Our therapies
Neurodiversity
Neurodivergent refers to children who have neurotype differences from what would be considered the neurotypical presentation. Often children with a diagnosis such as autism, ADHD, learning disorders, sensory integration needs, and developmental disabilities fall under the neurodivergent category.
Therapy details
You're in the right place
Some play therapy approaches have more research support for addressing the mental health needs of autistic and neurodivergent children than others (Child Centered Play Therapy), some are more specifically designed for autistic and neurodivergent children (Brick -By-Brick Programme®, AutPlay® Therapy and Theraplay®).
Brick-by-Brick Programme
Child Centered Play Therapy
Play is the natural language of all children regardless of diagnosis, disability, or developmental issue. It is the most organic process for children to express troubling thoughts and feelings that are both conscious and unconscious. Play makes learning an enjoyable and engaging experience and provides the best method to impart information needed by children to overcome struggles (Schaefer & Drewes, 2014).
Play therapy approaches, in general, are neurodiversity affirming – valuing the child, giving the child a voice, and affirming the identity of the child. Research has also demonstrated the benefits of implementing play therapy to address a variety of mental health concerns that may be present with a neurodivergent child.
If you are neurodivergent or neurotypical you are welcome here.
Our Brick-by Brick® Programme at the Play Therapies Centre has been developed with Neurodivergent children in mind.
We all love to play! That’s the ethos behind the Brick-by-Brick® programme. Young people collaborate together to build LEGO® models – making friends and developing skills all whilst having fun.
Run by trained facilitators, the Brick-by-Brick® programme offers children positive, meaningful social experiences in an understanding, playful and accepting environment. Brick Club (as it’s known to children) supports its members to collaborate, communicate, problem-solve and share fun experiences all through collaborative LEGO® play.
As well as running Brick-By Brick programs for children we also offer training in this method for professionals.
Accreditations
My approach
Sinead is Clinical Director and senior Accredited Play Therapist in our North West Centre based in Derry. In her therapeutic work with children Sinead creates a nurturing environment of warmth, acceptance, empathy and genuine regard for all her clients which she believes creates a safe space for them to psychologically heal. Sinead is committed to forming trusting, supportive therapeutic relationships with parents that honours their vital role and the sanctity of the parent/child bond. By helping families find their balance and health, children are able to reach their vast potential. For the last twenty years Sinead’s experience has been with working with children who have severe social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties. This work has allowed Sinead to gain experience of working with statutory agencies within the health trusts and education boards, as well as with various voluntary organisations from across Northern Ireland. As well as her clinical and therapeutic work with children Sinead has twenty years of experience running therapeutic parenting work both for individuals and for groups. She is also qualified in various complimentary therapies that she incorporates within her work with children and families as she has a deep understanding of the root of trauma and the body mind connection.