Play Therapy

What is Play Therapy?

 Play Therapy in Skerries, Co. Dublin

Supporting emotional wellbeing through creative, child-led play

Caoimhe O’Grady Tegart is a fully qualified Play Therapist, accredited by the National University of Ireland Galway, the University of Chichester, and a member of both APAC and Play Therapy Ireland (PTI).

 What is Play Therapy?

Play Therapy offers children a safe, confidential space to express emotions, process experiences, and build resilience—all through play.

  •  45-minute one-to-one sessions (not group-based)

  •  Child-led (non-directive) with some structured and directive elements as needed

  •  Children use toys, sand, arts & crafts, puppets, books, clay, and more

  •  Helps children process emotions, adapt to life changes, and self-regulate

  •  No pressure to talk or explain—play becomes their language

Note: Children can also choose not to play. Respecting their choices is key.

Why It Works

  • A strong, trusting therapist-child relationship is central

  • Weekly consistency in time, space, and environment is essential

  • Children are gently supported within clear safe boundaries

  • Encourages emotional healing, self-expression, and confidence

Art_playtherapy

 Location

All sessions take place in person in Skerries, Co. Dublin.

 What If My Child Doesn’t Play Much?

No problem! Children are naturally drawn to what they need.
We offer a variety of materials to suit all personalities and ages:

  • Sand play, characters, puppets, LEGO, games & books

  • Art & crafts, slime, plasticine, clay

  • Creative activities for ages 5 to 14
    (Older children 11-14 engage in Creative Arts Therapy)

 Does Play Therapy Work?

Yes! A UK-based Kent Pilot Trial carried out in a number of schools showed:

  •  98% improvement in children's wellbeing

  •  Better communication, listening & group work

  •  Increased participation and fewer absences

 How Long Is It?

  • Minimum commitment: 12 weekly sessions

  • Long-term impact builds over time

  • Please only book if you can commit weekly

 Parent Tip:

Never ask your child what happened in a session—just like adult therapy, privacy and trust are vital. And please avoid cancelling, changing, interrupting or shortening sessions.