Lynne Callaghan

I am available Monday to Friday 9am till 5pm.

I am available term time only.

I am a person-centred play therapist specialising in work with children aged 3 to 12. My practice is grounded in the belief that every child has an innate capacity to grow, heal and make sense of their world when they are offered a safe, accepting and consistent therapeutic relationship. Play is a child’s natural language, and through the playroom I provide a space where feelings, worries and experiences can be expressed freely in a way that feels comfortable and developmentally appropriate.

In our sessions, the child leads the way. I follow their pace, interests and emotional needs, offering gentle presence, attunement and understanding rather than directing or instructing. This approach allows children to build trust, develop a stronger sense of self, and explore difficult emotions or experiences in a way that feels manageable and empowering for them.

I work closely with parents and carers to ensure that the therapeutic process feels supportive for the whole family. While the play sessions remain confidential to protect the child’s sense of safety, I provide regular reviews to share themes, progress and ways you can continue supporting your child between sessions.

My aim is to create a nurturing, consistent and non-judgemental space where children feel free to be themselves—whether that means expressing big emotions, exploring worries, or simply having a place where they feel understood. I am committed to supporting each child in developing emotional resilience, confidence and healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.

My practice is dedicated to providing a calm, consistent and child-centred therapeutic environment where children aged 3 to 12 can explore their inner world through play. I offer a fully equipped playroom designed to give children a range of expressive options—such as creative arts materials, sensory items, small-world toys and role-play resources—so they can communicate feelings and experiences in the way that comes most naturally to them.

As a person-centred practitioner, I focus on building a trusting relationship through acceptance, empathy and a reliable, predictable presence. I do not direct or interpret a child’s play; instead, I follow their lead and support them in expressing themselves safely and at their own pace. This approach helps children develop emotional awareness, confidence, resilience and a stronger sense of who they are.

Parents and carers are an essential part of the therapeutic process. Before beginning sessions, I offer an initial parent consultation to understand your child’s history, current challenges and hopes for therapy. While the content of the child’s play remains confidential to protect their sense of safety, I provide regular review meetings where we can discuss themes, progress and any support that may be helpful at home or school.

I work with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, emotional regulation issues, low self-esteem, bereavement, family changes, behavioural struggles and the impact of past experiences. Whatever your child is facing, my aim is to offer a steady, compassionate space where they can feel seen, understood and supported.

I welcome children exactly as they are, and my practice is inclusive and sensitive to diverse backgrounds, needs and experiences. Together, we create a therapeutic environment where your child can grow, make sense of their feelings, and move towards greater emotional well-being.