Helping every child find their Inner Shine.
Welcome to Inner Shine Play Therapy.Are you looking for a way to support a child who is struggling to find the words for their big feelings?I provide a safe, neuro-affirming space where children can express themselves through the natural language of play.
Wondering how play can help a child heal? Click the arrow to read the 'Bowl Story'—a simple metaphor for the work we do together.
Each child is born as a Bowl of Light. This light is their natural state—full of creativity, joy, and potential.As they grow, they may face difficult experiences, big emotions, or moments where they feel misunderstood. In the story, these are like stones placed into the bowl. If enough stones gather, the light can start to feel dim or hidden.Play Therapy is the process of gently turning the bowl over.We don’t focus on the 'stones' as the child’s identity. Instead, we work together to let the stones fall away, so the light can shine brightly once again. My goal is to help every child rediscover their own Inner Shine.
Core Principles of Inner Shine Play Therapy
Neuro-AffirmingI don’t aim to 'fix' or change a child. My practice is built on celebrating the unique way every child’s brain works, providing a sensory-aware environment where they can be their authentic selves.
Safety & ConnectionTrue growth happens through relationship. I prioritise building a secure, trusting bond with every child, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and emotionally held.
Lived Experience & EmpathyMy practice is informed by both high-level clinical training and lived experience. I bring a deep, empathetic understanding of the challenges families face and the advocacy often required to support a child’s wellbeing.
Child-Led & Play-BasedPlay is a child’s natural language. I follow the child’s lead, allowing them to explore, express, and process at their own pace in a way that feels safe and intuitive to them.
About me...
Clinical Expertise. Lived Experience. Compassionate Support.
Hi! I'm Su. I bring over 20 years of experience in education and specialist settings to my practice, combined with Master’s-level clinical training as a PTUK-registered Play Therapist. My approach is deeply informed not only by my professional background but by my own lived experience of neurodivergence.
This unique perspective allows me to bridge the gap between clinical excellence and genuine, trauma-informed empathy. Whether you are a parent seeking a safe space for your child or a professional looking for expert, child-led support, I am dedicated to providing a neuro-affirming environment where every child can rediscover their natural 'inner shine'.
How it WorksAfter an initial assessment and referrer interviews, I work with the child for 40 minutes each week in the playroom. This is a safe, confidential space where we build the therapeutic relationship that sits at the heart of play therapy.An initial course of 12 sessions is set, with a review at 8 sessions to discuss progress and next steps. The referrer (parent, school, or social worker) is involved and updated at every stage of the journey.
Want to know more or have any questions? Drop me a message and I will get back to you shortly...
Working professionally
I have regular supervision to ensure I am working safely and ethically.
I am a member of PTUK which is regulated by the PSA. I hold personal
liability insurance with the PPS, an updated Enhanced DBS and am
registered with the ICO, which ensures I handle all personal data lawfully.
I follow policies for Safeguarding,Risk Assessment and Health and Safety.
