Child therapy
Why play therapy?
When children are faced with difficulties or unable to put their thoughts and feelings into words, they play it out by using toys. During the therapy session, children are given the opportunity to play without the use of words/without having to explain. Children use play to communicate at their own pace and at their level without feeling threatened or pressured.
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"Toys are children's words and play is their language" - Gary L. Landreth.
What happens in the playroom?
The child will decide what they would like to play with and explore during the session and the therapist facilitates. The child being in-charge of the session, increases their ability to self-regulate. The relationship with the therapist is a crucial element of the therapy and is part of the healing process.
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Why parents and caregivers are not in the session with the child?
Being a separate individual to their close family means children are free to explore feelings they may find difficult to share with those people closer to them.
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Sessions
How would Parents and caregivers know about the child's session if they are not in the sessions?
Parents and caregivers have an important role to play in their child’s therapeutic process, therefore a review meeting is scheduled to ensure they are updated with their child’s overall progress. Support in parenting and in strengthening their relationship is also provided in these review sessions.
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How is play therapy different from playing at home?
There are specific toys that are chosen for the playroom. Also, my role as a Psychologist, and as part of my training is to provide a safe space, establish a trusted therapeutic relationship and respond to your child in a way that can help them therapeutically.
