FAQs
HOW DOES PLAY AND CREATIVE ARTS THERAPY WORK?
Play Therapy is non-directive, which means children can choose what and how to play in the room, Boundaries are clearly set so children understand they must keep themselves, myself and all the things in the room safe. Children can then choose to play as they wish in an unrestricted way. The play therapy toolkit includes art, clay, music, sand tray, movement, role-play, therapeutic storytelling, puppets and masks.
My role in the room is to interact with the child in a consistently warm, accepting and respectful manner, allowing us to build a trusting relationship. I follow their lead and participate in their play when invited, as well as providing observations and reflections that will help children to learn more about themselves and their world.
Children usually receive a minimum of 12 sessions of individual play therapy, lasting 45Â minutes each. Consistency is a vital part of the play therapy process. The sessions are held at the same time, in the same place each week. It's important to think carefully about when sessions will take place to ensure that the schedule can be maintained throughout.
HOW DO I MAKE A REFERRAL FOR PLAY THERAPY?
​
If you are considering play therapy for your child you can contact me via phone, email or through the contact page. We will have an initial, free consultation to discuss your concerns and assess if Play Therapy is the right therapeutic intervention for your child.
If you decide to proceed with play therapy we will make an appointment to have a more detailed discussion, complete any assessment forms and provide a therapeutic treatment plan. I may seek further information from the school or agencies that are involved in the child’s care.I will then meet your child with you so that I can introduce myself.
Once consent forms have been signed. (Please note that all persons holding legal responsibility for the child are required to give consent) We will agree a date to commence sessions.
WHAT ARE THE COSTS?
Each child is unique, so each child’s therapeutic package is likely to be slightly different. The charge for individual Play and Creative Arts Therapy session is £50, this charge includes the additional time needed for setting up, tidying up, preparing resources and note writing. Once Playspace has a clearer idea of your child needs and the location of the Play Therapy, will we be able to provide a more accurate estimate of the cost of your child’s therapy.
HOW MUCH WILL I BE TOLD ABOUT MY CHILD'S THERAPY?
Confidentiality is an important part of the therapeutic process and your child needs to feel able to trust me. Without trust that the therapist will keep the child's play and communication private, children may not feel comfortable to engage fully in the process. Some children, tell those around them about their sessions and others will choose not too. This decision should be respected, and parents/carers are asked not to question or press children to talk about their sessions. I will maintain confidentiality, unless I believe the child or someone else is at risk of harm.