Play Therapy Counselling in Stratford-upon-Avon

Photo of Karen McDonald. Arts Psychotherapist - Dramatherapist in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
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 Heather Shipley, Psychotherapist in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Heather Shipley
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Stratford-upon-Avon CV37
I am a highly qualified Clinical Supervisor and Counsellor who is passionate about supporting my clients. My aim is to create a trusting, safe and comfortable space for you to be able to express your concerns. By combining my variety of skills and experience, I am able to tailor my therapy to suit your needs. I have experience with children and adolescents (Cover Teacher and Nurture Lead) charities, social services and other agencies), as well as extensive work with adults (including menopause) and couples in my private practice and working with an employee assistance programme.
I am a highly qualified Clinical Supervisor and Counsellor who is passionate about supporting my clients. My aim is to create a trusting, safe and comfortable space for you to be able to express your concerns. By combining my variety of skills and experience, I am able to tailor my therapy to suit your needs. I have experience with children and adolescents (Cover Teacher and Nurture Lead) charities, social services and other agencies), as well as extensive work with adults (including menopause) and couples in my private practice and working with an employee assistance programme.
01789 331153 View 01789 331153
Photo of Daryl Nicholas Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Daryl Nicholas Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stratford-upon-Avon CV37
As an Integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, I have undergone extensive training which brings together effective contemporary approaches to therapy, drawing from a variety of models to suit your individual needs. I have over sixteen years experience supporting adults and young people to address a range of issues, including: anxiety/panic, depression, stress, loss and bereavement, identity issues, sexuality, trauma/abuse, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions and careers and life direction. I also offer the comprehensive 'INSIGHT self-discovery programmes' (visit darylnicholas.com for more details).
As an Integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, I have undergone extensive training which brings together effective contemporary approaches to therapy, drawing from a variety of models to suit your individual needs. I have over sixteen years experience supporting adults and young people to address a range of issues, including: anxiety/panic, depression, stress, loss and bereavement, identity issues, sexuality, trauma/abuse, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions and careers and life direction. I also offer the comprehensive 'INSIGHT self-discovery programmes' (visit darylnicholas.com for more details).
01926 800596 View 01926 800596
Photo of Sasha Hvidsten, Psychiatrist in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Sasha Hvidsten
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Stratford-upon-Avon CV37
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and see patients for concerns such as ADHD, autism and Tourettes / tic disorders. I work with a team of nurses and therapists to deliver a holistic approach to suit your needs. We have a clinic within a period property in the worcestershire countryside that is quiet and relaxing. We offer assessment and treatment, for autism, ADHD, anxiety and depression, Tics and Tourette's, The correct diagnosis is really important in order to get the right help. Our support doesn't end with diagnosis - we are here until you don't need us anymore.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and see patients for concerns such as ADHD, autism and Tourettes / tic disorders. I work with a team of nurses and therapists to deliver a holistic approach to suit your needs. We have a clinic within a period property in the worcestershire countryside that is quiet and relaxing. We offer assessment and treatment, for autism, ADHD, anxiety and depression, Tics and Tourette's, The correct diagnosis is really important in order to get the right help. Our support doesn't end with diagnosis - we are here until you don't need us anymore.
01527 919209 View 01527 919209
Photo of Natalie kynoch counselling, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Natalie kynoch counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stratford-upon-Avon CV37
Hello my name is Natalie. I offer therapy for children, adolescent's and adults. I am a fully qualified counsellor and a registered member of the BACP. I have been in practice for over ten years. I offer Cognitive behavioural therapy(CBT), Counselling , Eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR) and Creative Counselling. I work both online and face to face. The approach used will depend on what works best with your issue and your own personal preference. If you are unsure, what may be the most helpful do not worry, this is explored fully at your intial sessions.
Hello my name is Natalie. I offer therapy for children, adolescent's and adults. I am a fully qualified counsellor and a registered member of the BACP. I have been in practice for over ten years. I offer Cognitive behavioural therapy(CBT), Counselling , Eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR) and Creative Counselling. I work both online and face to face. The approach used will depend on what works best with your issue and your own personal preference. If you are unsure, what may be the most helpful do not worry, this is explored fully at your intial sessions.
