"Play Therapy is based upon the fact that play is the child's natural medium of self-expression. It is an opportunity which is given to the child to 'play out' his feelings and problems just as, in certain types of adult therapy, an individual 'talks out' his difficulties." - Virginia Axline

Welcome to Play Therapy Belfast

At Play Therapy Belfast, we believe in the power of play. Our specialised play therapy services provide children with a safe and nurturing environment to express themselves, explore their emotions, and work through challenges. Through the transformative power of play, we help children build resilience, improve their emotional well-being, and develop healthy coping strategies.


About Play Therapy Belfast

Play Therapy Belfast was established in 2010 by Kerry McQuade-Mallon.  Kerry is an Accredited Play Therapist and Clinical Supervisor, Kerry has been working with children and young adults for over 30 years.  As well as Play Therapy Kerry  also provides clinical supervision to trainee (Cert/Diploma) and qualified Play Therapist for PTUK/PTI and to Therapeutic Practitioners from a number of other governing bodies.

Kerry is a qualified Lego® based Facilitator offering one to one, group and family session of Lego® based Therapy, as well as Summer, Halloween and Easter Lego® Workshops at a number of locations in:

  • North Belfast
  • West Belfast
  • Lisburn

More  info on Lego® based Therapy and Lego® Workshops can be found on our Lego Therapy Belfast website HERE

At Play Therapy Belfast, we are dedicated to helping children thrive. We use evidence-based play therapy techniques to support children and young adults in their journey toward emotional health. We understand that every child is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet the individual needs of each child and family.


Our Play Therapy Services

We offer a range of play therapy services designed to address various emotional and behavioural concerns, including:

  • Individual Play Therapy: One-on-one sessions where children can freely express their thoughts and feelings through play.
  • Group Play Therapy: Small group sessions that foster social skills, teamwork, and peer support.
  • Family Play Therapy: Sessions that involve family members to improve communication and strengthen family bonds.
  • Parental Support: Guidance and support for parents to better understand and assist their child's emotional needs.
  • Lego® based Therapy: visit our LEGO® based Therapy website Lego Therapy Belfast for more information HERE
  • Clinical Supervision:  Provide support and advice upon issues that arise during the therapist’s clinical work. These may be matters of therapeutic techniques, therapeutic relationships, difficult problems, ethical decisions or issues that impact personally upon the therapist caused by the therapeutic process.

Our Approach to Play Therapy

At Play Therapy Belfast, we use a child-centred approach to play therapy, focusing on:

  • Creating a Safe Space: A welcoming and secure environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves.
  • Building Trust: Establishing a strong, trusting relationship between the therapist and the child.
  • Encouraging Expression: Using play as a medium for children to communicate their thoughts and feelings.
  • Promoting Growth: Helping children develop emotional regulation, problem-solving skills, and self-esteem.

Lego® based Therapy

Lego® based Therapy is an innovative approach that harnesses the creativity and collaborative nature of LEGO® building to help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other children with social communication challenges. Developed by Dr. Daniel B. LeGoff, this therapy focuses on improving communication, cooperation, and problem-solving skills through structured play.

To find out more about Lego® based Therapy visit our Lego Therapy Belfast website at HERE


Get in Touch

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us at:

We look forward to supporting your child's emotional journey through the healing power of play.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is play therapy? Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses play to help children communicate their feelings, resolve conflicts, and develop healthy behaviours.
  • Who can benefit from play therapy? Play therapy can benefit children and young adults experiencing a range of emotional and behavioural issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and social difficulties.
  • How long does play therapy take? The duration of play therapy varies depending on the child's needs and progress. Our therapists will work with you to develop a tailored plan.