20+ years experience
No HSE waiting list
PTIrl accredited
Based in Blarney, Cork
Is Your Child Struggling With
Does any of this sound familiar?
Anxiety or Constant Worry
Refusing school, difficulty sleeping, or seeming fearful without a clear reason
Meltdowns and Big Emotions
Anger, aggression, or emotional outbursts that feel out of proportion
Difficulty Making Friends
Social withdrawal, trouble with peers or siblings, low confidence
Specialist support from a neuroaffirmative practitioner who understands your child
Family Change or Trauma
Divorce, bereavement, separation or a difficult life event affecting your child
School Avoidance or Learning Difficulties
Reluctance to Attend School, Concentration Problems, or Falling Behind
What Is Play Therapy
How play therapy helps your child
Children often can't find the words to describe what they're feeling. Play therapy gives them a different way to express themselves through art, sand play, storytelling and role play in a safe, confidential space.
As your child works through their emotions in play, they build coping skills, self-confidence, and the ability to manage their feelings. Parents are involved throughout the process.
Safe Expression
Children can express thoughts and feelings through play as they often lack the verbal...
Skill Development
Improves emotional regulation, problem solving and social skills.
Emotional Healing
Helps children process and manage difficult emotions.
Family Support
Encourages better family communication and understanding.
The Process 3 Steps
What to Expect
01
We start with a confidential call to understand your child's needs and answer any questions you have. No commitment required.
02
Weekly Sessions in Blarney
Your child attends a 40-minute session each week at the same time and place. You'll receive regular updates every 4–6 weeks to discuss progress.
03
Your Child Starts to Thrive
Most families notice real change within a few months. We close therapy together when your child is in a healthier, more confident place.
About Elaine
My name is
Elaine Breen. I am a registered accredited Play Therapist. I am also Parent Child Relationship Play practitioner, supporting parents to over come behavioural challenges through connection and play with their children.
I have over 20 years experience as a parent and family support practitioner, providing individual and group parenting support, wellbeing programmes as well as assisting families navigate complex systems to identify and access the services they need for themselves and their children.
Elaine’s certifications
City skyline
Birthday Sparks
Fashion Magazine
Blurred Lines
Child Play Therapy Services
Play Therapy
One-to-one sessions helping your child express emotions and build coping skills through play.
Parent Support
Practical guidance and strategies to help you support your child at home alongside their therapy.
Play Therapy for Schools
Working with teachers and school staff to support children's emotional wellbeing in the classroom.
Training and Workshops
Working with teachers and school staff to support children's emotional wellbeing in the classroom.
Frequently Ask Questions
Who can benefit from play therapy?
Play therapy can help children dealing with anxiety, school refusal, meltdowns, low confidence, grief, family change such as divorce or bereavement, autism, ADHD, and social difficulties. If you're unsure whether your child would benefit, the free consultation is the best place to start.
How long does play therapy take?
Most children attend weekly 40-minute sessions over a period of 3 to 6 months. Every child is different and progress is reviewed regularly with parents every 4 to 6 weeks. There is no set number of sessions, therapy closes when your child is in a healthier, more confident place.
How much does play therapy cost?
Session fees are discussed during the free initial consultation. Many families find that the investment is significantly less than the cost of waiting on an HSE list while their child continues to struggle.
Do I need a referral from a GP?
No. Parents can self-refer directly by completing the short referral form or calling Elaine on 087 649 7925. Referrals are also accepted from GPs, teachers, social workers and psychologists.
If you feel your child or a child in your care could benefit from play therapy, you are welcome to contact me in confidence to arrange a consultation meeting.
Will my child know they are in therapy?
Children experience play therapy as play rather than as a clinical appointment. The therapy room is warm and welcoming, filled with art materials, sand trays, puppets and toys. Most children look forward to their sessions.
How are parents involved?
Parents are a vital part of the process. Before therapy begins, Elaine meets with you to understand your child's needs and agree goals. During therapy, parents meet with Elaine every 4 to 6 weeks to review progress and discuss strategies you can use at home.
Is play therapy confidential?
Yes. Everything discussed in sessions is confidential. The only exceptions are if there are concerns about a child's safety, in which case Elaine is legally obliged to follow child protection procedures, this is standard practice for all registered therapists.
Take the First Step Today
Getting in touch is simple and completely confidential.
Referrals are welcome from parents, GPs, teachers and social workers.
