Neurodiversity and Play Therapy

Many families come to 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.

If you would like to explore play therapy as an option in supporting your child, please feel welcome to get in touch.‍ ‍

  • 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

  • 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.

  • If you’re wondering whether this is the right support for your child, play therapy can be a gentle and effective option for many neurodivergent children, including those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or differences in emotional regulation. It may be especially helpful if your child finds it hard to express feelings with words, becomes easily overwhelmed, or struggles with connection, confidence, or behaviour. Play therapy meets your child where they are, supporting them in a way that feels safe, respectful, and aligned with how they naturally communicate and experience the world.