What is play therapy?
Play Therapy is a therapeutic approach that enables children to use play and creativity to process emotional or behavioural difficulties. This is based on the premise that play is a child's natural form of communication and expression. Through play, children can safely explore their feelings and experiences, especially when they lack the verbal skills to do so directly. The therapist's role is to provide a secure and accepting environment where this exploration can occur without judgment.
When is play therapy used?
Play therapy is a versatile intervention used for a wide range of issues. It's often used for children experiencing emotional or behavioural difficulties, such as anxiety, stress, and phobias. It's also a primary intervention for children who have experienced traumatic events or abuse. Other applications include supporting children with issues like loss, bereavement, or family separation, as well as those with developmental or neurodevelopmental disorders.
What's involved in a play therapy session?
A typical play therapy session is structured around the child's needs and preferences. The room is specially set up with a selection of toys, art materials, puppets, games, sand tray and other props that are carefully chosen to facilitate expression. Using a non-directive approach, meaning the therapist follows the child's lead, allows them to choose what and how they want to play. The therapist's role is to observe and reflect on the themes in the child's play, helping them to gain insight and understand their feelings. This approach is central to the therapeutic process, as it empowers the child and builds a trusting relationship.
What about confidentiality and parental involvement?
Confidentiality is crucial for building trust. Specific details of a session are kept confidential between the therapist and the child. However, this confidentiality is not absolute. As per PTUK's ethical framework, it may be broken if the therapist believes the child is at risk of harm to themselves or others. This is a critical safeguarding measure. Parental consent is essential for beginning therapy.
How many therapy sessions are recommended?
The duration of play therapy is highly individual and depends on the child's needs. PTUK guidelines acknowledge that some children may benefit from short-term interventions (around 12 sessions), while others with more complex needs may require longer-term support, potentially lasting for two years or more. For the best therapeutic outcomes, sessions are typically held weekly at the same time and place to establish a consistent and predictable routine, which is essential for building a secure and trusting relationship with the therapist.
Do you ask questions during the session?
The non-directive approach means play therapists do not direct unless the child is feeling stuck or a theme has been observed, and the therapist feels there is a safe and proven way to move the child forward. Reflection of observations enables the child to acknowledge and understand what is happening or how they are feeling. Play therapists are fully trained to watch for themes and trends through metaphoric communication.
How do I make a referral for play therapy?
Professionals, Parents or legal guardians can make a referral for a child. Once the need has been identified and initial consultation will take place, this could be a free phone consultation to determine if play therapy is the right course of action. Consent the parent or guardian is essential. During the assessment meeting the referrer will then complete a referral form and a Goodman’s Stengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. The child will not be present for this. Once this meeting has taken place and a contract is signed, the sessions can begin.
Where do sessions take place?
Play therapy is offered within the educational setting of your child or, if it is a private client sessions can take place at The White House, 88 Promenade, Southport.