Play therapy services for children
Support is always tailored. This isn't a menu to choose from, but a conversation about what fits. Here's a sense of the approaches I draw on and how they might help.
Play therapy
Play therapy is a child-led, evidence-based approach that gives children space to explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences through play rather than words alone.
For many children, talking about difficulties feels overwhelming or out of reach. Play offers a natural, developmentally appropriate language, one that belongs entirely to them.
Sessions take place in a consistent, carefully prepared playroom. Through the therapeutic relationship and the child's own play, children are supported to make sense of what they may be carrying, develop emotional regulation, and grow in confidence and self-understanding.
Play therapy can support a wide range of emotional, behavioural and relational needs, and is always guided by the pace and readiness of the child.
You might consider play therapy if your child is:
~ Struggling with big or overwhelming emotions
~ Showing changes in behaviour, withdrawal or anxiety
~ Finding it hard to cope with change, transitions or loss
~ Experiencing difficulties in relationships or at school
~ Holding experiences that feel too hard to talk about
"Support isn't delivered in a fixed programme. It unfolds through relationship, at a pace that feels manageable and right for your family.".
~ Viki Clapham, Pebble Family
AutPlay® Therapy
AutPlay® Therapy is an integrative approach designed to support neurodivergent children and young people, including those who are autistic, or who experience developmental or neurological differences.
It brings together play therapy, attachment-informed practice and elements of cognitive and sensory support, combining structure with flexibility. Sessions may focus on emotional regulation, social understanding, anxiety, sensory experiences and relationship-building, always guided by the individual needs of the child.
This approach recognises and respects neurodiversity. It works to build on a child's strengths while offering genuine understanding and practical support around areas of challenge.
Filal Therapy
Filial therapy is a powerful, relationship-focused approach that works directly with parents or carers.
Rather than the therapist working solely with the child, parents are supported to develop therapeutic play skills that they then use within their own relationship with their child.
Parents are guided to understand their child's play, emotional expression and behaviour, building confidence, attunement and reflective awareness in the process. This approach strengthens the parent–child relationship and supports lasting change within everyday family life.
Filial therapy can be particularly helpful when relational difficulties are present, or when families want to build long-term emotional resilience and connection.
