Play Therapy Counselling in Sheffield

Photo of Carolyn Hart, MA, ACP, Psychotherapist
Carolyn Hart
Psychotherapist, MA, ACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10
I am a consultant child and adolescent psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in the NHS and NSPCC, treating clients with difficulties including, autism, anxiety, developmental delay, trauma and attachment difficulties. I work with parent-infant pairs, young children, adolescents and young adults. I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental, accepting and nurturing environment. For young children and those who find it difficult to speak, I work through play and the arts. To get a better understanding of how this works, please look at the videos on my website.
I am a consultant child and adolescent psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in the NHS and NSPCC, treating clients with difficulties including, autism, anxiety, developmental delay, trauma and attachment difficulties. I work with parent-infant pairs, young children, adolescents and young adults. I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental, accepting and nurturing environment. For young children and those who find it difficult to speak, I work through play and the arts. To get a better understanding of how this works, please look at the videos on my website.
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Photo of Laura Kennedy - Hey Laura, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Hey Laura
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S2
Hey! I’m Laura a HCPC registered art therapist. Are you or a loved one struggling with feelings of overwhelm, feeling stressed out and unable to cope? Maybe you’re finding it hard to sleep at night or noticing that your patience is shorter than you’d like, you’re finding it hard to enjoy the things you would normally or something just doesn’t feel right?
Hey! I’m Laura a HCPC registered art therapist. Are you or a loved one struggling with feelings of overwhelm, feeling stressed out and unable to cope? Maybe you’re finding it hard to sleep at night or noticing that your patience is shorter than you’d like, you’re finding it hard to enjoy the things you would normally or something just doesn’t feel right?
0114 697 3836 View 0114 697 3836
Photo of Louise Willetts -  Women/Children: Trauma and Anxiety., MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Women/Children: Trauma and Anxiety.
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Sheffield S25
Are you an adult grappling with anxiety or people-pleasing, or a parent concerned about a child facing emotional challenges like bullying or trauma? These struggles can impact both adults and children. Adults may find it hard to trust themselves or maintain healthy relationships, while children might withdraw or have difficulty expressing emotions. It’s time to break free from these patterns, prioritise mental health, and work towards a more fulfilling, balanced life for yourself or your child.
Are you an adult grappling with anxiety or people-pleasing, or a parent concerned about a child facing emotional challenges like bullying or trauma? These struggles can impact both adults and children. Adults may find it hard to trust themselves or maintain healthy relationships, while children might withdraw or have difficulty expressing emotions. It’s time to break free from these patterns, prioritise mental health, and work towards a more fulfilling, balanced life for yourself or your child.
07404 448713 View 07404 448713
Photo of Emma Casson - More Than Words Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
More Than Words Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S5
Do you feel alone or unheard? Have you tried to speak to someone, but they don't understand? I can offer you a safe space to explore confusing or difficult feelings without judgement and with empathy. Working through your life experiences can help you to move forward positively and with a greater understanding of yourself. I know that no matter what you have been through, no one has experienced it in the way that you have or feels the way you feel. I understand that we are all individual and I want to help you in this process, to understand your feelings and to remember who you are and want to be.
Do you feel alone or unheard? Have you tried to speak to someone, but they don't understand? I can offer you a safe space to explore confusing or difficult feelings without judgement and with empathy. Working through your life experiences can help you to move forward positively and with a greater understanding of yourself. I know that no matter what you have been through, no one has experienced it in the way that you have or feels the way you feel. I understand that we are all individual and I want to help you in this process, to understand your feelings and to remember who you are and want to be.
01709 242257 View 01709 242257
Photo of Bex Fennell, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Bex Fennell
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S8
Hi, I am Bex and I am an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist (NCPS) and Counsellor with over 20 years’ experience of working within mental health. I work with both adults and children. I know that seeking counselling can be a daunting process, however, I offer a warm, supportive and non- judgemental space where we can explore any issues that could be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. My years of training and experience in becoming a counsellor have taught me that each client is unique with their own perspective and understanding- it is my work to sit alongside you and understand your pain.
Hi, I am Bex and I am an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist (NCPS) and Counsellor with over 20 years’ experience of working within mental health. I work with both adults and children. I know that seeking counselling can be a daunting process, however, I offer a warm, supportive and non- judgemental space where we can explore any issues that could be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. My years of training and experience in becoming a counsellor have taught me that each client is unique with their own perspective and understanding- it is my work to sit alongside you and understand your pain.
