Introducing Play Therapy

Play is a child’s first language—it’s how they explore their world, express emotions, and process what’s happening inside and around them. In play therapy, play becomes a powerful tool for healing and emotional growth.

Synergetic Play Therapy® is a research-informed approach that integrates nervous system regulation, interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, mindfulness, and therapist authenticity. It’s relational, brain-body based, and deeply attuned to each child’s emotional and developmental needs. This form of therapy allows children to express what they can’t yet put into words, providing them with a safe, structured space to navigate their emotions.

In my sessions, I use therapeutic tools that align with how children naturally communicate—making the process engaging, safe, and emotionally supportive. Sessions are developmentally appropriate, grounded in connection, and tailored to each child’s unique needs.

Play Therapy offers a non-judgmental space where children can express themselves freely. Rooted in the principles of Virginia Axline’s work, my approach emphasizes building trust, acceptance, and allowing children to lead the process at their own pace.

Through this therapeutic process, children explore emotions, work through challenges, and gain a deeper understanding of their inner world. With gentle reflection, respectful boundaries, and emotional attunement, Play Therapy helps children build emotional resilience, self-awareness, and emotional regulation—all key to navigating life’s ups and downs.

Maya’s Play Therapy Experience
During Maya’s (a pseudonym) seventh Play Therapy session, she selected a toy nest and three toy eggs. She placed the nest in the sand tray, nestled two eggs inside, and buried the third one in the sand.

I gently mirrored Maya’s play, saying, “I see you’re exploring a nest and eggs in the sand tray today. You began with three eggs, but now only two are visible. I’m curious about what separates the buried egg from the two together.”

Maya was in therapy to process feelings related to her mother’s departure. Reflecting Maya’s play allowed me to communicate that her feelings were accepted and understood, without judgment. This technique also encouraged Maya to bring her subconscious emotions into conscious awareness, helping her to process them with support.

In this safe, non-intrusive space, Maya began to work through her emotions and gain clarity, enabling her to move toward emotional healing. Play Therapy gives children the freedom to explore and integrate their experiences in a way that feels safe and empowering.

Play Therapy is beneficial for children ages 3–17, and can support children dealing with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. Here are some common issues where Play Therapy can help:

• Grief and Loss (e.g., coping with divorce, adoption, or death)

• Behavioral Difficulties (e.g., anger, aggression, defiance)

• Emotional Challenges (e.g., depression, anxiety, nightmares)

• Trauma and Abuse (e.g., processing traumatic experiences or bullying)

• Social Struggles (e.g., withdrawal, isolation, or difficulty making friends)

• Academic Challenges (e.g., underperformance, learning difficulties)

Through a tailored approach, I help children build the emotional resilience and coping skills necessary to thrive in their environment.

My Play Therapy toolkit is diverse, holistic, and specifically chosen to meet each child’s unique needs. It includes:

• Sand Trays and Toys

• Art and Craft

• Creative Visualisation

• Therapeutic Storytelling

• Puppets and Masks

• Movement and Dance

• Music and Sound

• Breathing and Regulation Techniques

Each of these tools supports different aspects of a child’s emotional, cognitive, and sensory development, allowing me to customize sessions to provide a personalized, holistic healing experience.

The structure of our work together ensures clarity, consistency, and collaboration. Here’s how the process unfolds:

1. Free 15-Minute Video Call:
   Our journey starts with a complimentary video consultation. This is your chance to share concerns and learn how Play Therapy can benefit your child.

2. Initial Consultation:
   The first in-depth consultation (75 minutes) allows us to discuss your child’s history, current challenges, and set therapeutic goals together.

3. Ongoing Sessions:
   I typically recommend a minimum of 12 sessions. Regular sessions, scheduled weekly, help maintain consistency and create momentum in the therapeutic process.

4. Continuous Support:
   Throughout therapy, I maintain open communication with parents, providing regular updates, resources, and feedback to ensure we are all aligned on the child’s progress.

5. Collaboration with Parents:
   Parent involvement is integral to the success of therapy. I provide parents with practical tools and strategies to support their child’s emotional growth at home.

If you're looking for a certified play therapist who combines expertise in child emotional development with a deeply personalized approach, you're in the right place. I am committed to offering a safe, nurturing, and structured space for your child to express, process, and heal.