Photo of Imogen Gabrielle Ellis-Jones, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Imogen Gabrielle Ellis-Jones
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Farnham GU10
Couples Counselling will help you to understand your emotions and discover a new intimacy. I talk to couples every day who are wanting more from their relationships. Some want to renew a long gone passion and others are just fighting to stay together - the answer is often found by looking at new ways to communicate with each other rather than fixing a disagreement. There will be reasons for your behaviour that make sense and I will help you to uncover these throughout our sessions together. You may have an ‘arguing style’ and by looking more deeply, at your inner hurt and anger, we will be able to discover what is really going on.
Couples Counselling will help you to understand your emotions and discover a new intimacy. I talk to couples every day who are wanting more from their relationships. Some want to renew a long gone passion and others are just fighting to stay together - the answer is often found by looking at new ways to communicate with each other rather than fixing a disagreement. There will be reasons for your behaviour that make sense and I will help you to uncover these throughout our sessions together. You may have an ‘arguing style’ and by looking more deeply, at your inner hurt and anger, we will be able to discover what is really going on.
01252 560748 View 01252 560748

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of The Practice, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
The Practice
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
We can all have difficulties in everyday life and encounter problems that we simply find hard to cope with alone. You may feel worried, anxious, low, confused, isolated or may be experience difficulties in relationships. You may be suffering from feelings of low self esteem or low self confidence. You may have been diagnosed with anxiety, generalised anxiety disorder, depression, or maybe you are just feeling sad. When these feelings and thoughts persist and become overwhelming it may be difficult to know which way to turn.
We can all have difficulties in everyday life and encounter problems that we simply find hard to cope with alone. You may feel worried, anxious, low, confused, isolated or may be experience difficulties in relationships. You may be suffering from feelings of low self esteem or low self confidence. You may have been diagnosed with anxiety, generalised anxiety disorder, depression, or maybe you are just feeling sad. When these feelings and thoughts persist and become overwhelming it may be difficult to know which way to turn.
07480 486415 View 07480 486415
Photo of Ruchi Bakshi, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Ruchi Bakshi
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I am Dr Ruchi Bakshi a Clinical Psychologist. I work at Riverside Psychology Marlow in Buckinghamshire and remotely. I have over ten years experience working as a Clinical Psychologist in the public and private sector. I specialise in women’s health, emotional wellbeing and the perinatal period as well as child, parent and family work. I offer evidence based Psychological therapy working in an integrative and holistic way to support you in your health and emotional well-being.
Hello, I am Dr Ruchi Bakshi a Clinical Psychologist. I work at Riverside Psychology Marlow in Buckinghamshire and remotely. I have over ten years experience working as a Clinical Psychologist in the public and private sector. I specialise in women’s health, emotional wellbeing and the perinatal period as well as child, parent and family work. I offer evidence based Psychological therapy working in an integrative and holistic way to support you in your health and emotional well-being.
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Online Therapists

Photo of Claire Rhodes, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Claire Rhodes
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B13
I offer young children therapeutically informed play therapy, to help them process their emotions and difficulties.
Hi, my name is Claire and I am a child and adult psychotherapist. Often people don't fully understand why they feel bad and this can lead to confusion and feeling ashamed. The feelings are experienced throughout the whole body and can be so overwhelming that they can lead to panic, depression, anxiety and challenging or self-destructive behaviours. I help clients understand how things are for them right now, validate their challenges and help them see their unique strengths, all within the context of an accepting and compassionate relationship. I use neuro-scientifically informed approaches to help heal
I offer young children therapeutically informed play therapy, to help them process their emotions and difficulties.
Hi, my name is Claire and I am a child and adult psychotherapist. Often people don't fully understand why they feel bad and this can lead to confusion and feeling ashamed. The feelings are experienced throughout the whole body and can be so overwhelming that they can lead to panic, depression, anxiety and challenging or self-destructive behaviours. I help clients understand how things are for them right now, validate their challenges and help them see their unique strengths, all within the context of an accepting and compassionate relationship. I use neuro-scientifically informed approaches to help heal
01905 975370 View 01905 975370
Photo of Anna Smith, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Anna Smith
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK12  (Online Only)
I work in an empathic, non-judgemental and accepting way to ensure that anyone who chooses therapy with me feels as though they have a safe space to talk, explore, play and resolve any difficulties they may be facing.
Life for children, young people and families can be really challenging, a fact that has only been made worse by the pandemic. seeking counselling or therapy for your child or yourself can be a really scary task, but it can also help to resolve the issues that many young people and families face every day. I am currently offering online sessions only. I have a virtual therapy room that is suitable for children aged 3-18. This is a highly effective tool and replicates the 'in person' therapy experience, meaning your child isn't missing out by working online.
