The founder of canvas play therapy

PG DIP. (PLAY THERAPY), PG (SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY STUDIES), BA, TRAUMA INFORMED PRACTITIONER AND FULL PTUK MEMBERSHIP 

I have worked with children for over 16 years and have a desire for supporting children on their journey to working through their problems through play. Using a child centred approach, I believe that children have the solutions to their own problems within them, though require the time, space and support to do so- which is where I come in. 

Beginning as pastoral support in schools, I trained in play therapy and found a passion for providing a place where children are able to feel safe and able to tell their personal stories, tune in to their feelings, observe their thoughts, and accelerate their problem solving ability, all through play. 

Children can be daring and courageous in play therapy, dreaming up whole new ways of connecting and relating in the world, growing the confidence to apply their new tools to real-life situations. The ultimate goal of play therapy is to help children grow up to be competent, self-aware, inner-directed, secure, peaceful, and loving individuals.I have worked within schools across Greater Manchester supporting children and families through individual therapy sessions, delivery of group sessions in schools and working with parents and families using therapeutic methods to build attachments and develop stronger relationships and love building a strong community around the child to help them when they need it most. 

Over the years I have worked with different organisations supporting children and families through loss/bereavement, domestic violence, neurodivergence, attachment disorders, trauma, emotional de-regulation, anxiety, and various challenging circumstances. 

I use a non-directive client centred method; employing a psychodynamic approach with emphasis on the client's abilities and strengths. I strive to have a playroom which fosters children's imagination and open-ended activities thoughtfully designed to expand children's inherent ability to imagine exciting new solutions to childhood’s biggest hurdles. 

I am a full member of the regulating body PTUK (Play Therapy UK) which ensures ethical standards are held and maintained- something which is the heart of my ethos. I have a current DBS, Professional Liabilities Insurance and a full range of policies available on request.