Stanislava Try

Play therapy uses play, a child’s natural way of expressing themselves, as the main way of working. Through toys, games, drawing and stories, children can work through feelings and experiences they can’t yet put into words. It is mainly used with children, often with parents involved.

Integrative therapy combines ideas and methods from different therapeutic approaches, chosen to suit you and what you bring. Rather than following one model, the therapist adapts the work as it goes along. This flexibility can help when needs change over time.

Mindfulness-based therapy uses practices that train attention on the present moment, with openness rather than judgement. Noticing thoughts and feelings without being carried away by them can reduce stress and help break cycles of worry or low mood. Programmes such as MBSR and MBCT are well-known examples.

Systemic and family therapy looks at difficulties in the context of the relationships around you: your family, partner, work or friends. Patterns between people, rather than one person alone, become the focus of the work. It can be used with individuals, couples and whole families.

Art therapy uses drawing, painting, sculpting and other art forms as a way to express and explore feelings. You don’t need any artistic skill: what matters is the process and what it brings up, not the result. It can help when things are hard to put into words.