I work in an empathic, non-judgemental and accepting way to ensure that anyone who chooses therapy with me feels as though they have a safe space to talk, explore, play and resolve any difficulties they may be facing.
Life for children, young people and families can be really challenging, a fact that has only been made worse by the pandemic. seeking counselling or therapy for your child or yourself can be a really scary task, but it can also help to resolve the issues that many young people and families face every day. I am currently offering online sessions only. I have a virtual therapy room that is suitable for children aged 3-18. This is a highly effective tool and replicates the 'in person' therapy experience, meaning your child isn't missing out by working online.
01908 103294 View 01908 103294
Photo of Anna Cohen, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Anna Cohen
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACP
Verified Verified
Lewes BN7
I use play and art to help children explore their feelings although older children and young people may prefer to talk.
I am a Senior Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist with over twenty years experience working in the NHS and independently. I usually work with children and young people up to the age of 25. I also offer consultations and therapeutic parenting sessions to parents and other family members who may be caring for a child. I see children and young people with a range of needs, including trauma, anxiety and low mood. I often work with clients who are neurodiverse or have a learning difficulty. I am experienced at working with clients with histories of self harm and eating disorders.
I use play and art to help children explore their feelings although older children and young people may prefer to talk.
I am a Senior Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist with over twenty years experience working in the NHS and independently. I usually work with children and young people up to the age of 25. I also offer consultations and therapeutic parenting sessions to parents and other family members who may be caring for a child. I see children and young people with a range of needs, including trauma, anxiety and low mood. I often work with clients who are neurodiverse or have a learning difficulty. I am experienced at working with clients with histories of self harm and eating disorders.
01276 543462 View 01276 543462
Photo of Georgia Powell, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Georgia Powell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E2  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work as an adolescent and adult Counsellor based in East London. As well as my own private practice, I work in schools, universities and in the domestic abuse sector with victim-survivors of domestic abuse. I am a fully registered BACP member and integrate a variety of different therapeutic modalities, including person-centred and humanistic therapy, body therapy, art/play therapy, mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to meet each person’s specific needs.
I work as an adolescent and adult Counsellor based in East London. As well as my own private practice, I work in schools, universities and in the domestic abuse sector with victim-survivors of domestic abuse. I am a fully registered BACP member and integrate a variety of different therapeutic modalities, including person-centred and humanistic therapy, body therapy, art/play therapy, mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to meet each person’s specific needs.
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Photo of Pinch of Positivity Centre, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Pinch of Positivity Centre
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Gloucester GL2
This can involve elements of talking, art, music, games, creative expression, CBT, play or systemic exploration.
Hi, and a warm welcome. I'm a qualified counsellor and have been for many years offering therapeutic support for adults, adolescents, children and families either together or individually, in my private practice and within primary and secondary schools. I can offer support too many for many reasons and offer flexible Integrative approaches to suit you. I always welcome a free initial email or chat or meet and briefly discuss ways of support that suits all. This can also give you all an opportunity to see the space, meet and talk with me with no obligation. This helps in deciding what is best for you.
This can involve elements of talking, art, music, games, creative expression, CBT, play or systemic exploration.
Hi, and a warm welcome. I'm a qualified counsellor and have been for many years offering therapeutic support for adults, adolescents, children and families either together or individually, in my private practice and within primary and secondary schools. I can offer support too many for many reasons and offer flexible Integrative approaches to suit you. I always welcome a free initial email or chat or meet and briefly discuss ways of support that suits all. This can also give you all an opportunity to see the space, meet and talk with me with no obligation. This helps in deciding what is best for you.
01452 923058 View 01452 923058
Photo of Dr Hugh Milburn, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Dr Hugh Milburn
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hastings TN34
I use an integrative approach incorporating evidenced-based psychological models including psychodynamic, cognitive behaviour, systemic psychotherapy and play therapy.
I am a highly experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Child & Family Psychotherapist with over twenty years experience working with Children, Adolescence (CAMHS), Families and Adult mental well being. My clinical services are based in Hastings and Brighton. I provide psychological clinical services to help with psychological distress such as anxiety, low mood, poor self-esteem, complex trauma and eating disorders. I offer a friendly, flexible and holistic approach, providing a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the individual's or families' needs.
I use an integrative approach incorporating evidenced-based psychological models including psychodynamic, cognitive behaviour, systemic psychotherapy and play therapy.
