About the sessions
About the sessions...
Individual sessions
Depending on the child / young person, each session will last 30 to 45 minutes. The number of play and creative arts therapy sessions required will depend on the child / young person and their individual needs. Generally, play and creative arts therapy is a short-term intervention (12 sessions) but in some cases children will require extended treatment. The overall average number of sessions is 15.
The individual sessions are mainly non-directive. The child / young person decides what they want to do while the therapist holds the
space and sticks to Axline's Principles. During the session the child plays out their feelings, doing what is natural to them. They can choose to use any of the following from the play therapy toolkit:
- Sand trays
- Arts and craft
- Drama and role-play
- Music
- Puppets
- Toy figures
- Therapeutic stories
- Creative visualisations
Through this process the child explores and makes sense of inexplicable emotions. This facilitates the development of healthier relationships and enhanced emotional literacy. It can help the child have a more positive view of the world, helping to unlock their full potential.
Group sessions
The group sessions can be for up to 4 clients. All the children in the group struggle with a similar issue, such as a lack of self esteem, a transition in their life, with their peers, or with a loss. The therapist plans out a minimum of 6 sessions during which the children participate in mostly therapist-led activities. The activities range from painting to creative visualisations and / or therapeutic stories.
