PLAY THERAPY

Play therapy is a therapeutic approach which enables children to explore and express their feelings in order to make sense of their life experiences. Children learn, communicate and explore most effectively through play.

Therefore, play is an appropriate way of encouraging children to express themselves rather than having to put their feelings into words. This experience empowers children and increases their self-esteem, thereby helping them manage better both at home and at school.

Play therapy is an effective intervention for children with a wide variety of difficulties including:

Children who have emotional difficulties and may appear withdrawn, anxious or display low self-esteem
Children who have behavioural difficulties and may struggle to manage their anger and therefore display aggressive behaviour
Children whose emotional and behavioural difficulties make it difficult for them to concentrate in class
Children who have difficulties making friends or who have experienced bullying

Children who have been traumatised by an event, such as witnessing domestic violence
Children who have experienced loss through bereavement
Children who are ill or disabled or who have a parent or other family member with an illness or disability
Children who have a parent or other family member with mental health difficulties or an addiction
Children who have been adopted or who are in foster care