Children express themselves most effectively through play at different levels. It is their most natural way of communicating their feelings and experiences, whether it’s anxiety, aggression, sadness or confusion. Children use play to explore their feelings and emotions, to learn about themselves and their relationships with people in their lives, to promote self-esteem and problem solving.

Most adults who attend therapy participate in a more traditional talking therapy. As children’s brains are still growing and their language skills are still developing, talking therapy can be dif􀁽cult and problematic. They often don’t have the vocabulary nor the abstract thought to articulate and discuss what is troubling them.

I will be keeping them safe and secure while they explore and work through any difficult issues they are facing. I will utilise therapeutic skills such as reflecting, self-esteem building, choices, encouragement, clear and consistent limit setting. The setting and relationships are the keys in encouraging healing and facilitate change.

Some of their difficulties, whether it is behaviour or other issues could be as a result of:

• Trauma
• Abuse
• Bullying
• Neglect
• Domestic violence
• Family breakdown
• Bereavement
• Adoption
• Stress and anxiety

If you have any concern about a child, you can contact me at mala@connectplaytherapy.uk to arrange a free initial consultation.