Child Psychotherapy / Play Therapy

Psychodynamically-informed child psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach that helps children understand and process distressing feelings, mostly through play.

Children have not yet developed the vocabulary to articulate inner conflict and feelings. Play is their primary medium to express themselves. Creative activities form part of play.

As therapist I build a relationship with the child and aim to look beneath surface behaviours to identify underlying emotional themes and unresolved tensions. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, non-judgmental environment to develop healthier ways of coping.

Working with children includes working with their support networks. Parents are involved in the process in a way that is appropriate for the child’s age and developmental level. Similarly, appropriate liaison with teachers / schools forms part of the process.