WoodHaven Play Therapy

Who can Benefit from Play Therapy?

Play Therapy is designed for children, usually between the ages of 3 and 12, and offers a gentle way for them to express what they might not yet have the words for. Through play, children can explore their feelings, build confidence, and begin to heal in a safe and supportive space.

Play Therapy can be beneficial for:

Emotional Difficulties

Play Therapy can help children who are experiencing anxiety, sadness, grief, or who have been through something traumatic. It allows them to express big emotions in a way that feels natural and safe.

Developmental and Neurodivergent Needs

Children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences often benefit from the flexibility and acceptance that play therapy offers. For children who are non-verbal or who find traditional talking therapies difficult, play becomes a powerful tool for connection and self-expression.

Behaviour and Social Struggles

If a child is acting out with aggression, having frequent tantrums, struggling to follow instructions, or finding it hard to connect with others, play therapy can provide clarity on what’s going on beneath the surface and offer a pathway toward change.

Family Transitions and Change

Big changes at home, such as divorce, separation, starting in foster care, or being adopted, can be overwhelming for a child. Play therapy gives them a way to make sense of their world and feel supported during these transitions.

Healing from Trauma or Abuse

For children who have experienced trauma or neglect, play therapy offers a non-threatening space to process what has happened. It allows them to feel seen, heard, and safe without needing to relive painful memories through direct conversation.

Selective Mutism and Social Anxiety

Some children struggle to speak in certain settings or around unfamiliar people. Play gives them another way to communicate and feel understood, helping to reduce anxiety and build confidence at their own pace.

Support for Parents, Teachers, and Caregivers

Play therapy isn’t just for the child. It also helps adults better understand a child’s inner world. By observing how a child plays and communicates, parents and caregivers gain insights that can lead to more supportive and connected relationships.