Play Therapy

My name is Lisa Bridger, and I am a Certified Practitioner of Therapeutic Play. I trained with PTUK after working for many years in schools with children who have Special Educational.

I trained first in Emotional Literacy Support with Dorset Psychology Service and then realised, through working in this field, the immense value of a child-centred approach for those experiencing emotional problems. This led to my pursuing a career in therapeutic work with primary-aged children.

Therapeutic Play has enormous benefits because it enables children to explore whatever is troubling them in a non-confrontational way. Through the use of sand play, clay, puppets, art and craft, role play and a variety of toys, children are able to express their difficulties metaphorically rather than directly, which can seem less scary for a child.

Therapeutic Play can be beneficial for children suffering many difficulties, including emotional regulation, anxiety, nightmares, friendship issues, peer group pressure, separation anxiety, parental separation and divorce, bedwetting and communication problems. It can also be helpful for children on the autistic spectrum who may be
struggling with sensory overload and self-expression.

My sessions are delivered one to one, using a mainly non-directive approach. I also use Creative Visualisation techniques and Therapeutic Stories if I think this is appropriate for the children I work with. The work is individualised to each child, allowing them to play in a non-judgmental environment where all feelings are welcomed and confidentiality is paramount.

If you feel that Therapeutic Play would be beneficial to your child, please feel free to get in touch to discuss their needs.

Parents request the support from a play therapist for many reasons, below is a list of benefits play therapy can have for your child: –

  • Help their child gain more confidence
  • Help their child have greater emotional health
  • Reduce meltdowns and help children understand them
  • Improve communication
  • Support with school related worries
  • Reduce anxiety
  • Improve concentration
  • Help with emotional regulation
  • Help children make sense of the world
  • Enhancing cognitive development
  • Improve children’s relationships with their friends
  • Improving children’s understanding of their own feelings and thoughts
  • Reduce stress
  • Decrease depression and anxiety

If you would like to explore more about play therapy or have a question, then please get in contact. The relationship between a play therapist and client is vital, which is why we offer a free consultation to see how play therapy can help you.