01223 919487 View 01223 919487

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karine Harber, Psychotherapist in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Karine Harber
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Solihull B95
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 Maisie Matthews Counselling, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Maisie Matthews Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warwick CV34
Working with children and young people I have found it is useful to use arts and play to keep it engaging and allow them a voice when they do not know what to say.
Hello! My name is Maisie Matthews. I am a children and young people’s counsellor. I work with clients between the ages of 11-25. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental space for clients to feel heard. This space will allow clients to speak freely and explore their thoughts and feelings to understand and overcome the difficulties they are experiencing.
Working with children and young people I have found it is useful to use arts and play to keep it engaging and allow them a voice when they do not know what to say.
Hello! My name is Maisie Matthews. I am a children and young people’s counsellor. I work with clients between the ages of 11-25. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental space for clients to feel heard. This space will allow clients to speak freely and explore their thoughts and feelings to understand and overcome the difficulties they are experiencing.
024 7542 0536 View 024 7542 0536

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy Sheppard in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Amy Sheppard
MA
Verified Verified
London SE23
I am a child-centred play therapist working with children, primarily from 4-12 years of age. I provide a safe, empathetic and accepting space for your child to explore what is troubling them. My approach is play based and primarily non-directive. However, for some children a slightly more directive approach can be helpful. Each child is unique, therefore the sessions will be tailored to your child and meeting their individual needs. A play based approach can be useful for children who may find it difficult to express how they feel into words.
I am a child-centred play therapist working with children, primarily from 4-12 years of age. I provide a safe, empathetic and accepting space for your child to explore what is troubling them. My approach is play based and primarily non-directive. However, for some children a slightly more directive approach can be helpful. Each child is unique, therefore the sessions will be tailored to your child and meeting their individual needs. A play based approach can be useful for children who may find it difficult to express how they feel into words.
020 3912 8139 View 020 3912 8139
Photo of Elaine Hutchinson, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Elaine Hutchinson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wells BA5
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, TraumaPlay and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, TraumaPlay and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
01749 605317 View 01749 605317
Photo of Elisa Fontana, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Elisa Elisa Fontana
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW2
As a person-centred therapist, you will find in me a space holder for your experience. The knowledge will come from both of us: your knowledge about your personal story and my knowledge about the human mind will meet in the safe therapeutic space, untangling what needs attention and care. Training in Psychology, Play Therapy, mindfulness and embodied practices, allows me to create space for different modalities: we might talk, or use images, stories, dreams and objects to access parts of us that aren’t so easily accessible to conscious thought.
As a person-centred therapist, you will find in me a space holder for your experience. The knowledge will come from both of us: your knowledge about your personal story and my knowledge about the human mind will meet in the safe therapeutic space, untangling what needs attention and care. Training in Psychology, Play Therapy, mindfulness and embodied practices, allows me to create space for different modalities: we might talk, or use images, stories, dreams and objects to access parts of us that aren’t so easily accessible to conscious thought.
020 4538 9109 View 020 4538 9109
Photo of Flor Ferraco, Psychotherapist in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Flor Ferraco
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
Carshalton SM5
Some of the healing tools I offer in my practice are art, mindfulness, meditation, body movement, breathing, sacred geometry, poetry, play therapy and other creative methods or we can talk.
Is it difficult for yourself to connect to your emotions and feelings? Sometimes it is complicated to find a link to enable us express freely. Unintentionally, we can create a habit in which we suppress, run away, deny or manipulate our emotions. It is normal to try to push away feelings of discomfort like stress, fear or pain; but there are tools you can learn to help you cope with these emotions in a healthy way. Instead of denying, distracting yourself, manipulating or disconnecting, you can accept, observe, acknowledge and connect deeply with your feelings.
Some of the healing tools I offer in my practice are art, mindfulness, meditation, body movement, breathing, sacred geometry, poetry, play therapy and other creative methods or we can talk.
Is it difficult for yourself to connect to your emotions and feelings? Sometimes it is complicated to find a link to enable us express freely. Unintentionally, we can create a habit in which we suppress, run away, deny or manipulate our emotions. It is normal to try to push away feelings of discomfort like stress, fear or pain; but there are tools you can learn to help you cope with these emotions in a healthy way. Instead of denying, distracting yourself, manipulating or disconnecting, you can accept, observe, acknowledge and connect deeply with your feelings.
