What is play therapy?

Play Therapy is a creative and evidence-based approach that helps children express their thoughts and emotions through play rather than words. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating, and in therapy it becomes a tool for exploring feelings, resolving difficulties, and developing healthier ways of coping.

This approach is particularly helpful for children who may find it hard to talk about their experiences, including those affected by anxiety, trauma, bereavement, family changes, or behavioural and emotional challenges.

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How does it work?

In Play Therapy, the therapist provides a warm, supportive, and consistent environment where the child can feel safe to express themselves freely. Using toys, art, storytelling, sand, or role play, the therapist helps the child explore and make sense of their inner world at their own pace.

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At Dr Craig Dunn & Associates Psychology Services, our therapists integrate both child-centred play therapy and CBT for Play.

• Play Therapy helps children express emotions symbolically through play, allowing them to process and communicate experiences that may feel too difficult to talk about directly.

• CBT for Play combines creative play techniques with principles of cognitive behavioural therapy. Through games, stories, and activities, children learn to recognise their thoughts and feelings, build problem-solving skills, and develop new, more balanced ways of thinking.

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Benefits of Play Therapy

• Encourages emotional expression and self-understanding.

• Helps children process trauma, anxiety, grief, or family changes.

• Builds confidence, resilience, and emotional regulation skills.

• Improves relationships and communication with others.

• Provides a safe and creative outlet for feelings.

• Supports development of healthy coping and problem-solving strategies.

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We provide a safe, supportive space where children can explore feelings and challenges. Our therapists adapt their approach to each child’s stage of development, helping them communicate effectively and build meaningful relationships.

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Play is often central to our work, giving children a natural way to express emotions when words are difficult. Alongside emotional expression, we equip children with strategies to regulate feelings, navigate life transitions, and manage relationships.

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Preparing your child
We want children to feel empowered when starting therapy—not as a consequence of difficulties, but as a positive step for support. Talking with your child about why help is important, reading therapist profiles together, and setting the expectation of “just one session to try” can ease pressure. Simple conversations like “I wonder what the waiting room will be like?” can help build curiosity instead of anxiety.

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Our therapy spaces
Our child-friendly therapy room is designed to feel safe, playful, and welcoming. Play helps children express feelings they may not yet have words for. For older young people, we also offer a comfortable adult-style therapy room. Families are welcome to view these spaces during the assessment.

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Parent assessment session
Parents first meet the therapist without the child to share background, history, and goals. This session shapes recommendations and ensures therapy is the right fit. There’s no obligation to continue if another service would better meet your child’s needs.

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Therapy structure & reviews
Therapy is offered in blocks of six sessions. After each block, parents join a review session to discuss progress, next steps, and ways to support their child at home. We also share resources and strategies tailored to your family.

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Working with others
Where helpful, we can collaborate with schools, CAMHS, or social services to ensure your child’s support is consistent and holistic.

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Our Therapists that Offer Play Therapy :

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