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Photo of Abbie Rhodes, MBACP, Counsellor
Abbie Rhodes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S10
Hi, it can be hard to share your feelings, so I offer a relaxed approach to therapy in a welcoming private safe space in Rotherham or Barnsley. Here we can start getting you the best possible outcomes for lifes struggles. With the right support and guidance we can start to make your world more manageable, learn new coping skills and build a clearer future. Your first time or not, we will go along at your pace and your duration. Together we can explore your life dynamics, hopes, and goals - past, present or future by using different therpay approaches to make long term changes, realisations and all around maintainable improvements.
Hi, it can be hard to share your feelings, so I offer a relaxed approach to therapy in a welcoming private safe space in Rotherham or Barnsley. Here we can start getting you the best possible outcomes for lifes struggles. With the right support and guidance we can start to make your world more manageable, learn new coping skills and build a clearer future. Your first time or not, we will go along at your pace and your duration. Together we can explore your life dynamics, hopes, and goals - past, present or future by using different therpay approaches to make long term changes, realisations and all around maintainable improvements.
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Photo of Sharon Andrea Shaw, MBBS, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sharon Andrea Shaw
Psychotherapist, MBBS, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1
Feeling SAD, CONFUSED and/or ANGRY? Feeling stuck/trapped? What's the point? Nothing changes? I know the fears of opening up emotionally or mentally. I also know now of how beneficial it is for YOU. To have time to understand your 'self' so that YOU can process and heal, change YOUR future. It's empowering. I have studied for 6 years, to Masters level. Committed to my own personal development. Losing nearly three stone in weight (an emotional eater). Unattached from drinking 5 times a week to now occasionally socially or sometimes I just drink water and ice! Smoking and a fitter body is next. YOU are important! Take control back!
Feeling SAD, CONFUSED and/or ANGRY? Feeling stuck/trapped? What's the point? Nothing changes? I know the fears of opening up emotionally or mentally. I also know now of how beneficial it is for YOU. To have time to understand your 'self' so that YOU can process and heal, change YOUR future. It's empowering. I have studied for 6 years, to Masters level. Committed to my own personal development. Losing nearly three stone in weight (an emotional eater). Unattached from drinking 5 times a week to now occasionally socially or sometimes I just drink water and ice! Smoking and a fitter body is next. YOU are important! Take control back!
01302 496594 View 01302 496594
Photo of Juliet Smart, MBACP, Counsellor
Juliet Smart
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S11
Clients contact me when they have anxiety, panic attacks, grief and questions of themselves.Sometimes trauma and low self esteem can cause people to seek help.I also find life transitions are the catalyst for seeking help. Talking to me in a safe, unjudged safe space can provide the answers to unpick a lifetimes hurt and shame. Working through the jumble of memories, people who have caused you harm and spoken critical words takes its toll and won’t go away by just ignoring it. Our own self criticism can eat away at the successes. I can help you make sense of it and move forward with your life’s goals that you deserve finally.
Clients contact me when they have anxiety, panic attacks, grief and questions of themselves.Sometimes trauma and low self esteem can cause people to seek help.I also find life transitions are the catalyst for seeking help. Talking to me in a safe, unjudged safe space can provide the answers to unpick a lifetimes hurt and shame. Working through the jumble of memories, people who have caused you harm and spoken critical words takes its toll and won’t go away by just ignoring it. Our own self criticism can eat away at the successes. I can help you make sense of it and move forward with your life’s goals that you deserve finally.
01226 668780 View 01226 668780
Photo of Mandi Weymes - A New Beginning Therapies, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
A New Beginning Therapies
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1
Welcome to A New Beginning Therapies. We are a highly recommended team of qualified & experienced therapists providing counselling, therapy & life coaching for all types of emotional issues, to women, men, couples & children of all ages. We are proud to be here to help you with the difficult problems that are holding you back in your life. We have available appointments during the day, evening & weekend. Our fast booking system can get you booked in straight away. * WE OFFER THERAPY VIA ZOOM NATIONWIDE & FACE-FACE IN OUR HULL CITY CENTRE LOCATION *
Welcome to A New Beginning Therapies. We are a highly recommended team of qualified & experienced therapists providing counselling, therapy & life coaching for all types of emotional issues, to women, men, couples & children of all ages. We are proud to be here to help you with the difficult problems that are holding you back in your life. We have available appointments during the day, evening & weekend. Our fast booking system can get you booked in straight away. * WE OFFER THERAPY VIA ZOOM NATIONWIDE & FACE-FACE IN OUR HULL CITY CENTRE LOCATION *
01482 947739 View 01482 947739

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Claire Foulstone, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Claire Foulstone
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S43
I am a Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapist and Supervisor who is trained to tailor therapy to the uniqueness of your needs. I work with you in the here and now, looking at your goals so we can work together to achieve a more effective life balance. Life can become overwhelming and stress, anxiety and depression are the body and minds way of letting you know something has to change. You may be experiencing numbness or the loss of a loved one and day to day living feels challenging. Whatever your issues may be, I offer a safe space to explore free from judgement.
