Introduction
Play therapy is an evidence-informed approach designed for children. The ability to communicate complex thoughts and feelings in words develops gradually, and many children do not begin to express themselves comfortably in abstract ways until early adolescence.
For this reason, children often process experiences through play. In a safe relationship with a trained therapist, toys, creativity and imagination become the child’s natural language for exploring feelings and making sense of what has happened to them.
At Alaria, play therapy can take place in several different environments – indoors, outdoors and alongside animals – allowing each child to engage in the setting that feels most comfortable and supportive for them.
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When play therapy can help
Parents often seek play therapy when something doesn’t feel quite right for their child. Below are some of the situations where play therapy can make a difference.
Anxiety and worries
Some children feel anxious, worried or unsettled. Play therapy helps them explore these feelings safely and build a stronger sense of security.
Big emotions and outbursts
Children sometimes struggle with anger, frustration or emotional overwhelm. Through play, they can learn ways to understand and regulate their feelings.
Low confidence
When children doubt themselves or withdraw from challenges, play therapy can help them rediscover confidence and a sense of capability.
Friendship and social difficulties
Some children find it hard to navigate friendships or social situations. Play therapy can support them in developing trust, communication and connection.
Overwhelm at school
School pressures can sometimes feel too much. Play therapy provides space to process experiences and rebuild a sense of calm and resilience.
Life changes or difficult experiences
Changes such as family transitions, loss or other challenging experiences can affect children deeply. Play therapy helps them work through these experiences at their own pace.
Ways we offer play therapy at Alaria
Animal-Assisted Play Therapy
In animal-assisted play therapy, gentle interactions with animals can help children feel calmer, build confidence and develop trusting relationships.
Outdoor Play Therapy
Outdoor play therapy draws on the natural environment to support children in exploring feelings and expressing themselves through play.
Indoor Play Therapy
Indoor play therapy takes place in a carefully prepared playroom where children can express thoughts and feelings through play in a safe and contained environment.
Animal-Assisted Play Therapy
Animal-Assisted Play Therapy is a unique approach that blends the therapeutic benefits of play with the natural bond formed between humans and animals. This method is rooted in fostering emotional growth, resilience, and healthy attachment through playful, meaningful interactions in a safe and supportive environment.
By engaging with animals and working 1-2-1 with a therapist, children and young people can develop trust, empathy, and communication skills while exploring their emotions in a gentle, non-judgmental space. At Alaria CIC, our animal-assisted sessions are designed to support individuals in building secure relationships, enhancing self-esteem, and finding comfort in connection with both animals and the natural world.
Sessions usually take place weekly and last around 50 minutes. Parents are supported throughout the process, with check-ins at appropriate points in the therapeutic journey.
Cost per session: from £30 to £70 (sliding scale based on what’s affordable)
Suitable for: ages 4 – 16
First step: 1hr Parent/Carer Consultation
Outdoor Play Therapy
Outdoor Play Therapy takes place in the natural environment, where children and young people can explore their thoughts and feelings through play, movement, creativity, and connection with nature. The outdoors offers a calming and spacious setting that often helps children feel more relaxed and able to express themselves freely.
Working 1–2–1 with a trained play therapist, children are supported to build confidence, resilience, and emotional understanding while engaging in nature-based play and exploration. At Alaria CIC, outdoor sessions provide opportunities for children to experience freedom, curiosity, and a sense of belonging while developing self-awareness, emotional regulation, and stronger connections with both themselves and the natural world.
Sessions usually take place weekly and last around 50 minutes. Parents are supported throughout the process, with check-ins at appropriate points in the therapeutic journey.
Cost per session: from £30 to £70 (sliding scale based on what’s affordable)
Suitable for: ages 4 – 11
First step: 1hr Parent/Carer Consultation
Indoor Play Therapy
Indoor play therapy provides children with a safe and carefully prepared space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings through play. Children are supported to process emotions, build confidence and resilience, deepen emotional understanding, and develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
Rather than expecting children to explain everything with words, the therapist follows the child’s lead, using play, creativity and imagination to help them express what they may not yet have language for.
Over time, within a calm and confidential environment, the therapist builds a trusting relationship with the child. This allows them to explore experiences, emotions and challenges in a way that feels safe and manageable, helping them feel accepted, understood and supported.
Sessions usually take place weekly and last around 50 minutes. Parents are supported throughout the process, with check-ins at appropriate points in the therapeutic journey.
Cost per session: from £30 to £70 (sliding scale based on what’s affordable)
Suitable for: ages 4 – 11
First step: 1hr Parent/Carer Consultation