Play Therapy Counselling in Saint Leonards-on-sea

Photo of Lisa Adams-Davey, Psychotherapist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Lisa Adams-Davey
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards-on-sea TN37
dream analysis, stories, creativity, play, metaphor, symbology, breath & somatic work).
I work in private clinical practice at Trust Therapy, East Sussex, and I am a Clinical Supervisor with CRUSE Bereavement Support (Hastings and Rother). I have specialised in Bereavement as a Therapist for the NHS with St Michael's Hospice (St Leonards on sea), and I have experience in working with trauma, abuse, severe and enduring mental health, and Neurodiversity within my private clinic and at various organisations, including Butterflies Children’s Therapy, CRUSE Bereavement Support, JHD Counselling, Sensoft, and Place2B Children’s Mental Health Services.
dream analysis, stories, creativity, play, metaphor, symbology, breath & somatic work).
I work in private clinical practice at Trust Therapy, East Sussex, and I am a Clinical Supervisor with CRUSE Bereavement Support (Hastings and Rother). I have specialised in Bereavement as a Therapist for the NHS with St Michael's Hospice (St Leonards on sea), and I have experience in working with trauma, abuse, severe and enduring mental health, and Neurodiversity within my private clinic and at various organisations, including Butterflies Children’s Therapy, CRUSE Bereavement Support, JHD Counselling, Sensoft, and Place2B Children’s Mental Health Services.
01424 400396 View 01424 400396
Photo of Dr Stewart Blake, Psychologist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Dr Stewart Blake
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards-on-sea TN38
I am a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society and have a doctorate in Psychotherapeutic and Counselling Psychology from the University of Surrey. Prior to this qualification I was awarded a Bachelor of Science (First Class Honours) degree in Psychology with Clinical Psychology from the University of Kent. I have a wide range of experience working within a number of Community Mental Health Teams and Psychological Services Departments for the Kent and Medway NHS Foundation Trust. These roles involved working with a broad spectrum of psychological distress ranging from mild to severe and enduring.
I am a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society and have a doctorate in Psychotherapeutic and Counselling Psychology from the University of Surrey. Prior to this qualification I was awarded a Bachelor of Science (First Class Honours) degree in Psychology with Clinical Psychology from the University of Kent. I have a wide range of experience working within a number of Community Mental Health Teams and Psychological Services Departments for the Kent and Medway NHS Foundation Trust. These roles involved working with a broad spectrum of psychological distress ranging from mild to severe and enduring.
01424 236851 View 01424 236851
Photo of Nadiya Paton, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Nadiya Paton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards-on-sea TN37
My mission is to empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to overcome challenges and thrive in various aspects of your life, together we will explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviour, we will focus on understanding your concerns and develop practical strategies for meaningful change. I have a deep and personal understanding of Autism and ADHD and utilize a combination of therapeutic modalities, to meet the specific needs of each individual such as Solution Focused therapy and psycho education to foster understanding, resilience, and positive change.
My mission is to empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to overcome challenges and thrive in various aspects of your life, together we will explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviour, we will focus on understanding your concerns and develop practical strategies for meaningful change. I have a deep and personal understanding of Autism and ADHD and utilize a combination of therapeutic modalities, to meet the specific needs of each individual such as Solution Focused therapy and psycho education to foster understanding, resilience, and positive change.
01424 619053 View 01424 619053

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Hugh Milburn, Psychologist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, 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 Joe Atkinson, Psychotherapist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Joe Atkinson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Robertsbridge TN32
I am one of the first Certified Compassionate Inquiry Practitioners in the UK, trained in Addiction Psychology, Play Therapy and Child Development Psychology.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or agitated? Maybe you're struggling in your relationships, your job or with enjoying life? Are you noticing yourself feeling angry or upset all the time?I can help you to understand why you are struggling and that the problems you’re experiencing developed as coping mechanisms. They are not your fault. They can be changed.Together we can get to the root of what is happening in your life and bring you relief. Through this process you will find acceptance for yourself. You won't be stuck with these feelings any more, you'll be able to open up space to start enjoying your life and your relationships.
I am one of the first Certified Compassionate Inquiry Practitioners in the UK, trained in Addiction Psychology, Play Therapy and Child Development Psychology.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or agitated? Maybe you're struggling in your relationships, your job or with enjoying life? Are you noticing yourself feeling angry or upset all the time?I can help you to understand why you are struggling and that the problems you’re experiencing developed as coping mechanisms. They are not your fault. They can be changed.Together we can get to the root of what is happening in your life and bring you relief. Through this process you will find acceptance for yourself. You won't be stuck with these feelings any more, you'll be able to open up space to start enjoying your life and your relationships.
