“Play Therapy is based upon the fact that play is the child's natural medium of
self-expression. It is an opportunity which is given to the child to 'play out' his feelings and problems just as, in certain types of adult therapy, an individual 'talks out' his difficulties”.
Virginia Axline
Play and Creative Arts Therapy
What is play Therapy?
Play Therapy is a form of counselling for children that builds on a developmentally appropriate form of communication through play. It provides an effective and natural way for children to explore their feelings, to express themselves and make sense of their life experiences. Through play, children can experiment with, process and master skills and form a sense of their own self.
When is Play Therapy appropriate?
Play Therapy can be effective for children 4-12 years of and can be helpful when children have experienced:
Attachment and Trauma related difficulties
Abuse
Bullying
Bereavement
Emotional and behavioural regulation difficulties
Illness
Family breakdown
Low self esteem
Nightmares
Physical regulation difficulties, sleeping, toileting and eating
Social withdrawal
How does Play Therapy work?
Play Therapy practice is underpinned by Axline’s Principles, creating a warm and empathetic therapeutic relationship within a safe environment. It is a non-directive and child centered approach which helps children find healthier ways of communicating, develop fulfilling relationships, increase resiliency and facilitate emotional literacy through the use of different creative tools such as Sandplay, Art, Music, Drama, Dance Movement, puppets and therapeutic stories. It allows the child a chance to deal with and ‘play out’ issues in a free and protected space without being judged. Through trust, acceptance, boundaries, modelling and reflectiveness of a Play Therapist alongside a child playing can enable positive changes. This can include:
Improved communication skills & emotional literacy
Recognition and expression of thoughts and feelings
Improved self-esteem, confidence and self-acceptance
Learned coping mechanism and resilience.
Develop awareness of self and others.
Improved concentration, problem-solving & self-control
Development of social skills
Building trusting and meaningful peer relationships