Little hands grasp brightly coloured play dough, moulding it into fantastical shapes. Laughter rings out as blocks tumble into a towering castle. In this playful space, nestled within Hargan Psychology, something remarkable unfolds: children heal.
At Hargan Psychology, we believe in the transformative power of play therapy. When words get lost, play becomes a bridge, connecting children to their emotions and helping them navigate life’s challenges.
What is Play Therapy?
Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) is a structured, theory-based approach.
Children often aren’t developmentally ready to verbally communicate their thoughts and feelings, particularly in relation to difficult situations. That’s where play therapy can help.
Imagine therapy without a couch and therapist jargon. Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) is a unique approach where toys, games, and art such as in sand play therapy become the language of communication. Our play therapists and play psychologists create a safe, accepting space where children can:
- Express themselves freely: Whether it’s building anger through block towers or painting away sadness, play gives voice to emotions that words might struggle with.
- Develop coping skills: Through playful interactions such as sand play therapy and art therapy, children learn healthy ways to manage stress, anxiety and difficult situations.
- Boost self-esteem: Play therapy celebrates creativity and imagination, fostering a sense of confidence and self-worth
- Build stronger relationships: Group play therapy provides opportunities for social interaction, promoting collaboration and empathy.
Beyond Toys and Games:
Our team recognises that the journey to healing extends beyond the playroom. We offer comprehensive support for both children and their families, including:
- Parent and caregiver consultations: We guide parents in understanding their child’s needs and supporting their emotional well-being.
- Family therapy sessions: Sometimes, family dynamics play a role in a child’s challenges. We create a safe space for open communication and strengthen family bonds.
- Collaboration with educators and other professionals: Hargan Psychology works collaboratively to ensure a holistic approach to your child’s well-being.
Our trained team of play psychologists use play therapy to help children express themselves and to gain insights about what may be troubling them. Examples of child therapy activities include:
- Drawing, arts, and crafts.
- Playing with Lego and building blocks.
- Board games.
- Card games.
Is Play Therapy right for my child?
Play therapy can benefit children facing a wide range of challenges, including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Behavioural difficulties
- ADHD and autism spectrum disorder
- Trauma and grief
- Social and emotional difficulties
- Family transitions and changes
Ready to take the first step?
Hargan Psychology provides child-centred play therapy whilst supporting parents and caregivers.
Contact Hargan Psychology today if you are looking for play therapy in melbourne for a free consultation. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and discuss how play therapy can help your child blossom.
Remember, behind every playful laugh and creative spark lies a journey of healing. Let Hargan Psychology be your guide
Why play therapy?
Play therapy is a sensitive and age-appropriate therapy for young children. It is a creative counselling method that promotes physical, mental, and psycho-social development that places the child and their individual needs at the centre of therapy.
Play therapy can support children with a variety of developmental, social, emotional and learning challenges including:
- Behavioural challenges
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Learning disabilities
- Trauma
- Grief & loss