01732 920008 View 01732 920008
Photo of Liz Jane Chalcraft, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Liz Jane Chalcraft
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bexhill-on-Sea TN39
Hi, I am an experienced, qualified counsellor with many years experience of working with clients and families living with a diagnosis/ disability, Autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Issues. This can be a challenging time for everyone and I can provide a safe, non judgemental space where individuals or families can bring their experiences and process their feelings. Clients have told me that this has help transform their lives, learning strategies and feeling empowered. You have already started the process by looking for a Counsellor, it is important to get the right person for you, so take your time.
Hi, I am an experienced, qualified counsellor with many years experience of working with clients and families living with a diagnosis/ disability, Autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Issues. This can be a challenging time for everyone and I can provide a safe, non judgemental space where individuals or families can bring their experiences and process their feelings. Clients have told me that this has help transform their lives, learning strategies and feeling empowered. You have already started the process by looking for a Counsellor, it is important to get the right person for you, so take your time.
01323 408385 View 01323 408385
Photo of Rebecca Tyler, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Rebecca Tyler
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Hastings TN34
A warm welcome to you. I understand that life can sometimes feel out of our depth and it can leave us not knowing where to turn. Seeking support can feel like a daunting experience but I can assure you that there will be no expectation of you. You will be met without judgement and accepted for you, just as you are. I will provide a safe, empathic, and confidential holding space for you to talk about things that are troubling you. I believe that with the right conditions in place everybody has the ability to change their world for the better.
A warm welcome to you. I understand that life can sometimes feel out of our depth and it can leave us not knowing where to turn. Seeking support can feel like a daunting experience but I can assure you that there will be no expectation of you. You will be met without judgement and accepted for you, just as you are. I will provide a safe, empathic, and confidential holding space for you to talk about things that are troubling you. I believe that with the right conditions in place everybody has the ability to change their world for the better.
01323 405839 View 01323 405839
Photo of Downs Counselling Services, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Downs Counselling Services
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hastings TN34
Hi there, Are you feeling the stresses of Covid 19? Does life feel hard to deal with right now? I'm Sonia Stiles and I am a trained Counselling Therapist with 14 years of experience. As a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), I work within the BACP Ethical Framework of Data Protection and Confidentiality. I specialise in Couple Therapy and Family Therapy. I help you address any friction and arguing in relationships that pull people apart and cause more hurt and upset. I do this by looking at the individuals with a caring and nurturing approach to enable everyone to look at the bigger picture.
Hi there, Are you feeling the stresses of Covid 19? Does life feel hard to deal with right now? I'm Sonia Stiles and I am a trained Counselling Therapist with 14 years of experience. As a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), I work within the BACP Ethical Framework of Data Protection and Confidentiality. I specialise in Couple Therapy and Family Therapy. I help you address any friction and arguing in relationships that pull people apart and cause more hurt and upset. I do this by looking at the individuals with a caring and nurturing approach to enable everyone to look at the bigger picture.
01323 914807 View 01323 914807
Photo of Helen Prosper, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Helen Prosper
Counsellor, MHGI
Verified Verified
Herstmonceux BN27
Are you tired of feeling stuck, sad, depressed, or overwhelmed by feelings of low self esteem, trauma and anxiety? Maybe life has thrown an unexpected event at you leaving you unsure how to move forward, tearful, scared or angry? If so you are not alone, nor do you have to cope alone. As a counsellor who cares I can help you move forward as gently and quickly as possible. As one of my clients with complex trauma said 'it wasn’t until working with Helen, that I felt my triggers were finally abated. For the first time time in years I feel calmer, lighter, more solid and grounded in myself. I am so deeply grateful'.
Are you tired of feeling stuck, sad, depressed, or overwhelmed by feelings of low self esteem, trauma and anxiety? Maybe life has thrown an unexpected event at you leaving you unsure how to move forward, tearful, scared or angry? If so you are not alone, nor do you have to cope alone. As a counsellor who cares I can help you move forward as gently and quickly as possible. As one of my clients with complex trauma said 'it wasn’t until working with Helen, that I felt my triggers were finally abated. For the first time time in years I feel calmer, lighter, more solid and grounded in myself. I am so deeply grateful'.
01323 403347 View 01323 403347
Photo of Charlotte Brown, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Charlotte Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hastings TN34
Hi, I am a qualified person-centred counsellor in Hastings with experience of working with adults, adolescents and children. I offer a holistic and creative approach to therapy, where I have extensive training and experience working with a wide range of issues. I understand seeking counselling can be a very difficult daunting process. I am naturally empathic, supportive and non-judgmental. I am passionate in my belief of working together to create a trusting authentic therapeutic relationship, to explore potentially difficult and tender aspects of your life in a safe and confidential space.
