Play and Creative Arts Therapy

Children often struggle to explain how they are feeling, why they are finding something difficult or why they are behaving in a certain way. For a child, play is often a more natural means of self-expression than using words. A play and creative arts therapist supports children who are experiencing difficulties to play out feelings and problems using carefully selected toys and materials.

Who is play therapy suitable for?

Play and creative arts therapy is suitable for children aged between 4 and 12 who may be experiencing:

How does play and creative arts therapy work?

The therapist builds a relationship with the child to make sure that they feel supported, safe and understood. Whilst the child takes the lead in choosing how they want to play, the therapist uses a range of play-based techniques to engage their conscious and unconscious processes. This helps the child to recognise and understand difficult thoughts and feelings and explore different ways of dealing with them. The child’s brain responds by creating new neural pathways, embedding change in the form of more positive patterns of thinking and behaviour.

What does the playroom look like?

Time to Play has a fully equipped playroom at 23 St Andrews Road. It is also possible to create a pop-up playroom at other suitable venues if this is in the best interests of the child. The playroom stays the same from session to session, creating a stable environment for the child. There are toys, art and craft materials, dressing up clothes, sand and water trays, puppets, musical instruments, small world figures and stories. As therapy progresses, the therapist may introduce additional activities specially designed for the child’s individual needs.

Are sessions confidential?

Sessions are confidential unless there is a safeguarding concern.

How are sessions organised?

Each session is 45 minutes long. Sessions are weekly at the same time, on the same day and in the same place each week. Consistency is important for the therapeutic process. A session schedule will be agreed with you. Breaks for planned holidays can be taken into account.

How many sessions will my child need?

Every child is unique and will progress at their own pace. The number of sessions will depend on personality; previous experiences; and the nature and complexity of their difficulties. The minimum booking is 12 sessions. Emma will advise on how many sessions are likely to be needed and progress will be reviewed with you on a regular basis.

How should I prepare my child for play therapy?

At the initial consultation, you will be provided with a booklet which you can share with your child. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and talk through any concerns that you might have.

How much does it cost?

Please look at the services and fees page for information on fees and charity funded provision.

How do I book?

Please send an email to timetoplay.office@mail.com. You will be sent a parents and carers brochure, a contact details form, a referral form and a questionnaire about your child’s strengths and difficulties. The next step is to arrange an initial consultation meeting with Emma. At the meeting, she will answer any questions, talk through your family history, explain how information will be held and shared and make sure that play and creative arts therapy is the most suitable option for your child’s needs. Please note that the first meeting will be in person. Ideally, where there are two parents in contact with the child, both parents should attend, either together or separately. It is appreciated that this is not always possible. One parent may represent the family but all those with parental responsibility for the child must sign a consent form before sessions can take place.