A children's play therapy service available in Mid and South Kerry. Parental Support and Guidance. Children/Parent workshops and Training Programmes.  Welcome to Play and Creative Arts Therapy-Kerry.  


I am a Certified Play Therapist, and have trained with the Academy of Play and Child Psychotherapy (APAC). Having completed my B.A in Early Childhood Education through University College Cork, I followed on with a Post Graduate diploma in Play Therapy through NUI Galway and Canterbury Christ Church University in the UK.

Having  worked directly with children and families for many years, in community, charitable, academic, and therapeutic settings   both at home and abroad, I appreciate all cultures and values. I am aware of the difficulties that families encounter today, and my approach as a play therapist is holistic, respectful, creative and reflective.


My professional body is Play Therapy Ireland (PTIre), which ensures I follow a strict, ethical framework in my practice, attend regular supervision and adhere to CPD standards. You will find a link below to confirm my registration with Play and Creative Art Therapists accredited by the UK Professional Standards Authority.

http://playtherapyregister.org.uk/practitioner-details.php?id=42053

Thanking you,
Grace Dorgan

What is Play Therapy?

Many children are unable to communicate their experiences through words. Play therapy is a process which makes use of the child's own resources, including their imagination, to reach an understanding of their experiences. Play allows children the opportunity to recognise and express their feelings in a safe environment. The therapeutic relationship allows the child to explore confusing experiences and to make sense of their world.

Unlike adults, whose natural means for communication is through words, children's natural form of communication is through play. Play Therapy sessions are effective as a response to concerns and various life experiences.


Although Play Therapy is mainly attended by children, it can also be a successful therapy for adolescents and adults.

Is your child experiencing difficulties in any of these ways?

-Difficulty maintaining healthy social relationships.
-Increased aggression or acting-out behaviour.
-Becoming withdrawn or being bullied.
-Feeling anxious.
- Difficulty separating from family.

Research has proven that Play Therapy is an effective form of therapy, empowering children to make sense of their world, while developing resilience to allow them to reach their full potential.

Other possible referrals include;

-Emotional or Behavioural issues.
-Communication difficulties.
-Changes in family unit.
-Difficulties maintaining relationships.
-Trauma.
-Bereavement / Loss
-Abuse.
-Attachment Issues.
-Anxiety.
-ADD, ADHD, Autism.
-Sleep Disturbances.
-Health Issues

Services include;

-One to one play therapy sessions.
-Group play therapy sessions.
-Information sessions for Parents and   Professionals.
-Creative Workshops.
-Parent and Professional Private Consultation.
-School and Organisational Services
-Support and Supervision for Childcare Workers