'More than Playing' offers a play therapy service to schools and families with affordable options and more flexible arrangements compared to other competitors. Depending on the child’s needs, play therapy can be arranged as a short-term contract but the therapist usually advises no less than 12 weeks for 1:1 sessions of play therapy. Contact Alanna today to discuss options.

Children who are expressing difficult social or emotional behaviours or have experienced any of the following may benefit from a play therapy programme: Bereavement or loss Trauma Divorce or family separation Anxiety Stress Phobia Bullying or social isolation Inappropriate behaviour or risk of school exclusion Nightmares or disturbed sleep Withdrawn Illness - e.g. chronic, 'long-term' or operations Difficulty with relationships e.g. frequent quarrelling Emotional, physical or sexual abuse lack of self-esteem Poor confidence This list provides some examples of concerns play therapy may help with but there are many others. If you are unsure whether play therapy could benefit your child contact our play therapist to discuss.

Alanna provides a non-judgemental and confidential play space to allow the child to explore concerns safely. Children may not be able to describe their anxieties using words but through the use of play the child is provided with a medium they can communicate with. During the sessions the child will choose from a range of activities and resources which may include; sand, clay, art and crafts, puppets, drama, music, dance and games. A Play Therapy session will typically last between 40-45 minutes. Sessions will be scheduled at the same time and place each week.

Yes. Due to the nature of play therapy, the session content will remain confidential. Wherever possible, review meetings will be scheduled on a regular basis to share progress and a report can be provided on ending therapy (by arrangement). If there is any concern that the child, or someone the child knows, may be at risk of harm the play therapist will share these concerns accordingly and without delay.

This will depend on the type of service desired, your location and the length of support required. Contact Alanna to discuss in more detail and receive a personalised quotation.

Be consistent and ensure your child attends sessions on time every week Avoid asking direct questions about your child's sessions - this is their time Avoid checking if your child has been 'good' in the session and do not use play therapy in any way as a behaviour reward or sanction Ensure holiday or absence are planned well in advance and taken around the scheduled sessions Be patient and supportive of your child's need. It can take time for any changes to be noticed and behaviour can get worse before it gets better. If you have any concerns, speak to the play therapist at any time