For children · Durbanville, Cape Town
Play Therapy
Helping children communicate what words sometimes cannot, through the natural language of play.
Book a Session71%
of referred children show positive change after therapeutic play
PTI / PTUK research
Ages 3–12
primary age range, with adaptations for adolescents and adults
Play Therapy International
40 min
per session, optimised for children's attention spans
Clinical practice standard
Definition
Play Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses play as the primary medium for communication and healing. Rather than requiring children to express themselves verbally, Play Therapy uses toys, art, sand, and creative materials to help children process difficult experiences, develop emotional regulation, and build resilience in a safe, boundaried environment.
Evidence-based
Does therapeutic play work?
Therapeutic play is a well-established discipline grounded in a number of psychological theories. Research, both qualitative and quantitative, consistently demonstrates its effectiveness.
Research by PTI, affiliated with Play Therapy International, indicates that 71% of children referred to therapeutic play will show positive change.
In a safe, confidential, and caring environment, children use play and creativity to access their inner world and process difficult experiences, without the need for medication.
71%
of children referred to therapeutic play show positive change
Source: Play Therapy International / PTUK research
How it works
Isn't it just playing?
Play is the natural language of children. Where adults use words to process their experiences, children use play. Play Therapy uses this instinctive behaviour as a therapeutic medium, creating a bridge between a child's inner world and the support they need.
Through carefully structured sessions, children can process difficult experiences, develop healthy coping skills, and build emotional resilience, all in a space where they feel truly safe and accepted.
Shareé is a PTI Registered Play Therapist and member of Play Therapy International, with a professional commitment to formally trained, evidence-based practice.
For parents
What to expect as a parent
Starting therapy for your child can feel daunting. Here is what the process looks like from your side.
Initial consultation
Shareé meets with you (the parent or caregiver) first to understand your concerns, your child's history, and what you're hoping to achieve.
Child sessions
Your child attends weekly sessions. You wait in the reception area. The session is a safe, boundaried space with just your child and Shareé.
Regular check-ins
Shareé provides regular progress updates and works collaboratively with you throughout the process. Your involvement matters.
A specialised modality
Sand Play Therapy
Sand Play is one of the core modalities used in sessions. Using a tray of sand and a collection of miniature figures, clients create scenes from their inner world without needing to put thoughts or feelings into words.
This powerful, non-directive approach allows unconscious material to surface safely, making it particularly effective for trauma, grief, anxiety, and complex emotional processing. It is especially valuable for clients who find talk therapy difficult or limited.
While Sand Play is widely used with children, Shareé is also qualified to offer it with adults, where it can unlock depth of healing that talking alone often cannot reach.
Children & adults
Available for both children and adults as a standalone or complementary modality.
Non-verbal processing
Ideal where words are not enough. The sand and figures do the talking.
Safe & contained
The tray provides a bounded, safe space for exploring even the most difficult experiences.
What I can help with
Can my child benefit from Play Therapy?
Play Therapy can help children across a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and mental health challenges, including:
Session cost
Play Therapy
R550
40 minutes per session
In-person only · All materials included
Durbanville, Cape Town
Book a Session NowQuestions & Answers
Play Therapy Questions Answered
What age is Play Therapy suitable for?
Play Therapy is most commonly used with children aged 3 to 12, though the techniques can be adapted for adolescents and adults. Sand Play (one of the core modalities Shareé uses) is effective across all age groups.
Do I sit in on my child's sessions?
Generally, children benefit most from one-on-one time with the therapist in a safe, boundaried space. Shareé will keep you fully informed of progress through regular parent consultations. Your involvement and input are an important part of the process.
How many sessions will my child need?
Every child is different. Some children show significant improvement within 6–10 sessions; others with more complex presentations may benefit from longer-term support. Shareé reviews progress regularly and will discuss the appropriate number of sessions with you.
What is Sand Play therapy?
Sand Play uses a tray of sand and a collection of miniature figures to allow children (and adults) to create scenes from their inner world without needing to use words. This non-directive approach is particularly effective for trauma, grief, and anxiety. Shareé is qualified to offer Sand Play with both children and adults.
Is Play Therapy just playing?
No. Play is the therapeutic medium, not the goal. Children use play to process difficult experiences the same way adults use words in talk therapy. Shareé is a PTI Registered Play Therapist trained in evidence-based approaches grounded in psychological theory.
Where are sessions held?
Play Therapy sessions are held in-person at 40 Burton Street, Aurora, Durbanville, Cape Town. All materials are included in the session fee. Play Therapy is not currently available online, as the physical materials are an essential part of the process.
Get in touch
Need more information?
Reach out with questions or to arrange a free 10-minute introductory call.
Book a Session Now