Play and Creative Therapies for Children and Young People
EPIC offers play, art and drama therapy for children and young people who may find it easier to express themselves through activity rather than conversation. Delivered by our highly specialist creative arts therapist in a dedicated bespoke space, these therapies allow children to explore difficult experiences in ways that feel manageable and safe.
What are play and creative therapies?
Play and creative therapies are therapeutic approaches designed specifically for children and young people who may not always have the words to explain how they feel. The therapies allow children to express themselves through activities such as imaginative play, drawing, storytelling, movement, or working with materials like sand, clay or paint.
When are play and creative therapies recommended?
Following assessment, these therapies are often recommended for younger children, but they can also be very helpful for older children and young people who have language or learning difficulties, or who particularly enjoy creative expression.
Who will benefit from play and creative therapies?
Play and creative therapies can support a wide range of emotional, behavioural and social difficulties. These include worries, fears, traumatic experiences, attachment difficulties, behavioural challenges and difficulties managing strong emotions.
How are play and creative therapies delivered?
Sessions are delivered by our highly specialist creative arts therapist in a dedicated, bespoke, fully equipped space. The approaches used are adapted for each child and young person’s needs and preferences, grounded in child development and psychological theory. Our therapist follows the child or young person’s lead, allowing them to process experiences in a way that feels manageable and safe.
What is the outcome?
Play and creative therapies help a child or young person feel understood and supported without having to talk. This allows them to explore difficult experiences, develop healthier ways of coping, build confidence and self-esteem, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen relationships and trust.
How much does it cost?
- Play and creative therapy – £160 per session, with a minimum of eight sessions recommended
Please see our costs explained.
Frequently Asked Questions
Play and creative therapies are often recommended for younger children, but they can also be very effective for older children and young people who have language or learning difficulties, or who particularly enjoy creative expression. Your therapist will discuss whether this approach is suitable for your child or young person.
Sessions might include imaginative play, drawing, storytelling, movement, or working with materials such as sand, clay or paint. The activities used are adapted to each child’s needs and preferences, following their lead.
No. Play and creative therapies are specifically designed to help children express themselves without having to find the words. This makes them particularly helpful for children who have experienced trauma, who are pre-verbal or who find talking therapies overwhelming.
Sessions take place in EPIC’s dedicated creative therapies space, designed to feel welcoming and safe for children and young people.
A minimum of eight sessions is recommended. Your therapist will discuss the recommended length and frequency of therapy at the start, and review progress regularly.
Related Services
- Initial Assessments – the consultant-led first appointment that all our pathways begin with
- Trauma and Attachment Assessment – often related to creative therapy work
- Therapies and Medication – see all our therapy options
- Costs Explained – what’s included in our pricing and why