What is Play Therapy?

 

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What happens in a play therapy session?

 

 

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Who can it help?
 

 

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How often do sessions take place, how long are they and how many are recommended?

 

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What age group do you work with?

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How much does each service cost? 

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How do I begin the process? 

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Am I involved in the process?

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Do I take part in the sessions with my child?

Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that uses play as the primary medium through which children communicate, explore their inner world, and process emotional or psychological experiences.

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In play therapy, your child is given an accepting space where they can express themselves through play, the way children naturally communicate. They choose the different mediums of play (art, puppets, sand tray, therapeutic story telling, clay, games, dressing up) and the therapist follows their lead, supporting them to explore feelings, experiences, and challenges at their own pace. The therapist is trained to observe and reflect, helping your child make sense of their inner word. The sessions are consistent, safe, and child-centred, helping your child build confidence, emotional understanding, and healthier ways of coping.

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Play Therapy can support children with the following challenges:

Anxiety or worries, emotional regulation, anger or frustration, confidence and self-esteem, social skills and friendships, family changes such as separation or bereavement, trauma, stress or past difficult experiences, behavioural challenges that feel overwhelming, sensory or nervous-system regulation, difficulties adjusting to school or new environments.

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However, it can also support children who aren't particularly experiencing big challenges. It can help with building emotional awareness and resilience, exploring relationships, learning healthy boundaries and processing everyday experiences.

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Sessions take place once a week and they may last between 30-50 minutes depending on your child’s needs. PTUK recommends a minimum of 12 sessions. 

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4-12 year olds.

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The initial 15 minute phone call consultation is free. 

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The parent intake meeting which lasts 1 hour (in person) is £45.

1:1 Play Therapy sessions are £45. 

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6 week review meetings (parent and therapist) are £45. 

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You can contact us with your enquiry on the contact section of this website. Alternatively you can send us an email at sarah@attuneplaytherapy.com.

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Yes, a parent’s/ carer’s role is central in play therapy. You know your child best, and your presence, understanding, and commitment create the foundation that allows the therapeutic work to truly flourish.

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No, sessions are one-to-one with the child. This allows them to build a trusting relationship with the therapist. 

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There is a waiting room in the building for parents/carers to relax whilst their child is in therapy.