By Dionne Meehan
ANXIETY among children in Donegal is on the rise, fuelled by factors ranging from social media to the impact of the pandemic.
Self-image issues, low self-esteem and a lack of self-worth may not be the first things we associate with children.
However, in a world overwhelmed by celebrity culture, children are grappling with these feelings more than we realise.
That is according to Avril Gallagher, a play therapist from Inspire Play Therapy, based in Bridgend.
Originally from Gortahork, Avril is a teacher at St Baithin’s National School in St Johnston.
As children face growing challenges in their daily lives, she noticed many of them becoming dysregulated, emotional and anxious.
Seeking effective support, she consulted a psychiatrist who recommended play therapy, a therapeutic approach that allows children to express their emotions and work through challenges using the language they know best.
“I had never heard of it,” Avril admitted to the Donegal News.
“It was just so hard to find a play therapist locally.
“There was a waiting list and they didn’t come to schools. So, I decided to train myself.”
Four years later, Avril qualified as a play therapist before continuing her training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
With her career going from strength to strength in the years that followed, last June was a pivotal moment when she, joined by her two partners, Derry women Joanne Mc Shane and Cathy Park, opened Inspire Play Therapy in Elaghbeg Business Park in Bridgend.
Together, Avril, Cathy and Joanne provide a safe, nurturing environment where children can build on confidence, find their own solutions and strengthen their emotional resilience.
“The support has been great,” Avril said. “Parents have been wonderful and we have worked with some lovely children.
“Up until the age of 14-years-old, children don’t have that cognitive ability to really express how they are feeling through words.
“Play therapy is a therapeutic approach where children express themselves through play.
“It is really a child led space, where they can bring up anything that is worrying them.
“It is like psychotherapy, but we are doing it with toys and not words.”
Avril is currently undertaking training to become a Clinical Supervisor, enabling her to support and oversee the work of fellow play therapists.
Currently, she is the only Clinical Creative Trainee Supervisor in Donegal.
“It really is vital in the field of therapy that the practise is safe and ethical,” she concluded.
To find out more or to make a referral, email info@inspireplaytherapy.com or follow @InspirePlayTherapy on Instagram and Facebook.
Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that helps children express their emotions and work through challenges using the language they know best.
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