Play Therapy for Children with Autism and ADHD in Cork
Finding the right therapeutic support for a neurodivergent child can be one of the most frustrating experiences a parent faces. Too often, families are told to wait on HSE lists, on assessment queues, on a system that simply can't move fast enough for a child who needs support now.
At Heart in Mind Play Therapy, I offer specialist play therapy for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD from a neuroaffirmative perspective.
That means I work with your child as they are not trying to change them, but helping them understand themselves and feel more at ease in the world.
What neuroaffirmative play therapy means in practice
Neuroaffirmative practice starts from the position that autism and ADHD are differences, not deficits. Your child's brain works in a particular way and that way has real strengths alongside real challenges.
In my therapy room, sessions are adapted to suit your child's individual sensory, communication and emotional needs.
There is no pressure to behave in a certain way or meet a neurotypical standard. The space is calm, predictable and designed to feel safe.
For children with Autism
Many autistic children struggle to find a therapeutic space that truly works for them. I use a range of approaches sand play, sensory activities, creative visualisation and structured play that suit different communication styles and sensory profiles. Sessions follow a consistent routine so your child always knows what to expect.
For children with ADHD
Play therapy is a natural fit for children with ADHD — it works with their energy and creativity rather than against it. Sessions help children with ADHD develop emotional regulation, understand their own impulses, and build self-confidence in a non-pressured environment.
Common challenges I support neurodivergent children with
- Emotional dysregulation and meltdowns
- Anxiety and demand avoidance
- Difficulty with transitions and change
- Social difficulties and friendship challenges
- Low self-esteem and negative self-image
- School avoidance and school-related anxiety
- Sensory overwhelm and regulation difficulties
.
Support for parents of neurodivergent children
Parenting a neurodivergent child is rewarding and exhausting in equal measure. The assessments, the school meetings, the advocacy, the daily navigation of a world that wasn't designed for your child it takes an enormous amount from parents.
As a Parent-Child Relationship practitioner, I work with you directly alongside your child's therapy.
I can help you understand your child's behaviour through a neurodivergent lens, develop strategies that work at home, and feel more confident and
supported in your parenting.
Specialist experience you can trust
I'm Elaine Breen, a PTIrl registered accredited play therapist with a specialist interest in Autism and ADHD. I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Play Therapy from the University of Galway and have over 20 years of experience supporting neurodivergent children and their families across Cork.
I am a neuroaffirmative practitioner, which means everything I do in the therapy room reflects a genuine respect for how your child's brain works.
20+ years experience
No HSE waiting list
PTIrl accredited
Based in Blarney, Cork