Avalon uses an Integrative Holistic model of Creative Play Therapy to best support children to build on their emotional literacy, increase emotional regulation, and support them with any behaviour, social, or mental health problems. This model encapsulates various models of both directive and non-directive therapies.
Avalon uses a wide range of creative tools in her sessions including art, music, games, role play, and small world play. These tools support children in processing their experiences and any difficulties in order to cope better day to day, and build on their self-esteem and self-awareness.
Brain research shows the use of metaphor can strongly support the brain to make new neural pathways and connections. Creative Play Therapy with children can help them learn new ways of managing their feelings and instinctual reactions. Unlike talking focused therapies, play therapy uses children's most natural resource for learning - play - in a therapeutic environment with a trained and experienced therapist to support their well-being and emotional regulation.
Avalon has specialised in working with children in care and adopted children since 2012, whilst she continues to expand her experience working with children living at home. She works with children in both mainstream, and Behavioural, Emotional, and Social Difficulties (BESD)/residential schools.
Avalon works closely with parents and carers, teachers, and social workers to help them find new ways to manage and support their child’s behaviour, as well as building on their understanding of the effect of any trauma, loss, or attachment difficulties.
Avalon offers group play therapy to siblings, or children with low level needs who have experienced a similar experience, or struggle with a similar need such as low self-esteem.