Our current team

Paula Reed, PhD, MA (Play Therapy), PgDip (Couns.) RGN

Play Therapist.

Who I am

I am a Play Therapist and work with children aged between 3 and 12 years. I am a full member of the British Association of Play Therapists (BAPT) and a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have also undertaken Filial therapy training.

As well as setting up Play Therapy Central, I work as a lecturer at he University of Roehampton and for the NHS one day per week.

I have professional liability insurance, current DBS enhanced certificate and receive regular clinical supervision.

My background

My background is as a nurse and counsellor, as well as a researcher into the experiences of sick children.

I have worked as a Play Therapist in a range of contexts including Child and Adolescent mental Health Services (CAMHS), primary, secondary and special needs schools, as well as a Children’s Centre.

I have experience of working with children presenting with a range of challenges including:

• Physical illness                                            
• Bereavement and loss
• Fostering and adoption
• Attachment disorders
• Anxiety
• Autistic spectrum
• Domestic violence
• Special needs
• Physical illness in the family 

Research 

I am currently undertaking a project supported through the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy using Play Therapy for children who have chronic illness

Creative arts in therapy

I see young people and adults who would like to use creative approaches to therapy. I have particular experience of those who are affected by physical illness, either in themselves or family members. or indeed are health care workers. The approach can be useful for those who find just talking about their difficulties too challenging. 

Supervision

I offer supervision to Play Therapists and counsellors working with children of primary school age and younger