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All play offers children a natural space to learn, explore and communicate. In older children and young people this is continued through creative activities. 

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Whether in non - educational settings or schools, for children and young people with difficulties, creative arts, play therapy and counselling provides a safe space for them to gain insight into their behaviour.

 

In sessions children and young people are supported to create solutions and find ways to make sense of their emotions and life situations while building relationships, resilience and self-esteem.

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Play and creative arts therapies have the power to change the lives of young people and can alleviate singular or multiple disorders such as trauma, disrupted attachment, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviours, depression, ADHD, ASD, oppositional defiant and conduct disorders, anger management, crisis and trauma, grief and loss, divorce and family dissolution, academic and social developmental, and physical and learning disabilities.

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Proven to have positive outcomes for children and families, play therapy and creative arts therapies use an age appropriate early intervention approach. The Department for Education is now recommending Play Therapy in schools, as research shows that children can only articulate their feelings 7% of the time (Mental Health and Behaviour In Schools – March 2016). In addition the BACP are calling for a counsellor in every school. 

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Evidence shows that the use of creative therapies increase the emotional well being and resilience of children and young people and is effective for young people who are experiencing adverse childhood experiences.

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In school settings, children often show an improvement in participation, listening and communication skills and in developing relationships. Additionally, the outcome of  child psychotherapy can reduce pupil exclusions and improve attendance and individual and school attainment.