What is play therapy? Play therapy is exactly what it sounds like, children work through their experiences and emotions using play, art, and creative expression rather than just talking. For kids, play is their natural language. It allows them to process difficult feelings in a safe and gentle way, without needing to find the "right words." As a trained Synergetic Play Therapist, I create a space where your child can express themselves freely and at their own pace.
What is Synergetic Play Therapy? Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT) is a research-informed approach that goes beyond traditional play therapy by incorporating the science of how the brain and nervous system work. It combines play, mindfulness, the mind-body connection, and attachment theory to help children process their experiences at a deeper level.
What makes SPT unique is that it's not just about what happens in the playroom, it's about helping children become more aware of their own internal experience, build emotional regulation from the inside out, and feel truly seen and understood. Rather than trying to "fix" a child's behaviour, SPT trusts that children have an innate capacity to heal when given the right environment and support.
As a trained Synergetic Play Therapist, I bring this whole-child approach into every session, creating a space where your child feels safe enough to be exactly who they are, and supported enough to grow.
What can counselling help with? I support children, teens, and adults with a wide range of challenges, including:
- Anxiety and worry
- Big emotions and self-regulation difficulties
- Life transitions (new schools, divorce, grief, big changes)
- Family stress and relationship challenges
- Low self-esteem and confidence
- Parenting support and guidance
What should I expect in the first session? The first session is really about getting to know each other. There's no pressure to dive deep right away, we move at a pace that feels comfortable for you and your child. For younger children, I'll often spend time just playing and building trust. For parents, I'll ask questions to understand your goals and what support looks like for your family. It's a chance for everyone to get a feel for the process.
How long does counselling take? Every child and family is different, so there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Some families find a few sessions give them the tools they need, while others benefit from longer-term support. We'll check in regularly to make sure counselling is still meeting your needs, and you're always in the driver's seat.
Do parents need to be involved? Parental involvement is a big part of what I do! Supporting caregivers is just as important as supporting the child. I'll often share insights from sessions (in an age-appropriate way) and offer strategies you can use at home to reinforce what we're working on together.
I'm not sure my child will want to come. What if they're resistant? That's completely normal, many kids (and teens!) are hesitant at first. I work hard to create an environment that feels safe, fun, and pressure-free. Most children warm up quickly once they realize they won't be put on the spot. If your child is nervous, feel free to mention it when you reach out and we can talk through ways to help them feel at ease.
Do you work with adults too? Yes! While much of my work focuses on children and teens, I also support adults, particularly those who are neurodivergent or navigating the unique challenges that come with parenting.
How do I get started? The easiest first step is booking a free 15-minute phone consultation. It's a no-pressure conversation where you can share what's going on, ask any questions, and get a feel for whether we're a good fit. You can reach me at olena@skeenacounselling.com or through the contact page. I'd love to hear from you.
