Play Therapy Melbourne Services
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 Melbourne. When words get lost, play becomes a bridge, connecting children to their emotions and helping them navigate life’s challenges.
What is Child Centred Play Therapy?
Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) or children’s play therapy 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 (Lego therapy).
- 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 children's play therapy?
Play therapy Melbourne 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