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Play Therapy

Play Therapy

Play Therapy is a child-centred approach to emotional support that is specially designed to fit how children grow, learn, and understand the world. Unlike adults, young children often struggle to express their thoughts and feelings in words. For them, play is a natural and powerful way to express themselves—it’s their language. In Play Therapy, children use toys, art, stories, and imaginative play to explore their emotions and experiences in a way that feels safe and comfortable. The therapist gently supports them through this process, helping them make sense of big feelings or difficult events at a pace that suits them. Play Therapy meets children at their level—emotionally, socially, and developmentally—so they feel understood and empowered.

Play Therapy is especially helpful for children between the ages of 3 and 12 who may be struggling with emotional or mental health challenges. It can be beneficial for children who have experienced things like trauma, family changes (like divorce or separation), grief, bullying, illness, low self-esteem, anxiety, or difficulties with behaviour and relationships.

Through Play Therapy, children can:

  • Learn to express and manage their feelings
  • Build confidence and self-esteem
  • Process difficult or confusing experiences
  • Practise emotional regulation skills
  • Develop healthier ways of relating to others

Some children may experience positive changes within 12 sessions. Others, particularly those dealing with more complex situations, may benefit from 20 to 30 sessions. After an initial assessment period, we’ll work closely with you, as parents or caregivers, to plan what is best for your child and check in regularly to review their progress.

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Reviews

From our Clients

I really like the all-round approach that is offered for people with ADHD. Being diagnosed as an adult, it’s been great being able to sort my medication, therapy and support with systems and sensory through the one practice. I’ve worked with a psychiatrist, psychologist and occupational therapist who have all been really supportive and this has given me a great approach to managing and understanding my ADHD that isn’t just based on medication.

"I really like the all-round approach that is offered for people with ADHD. Being diagnosed as an adult, it’s been great being able to sort my medication, therapy and support with systems and sensory through the one practice. I’ve worked with a psychiatrist, psychologist and occupational therapist who have all been really supportive and this […]"

I can’t thank the team enough for all their efforts, expertise and empathy before, during and after my Autism / ADHD assessment. They massively helped me navigate and bounce back from the hardest period of my life. I am forever in their debt. I live in Northern Ireland, but I did my research on neurodiverse specialist therapy / assessment providers who offer online sessions. I found the St. Andrew’s Practice to stand out from the crowd due to the range, depth and bespoke nature of the assessments and interventions their team collectively provide. I would highly recommend the St Andrew’s Practice to anyone that believes they may be neurodiverse, and wishes the insight that diagnosis and treatment brings, and the tools that the expert Occupational Therapist helps teach you to make practical life-improving changes.

"I can’t thank the team enough for all their efforts, expertise and empathy before, during and after my Autism / ADHD assessment. They massively helped me navigate and bounce back from the hardest period of my life. I am forever in their debt. I live in Northern Ireland, but I did my research on neurodiverse […]"

I really like the all-round approach that is offered for people with ADHD. Being diagnosed as an adult, it’s been great being able to sort my medication, therapy and support with systems and sensory through the one practice. I’ve worked with a psychiatrist, psychologist and occupational therapist who have all been really supportive and this has given me a great approach to managing and understanding my ADHD that isn’t just based on medication.

"I really like the all-round approach that is offered for people with ADHD. Being diagnosed as an adult, it’s been great being able to sort my medication, therapy and support with systems and sensory through the one practice. I’ve worked with a psychiatrist, psychologist and occupational therapist who have all been really supportive and this […]"

The most immediate thing I felt was how relaxed I felt talking about myself for over one hour, considering I was very anxious prior to the appointment. Another immediate benefit was, that I’ve slept soundly every night since the first appointment and sleep is something which has been a debilitating problem for me, for years. This diagnosis has given me closure and I now feel happy within myself. I can now look forward to a brighter future, without analysing myself 24 hours a day.

"The most immediate thing I felt was how relaxed I felt talking about myself for over one hour, considering I was very anxious prior to the appointment. Another immediate benefit was, that I’ve slept soundly every night since the first appointment and sleep is something which has been a debilitating problem for me, for years. […]"

I started going to therapy at The St Andrews Practice last year following the sudden and unexpected death of my husband. The St Andrews Practice gave me that place to grieve and supported me in the grieving process. My therapist has really helped me in coming to terms with his death, the events, the complexities, the trauma and in finding a new life for myself. I couldn’t recommend therapy, my therapist or The St. Andrews Practice more. They honestly have been my life-line in the most difficult of times and I don’t believe I would be where I am today with my grief had it not been for my therapist and The St Andrews Practice. I will be forever grateful for all they have done for me.

"I started going to therapy at The St Andrews Practice last year following the sudden and unexpected death of my husband. The St Andrews Practice gave me that place to grieve and supported me in the grieving process. My therapist has really helped me in coming to terms with his death, the events, the complexities, […]"

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Our Vision

Sustainable innovations for mental health & wellbeing

Holistic

Treating the whole person, emphasising the connections between the mind and the body.

Connectedness

We believe passionately in connecting with people to build relationships that enrich lives.

Sustainability

Strategic, purposeful approach to effective collaboration, partnership, and support that furthers the organization’s mission beyond profit.


Mission Statement

To help you inhabit your strengths, cope with life’s challenges, and thrive in your unique way

Growth Mindset

The cultivation of learning, resilience and adaptability, viewing problems from multiple perspectives.

Innovation

We are not afraid to be different. We try new things and embrace progress. We are committed to being and staying on the cutting edge.

Community

Advocating for the human rights, dignity, and diversity of every person, with respect and compassion.