Play Therapy

Play Therapy is a structured, theory-based approach to therapy that uses a child's natural way of expressing themselves – play – to help them cope with emotional stress or difficult behaviours. Rather than relying on talking, play lets a child explore their world on a smaller scale, something they can't do in everyday life.

Sessions take place on the same day and at the same time each week, for an agreed number of sessions based on assessment and level of need. This gives children a secure base from which to explore their inner world in a safe, accepting space. Sessions are usually one-to-one, but may sometimes be with a small group of children facing similar difficulties.

Who is Play Therapy for?

Play Therapy is suitable for children from around 3 to 14 years old, including children with special educational needs. It is non-judgemental and accepting, so children can safely explore trauma or feelings they may not be able to put into words. Children don't need to be creative or artistic to benefit.

How Play Therapy can help

• Feel more confident expressing thoughts and feelings
• Develop their emotional vocabulary
• Improve self-image and self-esteem
• Form more positive attachments and relationships
• Improve concentration
• Become more confident and creative in their play

Common reasons for referral

• Trauma, loss or abuse
• Anxiety, low confidence or low self-esteem
• Selective mutism
• Bedwetting
• Aggression and emotional dysregulation
• Social and communication difficulties
• Parental separation or divorce
• Struggles with friendships

Children's Therapy Services is an approved Adoption & Special Guardianship Support Fund (ASGSF) provider, so this service may be funded for eligible adopted children and children under a special guardianship order. Read about the Adoption Support Fund.

How to get started

To find out more or to make a referral, email us at info@childrenstherapy.online or use our referral page. We are based at Office 6, Fitzwilliam Road, Rotherham, and work with families across South Yorkshire, including Barnsley, Doncaster, Sheffield and Wakefield.