Questions & Answers
It is completely understandable that you will have lots of questions to ask whilst making an informed decision whilst considering how best to support your child. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions although you can simply email or message me if required!
Q. How do I know if my child needs Play Therapy?
Q. What should I tell my child about coming to Play Therapy?
A. I have created introductory letters for children aged 4-8 and 9-12 years of age. It has a photo of me on the letter. It explains in general terms about Play Therapy to answer common questions children ask. There are also child friendly videos on Play Therapy I can send you to sit and watch with your child.
Q. What if my child is on a CAMHS waiting list?
A. I am not a CAMHS registered therapist or employed by the NHS. I am self employed. Your child can remain on a CAMHS waiting list and still see a school Play therapist in the meantime. Please be aware that waiting lists for Play Therapy on the NHS can be very lengthy. Most CAMHS Play Therapy referrals generally often can only allocate 6-8 sessions for a child, which unfortunately in many cases isn't enough to see lasting meaningful change.
Q. My child has an E.H.C.P. can this cover costs?
A. The answer to this will depend on the details outlined in the EHCP. If you are unsure, check with your child's school SENCO. I regularly work with children whose EHCPs cover either the full or part of the cost of therapeutic work required.
Q. What should my child wear to sessions?
A. Your child wears whatever they usually wear for school. Aprons are provided in sessions, although the child is given a choice to use these or not.
Q. Can my child bring their own toys?
A. Your child will attend sessions in the school day so any toys have to remain in their bag. This is to maintain the safety of their belongings.
Q. Will I need to be present when my child is in sessions?
A. No, your child will attend therapy during the school day, so I agree to collect and return your child to class. I will meet with you before therapy starts, and then for a review every 6-7 weeks or half term and then towards the end of the therapy.
Q. Do both parents have to give permission?
A. Yes, I request parental permission from both parents if the care of the child is shared between them. In the case of an absent parent who has no or little contact with the child, then permission is not required.
Q. What if my child is reluctant or refuses to come?
A. This is generally very rare as most children are happy to attend the sessions. I support for a child's right to choose and to respect their autonomy. However, for those children that are unsure or nervous, there are a number of different approaches that I will discuss with you to decide if you wish to try this.
Listening to the child's thoughts and opinions on why they are struggling to access support might involve a conversation with the SENCO and the child together as this can help reassure and support the child. A child should never feel forced or pushed into therapy. Sometimes a child may feel worried about what their peers will say or that they will ask questions. This is just natural curiosity and the novelty usually doesn't last longer than a few weeks. I have a fact sheet on supporting children who may need extra reassurance which I am happy to share with any parents who have concerns.
"Your early childhood experiences create who you are." Bessel van der Kolk, World renowned Psychologist