Art & Play Therapy

Children’s art and play therapy is a gentle, child-centred approach that uses creativity to help children express and make sense of their emotions. For many children under 12, it’s much easier to communicate through play and artistic expression than through words alone. This therapy creates a safe, non-judgemental space where feelings can be explored at the child’s own pace.

 

Drawing on my postgraduate training in the therapeutic arts, in my sessions I use seven key expressive techniques: puppetry allows children to project feelings and try out different perspectives; poetry helps them find rhythm and meaning in their emotional world; painting and drawing give form to thoughts they may not yet have words for; free play supports storytelling, problem-solving, and emotional rehearsal; movement helps release stored tension and connect with bodily awareness; sand tray offers a symbolic way to build and explore their inner world; and music encourages emotional release (e.g. releasing anger through my drumkit), regulation, and joy.

 

Through these creative channels, children can process experiences, build resilience, and strengthen their sense of self in a way that feels natural and empowering.