SERVICES WE OFFER

What Is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a therapeutic approach designed specifically for children. It uses play as a medium for communication, allowing children to express their emotions and experiences in a way that feels natural and comfortable to them.

Through play, children can explore their thoughts and feelings, gain insight into their behaviours, and work through challenges with the guidance of a trained therapist.

Why Might Your Child Need Play Therapy?

You might wonder if play therapy is the right choice for your child. Here are some common reasons children require play therapy:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Life Adjustments
• Trauma
• Grief and Bereavement
• Behavioural Difficulties
• Family Conflict

If any of these issues sound familiar, play therapy can help your child navigate these challenges effectively.

How Does Play Therapy Work?

Play therapy sessions are structured to create a comfortable and engaging environment for your child. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Parent Consultation:

The first step is a consultation between the parents/guardians and the psychologist to understand the child’s difficulties, strengths, and interests and discuss the goals for therapy. It is also a space for parents/guardians to ask any questions, see the playroom and toolkits for themselves, and get a feel for the process.

Initial Session:

This involves the play therapist/ psychologist getting to know your
child and establishing a warm and accepting relationship which provides a foundation for the therapy.

Ongoing Sessions:

During therapy sessions, play activities like drawing, storytelling, role-play, and using toys help your child express their feelings and work through their issues.

The therapist will guide these activities to help your child explore their emotions and develop coping strategies. The therapeutic environment is designed to be a safe and confidential space where your child can express themselves freely without fear of judgement.

How Can Play Therapy Help Your Child?

Play therapy can bring about significant positive changes in your child’s life by helping them:

• Express Emotions: Learn to identify and articulate their feelings healthily.
  Develop Coping Skills: Find effective ways to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.
• Improve Behaviour: Address and modify problematic behaviours through understanding and intervention.
• Enhance Social Skills: Build better relationships with family members and peers.
• Boost Self-Esteem: Increase their confidence and sense of self-worth.
• Navigate Life Changes: Adjust more smoothly to changes such as moving homes or family structure shifts.

What Techniques Do Our Therapists Use?

At Rivonia Therapy Centre, our child psychologists use a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored to your child’s needs, including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps children understand and change negative thought patterns and behaviours
• Creative Arts Therapy: Utilises activities like drawing, painting, and storytelling to help children express their emotions creatively
• Play-Based Interventions: Engages children in play activities that are both enjoyable and therapeutic, helping them process their experiences in a non-threatening way

How Do You Know If Play Therapy Is Working?

After a few sessions, you may notice positive changes in your child’s behaviour and emotional well-being.

Signs that therapy is helping include observing a better mood in your child, you’ll notice they appear happier and more relaxed. Communication is enhanced as your child becomes more open about sharing their feelings and experiences. Increase confidence is evident as they show more self-assurance in various situations. Additionally, their relationships with family and peers becomes healthier and more positive.

Progress can take time, and there are regular ups and downs.

Why Choose Rivonia Therapy Centre?

We are dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for your child. Our therapists are experienced in working with children and are committed to helping them overcome their challenges and achieve their fullest potential. We offer a welcoming space where your child can feel safe, understood, and valued.