I am a highly experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Child & Family Psychotherapist with over twenty years experience working with Children, Adolescence (CAMHS), Families and Adult mental well being. My clinical services are based in Hastings and Brighton. I provide psychological clinical services to help with psychological distress such as anxiety, low mood, poor self-esteem, complex trauma and eating disorders. I offer a friendly, flexible and holistic approach, providing a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the individual's or families' needs.
01424 400191 View 01424 400191
Photo of Dr Zara Hosany, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Dr Zara Hosany
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bromley BR1  (Online Only)
I use a variety of approaches in my work, which includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Systemic Family and Couple work, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), IPT-A, Solution-focussed, Psychodynamic, Play and Attachment based therapies.
Do you feel fed up and struggling to achieve your goals? Are you looking for movement and change? Would you like a therapist or supervisor who is understanding and able to help you progress forwards in the direction you would like to move in? I am Dr Zara Hosany, a Principal Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience working in mental health. I offer a range of interventions: individual work with adults, young people, parents, couples, family therapy; supervision for qualified professionals and trainees; coaching and mentoring, consultation work with organisations, and reflective spaces for groups.
I use a variety of approaches in my work, which includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Systemic Family and Couple work, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), IPT-A, Solution-focussed, Psychodynamic, Play and Attachment based therapies.
Do you feel fed up and struggling to achieve your goals? Are you looking for movement and change? Would you like a therapist or supervisor who is understanding and able to help you progress forwards in the direction you would like to move in? I am Dr Zara Hosany, a Principal Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience working in mental health. I offer a range of interventions: individual work with adults, young people, parents, couples, family therapy; supervision for qualified professionals and trainees; coaching and mentoring, consultation work with organisations, and reflective spaces for groups.
01689 664642 View 01689 664642
Photo of Cara Tullett, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Cara Tullett
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Brentwood CM15
For some clients, this may be through talking, but for others, it might be through play, art or other forms of creativity, where conflicts and traumas can be worked through, in a way that feels most comfortable to you.
I offer you a warm welcome to my profile.  I am a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist and Counsellor and I work with children, young people, adults and parents.  I am specifically trained to work with children and adolescents, having completed a 5 year masters in child and adolescent psychotherapy and counselling. I also have a wealth of experience working with adults.
For some clients, this may be through talking, but for others, it might be through play, art or other forms of creativity, where conflicts and traumas can be worked through, in a way that feels most comfortable to you.
I offer you a warm welcome to my profile.  I am a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist and Counsellor and I work with children, young people, adults and parents.  I am specifically trained to work with children and adolescents, having completed a 5 year masters in child and adolescent psychotherapy and counselling. I also have a wealth of experience working with adults.
01277 674194 View 01277 674194
Photo of Samantha Aldridge, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Samantha Aldridge
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brackley NN13
Play/Creative Arts Therapy - Play Therapy is a creative model which uses metaphor (art, music, sand tray and role play) as a way of exploring difficult feelings and life events.
Hello, I am a friendly, caring and compassionate person with a passion for helping others. Taking the first step in seeking therapy can feel daunting and takes a lot of courage, I offer a non judgemental, confidential space for you to explore your feelings. I can offer both short term or long term therapy including Counselling and Play Therapy. My experience includes working with children & young people in schools and the charity sector with a variety of issues. My most recent experience has been working with young people and adults who have a diagnosis of cancer, supporting them through diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
Play/Creative Arts Therapy - Play Therapy is a creative model which uses metaphor (art, music, sand tray and role play) as a way of exploring difficult feelings and life events.
Hello, I am a friendly, caring and compassionate person with a passion for helping others. Taking the first step in seeking therapy can feel daunting and takes a lot of courage, I offer a non judgemental, confidential space for you to explore your feelings. I can offer both short term or long term therapy including Counselling and Play Therapy. My experience includes working with children & young people in schools and the charity sector with a variety of issues. My most recent experience has been working with young people and adults who have a diagnosis of cancer, supporting them through diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
01280 736334 View 01280 736334
Photo of Colchester Children’s Counselling , Counsellor in Farnham, England
Colchester Children’s Counselling
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colchester CO1
When working with younger clients, I use a range of play, toys, sand tray, art and communication methods to understand and support.
As a psychodynamic counsellor with 15 years experience both in the education and NHS sector, I have worked with a range of clinical themes including: trauma, parental illness and terminal illness, anxiety, incontinence, ADHD, absconding, abuse, domestic violence, bereavement and grief, aggression, psychosomatic illness, disassociation disorder, depression, LGBTQ+. This list is not exhaustive to my knowledge and understanding to the many other themes that clients may present with. If you are willing to go on this journey with me and to trust me with your mental health, I will be there to support you every step of the way
When working with younger clients, I use a range of play, toys, sand tray, art and communication methods to understand and support.
