Qualified Child Therapist
At Grounded Therapy Space- Psychotherapy and Counselling Service, our qualified child therapist has a special interest and training in using Theraplay with children who struggle with emotional regulation, ADHD and ASD, defiance, trauma, anxiety, and depression. We also support parents in using Theraplay for everyday parenting. We have extensive experience supporting the mental health of children across Liverpool and Fairfield in NSW.
"Returning to early and simple ways of playing together is like building up the foundations of your relationship"- V. Norris and H. Rodwell, authors of Parenting with Theraplay.
Theraplay For Child Therapy
Theraplay is an evidence-based therapy rooted in attachment theory and observation of healthy parent - child interactions. Recent research on polyvagal theory supports the benefit of Theraplay for co-regulation. Theraplay can be a wonderful approach that helps children of all ages to feel connected and engaged. Theraplay focuses on enhancing the parent-child relationship through playful connection. It is a "bottom-up" approach, where playful activities & joyful engagements are designed to regulate your child's internal alarm system, reducing hyper and hypo states of arousal. Since Theraplay prioritises safety and connection, evidence shows that it can help children impacted by trauma build stronger relationships with caregivers, learn coping skills, and rebuild trust. Theraplay also benefits parent-child interactions in everyday life and enhances child's self-esteem.
Theraplay emphasises four fundamental dimensions that enhance positive parent-child interactions:
Structure - By communicating and responding in consistent ways, you will learn to create a safe and predictable environment that encourage your child to cooperate.
Engagement - You develop the ability to recognise and respond to their child's cues, allowing you to better understand and meet your child’s needs.
Nurture - Through intentional and meaningful activities, your child would discover their self worth and feel loved and cherished.
Challenge - You learn to help your child step outside of their comfort zones, promoting resilience and personal growth.
Reach out to us for a 15 minute free consultation today to see if theraplay may be an option for you and your child. For theraplay sessions, appointments are only available in person at our clinic in Liverpool.
“Researchers have found that even more than IQ, your emotional awareness and ability to handle feelings will determine your success and happiness in all walks of life, including family relationships.” ― John M. Gottman
Investing in your child's emotional intelligence begins with the process of co-regulation. As a caregiver, you play a vital role in helping your child navigate their feelings and experiences. By doing so, you are equipping your child with skills to thrive in their relationships, face life's challenges with confidence, develops strong interpersonal skills, empathy and resilience.