Play2heal Therapies

Play Therapy is a developmentally appropriate method for children because they respond more to non-verbal than verbal discussion. For children play is a natural form of self-expression, a medium for experimentation, communication and learning and when children don't know how to express themselves verbally, they show it with action. Play therapy helps children play out how they are feeling so they eventually find the words.

Children learn to understand the world and their place in it through play. It’s where they’re free to act out their inner feelings and deepest emotions. The use of toys in the play room allows children to create metaphors which helps them to express feelings symbolically.

In Play Therapy we help children understand what they are feeling.

The method used is a non directive approach which is less structured. The child is able to choose toys and games as they see fit. They're free to play in their own way with few instructions or interuptions.

Sessions must take place in an environment where the child feels safe and where there are few limitations. The therapist may use techniques that involve:

• creative visualization

• storytelling

• role-playing

• puppets, stuffed animals, and masks

• dolls, action figures

• arts and crafts

• water and sand play

• blocks and construction toys

• dance and creative movement

• musical play

When Play Therapy is used?

Although people of all ages can benefit from play therapy, it’s typically used with children between the ages of 3 and 12. Play therapy may be helpful in a variety of circumstances, such as:

• Chronic illness/hospitalisation.

• Problem behaviors in school

• Emotional or behaviour issues.

• Bullying

• Family issues, like divorce, separation.

• Natural disasters or traumatic events

• Domestic violence, abuse, or neglect

• Anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss.

• Eating and toileting disorders

• ADD, ADHD, Autism

• Elective Mutism

• Poor play skills.