As a psychodynamic counsellor with 15 years experience both in the education and NHS sector, I have worked with a range of clinical themes including: trauma, parental illness and terminal illness, anxiety, incontinence, ADHD, absconding, abuse, domestic violence, bereavement and grief, aggression, psychosomatic illness, disassociation disorder, depression, LGBTQ+. This list is not exhaustive to my knowledge and understanding to the many other themes that clients may present with. If you are willing to go on this journey with me and to trust me with your mental health, I will be there to support you every step of the way
01206 581780 View 01206 581780
Photo of Cate Mackenzie, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Cate Mackenzie
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London SW3
My ideal clients are couples or individuals who would like a warm and competent counsellor to help them renew their relationship or deal with current and or sexual issues or goals. As a COSRT Accredited Psychosexual Therapist and Couples Counsellor I am trained in Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focussed Couple's Therapy and Encounter based Therapy by Hedy Schliefer. My background in play, dance and creativity means I also encourage people to find new parts of themselves or their relationships. My web site is also full of videos and articles.
My ideal clients are couples or individuals who would like a warm and competent counsellor to help them renew their relationship or deal with current and or sexual issues or goals. As a COSRT Accredited Psychosexual Therapist and Couples Counsellor I am trained in Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focussed Couple's Therapy and Encounter based Therapy by Hedy Schliefer. My background in play, dance and creativity means I also encourage people to find new parts of themselves or their relationships. My web site is also full of videos and articles.
01273 037929 View 01273 037929
Photo of Claire Wallace Counselling, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Claire Wallace Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Saffron Walden CB10
I'm a therapist that will hold you emotionally throughout your process, within your therapeutic journey i provide talking therapy aswell as incorporating exploration by different methods such as Play/Art/NVC therapy & much more.
Hi, I'm an integrative counsellor/therapist, I'm an accredited MBACP Reg. and MNCS Reg. therapist. I offer 1:1 therapy, couples therapy and family therapy via zoom or face to face appointments in my private practice. It can feel quite daunting to see a counsellor, so I provide an initial free 50 minute in-take session for you to discuss your issues and any concerns you may have about your counselling journey. The in-take session will give the opportunity for me the counsellor and you the client, time to explore what you want from this process. Then together we can decide if you want to continue the proccess as me as your therapist.
I'm a therapist that will hold you emotionally throughout your process, within your therapeutic journey i provide talking therapy aswell as incorporating exploration by different methods such as Play/Art/NVC therapy & much more.
Hi, I'm an integrative counsellor/therapist, I'm an accredited MBACP Reg. and MNCS Reg. therapist. I offer 1:1 therapy, couples therapy and family therapy via zoom or face to face appointments in my private practice. It can feel quite daunting to see a counsellor, so I provide an initial free 50 minute in-take session for you to discuss your issues and any concerns you may have about your counselling journey. The in-take session will give the opportunity for me the counsellor and you the client, time to explore what you want from this process. Then together we can decide if you want to continue the proccess as me as your therapist.
01799 619195 View 01799 619195
Photo of Sunnycove Counselling and Supervision Services, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Sunnycove Counselling and Supervision Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Weston-super-Mare BS24
For children and young people I offer sand tray, play dough, Lego, games, painting and drawing, or a space that's quiet and reflective.
Hi my name is Paulette and I have been a therapist for over twenty years. I work with adults, children 5+ and young people. I have worked in various organisations, charities, secondary schools and colleges. If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, addiction, relationship problems, work based problems, family dysfunction, stress, anger, etc. I offer a confidential and safe space where you would be heard and not judged. Together we will work on the problems, identify what needs to done and ensure you have the right skills for the future. A healthy positive future is possible.
For children and young people I offer sand tray, play dough, Lego, games, painting and drawing, or a space that's quiet and reflective.
Hi my name is Paulette and I have been a therapist for over twenty years. I work with adults, children 5+ and young people. I have worked in various organisations, charities, secondary schools and colleges. If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, addiction, relationship problems, work based problems, family dysfunction, stress, anger, etc. I offer a confidential and safe space where you would be heard and not judged. Together we will work on the problems, identify what needs to done and ensure you have the right skills for the future. A healthy positive future is possible.
