Why Play Therapy
Play Therapy encourages confidence, imagination and creativity leading to self-resilience and regulation by supporting a child or young adult therapeutically when they are struggling to cope. Play is the child’s natural language where they can express their feelings, emotions and anxieties. Within this secure non-judgemental environment the child can heal.
Play therapy provides a safe space for children to explore their issues and experiences, and develop an understanding of their difficulties and create positive coping strategies.
Several studies have shown that Play Therapy boosts a child’s wellbeing, reduces depression, improves behaviour and medical outcomes, decreases stress and heightens self-esteem.
Testimonials
Gemma has a powerful, positive impact on all the children she works with. Gemma has a comfortable, easy, gentle way and the children respond to her instantly. For many, their time with Gemma was the highlight of the week. The progress the children made was also incredible. I have witnessed quiet, withdrawn children find their voices again; frustrated children find their calm. Gemma always worked at the child’s pace which gives the child confidence and an ability to progress.
Róisin Ní Chearúil
Acting Principal
Scoil Santain
Gemma gained my son’s trust almost immediately. He loved going to see Gemma. During his sessions, my son was greeted with a sense of safety and warmth that allowed him to develop him confidence. I noticed a change in his behavior as he developed his self-confidence, voice and he became more outgoing. Thank you Gemma.
Sandra
Mother of 4
Gemma helped with my two girls after the sudden loss of their father. Gemma genuinely understood my girls and my family during this most difficult traumatic time. They were very lucky to have had the opportunity to work with Gemma. We all still talk about her and remember the positive impression on our family fondly.
Pauline Quinn
From the first time we met Gemma we knew our son would be in good hands. Our son trusted her from the outset & really enjoyed the time he spent with her. She was able to bring him from a very worried little boy back to the fun loving easy going boy that he is. We would highly recommend Gemma as a play therapist & can’t thank her enough for all she has done for our son.
Stephen & Paula
Our Services
Play Therapy
(4-11 Years)
Creative Art Therapy
(12-18 Years)
Clinical Supervision
Play Therapy can help with:
Anxiety Loss
Bullying Depression
Identity Family Breakdown
Aggression Trauma
Low self-esteem
Emotional expression
Behavioural regulation
Improved self-image
Attachment issues
Gemma Kearns
Certified Play Therapist
Gemma is a recognised expert in her field, having worked closely with children for over twenty five years as a Montessori teacher. Establishing her own Montessori school in 1995 and being a mother of three, Gemma has gained first-hand experience of the emotional lives and stresses that can present in children and their families.
This led Gemma to train as a play therapist and to explore how she could help and guide children and families experiencing difficulties. Her goal is to help to improve behaviour, reduce stress and contribute to overall well-being in a non-judgemental environment.
Gemma is passionate about the ability of children to heal themselves, once given a safe, permissive and compassionate space that is just for them.