Sometimes children experience difficulties and behave in ways that may cause disruption to their lives or be of concern to those around them. Play therapy provides a child the opportunity to play out or creatively explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences just as you might find in talk-based therapies that an adult would talk through their difficulties. In the therapy room we use sand/ art/clay/ games and drama to help your child to make sense of these feelings and develop resilience and regulation.
Play is the most important activity a child can take part in. Play is not only the essence of a happy childhood, it’s the way children learn about themselves, their bodies, their environments and the people and objects that surround them. For a child play is a serious business. Through play, a child develops self-confidence, a positive self-image and also learns to express their feelings, make decisions and cope with real life situations.
At Nurture child and adolescent therapy, we ensure that the children and young people who attend our service feel welcomed, accepted and safe in their therapeutic journeys. We work to support each individual as they grow in confidence, resilience and self-worth.
Any child can benefit from play-based therapies. They promote self-confidence, imagination, creativity, communication, problem-solving, self-esteem and most importantly the happiness in the children who attend. Possible referral issues include:
Initially, contact over the phone or in person provides an opportunity for us to discuss the situation and to decide if play therapy is the correct approach for your child at this current time. After this, intake interviews are then held in our centre where we will meet one another, share important information and discuss any ideas that could be used to support your child in their play therapy experience. Children usually attend for a minimum of 12 sessions with a review halfway through to discuss any improvements and to explore further areas we feel need supporting. Play therapy can take place both on a one-to-one basis and at times in group-based situations. This is based on your unique circumstances and the therapist’s recommendations. For further information please contact Sarah