Why play?
Children explore the world and new experiences through play. It is how they make sense of the world
Play is the natural way for children to express themselves:
play is a child's language
What is play therapy?
A method of supporting children who are finding things hard or coping with difficult situations. Through play the child has the opportunity to make sense of their experiences and feelings, to find the solution for themselves.
The purpose of the play is therapeutic
The sessions are child-led or non-directive. Each child can choose to play with what they want in the playroom and play in their own way...
- painting, drawing, sticking, making
- clay and playdough
- sand tray
- small world
- books
- cars, dinosaurs, knights...
Who can benefit?
Play therapy is used to support many children with many different issues including:
Behavioural problems
Communication problems
Difficulties associated with parental divorce/separation
Underperforming academically, socially or physically
Low school attendance or avoidance
Bullied/Bullying
Nightmares
Trauma
Play therapy can be used with children of all ages, most frequently primary school aged children.
There is good evidence that play therapy works, and has been shown to have benefits for behaviour, social adjustment, emotional well-being and learning
About me
I am a Certified Play Therapist with Play Therapy UK (PTUK), the largest organisation governing play therapy in the UK.
I draw on both my experience and previous research to support my clinical practice. I have a Doctorate in Psychology, which focused on the effects of childhood brain injury, and worked as a Researcher in the fields of substance misuse and the family. I have experience working with children with SEN, particularly ASD.
I adhere to PTUK's Ethical Principles and clinical governance.
I have regular supervision.
Predominantly I practice in the child's school; referrals can come from other sources and then we can liase with the school. I take the playroom to a safe, quiet room in the child's familiar environment. I work in and around Bath, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.
Melksham Devizes Trowbridge Bradford-on-Avon Bradford on Avon Corsham Cirencester
