Play Therapy
Play Therapy is a way of giving children (3-12yrs) the opportunity to explore their experiences, thoughts, emotions, and desires in a safe non-judgmental environment, with the support of the therapist.
Play is a child’s natural means of expression and is a safe way to communicate, talking usually becomes secondary. Through the therapeutic alliance, formed with the therapist, the child is able to move forward and develop at their own pace. They are supported to draw on their inner resources and build resilience so that change can occur.
Within the play therapy space children take the lead. They are able to use any of the items in the tool kit as they wish, and the space has as few boundaries as possible.
Play therapy is a way of helping children to heal themselves.
Creative Arts Therapy
Older children and young people may sometimes be more comfortable utilising art, clay, or SandStory® materials in their therapy sessions. As therapy is child/person-centred they are free to make those decisions and do what they feel is most appropriate for them.
Creative Arts Therapy is suitable for people of all ages, including those who:
- have low self-esteem
- are withdrawn or seem unhappy
- suffer from anxiety, stress or a phobia
- find it difficult to make friends
- bully others or who are bullied themselves
- struggle to contain their feelings
- are experiencing changes at home
- have experienced trauma, neglect or abuse
- are a looked-after child
- have experienced loss through bereavement, family breakdown or separation from their culture of origin
- struggle to concentrate or present hyperactivity
- are at risk of being excluded
- are not realising their potential
- have regular nightmares or disturbed sleep
- are ill, disabled or who support carers or siblings with disabilities
If you are interested in exploring the possibility of play and creative therapy for your child, please get in touch to arrange a consultation.
SandStory® in Wales 