About Playing To Be
What I do
As a child-centred and non-directive therapist I help children with emotional and/or behavioural difficulties to explore their feelings and experiences in creative and dynamic ways, within a safe and confidential space. This gives the child greater insight into themselves, strengthening their emotional wellbeing and sense of autonomy.
My Qualifications
PG Diploma with Distinction in Play Therapy
Leeds Beckett University & APAC, 2022.
PG Certificate with Distinction in Therapeutic Play Skills
Leeds Beckett University & APAC, 2020.
Baby Bonding Practitioner
Clear Sky Children’s Charity, 2022.
Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature & Theatre Arts
Goldsmith’s College University of London, 2004.
Why I Do It
I believe that every child is special and unique, and deserves to be happy and confident. Sometimes things, big or small, happen in a child’s life that get in the way of this, and they might need some help to work things through.
I also believe in the power of play, and the power of a safe therapeutic space in which a child can feel free to express themselves authentically. Children can find it hard to talk about what is troubling them, and instead they play what they cannot say. Play Therapy can help a child to process and understand their issues in a way that is natural to them, so they grow in confidence and become their whole, happy self.
Experience
I have been working with children and young adults in a variety of settings throughout my career- as a storyteller and storytelling workshop facilitator in primary schools and at festivals, as a child minder at after school clubs and as a young adult mental health support worker. I also ran a training group with disabled people, as well as music and movement workshops. I’ve always been passionate about creativity and playfulness as part of a healthy childhood (as well as adult life). My love for working with children has given me a wealth of diverse experiences.
