. We all hold DBS checks and indemnity insurance, which you can view at any time.
01442 971728 View 01442 971728
Photo of Sophie Helen Halliday-Chambers, Counsellor, MBACP
I have always wanted to use my personal and professional experience to support others, especially young people and those living alongside young people. I have a specific passion towards supporting those facing social, emotional and behavioural challenges - including those involved in youth offending. I have a wealth of experience working with young people and vulnerable adults who are experiencing withdrawal or segregation from society, whether that's due to anxiety, depression, social or environmental factors, or situational factors.
I have always wanted to use my personal and professional experience to support others, especially young people and those living alongside young people. I have a specific passion towards supporting those facing social, emotional and behavioural challenges - including those involved in youth offending. I have a wealth of experience working with young people and vulnerable adults who are experiencing withdrawal or segregation from society, whether that's due to anxiety, depression, social or environmental factors, or situational factors.
01752 741759 View 01752 741759
Photo of Julie Easterbrook - Julie Easterbrook Counselling MBACP (Accred), Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Julie Easterbrook Counselling MBACP (Accred)
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
By combining my therapeutic models, I am able to provide a unique approach for each client which will help you to gain insight into your issue, enabling you to bring about change. The therapy lies in the realationship between the client and counsellor, where trust and respect is developed and at the centre of each session, and is integral in the way I work. I have experience working with adults and young people, helping with a wide range of issues. Therapy offered can be either short or long term at flexible times during the day and evening depending on the needs/requirements for each client.
By combining my therapeutic models, I am able to provide a unique approach for each client which will help you to gain insight into your issue, enabling you to bring about change. The therapy lies in the realationship between the client and counsellor, where trust and respect is developed and at the centre of each session, and is integral in the way I work. I have experience working with adults and young people, helping with a wide range of issues. Therapy offered can be either short or long term at flexible times during the day and evening depending on the needs/requirements for each client.
01344 231642 View 01344 231642
Photo of Deborah Quinn - Creative Connections Therapy for Children , Counsellor, DCounsPsych, PTUK
Creative Connections Therapy for Children
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, PTUK
Reading RG2
I am Debbie, a Certified Play and Creative Arts Therapist and I am the founder and clinical director of Creative Connections children’s Therapy.
We offer tailored packages for children aged 3-18 based on individual needs in blocks of 12 sessions. Sessions take place on a weekly basis in our beautiful garden therapy space. The therapy sessions are based around a toolkit consisting of a wide range of play resources and art media to explore, alongside invitations to engage in more directive activities.
I am Debbie, a Certified Play and Creative Arts Therapist and I am the founder and clinical director of Creative Connections children’s Therapy.
We offer tailored packages for children aged 3-18 based on individual needs in blocks of 12 sessions. Sessions take place on a weekly basis in our beautiful garden therapy space. The therapy sessions are based around a toolkit consisting of a wide range of play resources and art media to explore, alongside invitations to engage in more directive activities.
0118 230 0235 View 0118 230 0235

See more therapy options for Oxford

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.