Neurodivergence & Play Therapy

Many families come to play therapy after receiving a diagnosis such as autism, ADHD, or when concerns arise around anxiety, trauma, emotional regulation, or development. A diagnosis can be helpful in understanding a child’s needs, but it does not define who they are.

Every child experiences and expresses their neurotype, emotions, and development in a unique way. At the heart of my work is a neuroaffirming approach that values each child’s individuality, strengths, and way of experiencing the world.

A neuroaffirming approach

In play therapy, the focus is not on changing who a child is, but on supporting who they are.

Neurodivergence and developmental differences are not viewed as something to “fix.” Instead, therapy is centred on helping children feel safe, understood, and supported while building skills that support their wellbeing and everyday life.

This includes strengthening:

• Emotional regulation

• A sense of identity and self-understanding

• Confidence and self-esteem

• Connection and relationships

• Communication of thoughts and feelings

• Coping with stress, change, and overwhelm

How play therapy helps

Play is a child’s natural language. Through play, children are able to express experiences, process emotions, and make sense of their world in a way that feels safe and developmentally appropriate.

Child-centred play therapy provides a consistent, supportive space where children can:

• Lead the session in their own way

• Explore feelings without pressure to talk

• Process difficult or overwhelming experiences

• Develop emotional awareness and regulation

• Build a stronger sense of control and agency

The therapist’s role is to provide safety, attuned presence, and gentle reflection, allowing the child’s inner world to be expressed through play.

What sessions look like

Play therapy sessions are child-led and designed to feel safe, predictable, and supportive. Children are invited to explore the playroom in their own way, with the therapist following their lead.

Sessions may include:

• Creative and symbolic play

• Emotional expression through toys, art, or movement

• Repetitive or sensory-based play

• Quiet observation and connection

There is no expectation for a child to “perform” or engage in a specific way. The emphasis is on building trust, safety, and connection over time.

Is this right for my child?

Play therapy may support children who are experiencing:

• Autism or autistic traits

• ADHD or attention and regulation differences

• Anxiety or worries

• Trauma or distressing life experiences

• Emotional overwhelm or behavioural challenges

• Difficulties with confidence, friendships, or self-expression

• Major life changes such as separation, loss, or transition

Supporting your child

While we cannot take away the underlying neurodivergence or life experiences that shape a child’s world, we can support them to develop a stronger internal sense of self, emotional safety, and agency.

Over time, this helps children feel more equipped to navigate challenges in a way that honours how they think, feel, and experience the world.

If you would like to explore whether play therapy may support your child, please feel welcome to get in touch.