I have a private practice in Lostwithiel and have worked extensively with children in Cornwall who have experienced trauma and neglect: I work in a systemic manner, advising parents, carers and other professionals (in healthcare, social care and educational arenas) in order to better support children at home and in school.  I currently combine my private practice with working 2 days per week for the Cornish-based charity CLEAR.  Previously, I have had three years’ previous experience of being a Play Therapist with the Jigsaw Post Abuse Service, part of Cornwall Council: this service offered therapeutic support to children and their families where there had been a disclosure of sexual abuse.  I also had five years' previous experience as a Play Therapist for the children’s charity Barnardo’s, primarily offering support to adoptive families as well as dyadic and group support for families that had experienced domestic abuse. 

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When working with an individual child, I primarily offer Non-directive Play Therapy but also work in a more integrative manner when this would benefit the child (e.g. in addressing a negative misconception, supporting the child developing relaxation strategies or where direct safety work is advisable).

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In addition to my MSc Play Therapy, I also have a Diploma in Neuro-Dramatic-Play and I am a trained Filial Therapist.  In both of these types of Play Therapy interventions, I support parents or carers in the play sessions with their child or children.  I have found working with parent / carer and child together has been extremely effective in enhancing a child’s attachment security with their adoptive parents and foster carers; resulting in a much more rewarding relationship for both parent / carer and child. 

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Recently, I became qualified to offer the Child Attachment and Play Assessment or CAPA (www.the-capa.com)

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Prior to becoming a Play Therapist, I was a Primary School Teacher.  With twelve years of professional teaching and leadership experience, I believe that I have a solid understanding of child-development and am able to support school staff with practicable strategies for children. 

Amanda is a BAPT and PTUK approved Clinical Supervisor and offers individual and group supervision to professionals.