The Play Therapies Centre
What is Play Therapy?
Toys are used like words by children, and play is their language.”
– Garry Landreth
Play and Art Therapy are branches of psychotherapy that involves the use of creative and expressive communication. Play and creativity are a child’s natural medium for self expression. Through therapeutic play, children can make sense of their feelings and the world in which they live. When children experience upsetting events, their feelings can become muddled. This can be a confusing and worrying time for them and their families. Play and Art Therapy provides a safe environment where a qualified and empathetic Therapist understands the child through the metaphor of play, behaviour and other communication.
The trusting and non judgemental relationship between child and therapist allows the child to have the freedom to be themselves and express their inner struggles and joys. This can facilitate the resolution of their pain, create hope for the future and unlock the potential for self growth and self healing.
Play and Art Therapy are suitable for children age 3 and beyond.
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.
