Why Play Therapy?
Evidence-Based Practice
Our work is grounded in decades of research in child development, neuroscience, and psychology. Play therapy is not a new idea—it has been studied for over 70 years and consistently shown to be one of the most effective interventions for supporting children’s emotional, behavioural, and social wellbeing.
Evidence from Research
Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) is one of the most well-researched modalities in child psychology. Meta-analyses of over 100 play therapy outcome studies (Bratton, Ray, Rhine & Jones, 2005; LeBlanc & Ritchie, 2001) found moderate to highly positive results across a wide range of presenting issues, including anxiety, trauma, behavioural difficulties, and family stress.
These studies also found that:
Non-directive play therapy produced stronger and more lasting results than directive methods.
Parent involvement in therapy further enhanced positive outcomes.
Play therapy supported children’s emotional regulation, social competence, and academic functioning.
For a comprehensive overview of the research base, see:
Integrating Science and Relationship
Each session is guided by evidence-based principles from:
Neuroscience – understanding how safety and connection reshape the brain
Attachment Theory – building secure relationships as the foundation for growth
Polyvagal Theory – supporting nervous system regulation and resilience
Systems Theory – recognising the interconnected nature of the family unit
Developmental Psychology – meeting each child exactly where they are
This integrative framework ensures that every child’s therapy is responsive, relational, and grounded in best practice.
Why Evidence Matters
Families place deep trust in their therapist. Using evidence-based methods ensures that this trust is honoured with care, integrity, and professional accountability. Research tells us that the single most powerful predictor of therapeutic success—regardless of modality—is the quality of the relationship between the child and therapist.
At Seabird, this relationship is at the heart of everything we do. Within the safety of connection, children develop new ways of understanding themselves, others, and the world around them.
The Science of Play
Play is the natural language of children, and toys are their words. Through play, children communicate what they feel, think, and experience. When children are given the freedom to express themselves in a safe therapeutic environment, their nervous systems begin to regulate, their brains form new connections, and healing naturally unfolds.
Modern neuroscience confirms what therapists have long observed: play helps the brain integrate emotional and sensory experiences, build neural pathways for self-regulation, and strengthen relationships—all of which support mental health and resilience.
“Scientists have recently determined that it takes approximately 400 repetitions to create a new synapse in the brain, unless it is done with play, in which case it takes between 10 to 20 repetitions.”
Dr Karyn Purvis
This powerful finding highlights why play therapy is such an effective and joyful form of healing. When therapy feels safe and engaging, children learn, adapt, and grow faster.