Welcome to Embrace
Empowering Children & Young People toThrive Through Play and Creativity
Embrace the Power of Play!
Phone/WhatsApp
07404949832
What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a creative therapeutic approach that helps children explore their feelings, express themselves, and work through challenges using play.
While adults often rely on words, children naturally use play to communicate and make sense of their world. ​In play therapy, toys, creative materials, and imaginative play offer a safe and supportive space where children can build emotional resilience and express themselves in ways that feel right for them.
How Can Play Therapy Help my Child?
Play therapy can be a gentle and effective way to support children through emotional, social, or behavioural challenges. Over time, this process can enhance confidence, improve emotional regulation, and support more positive relationships at home and school.
​Play Therapy may be helpful for children who are experiencing:​​
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Anxiety or frequent worries
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Low self-esteem or confidence challenges
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Bereavement, loss, or separation
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Changes in family life (such as divorce, new siblings, or moving home)
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Difficulties with friendships or social connection
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Behaviour that feels challenging, withdrawn, or hard to understand
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Processing traumatic or overwhelming experiences
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Navigating life as a neurodivergent child (including autism, ADHD, or sensory needs)
The Outcomes of Play Therapy
​Play therapy can support children in developing healthy ways to manage emotions, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges. Although every child is unique and there is no fixed timeframe for change, many families notice shifts in emotional expression, confidence, and relationships as the therapeutic process unfolds.
If you’re wondering whether play therapy might be helpful for your child, feel free to get in touch. I would be happy to offer more information or talk through any questions you may have.​
About Me
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Hello, I’m Ellen, a BAPT (British Association of Play Therapists) play therapist with five + years'experience working with children, young people, and families. I hold honours degrees in social science and psychology, both of which continue to shape and inform my therapeutic practice and approach.
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Originally from Ireland, I relocated to the UK to complete my play therapy professional training at the University of Roehampton. That decision reflects not only my dedication to this work, but also my commitment to creating a therapeutic space that is culturally aware, inclusive, and respectful of each child’s background and experience. Guided by the belief that no child exists in isolation, I am passionate about working closely with parents, carers, and other key people in a child’s life. ​
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I offer sessions from a therapy space in South Wimbledon (next to the tube station), and within schools across South and South West London, with flexibility to discuss other areas. I provide both one-to-one and group-based support, whilst also working alongside adults around the child to strengthen understanding, connection, and confidence​
​What is a BAPT Play Therapist?​
As a BAPT play therapist, I have completed a Master’s-level training accredited by the British Association of Play Therapists. This includes in-depth learning in child development, attachment, and therapeutic approaches such as humanistic, systemic and psychodynamic theory.
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My practice is supported by regular clinical supervision with a BAPT-accredited supervisor and ongoing professional development. I have also engaged in personal therapy as part of my training and continue to do so, which helps to ensure I can offer safe, reflective, and ethical support to people I work with.
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There are many titles within the world of play, such as play specialists or practitioners, so it's important to check that a professional is registered with a recognised body and trained to the appropriate level to support your child’s needs.