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Some of our Clients
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Play therapy is a psychological approach that uses play and creative activities as ways for children to communicate. Depending on the approach and the child’s needs, sessions might include toys, drawing, storytelling, games, sand or imaginative play within a therapeutic relationship.
Parents may consider play therapy when a child finds it difficult to explain feelings or experiences in words, or when emotional, behavioural or relationship concerns are affecting everyday life. It can also provide a child-friendly way to explore responses to change, loss, family transitions or stressful experiences.
Play therapy is not one standard program and is not suitable for every child or concern. The psychologist considers the child’s developmental needs, the family’s goals and whether another psychological approach, parent work or a referral to another professional would be more appropriate.
A child psychologist consultation is the first step in clarifying the concern and discussing an appropriate treatment plan.
Is play therapy suitable for every child?
No. Suitability depends on the child’s developmental needs, current concerns, communication style and treatment goals. Some children may benefit from a different psychological approach, direct work with parents or coordinated support from another professional.
What happens during a play therapy session?
The child may use toys, art materials, games, stories or imaginative play while the psychologist provides a consistent therapeutic setting. Some approaches are child-led and others are more structured. The psychologist should explain the proposed approach and how it relates to the agreed goals.
How are parents involved in play therapy?
Parents provide important information about the child’s history, current concerns and life outside sessions. Parent consultations and planned reviews help set goals, consider progress and decide whether the treatment plan should continue or change, while protecting the child’s therapeutic space.
The psychologist first gathers information about the child, family context, current concerns, strengths and previous supports. This discussion helps clarify what parents hope will change and whether play therapy is an appropriate option.
If play therapy is recommended, the psychologist explains the proposed approach, goals and how parents will be involved. The plan may include child sessions, parent consultations or information from school or other professionals when relevant and appropriately consented.
Progress is reviewed using the agreed goals, parent observations and other relevant information rather than promises about a particular outcome. The psychologist may continue, adapt or conclude the approach based on the child’s needs and response.
Parents can book an initial consultation to discuss whether play therapy or another form of support may be appropriate.
Play therapy is planned around your child’s age, communication style, strengths and reasons for seeking support. The psychologist will first consider whether a play-based approach is suitable for your child.
Parents or carers discuss the current concerns, relevant history, family context and goals for support. Your psychologist explains how your child may be involved and what to expect from sessions.
The psychologist agrees on initial goals with the family and selects developmentally appropriate play-based methods. The plan may include parent guidance or other forms of support alongside your child’s sessions.
Your child meets with the psychologist in a supportive setting and uses play, creative activities and conversation in ways suited to their development. Sessions are individualised and may include both child-led and structured activities.
The psychologist explains how parent updates will be managed, reviews goals with you and adjusts the plan when needed. If another service would be more suitable, the psychologist will discuss the available options. Book an initial consultation to ask whether play therapy may suit your child.
Quirky Kid® would not be the company it is today without our talented, inspring and highly professional team that is as equally committed to the mental health and wellbeing of children as we are.
Our clinic provides psychological assessments and personalised treatment plans to support your child's needs. Our experienced psychologists gather detailed information to explore diagnoses and deliver effective interventions.
Each assessment results in a comprehensive report with background information, medical history, observations, and practical recommendations.
Our treatment plans address specific challenges and promote overall well-being.
Complete the form to schedule an assessment or treatment plan for your child.
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