Frequently Asked Questions: Play Therapy
Welcome to our Play Therapy FAQ page. Below, you will find answers to common questions about how play therapy works, what to expect during sessions, and how it can support your child’s emotional well-being.
Please reach us at panaceaplaytherapy@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Play therapy is a evidence-based mental health approach designed for children. Because play is a child’s natural form of communication, they use toys, art, and creative mediums instead of traditional talk therapy to process complex feelings, develop problem-solving skills, and learn healthy coping mechanisms.
While play at home is essential for healthy child development, play therapy is facilitated by a qualified Play Therapist. The therapist observes play patterns, interprets symbolic behaviors, and actively guides your child toward emotional healing and skill-building in a safe, therapeutic space.
Play therapy can help if your child shows persistent behavioral or emotional changes, such as:
- Excessive anxiety, fears, or frequent tantrums
- Difficulty adjusting to major life changes (divorce, move, new sibling, loss)
- Aggression, withdrawal, or trouble making friends
- Experiencing trauma, abuse, or grief
- Behavioral concerns, frequent tantrums, or aggression.
- Difficulty making friends or managing social interactions.
Play therapy is primarily tailored for children aged 3 to 12 years old. However play therapy can be beneficial for children up to 18 years. The therapist adapts session techniques to match your child’s specific developmental stage and emotional needs.
In a dedicated playroom, the child chooses from carefully selected toys, art supplies, or role-playing materials. The therapist either follows the child's lead (non-directive play) or guides specific activities to address particular goals, such as emotion regulation or trauma processing (directive play).
The therapists at Panacea Play Therapy Ltd hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Play Therapy from Leeds Beckett University.
They have extensive training and experience working with individuals and families.
Our therapists are all registered with Play Therapy UK and the Professional Standards Agency.
Hold current DBS checks or on the annual renewal service.
Panacea Play Therapy Ltd
Based in Overseal, Derbyshire.
Covering the Swadlincote and surrounding areas.