Hi, I am a qualified person-centred counsellor in Hastings with experience of working with adults, adolescents and children. I offer a holistic and creative approach to therapy, where I have extensive training and experience working with a wide range of issues. I understand seeking counselling can be a very difficult daunting process. I am naturally empathic, supportive and non-judgmental. I am passionate in my belief of working together to create a trusting authentic therapeutic relationship, to explore potentially difficult and tender aspects of your life in a safe and confidential space.
01424 236856 View 01424 236856
Photo of Dorothy Arnott, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Dorothy Arnott
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hastings TN34
'Life is not the way it supposed to be. It is the way it is. The way we cope with it is what makes the difference.' Virginia Satir, psychotherapist. Changes, challenges, fears and loss are all part of our human experience. Sometimes we can manage the difficulties we face, on other occasions we may feel overwhelmed and in need of support. This is true for people at all stages of life. I offer a safe, non-judgemental, confidential and comfortable environment where you can talk about and creatively explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
'Life is not the way it supposed to be. It is the way it is. The way we cope with it is what makes the difference.' Virginia Satir, psychotherapist. Changes, challenges, fears and loss are all part of our human experience. Sometimes we can manage the difficulties we face, on other occasions we may feel overwhelmed and in need of support. This is true for people at all stages of life. I offer a safe, non-judgemental, confidential and comfortable environment where you can talk about and creatively explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
01424 238983 View 01424 238983

Online Therapists

Photo of Melanie Louise Dale, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Melanie Louise Dale
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hampton TW12
Hello, I'm Mel , an experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with children, teenagers and adults. My specialism is working with teenagers and young people. I help people struggling with anxiety, depression, panic disorder, anger management, social anxiety, suicidal thoughts and feeling sad. I am an Integrative Counsellor, where I draw upon many approaches to suit my clients including: Play Therapy, Trauma Focused, Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Gestalt and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy( CBT) . It takes courage to reach out and ask for support. So , it's important to find a counsellor who you feel comfortable with.
Hello, I'm Mel , an experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with children, teenagers and adults. My specialism is working with teenagers and young people. I help people struggling with anxiety, depression, panic disorder, anger management, social anxiety, suicidal thoughts and feeling sad. I am an Integrative Counsellor, where I draw upon many approaches to suit my clients including: Play Therapy, Trauma Focused, Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Gestalt and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy( CBT) . It takes courage to reach out and ask for support. So , it's important to find a counsellor who you feel comfortable with.
023 9431 1838 View 023 9431 1838
Photo of Agnieszka Jacewicz, Psychotherapist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Agnieszka Jacewicz
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Brentford TW8
Over the years, I have work with clients on short-term and long-term arrangements, dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal crisis, anger, low self-esteem, panic disorders, relationship issues, trauma, questions of spirituality and meaning, such as Who am I?. From my own experience of therapy, insight some times is not enough. Therefore I might ask you to complete certain tasks designed to help you develop more effective skills. This approach often involves homework assignments. I draw on many techniques, including visualisation, dream exploration, drawing, role-play, and the most familiar method: conversation between two people.
Over the years, I have work with clients on short-term and long-term arrangements, dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal crisis, anger, low self-esteem, panic disorders, relationship issues, trauma, questions of spirituality and meaning, such as Who am I?. From my own experience of therapy, insight some times is not enough. Therefore I might ask you to complete certain tasks designed to help you develop more effective skills. This approach often involves homework assignments. I draw on many techniques, including visualisation, dream exploration, drawing, role-play, and the most familiar method: conversation between two people.
01748 902215 View 01748 902215
Photo of Madeleine Vieira, Psychologist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Madeleine Vieira
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW7
Madeleine Vieira offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioural Play Therapy, Play and Creative Arts Therapy, and Diagnostic Assessments to children and adolescents.
Dr. Madeleine Vieira is a Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologist specialised in Anxiety Disorders and has also extensively worked with the following: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Third Culture Kids' Issues, Grief, Family Change, Cultural Adaptation, Transitions, Friendships, Academic Achievement, Learning Difficulties, Behavioural Difficulties, Illness, Social Isolation, Teenager / Adolescent Issues.
Madeleine Vieira offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioural Play Therapy, Play and Creative Arts Therapy, and Diagnostic Assessments to children and adolescents.
Dr. Madeleine Vieira is a Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologist specialised in Anxiety Disorders and has also extensively worked with the following: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Third Culture Kids' Issues, Grief, Family Change, Cultural Adaptation, Transitions, Friendships, Academic Achievement, Learning Difficulties, Behavioural Difficulties, Illness, Social Isolation, Teenager / Adolescent Issues.