020 4538 5361 View 020 4538 5361
Photo of Jenna Marie Rutherford, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Jenna Marie Rutherford
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ely CB7
I have over 20 years of experience of working as a counsellor with adults, young people, adolescents and children. I work face to face as well as on-line. I believe that you have the answers to your difficulties and that I as your therapist will provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings with the aim of gaining insight and understanding, so that you may live a happier and more authentic life. I use play therapy with children. Sometimes people come to therapy with specific difficulties, anxiety, depression, self harm, low self esteem and others with more generalised feelings of discontent. I am here to listen.
I have over 20 years of experience of working as a counsellor with adults, young people, adolescents and children. I work face to face as well as on-line. I believe that you have the answers to your difficulties and that I as your therapist will provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings with the aim of gaining insight and understanding, so that you may live a happier and more authentic life. I use play therapy with children. Sometimes people come to therapy with specific difficulties, anxiety, depression, self harm, low self esteem and others with more generalised feelings of discontent. I am here to listen.
020 8138 0406 View 020 8138 0406
Photo of Nicola Goulooze, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Nicola Goulooze
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Watford WD24
Counselling could involve talk therapy, play or something creative – whatever the young person feels comfortable with and helps them work through their difficulties.
As parents when our children are struggling we just want to help but often don’t know how. What they are facing can feel overwhelming but there is hope. Counselling provides children and young people with a safe space where they can explore, work things out, heal and move on from difficulties that they experience. Working with someone who is not a family member or friend, but who is supportive, non-judgmental and accepting, who helps us make sense of what we are going through and move forward, can be really beneficial. I aim to help young people accept and value themselves, raise their resilience, gain coping skills and thrive.
Counselling could involve talk therapy, play or something creative – whatever the young person feels comfortable with and helps them work through their difficulties.
As parents when our children are struggling we just want to help but often don’t know how. What they are facing can feel overwhelming but there is hope. Counselling provides children and young people with a safe space where they can explore, work things out, heal and move on from difficulties that they experience. Working with someone who is not a family member or friend, but who is supportive, non-judgmental and accepting, who helps us make sense of what we are going through and move forward, can be really beneficial. I aim to help young people accept and value themselves, raise their resilience, gain coping skills and thrive.
01923 961757 View 01923 961757
Photo of Nadja Julia Rolli, Psychotherapist in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Nadja Julia Rolli
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
London W14
I am a qualified and experienced Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. Previous to the MA in Child Psychotherapy, I have been trained in Switzerland as Psychomotor Therapist, with a focus on Play Therapy and Body Work for Children and young adults. I have many years of experience working with my clients through play therapy and talking therapy but integrate EMDR, body awareness and symbolism, art materials, clay and sand into my work to facilitate unconscious emotional processes.
I am a qualified and experienced Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. Previous to the MA in Child Psychotherapy, I have been trained in Switzerland as Psychomotor Therapist, with a focus on Play Therapy and Body Work for Children and young adults. I have many years of experience working with my clients through play therapy and talking therapy but integrate EMDR, body awareness and symbolism, art materials, clay and sand into my work to facilitate unconscious emotional processes.
020 8103 6087 View 020 8103 6087
Photo of Carolyn Hart, Psychotherapist in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
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.
View
Photo of Jackie Kidd-England, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Jackie Kidd-England
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redhill RH1
I like to work in a way that can be open, collaborative, creative, play based and at the pace that's right for you.
Hi, I'm Jackie. I feel very privileged to be able to work with both adults and children. When I am working with someone I always feel it is such an honour to be brought into their world and walk the journey with them for a while. As an Integrative counsellor I can use different ways to support the journey you are on. I offer my clients a bespoke way of working that suits them, working together on whatever may concern them. Whatever the age of the person, concern or difficulty they are going through I see them as the expert and I work collaboratively to support them in resolving issues or reaching goals they may set.
I like to work in a way that can be open, collaborative, creative, play based and at the pace that's right for you.
Hi, I'm Jackie. I feel very privileged to be able to work with both adults and children. When I am working with someone I always feel it is such an honour to be brought into their world and walk the journey with them for a while. As an Integrative counsellor I can use different ways to support the journey you are on. I offer my clients a bespoke way of working that suits them, working together on whatever may concern them. Whatever the age of the person, concern or difficulty they are going through I see them as the expert and I work collaboratively to support them in resolving issues or reaching goals they may set.
