Other services

In addition to Play Therapy I offer:

• Arts based therapy to adolescents and adults - There are many features of play therapy that may be transferred to therapy with young people and adults. Using some of the creative arts encourages expression and communication when words are difficult to find. I find art, collage and sand trays particular helpful.

• Filial Therapy -  This form of therapy actively involves the parents/carer as well as the child. After an initial assessment with the family, I spend two or three weeks training the parents in the basic Filial skills.  Parents/carers practise their skills several times before holding the first play session with their child.  The parent progress to holding a 30-minute Filial session with their child every week at the same time, on the same day, and in the same place.  Parents continue to hold a weekly 30-minute Filial session with their child for as long as necessary or as long as the child wants to.  Many children enjoy their sessions so much that they choose to continue for many months!  Parents also find that the time spent together in Filial play is so valuable and special that they are happy to do this. I meet with parents once a week to see how they are getting on. Sometimes parents will video record their sessions. After a while, meetings change to fortnightly, then monthly meetings, with a final review at three months.

• One to one integrative counselling - My initial therapy training was in integrative counselling. I use this approach as an alternative to, or to supplement the play and arts therapy. I have many years experience working with people who have a physical illness, or who are life limited or support a family member who is ill. I also see nurses and other health care professionals who are in contact with illness, loss and bereavement on a daily basis.

• Consultation and training - I have experience of delivering training and workshops. Please call to discuss ideas. Future events will be publicised on this website.

• Research - Research is important to ensure best practice and outcomes. I am interested in play therapy process research and a member of the BAPT research subcommittee. My doctoral research was exploring dignity for children in hospital. I am currently involved in research using play therapy with children who have chronic illness, as well as a project with the University of Surrey highlighting the needs of children pre bereavement.

To have a chat about any of the above, give me a call on: 07876 353917, or use the contact form.