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Play Therapy

Play therapy supports emotional growth, enhances social skills,

fosters problem-solving abilities, and encourages positive behavioural

change.​​

What is
Play Therapy?

Play therapy is to children what counselling is to adults. Depending on age and stage of development, children usually don’t have the language skills or emotional vocabulary of adults. They may feel something, but in many cases, they either can’t express it, or are reluctant to share.


Play therapy utilises play, children's natural medium of expression, to help them express their feelings more easily through toys, drawing or roleplay instead of words.


In play therapy, children can play out, literally and/or metaphorically, their inner and real-life experiences in a way that builds insight and capacity. Play therapy allows children to regulate, communicate, practice, and master new skills, as well as their emotional responses.


Much can be revealed in how a child interacts with different types of toys and how their behaviour changes from session to session. They may use play to act out fears and anxieties, as a soothing mechanism, or to heal and problem-solve. Children learn to understand the world and their place in it through play.

What are the benefits of play therapy?

  • Taking more responsibility for certain behaviours

  • Developing coping strategies and creative problem-solving skills

  • Alleviation of anxiety

  • Learning to fully experience and express feelings

  • Stronger social skills

  • Building self-respect and confidence

  • Empathy and respect for others

  • Stronger family relationships

  • Play therapy can also encourage use of language or improve fine and gross motor skills​

Who can benefit from play therapy?

Although people of all ages can benefit from play therapy, it’s typically used with children between the ages of 3 and 12. Play therapy may be particularly helpful in a variety of circumstances, such as:

  • Neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD, ASD, dyslexia, etc

  • Anxiety, depression, grief

  • Developmental or learning difficulties

  • Problem behaviours in school

  • Aggressive or angry behaviour

  • Eating and toileting issues

  • Family issues, like divorce, separation, or death of a close family member

  • Natural disasters or traumatic events

  • Domestic violence, abuse, or neglect

  • Facing medical procedures, chronic illness, or palliative care

It’s important to remember that professional support can make all the difference. Early play-based intervention can foster healthier development and stronger coping skills. Research consistently shows that Play Therapy helps children express themselves, build resilience, and improve relationships.


We encourage you to reach out if your child seems overwhelmed, withdrawn, or is struggling to express their feelings in healthy ways.

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