Much-needed play therapy services are now available at Aylsham, North Norfolk.

The sessions will take place for children aged 3-12 at a new studio in Blofields Loke, Aylsham. The proprietor and therapist, Amy Hobart, is fully qualified and accredited.  She is an experienced practitioner registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

Therapeutic Life Story Sessions will also be provided for adopted/fostered and SGO children.

The service is called Wildwood Therapy and full details of all available services are on the website: www.wildwoodplaytherapy.com

Instagram: @wildwoodplaytherapy

Play Therapy: A Therapeutic Approach for Children

Play therapy is a structured therapeutic approach that harnesses children’s natural tendency to express themselves through play. This evidence-based method allows children to communicate their experiences, feelings, and difficulties naturally and comfortably rather than relying on verbal expression alone.

Developed in the early 20th century by pioneers like Melanie Klein, Anna Freud, and Virginia Axline, play therapy has evolved into a sophisticated clinical practice. The fundamental premise is that play represents children’s language, and toys are their words. Through carefully selected play materials and a supportive environment, therapists can help children process emotional challenges, trauma, and developmental issues.

Play therapists are specially trained professionals who observe children’s play patterns, themes, and behaviours to gain insight into their inner worlds. They create a safe psychological space where children can express themselves authentically without fear of judgment or criticism. Acceptance, empathy, and clear boundaries characterise this environment.

Several theoretical approaches guide play therapy practice. Non-directive or child-centred play therapy follows Carl Rogers’ person-centred principles, allowing children to lead sessions while therapists provide reflective understanding. Directive approaches involve more therapist guidance and specific activities to address issues. Many practitioners adopt an integrative stance, combining elements from different models based on a child’s needs.

Play therapy can benefit children experiencing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, social skills deficits, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief, attachment problems, and behavioural issues. It’s particularly valuable for children who lack the verbal abilities to articulate complex emotions or experiences—whether due to developmental stage, language, or emotional barriers.

A typical play therapy room contains carefully selected materials facilitating emotional expression and symbolic play. These might include creative art supplies, sand trays with miniature figures, puppets, dressing-up items, and sensory materials. Each serves a therapeutic purpose, allowing children to externalise internal struggles through metaphor and story.

Sessions usually occur weekly for 30-50 minutes, with the duration of treatment varying based on the child’s needs. Parents or caregivers are often involved in the therapeutic process through regular consultations and sometimes through filial therapy, where they learn to implement play therapy techniques at home.

Play therapy exemplifies a developmentally sensitive approach to mental health care that respects children’s unique ways of processing and expressing their experiences. Rather than treating children as “small adults,” it honours their developmental needs and capacities. By working within the natural medium of play, therapists can help children develop emotional regulation, process difficult experiences, build coping skills, improve self-concept, and strengthen their relationships with others.

As our understanding of neurodevelopment advances, play therapy continues to evolve, integrating knowledge about brain development, attachment, and trauma. This therapeutic modality offers a powerful way to support children’s mental health and emotional well-being during their formative years.