I am a Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapist and Supervisor who is trained to tailor therapy to the uniqueness of your needs. I work with you in the here and now, looking at your goals so we can work together to achieve a more effective life balance. Life can become overwhelming and stress, anxiety and depression are the body and minds way of letting you know something has to change. You may be experiencing numbness or the loss of a loved one and day to day living feels challenging. Whatever your issues may be, I offer a safe space to explore free from judgement.
01246 387439 View 01246 387439

Online Therapists

Photo of Darren Gallagher - Darren Gallagher, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Darren Gallagher
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darlington DL3
Hi, I’m an accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (UKCP/ MBACP) with a specialism of working with children, young people and adult clients. I am trained in EMDR (Masterclass) and have many years experience working with children and families within settings, such as schools, hospices, charities, clinical settings, LAC teams and in the community – Like Violet Oaklander says ‘ Play can be a serious business’. I am a humanistic, ‘integrative’ practitioner, so I use different methods to develop a warm, friendly relationship based on individual needs, respect and accepting the person as a whole – in other words - ‘I’m Ok – You’re Ok’.
Hi, I’m an accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (UKCP/ MBACP) with a specialism of working with children, young people and adult clients. I am trained in EMDR (Masterclass) and have many years experience working with children and families within settings, such as schools, hospices, charities, clinical settings, LAC teams and in the community – Like Violet Oaklander says ‘ Play can be a serious business’. I am a humanistic, ‘integrative’ practitioner, so I use different methods to develop a warm, friendly relationship based on individual needs, respect and accepting the person as a whole – in other words - ‘I’m Ok – You’re Ok’.
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Photo of Tracy Tuffs, BACP, Counsellor
Tracy Tuffs
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lincoln LN4
I use a variety of skills and counselling models such as Systemic, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy with Children, Emotional Focused Therapy, Psychosexual Therapy.
Hi, looking for a counsellor can be difficult but if you are looking for someone who is empathic, will listen and will try to help you make sense of your feelings in order to make changes or informed choices to improve your future then I am here. I work with children, young people, individuals and couples. I am a Integrative counsellor using the most appropriate theoretical modality suited to you and your needs. I work with a variety of issues from bereavement, anxiety, relationship issues and sexual issues. If you would like to know more contact me and following an assessment session we can decide on the best way forward.
I use a variety of skills and counselling models such as Systemic, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy with Children, Emotional Focused Therapy, Psychosexual Therapy.
Hi, looking for a counsellor can be difficult but if you are looking for someone who is empathic, will listen and will try to help you make sense of your feelings in order to make changes or informed choices to improve your future then I am here. I work with children, young people, individuals and couples. I am a Integrative counsellor using the most appropriate theoretical modality suited to you and your needs. I work with a variety of issues from bereavement, anxiety, relationship issues and sexual issues. If you would like to know more contact me and following an assessment session we can decide on the best way forward.
01400 222202 View 01400 222202
Photo of Sharon Anderson, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sharon Anderson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS7  (Online Only)
I am a certified, play/creative therapist (USA/UK) with a MSc in Coun.
Hi there, these are REALLY trying times so I truly appreciate you taking the brave step to reach out. I'm here, happy to work with you on the journey. My therapy style is warm, interactive, accepting & specific to you. I am internationally trained to MSc level & have worked in the UK & overseas. This means I bring inter/multicultural richness & diversity to our sessions. I am skilled to serve the unique needs of the local & international diaspora & those feeling displaced. I also have clinical & pastoral training (Uk) & a multi faith theology degree offering spiritual counselling for those who desire a faith perspective.
I am a certified, play/creative therapist (USA/UK) with a MSc in Coun.
Hi there, these are REALLY trying times so I truly appreciate you taking the brave step to reach out. I'm here, happy to work with you on the journey. My therapy style is warm, interactive, accepting & specific to you. I am internationally trained to MSc level & have worked in the UK & overseas. This means I bring inter/multicultural richness & diversity to our sessions. I am skilled to serve the unique needs of the local & international diaspora & those feeling displaced. I also have clinical & pastoral training (Uk) & a multi faith theology degree offering spiritual counselling for those who desire a faith perspective.