01934 311516 View 01934 311516
Photo of Alizen Wall, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Alizen Wall
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London NW6
I believe that the 3 most common reasons leading people to seek therapy are Anger, Sadness & Belief System. This belief system could be one you were taught by somebody else or one you have created that is not serving you, for example feeling that you are not enough or that you are unloveable. I offer safety and support with the unbearable. I provide guidance in your discovery and unpacking of baggage. I use creative methods: art, body work, play therapy and nature.
I believe that the 3 most common reasons leading people to seek therapy are Anger, Sadness & Belief System. This belief system could be one you were taught by somebody else or one you have created that is not serving you, for example feeling that you are not enough or that you are unloveable. I offer safety and support with the unbearable. I provide guidance in your discovery and unpacking of baggage. I use creative methods: art, body work, play therapy and nature.
020 8138 0517 View 020 8138 0517
Photo of Letitia Daniel in Farnham, England
Letitia Daniel
MA
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
My creative expressive tools give the opportunity for clients to use play, stories, character work, metaphors, writing and sensory play in order to explore and express themselves.
No matter what you wish to explore I offer an open and confidential service that provides my clients with the utmost safety, professionalism and care. As I work from a creative expressive model I use creative techniques to allow my clients to be distanced from experiences or memories they may find difficulty accessing but know they want to explore. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, this is your therapy I am the facilitator who will offer you a safe space, guidance and support.
My creative expressive tools give the opportunity for clients to use play, stories, character work, metaphors, writing and sensory play in order to explore and express themselves.
No matter what you wish to explore I offer an open and confidential service that provides my clients with the utmost safety, professionalism and care. As I work from a creative expressive model I use creative techniques to allow my clients to be distanced from experiences or memories they may find difficulty accessing but know they want to explore. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, this is your therapy I am the facilitator who will offer you a safe space, guidance and support.
0116 478 2909 View 0116 478 2909
Photo of Jade Cammarata, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Jade Cammarata
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE7
As well as talking therapy I can also bring art and play therapy into my practice as I understand that sometimes talking can be hard, it also allows deeper exploration at times.
Are you suffering from Anxiety, Depression? maybe a Bereavement or Relationship issue? With 10 Years experience in many areas I can support you. It's not always easy talking to family or friends, this is where counselling can really help you. Together we can look at whatever it is thats troubling you whether its past or current events, this will enable you to have a clearer understanding, freeing you to live a happier more positive life. I am a qualified and experienced counsellor providing a safe, confidential and non judgmental place for you to talk and explore your inner thoughts and feelings. I use a variety of CBT tools.
As well as talking therapy I can also bring art and play therapy into my practice as I understand that sometimes talking can be hard, it also allows deeper exploration at times.
Are you suffering from Anxiety, Depression? maybe a Bereavement or Relationship issue? With 10 Years experience in many areas I can support you. It's not always easy talking to family or friends, this is where counselling can really help you. Together we can look at whatever it is thats troubling you whether its past or current events, this will enable you to have a clearer understanding, freeing you to live a happier more positive life. I am a qualified and experienced counsellor providing a safe, confidential and non judgmental place for you to talk and explore your inner thoughts and feelings. I use a variety of CBT tools.
01733 942099 View 01733 942099
Photo of Approach Counselling & Coaching, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Approach Counselling & Coaching
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London E1
After completion of my MA in Transpersonal /Integrative Child, Adolescents and Family Therapy in 2018, I now also take on children and adolescents, using play and art therapy as well as sand tray therapy to help to resolve trauma, stress, anxiety, depression and self harm.
My main approach is to encourage you to explore your feelings and take responsibility for your thoughts and actions. As I work in a way that empowers the client, I always work with what you present. Bottled up feelings such as anger, anxiety, grief, jealousy, sadness, shame and pain can become very overwhelming.The opportunity to express them can make it much easier to understand yourself and others. As I acknowledge your feelings and respect you as a person in your own right, you gain self-respect and a sense of being valued. This leads to building trust between counsellor and client, which is an essential part of the process.
After completion of my MA in Transpersonal /Integrative Child, Adolescents and Family Therapy in 2018, I now also take on children and adolescents, using play and art therapy as well as sand tray therapy to help to resolve trauma, stress, anxiety, depression and self harm.
My main approach is to encourage you to explore your feelings and take responsibility for your thoughts and actions. As I work in a way that empowers the client, I always work with what you present. Bottled up feelings such as anger, anxiety, grief, jealousy, sadness, shame and pain can become very overwhelming.The opportunity to express them can make it much easier to understand yourself and others. As I acknowledge your feelings and respect you as a person in your own right, you gain self-respect and a sense of being valued. This leads to building trust between counsellor and client, which is an essential part of the process.
07904 554468 View 07904 554468

See more therapy options for Farnham


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.