what is
Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a gentle and effective therapeutic approach designed for children.
It uses play, as a child's natural form of expression, to help them explore emotions, work through difficult experiences, and develop skills in a safe and supportive environment.
In play therapy, children can explore their feelings and thoughts freely, helping them better understand themselves and the world around them.
how can
play therapy
help my child?
Children don't always have the words to say, "I feel scared", "I miss Dad", or "I'm struggling". Instead, they show us how they feel through their behaviour, their play, and their interactions with others.
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Play Therapy provides a gentle, developmentally appropriate way
for children aged 3-11 to:​
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Express emotions they may not fully understand
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Process difficult experiences in a way that feels safe
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Build confidence and a strong sense of self-worth
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Develop emotional regulation skills to manage big feelings
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Improve relationships with family, friends, and teachers
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Strengthen coping skills to handle anxiety, stress and change​
At Play Therapy WA, we use a child-led approach. This means that children engage in play that helps them work through their challenges without pressure, judgement, or expectations. Whether they are drawing, using dolls or figurines, building, or engaging in imaginative play, each moment in the playroom is purposeful, allowing them to feel safe, understood, and in control of their emotions and experiences.
is
play therapy
right for my child?
If you've noticed your child struggling, either emotionally, socially, or behaviourally you might be wondering if Play Therapy could help.
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Many parents come to us feeling worried, exhausted, or unsure of what else to try. But, they all share the same goal: to see their child happy, thriving, and comfortable within their own being..
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Play Therapy may be beneficial for your child if they are experiencing:
Anxiety or excessive worry
Does your child seem fearful, nervous, or overwhelmed by everyday situations? Maybe nightmares, clinginess, or avoidance of certain activities?
Emotional outbursts or meltdowns?
Do small things trigger BIG reactions? Do they struggle to manage frustration, anger, or sadness?
Challenges at school
Is your child struggling with friendships, concentration, or following directions? Has the teacher mentioned changes in behaviour?
Grief or loss
Whether it's the loss of a loved one, a pet, or another significant change, some children may need a safe way to express their feelings and understand what has happened.
Separation, divorce, or changes in the family?
Has your child been impacted by a family breakdown, relocation, or a new sibling? These transitions can be tough to process.
Trauma or overwhelming experiences
If your child has faced a difficult or frightening event, they may be struggling to process and move forward.
Low self-esteem or social struggles
Does your child feel left out, unsure of themselves, or reluctant to participate in activities?
If any of this sounds familiar, Play Therapy can help your child make sense of their experiences, develop emotional resilience, and help them to find their inner self again.