PLAY THERAPY

This is a form of therapy that uses play as a means of communication. Often young children have not yet developed the full capacity for verbal expression of their thoughts and feelings. Hence they often present with behavioral problems as a manner of expressing what may be mis-attuned with their internal world.

 

Play therapy facilitates the projection of feelings through toys and engagement of the child through play with the therapist. Play therapy can be seen as a language for children to communicate so that difficult feelings can be processed.

 

Neuropsychological research suggests that the brain is most plastic in childhood and hence therapy may be more effective as one is working with a more pliable brain. Attending to psychological issues with children is preventative work that cultivates long term psychological well-being. 

 

Signs that your child may be in need of therapy:

·    Being bullied or bullying others

·    Regressive behaviour such as bed wetting

·    Low mood or overly anxious mood

·    Irritability

·    Cries easily

·    Learning difficulties

·    Inability to pay attention

·    Aggressive behaviour such as fighting, defiance of authority figures

·    Frequent nightmares, sleep disturbances