020 3828 0681 View 020 3828 0681
Photo of Jenny Folkard, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Jenny Folkard
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
High Wycombe HP10
I’m a qualified (BACP) Person Centred Counsellor, currently working within a senior school as Mental Health Lead, a primary setting as a Play Therapist along with private clients of all ages. My experience over the past 15 years has focused on working with children and young people. Specific areas of expertise are Safeguarding, SEN, substance misuse, creative therapies. Providing extensive knowledge of not only social, emotional and Mental Health issues, but also the challenges young people and their families face when there is a Specific Educational Need, trauma, bereavement, anxiety, depression among other Mental Health issues.
I’m a qualified (BACP) Person Centred Counsellor, currently working within a senior school as Mental Health Lead, a primary setting as a Play Therapist along with private clients of all ages. My experience over the past 15 years has focused on working with children and young people. Specific areas of expertise are Safeguarding, SEN, substance misuse, creative therapies. Providing extensive knowledge of not only social, emotional and Mental Health issues, but also the challenges young people and their families face when there is a Specific Educational Need, trauma, bereavement, anxiety, depression among other Mental Health issues.
01494 328835 View 01494 328835
Photo of Pro Comfort Counselling - Marian Claudiu Ciuhan, Psychologist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Pro Comfort Counselling - Marian Claudiu Ciuhan
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Dagenham RM8
Step into a realm where family complexities and relationship intricacies find understanding and transformation. In the face of challenges like family conflicts, ADHD, and substance abuse, envision a guide specializing in Family and Couples Therapy—someone attuned to your unique journey. I am that guide, offering more than expertise; I offer a compassionate partnership. As a psychologist skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy, I invite you to embark on a transformative journey. Your narrative of fulfillment and resilience, meticulously crafted for your family's needs, awaits.
Step into a realm where family complexities and relationship intricacies find understanding and transformation. In the face of challenges like family conflicts, ADHD, and substance abuse, envision a guide specializing in Family and Couples Therapy—someone attuned to your unique journey. I am that guide, offering more than expertise; I offer a compassionate partnership. As a psychologist skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy, I invite you to embark on a transformative journey. Your narrative of fulfillment and resilience, meticulously crafted for your family's needs, awaits.
07480 789942 View 07480 789942
Photo of Sharon Anderson, Psychotherapist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Sharon Anderson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE13  (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 Dr Didem Altay, Psychologist in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Dr Didem Altay
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W2  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include early childhood trauma, traumatic stress, anxiety, adult counselling/therapy, play therapy, child/teen counselling, family counselling and child-parent relationship.
I am a Registered Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK, Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol) by the BPS, Registered Play Therapist (RPT), Europe Accredited EMDR Therapist. In addition to clinical practice and academic, I provide workshops and supervisions/consultations to professionals and colleagues.
Areas of expertise include early childhood trauma, traumatic stress, anxiety, adult counselling/therapy, play therapy, child/teen counselling, family counselling and child-parent relationship.
I am a Registered Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK, Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol) by the BPS, Registered Play Therapist (RPT), Europe Accredited EMDR Therapist. In addition to clinical practice and academic, I provide workshops and supervisions/consultations to professionals and colleagues.
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Photo of Georgia Powell, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, 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 Natilie Cocker, Counsellor in Saint Leonards-on-sea, England
Natilie Cocker
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wallingford OX10
I use traditional methods of therapy such as counselling and play therapy as well cutting edge research based sound healing called the Safe and Sound Protocol alongside Energy Alignment which has proved invaluable in my own personal development.
My passion is to help children of all ages who may feel anxious; emotionally dysregulated; and mentally and physically exhausted feel at ease again in their bodies, their mind, their surroundings and their relationships. Alongside this, I support worried parents by empowering them to change the dynamics of their family in order to redress the balance and bring about harmony once again. It is crucial as a practitioner to view your family construct individually, to form a relationship with your family members and to create a bespoke package of treatment that you all feel comfortable with.
I use traditional methods of therapy such as counselling and play therapy as well cutting edge research based sound healing called the Safe and Sound Protocol alongside Energy Alignment which has proved invaluable in my own personal development.
My passion is to help children of all ages who may feel anxious; emotionally dysregulated; and mentally and physically exhausted feel at ease again in their bodies, their mind, their surroundings and their relationships. Alongside this, I support worried parents by empowering them to change the dynamics of their family in order to redress the balance and bring about harmony once again. It is crucial as a practitioner to view your family construct individually, to form a relationship with your family members and to create a bespoke package of treatment that you all feel comfortable with.
01865 638552 View 01865 638552

See more therapy options for Saint Leonards-on-sea

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.