1:1 play therapy allows a child to explore the issues that are affecting them alongside an experienced therapist who supports the child to work through their experiences and feelings at their own pace.
Play is a child’s natural means of expression and when a child cannot speak about what is bothering them, they can often express it through play.
Pebbles Play Therapy uses an integrative approach, incorporating play and creative arts techniques. Sandtray therapy, music, art, clay, puppets, role play and games are all available for the child and by following the child’s lead, the therapist supports the child to explore and process their emotions and experiences in a safe and supported way.
Neuroscience research has established that play therapy works by enhancing neuroplasticity. This is the ability of the brain to make new neural pathways. ‘In the playroom, the child and therapist collaboratively create conditions where the brain has an optimum amount of arousal, setting the stage for change and learning to take place.’ (Stewart, Field & Echterling 2016, p.6)
Play therapy is used for children and young people most commonly from 3 to 14, but creative arts methods can also be suitable for older teens.
At Pebbles Play Therapy we see children who are experiencing issues with:
- A change in behaviour (becoming angry or withdrawn)
- Emotional outbursts
- Anxiety
- Social isolation
- Low self esteem
- Difficulties sleeping
- School refusal
- ASD or ADHD
We see children who are dealing with or have been through:
- Trauma
- Divorce/ family separation
- Bereavement/ Loss
- Bullying
- Domestic violence
- Abuse and neglect
- Illness or hospitalisation
Pebbles Play Therapy 