What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a opportunity for children to explore their emotions and begin to make sense of their life experiences. Most children find it hard to talk about how they are feeling. playing is much easier. Play for children is what language is to adults. by observing their play and reflecting back their emotions play therapist helps the child to recognise and begin to understand their emotions.
The Play Therapist will engage with the child, build up a trusting relationship and create a safe space in which to explore their emotions. The trusting relationship with the therapist helps the child to express their feelings through the symbolism in their play.
Play therapy provides a safe confidential environment for the child to explore issues that are effecting their lives, this may be done unconsciously.
Who could benefit?
Play Therapy is an effective intervention for children with a variety of presenting difficulties.
•experiencing loss, through bereavement or family separation.
•suffered abuse, neglect or trauma
•Emotional or bevioural difficulties (depression/agression)
•Anxieties
•witness to violence or substance miss use.
•In the process of fostoring/adapotion
•have a disability (physical or mental)
Play therapy is suitable for children aged 3-11 years. although it could also sometimes be suitable for adults.
