For children, talking about difficult thoughts and feelings isn't always easy. Sometimes they don't have the words to explain what is happening inside them — or they simply don't feel ready to talk.

Play therapy provides children with a safe, supportive and child-centred way to communicate, explore and make sense of their experiences through play.

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What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a therapeutic approach designed specifically for children. It uses play and creative activities as a way of helping children communicate their experiences, express emotions, develop emotional awareness and explore difficulties.

For some children, saying "I'm worried" or "I'm angry" can be difficult. Through play, they may be able to communicate feelings and experiences that they cannot yet put into words.

Depending on the child's age, developmental stage and individual needs, sessions may involve:

• Therapeutic play

• Creative activities

• Drawing and art

• Games

• Storytelling

• Role play

• Puppets and characters

• Sand or sensory-based activities

• Emotional regulation activities

• Problem-solving activities

• Talking and reflection when the child is ready

Play therapy isn't simply about playing games. The play is purposeful and forms part of a therapeutic process guided by the child's individual needs.

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When might my child benefit from Play Therapy?

Play therapy may be helpful for children who are experiencing emotional, behavioural or social difficulties, including:

• Anxiety, worries or excessive fears

• Low self-esteem or confidence

• Big or difficult emotions

• Anger or emotional outbursts

• Sadness or low mood

• Difficulties managing emotions

• Friendship or social difficulties

• Changes in behaviour

• School-related worries

• Difficulties with separation

• Family changes or parental separation

• Bereavement and loss

• Significant life changes or transitions

• Difficulties adjusting to change

• Feelings of being overwhelmed

• Difficulties communicating feelings

• Emotional responses to difficult or distressing experiences

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Through play and creative expression, children can gradually begin to explore:

• What they are feeling

• What might be contributing to those feelings

• How their emotions affect their thoughts and behaviour

• What helps them feel safe and regulated

• How they can cope with difficult emotions

• Their strengths and abilities

• Ways they can communicate their needs

 

Play Therapy at Little Lighthouse Counselling

Our approach to children's therapy goes beyond simply providing a weekly appointment.

We have developed a whole-child therapeutic pathway that can include assessment, tailored intervention, structured therapeutic programmes, outcome measurement, parent guidance, progress reviews and, where appropriate and consented, collaboration with schools.

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​Play Therapy and Parents

Parents and carers play an important role in supporting a child's emotional wellbeing.

While the child's therapy remains a confidential space, we recognise the importance of helping parents understand how they can support their child outside of sessions.

Depending on the child's needs and the agreed therapeutic approach, this may include:

• Parent guidance

• General strategies to support emotional regulation

• Suggestions for supporting communication at home

• Progress reviews

• Discussion of therapeutic goals

• Signposting to additional support where appropriate

Our aim is not to place responsibility on parents to "fix" the problem. Instead, we aim to help parents feel more informed and confident in supporting their child's emotional wellbeing.

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Play Therapy or Children's Counselling?

Play therapy and children's counselling can overlap, but they are not necessarily the same. Some children are comfortable talking about their thoughts and feelings, while others communicate more naturally through play, creativity and activities.

The most appropriate approach will depend on factors such as:

• Your child's age

• Developmental stage

• Communication style

• Presenting difficulties

• Emotional needs

• Previous experiences

• What they feel comfortable with

During the assessment process, we can explore which therapeutic approach may be most appropriate for your child. There may also be times when play-based approaches and talking therapy are combined within a child's therapeutic work.

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Meet The Team 

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Ready to talk to us? 

Complete the
online contact form or call 01922 663644