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Photo of Saiqa Saraj - safe haven pathways counselling , MBACP, Counsellor
safe haven pathways counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE1
I offer creative play therapy for children and help them towards a better life ahead trauma and stress free as they learn coping skills.
I offer a safe therapeutic confidential space to assist with overcoming depression, anxiety, or low self esteem. We can work together to find ways to cope with bereavement or relationship breakdown, childhood trauma, sexual violence abuse or trauma. By gaining understanding and perspective, it promotes personal growth and self acceptance. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in unhelpful patterns. Seeking counselling can lead you towards a healthier outlook towards life. Depression is not a weakness nobody chooses to feel this way but seeking help is a choice. I work non judgmentally across all cultures, genders or backgrounds.
I offer creative play therapy for children and help them towards a better life ahead trauma and stress free as they learn coping skills.
I offer a safe therapeutic confidential space to assist with overcoming depression, anxiety, or low self esteem. We can work together to find ways to cope with bereavement or relationship breakdown, childhood trauma, sexual violence abuse or trauma. By gaining understanding and perspective, it promotes personal growth and self acceptance. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in unhelpful patterns. Seeking counselling can lead you towards a healthier outlook towards life. Depression is not a weakness nobody chooses to feel this way but seeking help is a choice. I work non judgmentally across all cultures, genders or backgrounds.
01733 964729 View 01733 964729
Photo of Karen McDonald. Arts Psychotherapist - Dramatherapist, MA
Karen McDonald. Arts Psychotherapist - Dramatherapist
MA
Verified Verified
Stratford-upon-Avon CV37
This can include using the imagination and talking, art, music, story & character, sand play, puppets, movement & mindfulness, body and breath work.
I offer a safe, empathic, & open creative space for people of all ages and from all walks of life. Dramatherapy offers a unique creative psychotherapy. You will have the freedom to communicate in different ways, find your own way of working and access your inner resources. I will keep you safe and provide a range of creative therapeutic approaches which meet your needs as a whole person, help you develop the internal skills to manage pain & distress, and offer opportunities for change. It’s a privilege to work alongside and guide people as they express themselves, explore their difficulties and find their own path of healing.
This can include using the imagination and talking, art, music, story & character, sand play, puppets, movement & mindfulness, body and breath work.
I offer a safe, empathic, & open creative space for people of all ages and from all walks of life. Dramatherapy offers a unique creative psychotherapy. You will have the freedom to communicate in different ways, find your own way of working and access your inner resources. I will keep you safe and provide a range of creative therapeutic approaches which meet your needs as a whole person, help you develop the internal skills to manage pain & distress, and offer opportunities for change. It’s a privilege to work alongside and guide people as they express themselves, explore their difficulties and find their own path of healing.
01789 335862 View 01789 335862
Photo of Karine Harber, MSc, Psychotherapist
Karine Harber
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Earlswood B94
In my therapeutic practice, I combine person-centred approaches with developmental and attachment theories. I specialise in working with children who have limited verbal communication skills and in some cases therapy for non-verbal children. I integrate art, play, movement, role play, and storytelling into my work with young people and children. By employing a wide range of creative techniques, I aim to engage and connect with each child individually, fostering their personal growth and self-expression. My passion lies in helping and supporting children in their journey to become the best versions of themselves. .
In my therapeutic practice, I combine person-centred approaches with developmental and attachment theories. I specialise in working with children who have limited verbal communication skills and in some cases therapy for non-verbal children. I integrate art, play, movement, role play, and storytelling into my work with young people and children. By employing a wide range of creative techniques, I aim to engage and connect with each child individually, fostering their personal growth and self-expression. My passion lies in helping and supporting children in their journey to become the best versions of themselves. .
0117 463 2156 View 0117 463 2156
Photo of Zoe Brown - Children & Young People Therapy, (ZB Therapy) , MBACP, Counsellor
Children & Young People Therapy, (ZB Therapy)
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE4
Sessions may involve play, games, art & creativity or talking therapies, depending on age & needs.
Hi, I'm Zoe, I work with children & Young People aged 5-24. If you find yourself here, it's likely you are a parent or carer with concerns about your child's mental health, or maybe you are 18+, looking for your own support? Reaching out can be hard & you may have struggled for some time. Please know, it's never too late to make changes. Whether it's anxiety, anger, behaviour, SEND needs, low-mood, trauma, school issues or something else, I encourage you to get in touch to see how therapy with me could help. We all deserve to be free from worry & burden, especially children & young people. Therapy offers this space & so much more.
Sessions may involve play, games, art & creativity or talking therapies, depending on age & needs.
