The child has access to a variety of toys and materials, which are used to facilitate exploration and sharing through play. The therapist follows the child’s lead in play, allowing them to use their language of play to communicate their inner world, their feelings, and their ideas. Child-Centred Play Therapy is a non-directive approach, supporting children to explore their inner world and emotions. Enhancing self-exploration, self-definition, and the developing of self-knowledge and self-efficacy are primary endeavours of Child-Centred Play Therapy.
The therapist holds the space for the child and creates a warm and comfortable atmosphere where the child is viewed with unconditional positive regard and acceptance. Children learn that the playroom is a safe space where they are able to be themselves without fear of judgement.
Throughout the play sessions the therapist will support the child to explore self through their natural medium of expression, play. Children will identify their emotions, play out their challenges, thoughts and successes, and become empowered.
Child-Centred Play Therapy has been is based in research and studies highlight the method as an effective form of treatment for trauma, social and emotional challenges, self-esteem, anxiety, internalising and externalising issues, academic performance, attachment issues, disruptive behaviours, issues related to family environment, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), aggression, developmental delays, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), selective mutism and more.
Outreach is a big part of what we do. We are happy to work from your child's educational setting, and in some cases your home. Alternatively, we work from our space in Preston. Get in touch to chat about the best option for your child.
The child can take some time to get used to the space and feel comfortable with the therapist. The first few sessions are typically focused on the building of the therapeutic relationship, and the development of safety and trust.
Once the children feel comfortable with the therapist, they can begin to test the limits of the play room. Children often do this as a way of testing the therapist, and ensuring that they can trust them to continue to support them, and view them with unconditional positive regard, even when they present the therapist with challenges.
The children feel comfortable to be vulnerable and express themselves. They play out their challenges and experiences, coming to a deeper understanding of them, or alleviating their negative emotions.
Children reach mastery. They feel confident in themselves and their skills. They have shared everything they felt necessary to share, and come to a deeper understanding of themselves and a strong connection to their emotional inner world.
Our Play Therapy sessions and programs, help young people and their families, gain deeper awareness and build skills to help navigate life's challenges.
Individual Sessions
AutPlay therapy
AutPlay Therapy is a neurodiversity informed therapeutic practice supporting children to build skills and autonomy through play.
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Individual Sessions
Learn to Play Therapy
A directive approach used to support children to develop play skills.
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Group Programs
Preppin' Preppies
A small group program that supports children to make positive growth towards school readiness.
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Group Programs
Lego Play
LEGO® Based Therapy is an evidence based, positive, structured, child-centred social development communication program.
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Systemic Support
Filial Therapy
Filial therapy is a process whereby parents or caregivers learn the skills to host play times with their children.
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Systemic Support
Parenting Support
Personalised strategies to support your child, as well as education on typical and a-typical child development.
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"Alex has been pivotal in our child's development, and has helped him gain a much greater capacity to express what he's going through. Play Therapy has been the perfect vehicle for our family's growth."
- Previous Client