Child Centred Play Therapy
About Play Therapy
Child Centred Play Therapy is a specialised, evidence-based form of counselling for children, using toys and play to facilitate expression of thoughts and feelings.
Children learn best, and communicate most easily, through play. Children often don't have the words, language or capacity to share and discuss their thoughts and emotions, especially if those thoughts and emotions are uncomfortable or painful. In play, children can access and communicate their inner thoughts and feelings in a way they can't with words.
The qualified Play Therapist supports the child to access their inner world and to freely express their thoughts and feelings through play. The Play Therapist interprets the themes and emotional content of the child's play to understand their needs.
​
Using toys, art and other forms of creative expression, Play Therapy allows expression and processing of emotions and experiences, increases development across a range of areas, and enhances emotional wellbeing. Children can process past experiences or prepare for future situations. They can express ideas and learn and practice new skills.
Play Therapy is suitable for all children. Because Play Therapy meets the child where they are developmentally, and does not rely on specific skills or spoken language, children of all neurotypes and abilities can access the therapeutic benefits of Play Therapy.
At Shine Play Therapy, therapy is tailored to meet the needs of the individual child, and all are welcome!
Who is Play Therapy for?
Play Therapy is most suitable for children between 2 - 12 years.
Play Therapy is an effective therapy to assist children with a variety of needs, such as:
-
Anxiety, including social and school anxiety
-
Depression, emotional issues
-
Suicidal ideation
-
Self-esteem
-
Internalising behaviours (such as internalising emotions, fearfulness, withdrawal, somatic complaints)
-
Externalising behaviours (outward behaviours such as aggression, difficulty with self control, emotional regulation)
-
Trauma (such as abuse, neglect, witnessing violence, accidents)
-
Parental/family separation or divorce
-
Difficulty with experiences such as moving house, changing schools
-
Grief and loss
-
Chronic illness or medical trauma
​
As well as addressing specific concerns, Play Therapy supports overall development, including:
​
-
Supporting communication and language development
-
Increasing self esteem and self awareness
-
Increasing nervous system regulation and sense of safety
-
Enhancing cognitive development and increasing skills such as problem solving and decision making
-
Fostering emotional wellness and increasing self regulation
-
Supporting social relationships and participation
-
Enhancing fine and gross motor skill development