Hi, I'm Zoe, I work with children & Young People aged 5-24. If you find yourself here, it's likely you are a parent or carer with concerns about your child's mental health, or maybe you are 18+, looking for your own support? Reaching out can be hard & you may have struggled for some time. Please know, it's never too late to make changes. Whether it's anxiety, anger, behaviour, SEND needs, low-mood, trauma, school issues or something else, I encourage you to get in touch to see how therapy with me could help. We all deserve to be free from worry & burden, especially children & young people. Therapy offers this space & so much more.
01733 964947 View 01733 964947
Photo of Natalie Mills, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Natalie Mills
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Manchester M21
When counselling I use an integrative approach as it encompasses different therapies such as person-centred, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapies, creative therapy, and play therapy.
I know things can be difficult but you don’t need to struggle alone, because I'm here to help. As a qualified therapist, my mission is to help you to overcome your fears and doubts and realise what you are truly capable of. I offer a friendly and confidential one-to-one counselling service supporting adults, young people, and children with a variety of emotional, mental, and physical issues. I will be empathic, honest, and non-judgemental during our sessions.
When counselling I use an integrative approach as it encompasses different therapies such as person-centred, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapies, creative therapy, and play therapy.
I know things can be difficult but you don’t need to struggle alone, because I'm here to help. As a qualified therapist, my mission is to help you to overcome your fears and doubts and realise what you are truly capable of. I offer a friendly and confidential one-to-one counselling service supporting adults, young people, and children with a variety of emotional, mental, and physical issues. I will be empathic, honest, and non-judgemental during our sessions.
0161 850 3632 View 0161 850 3632
Photo of Adele Clayton - Thriving Young Minds, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Thriving Young Minds
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bury BL0
We use play and creative resources and work with many different issues.
I'm Adele and I'm the founder of Thriving Young Minds in Ramsbottom, Bury. We are a team of therapists offering Counselling and Play Therapy for children, teenagers and young adults aged 4-25 years. This means that we can provide the most appropriate support for your needs. If you are impacted by autism, anxiety, panic, low mood, depression, relationship difficulties, bereavement, school issues, trauma and abuse, and if you're unsure of how to move forward, we can work with you to achieve your goals in a strengths-focused way, to help you develop the confidence to thrive rather than just survive.
We use play and creative resources and work with many different issues.
I'm Adele and I'm the founder of Thriving Young Minds in Ramsbottom, Bury. We are a team of therapists offering Counselling and Play Therapy for children, teenagers and young adults aged 4-25 years. This means that we can provide the most appropriate support for your needs. If you are impacted by autism, anxiety, panic, low mood, depression, relationship difficulties, bereavement, school issues, trauma and abuse, and if you're unsure of how to move forward, we can work with you to achieve your goals in a strengths-focused way, to help you develop the confidence to thrive rather than just survive.
07429 186569 View 07429 186569
Photo of Rebecca Kinnear - The Retreat Clinics Manchester - Adults & Children, Psychotherapist
The Retreat Clinics Manchester - Adults & Children
Psychotherapist
Not Verified Not Verified
Manchester M20
Our therapeutic team includes highly experienced clinicians working in a range of modalities: CBT, psychodynamic therapy; integrative therapy, EMDR, Compassion-Focused therapy, Psychosexual therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills for individuals, Creative therapies- Art and Play, Transactional Analysis, Counselling and Psychiatry for adults.
Life can be complex, and so can mental health. This is why we have a range of different treatments and therapy approaches available, which we can tailor to suit your mental health needs. We put you at the heart of what we do. We offer choice and expert, individualised care for a very broad range of difficulties. We understand that seeking therapy can be daunting and that taking the first step can be a challenge. We work with you to design a bespoke approach to your therapy, based on exploring and understanding your concerns, needs, preferences and therapy goals.
Our therapeutic team includes highly experienced clinicians working in a range of modalities: CBT, psychodynamic therapy; integrative therapy, EMDR, Compassion-Focused therapy, Psychosexual therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills for individuals, Creative therapies- Art and Play, Transactional Analysis, Counselling and Psychiatry for adults.
Life can be complex, and so can mental health. This is why we have a range of different treatments and therapy approaches available, which we can tailor to suit your mental health needs. We put you at the heart of what we do. We offer choice and expert, individualised care for a very broad range of difficulties. We understand that seeking therapy can be daunting and that taking the first step can be a challenge. We work with you to design a bespoke approach to your therapy, based on exploring and understanding your concerns, needs, preferences and therapy goals.
0161 524 7409 View 0161 524 7409

See more therapy options for Sheffield

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.