Finding Play Therapy for a Child
Some children find it easier to express a worry through play than through a conversation. Play therapy is a trained therapeutic approach, and suitability depends on the individual child.
- Every profile checked by our team
- Secure online sessions
- Book in minutes
- No account needed
What a first appointment can look like
A parent might first discuss changes they have noticed. The therapist can explain how the child chooses activities, what feedback parents receive, and why they may not interpret an individual drawing or game in isolation.
What sessions might explore
Depending on your situation, sessions may explore developmentally appropriate play, relationships and emotional regulation. Ask the practitioner how caregivers are involved, how consent is obtained and what information may be shared for safeguarding.
Choosing support
Ask for specific play-therapy qualifications, registration, age-group experience and how consent and parent involvement are agreed. Confirm the therapist's play-therapy qualifications, age range and safeguarding processes.
Related support
You can also explore parenting and family therapy. For further information, see NHS information on consent for children and young people.
Clinically reviewed by Daniel Rosenberg, Senior Counsellor, ACCPH Member, General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR) Registrant on 5 November 2026.
Find therapists who list play therapy as an area of support
Amanda Stein
Adult and children’s integrative counsellor. EMDR practitioner
Chiara Casonato
Psychotherapist
IAN JAMES SMITH
Counselling therapist
Rio Jones
Integrative Counsellor & Psychotherapist
How Veyro works
- 1
Browse
Filter by what you need help with, price, gender, language and more.
- 2
Book
Pick a time that suits you and pay securely. No account needed.
- 3
Talk
Meet your therapist online from wherever you feel comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
What happens in play therapy?
It depends on your goals. Sessions may explore developmentally appropriate play, relationships and emotional regulation; a practitioner should explain their approach and agree priorities with you.
When might a family consider play therapy?
Consider specialist advice if a child struggles to express distress in words or needs an age-appropriate way to communicate. A practitioner can discuss whether play therapy fits.
Could a therapist work with my child remotely?
Suitability depends on the child, setting and materials. Ask how the therapist will protect privacy, involve a parent and adapt if the child cannot engage online.
How are parents involved in play therapy?
Ask whether a caregiver joins the first meeting, what feedback the therapist shares and how a child can express their wishes. The practitioner should explain consent and safeguarding before work begins.
How do I choose a therapist for play therapy?
Ask for specific play-therapy qualifications, registration, age-group experience and how consent and parent involvement are agreed.
What if counselling is not enough?
Confirm the therapist's play-therapy qualifications, age range and safeguarding processes. You can ask a therapist about referrals and support that may be more appropriate.
What should I do if I need urgent help?
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. For urgent mental-health help in England, call NHS 111 and select the mental-health option. Elsewhere in the UK, contact your local NHS urgent mental-health service or GP out-of-hours service. Veyro cannot provide emergency care.