01737 948390 View 01737 948390
Photo of CJ Therapies , Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
CJ Therapies
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Barnet EN5
I am an Integrative therapist registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I provide emotional support for Children, Young People and Parents. My approach with children is play based and creative therapy. My work with parents is taken from a relational approach helping parents to learn about their attachment styles building on their understanding of their child's development and improving relationships. My support helps children understand their feelings, improving confidence, self esteem, anxiety, behaviours, and emotional wellbeing.
I am an Integrative therapist registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I provide emotional support for Children, Young People and Parents. My approach with children is play based and creative therapy. My work with parents is taken from a relational approach helping parents to learn about their attachment styles building on their understanding of their child's development and improving relationships. My support helps children understand their feelings, improving confidence, self esteem, anxiety, behaviours, and emotional wellbeing.
07479 276687 View 07479 276687
Photo of Vikki Joy Fear, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Vikki Joy Fear
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
Waitlist for new clients
I use talking therapy, EFT, neuroscience and creative techniques suh as art, sand tray, journalling and play to help you process trauma and support you through difficulties.
I am a down to earth and approachable counsellor for children, young people and adults. I have 27 years experience working with young people who have been abused as well as people with neurodivergence. At times, feelings and behaviours can become difficult due to past trauma, increasing anxiety or for unknown reasons. We can also feel this physically and it blocks lifes natural progression. Past trauma does not need to be extreme and we often underestimate the impact an event has on us. I can help you make sense of your emotions and behaviours and manage your responses to triggers, allowing progression towrards your desired goals.
I use talking therapy, EFT, neuroscience and creative techniques suh as art, sand tray, journalling and play to help you process trauma and support you through difficulties.
I am a down to earth and approachable counsellor for children, young people and adults. I have 27 years experience working with young people who have been abused as well as people with neurodivergence. At times, feelings and behaviours can become difficult due to past trauma, increasing anxiety or for unknown reasons. We can also feel this physically and it blocks lifes natural progression. Past trauma does not need to be extreme and we often underestimate the impact an event has on us. I can help you make sense of your emotions and behaviours and manage your responses to triggers, allowing progression towrards your desired goals.
01275 402983 View 01275 402983
Photo of Craig Philip Smith, Counsellor in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Craig Philip Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bath BA1  (Online Only)
Do you play the guitar? Do you have other ways to self-soothe or manage your emotions? Books maybe, reading and writing.
I can work with you around family issues, teen problems, child behaviour, ASC issues, illness and disability. I will support, collaborate and try to make sense of what is going on. All things eventually pass - I will offer to weather the storm with you. I won’t be judging you or not taking you seriously. We will work together - and it will be work - but we will also aim to have fun and be creative in our work.
Do you play the guitar? Do you have other ways to self-soothe or manage your emotions? Books maybe, reading and writing.
I can work with you around family issues, teen problems, child behaviour, ASC issues, illness and disability. I will support, collaborate and try to make sense of what is going on. All things eventually pass - I will offer to weather the storm with you. I won’t be judging you or not taking you seriously. We will work together - and it will be work - but we will also aim to have fun and be creative in our work.
01225 541093 View 01225 541093
Photo of Kate Clark, Psychotherapist in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Kate Clark
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E8
I pay close attention to the way our bodies hold onto trauma, which can play a crucial role in the healing process.
Hello, I’m Kate. I’m a UKCP registered Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist working in Hackney, with 20 years’ experience working with young people. In addition to my private practice, I currently manage a secondary school counselling service, providing long and short-term therapy to young people and adult staff members. People of all ages, from adults to young individuals, arrive at my door seeking support for a variety of challenges. I have experience in helping clients navigate through anxiety-related disorders, family issues, bereavement, compulsive behaviours, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and childhood trauma.
I pay close attention to the way our bodies hold onto trauma, which can play a crucial role in the healing process.
Hello, I’m Kate. I’m a UKCP registered Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist working in Hackney, with 20 years’ experience working with young people. In addition to my private practice, I currently manage a secondary school counselling service, providing long and short-term therapy to young people and adult staff members. People of all ages, from adults to young individuals, arrive at my door seeking support for a variety of challenges. I have experience in helping clients navigate through anxiety-related disorders, family issues, bereavement, compulsive behaviours, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and childhood trauma.
020 3667 9354 View 020 3667 9354

See more therapy options for Stratford-upon-Avon

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.