Play Therapy for Autism
Harnessing Play Therapy Techniques to Support Children with Autism
Supporting Children with Autism and ADHD through Play Therapy
At Inspiring Play: Child & Family Play Therapy, we specialise in helping children with Autism and ADHD through Child-Centred Play Therapy.
Our neuroaffirming approach honours each child's unique way of experiencing the world, providing a safe, compassionate environment where they can express themselves freely and process their emotions. Using evidence-based practices and working from a trauma-informed lens, we focus on meeting each child where they are, helping them build self-regulation, emotional resilience, and healthy connections.
Our therapy empowers children to explore and work through challenges at their own pace, whether it's managing sensory sensitivities, building communication skills, or navigating emotional regulation. With a deep understanding of neurodivergence and an unwavering commitment to seeing and supporting the whole child, we partner with families to create lasting positive change, celebrating strengths and fostering growth in a supportive and affirming way.
How Child-Centred Play Therapy Supports Neurodivergent Children
Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) offers a unique, empathetic approach to supporting neurodivergent children, including those with Autism and ADHD. By providing a non-directive space where children are in control of their play, CCPT allows them to express themselves in a way that feels safe and natural, without the pressure of meeting external expectations. This is particularly important for neurodivergent children, who often experience the world in ways that may not align with conventional societal norms.
Through the therapeutic power of play, children can communicate feelings, process experiences, and explore solutions to their challenges. For children with Autism, this might look like using play to make sense of social interactions or to practice flexibility when routines change. For children with ADHD, play therapy may help with developing focus, patience, and impulse control, all while honouring their energetic and creative spirit.
In CCPT, the therapist acts as a compassionate guide, offering unconditional acceptance and support. This helps neurodivergent children feel understood and valued for who they are. As they build trust in the therapeutic relationship, children naturally begin to explore difficult emotions, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop greater emotional awareness—all of which lead to increased self-esteem and resilience.
Through this empowering and supportive framework, neurodivergent children can thrive, learning to navigate the complexities of their inner and outer worlds with confidence and a sense of self-worth.