Helping Young Minds Process Big Emotions

Registered play therapist helping support children and families

Who I Support

Play Therapists support children, parents, and families dealing with emotional, behavioral, or social challenges. They help children express themselves through play and guide families toward better understanding and connection with their children. Play therapy promotes a safe space for children to navigate their emotions and feelings, empowering them to thrive and reach their full potential.

Child in play therapy

Children

4-13 Years

  • Parental separation
  • Emotional regulation
  • Self esteem issues
  • Trauma
  • Anxiety, worries and fears
  • Challenging behaviours
  • Anger
  • Bereavement/grief
  • Social difficulties
Family therapy session

Parents & Families

I support parents and families through:

  • Supports family through big changes/transitions
  • Offer suggestions to implement in the home environment
  • Parent meetings
  • Tools and resources for supporting children's needs
  • Building stronger family connections
  • Helping parents understand their child's needs
  • Creating a safe space for families to connect and grow together

Trauma-Informed Care

Specialized approach for children who have experienced trauma, providing a safe space for healing.

Family-Centered

Involving parents and families in the therapeutic process for lasting positive change.

Child-Led Approach

Following the child's lead to build trust and create meaningful therapeutic experiences.

Dayna, Play Therapist

Meet Dayna

Registered Play Therapist

Hey everyone, I'm Dayna! I'm a Registered Play Therapist with a postgraduate MA in Play Therapy from Galway University. I also hold a BA Honours degree in Early Education 📜

I am registered with Play Therapy Ireland. I am dedicated to helping children heal and thrive through play. 🌈🧸

Creating a safe space to explore and discover emotional growth 🌳

Education

  • • MA in Play Therapy
  • • BA Honours in Early Education

Registration

  • • Play Therapy Ireland

Services

I offer a range of therapeutic services designed to support children and families on their journey toward healing and growth.

Individual Play Therapy

One-on-one sessions where children can express themselves through play in a safe, supportive environment tailored to their unique needs.

  • 40-minute sessions
  • Child-led approach
  • Age-appropriate play materials
  • Progress updates for parents

Primary School Based Support

Offering on-site play therapy services at primary schools, providing a safe environment for children to explore emotions, build resilience, and receive support during the school day.

  • School-based sessions
  • Collaboration with teachers
  • Safe, familiar environment
  • Minimal disruption to learning
  • Support during school hours

Parent Meetings

Specialized guidance for parents to help understand their child's needs, manage challenging behaviors, and foster healthy development and emotional well-being.

  • 40-minute to 1-hour consultations
  • Personalized parenting strategies
  • Understanding child development
  • Managing difficult behaviors
  • Building secure attachments
Play therapy session

My Therapeutic Approach

As a registered play therapist, I use a gentle, child-led approach that creates a safe space for children to express themselves, process emotions, and develop healthy coping skills.

Play-Based Therapy

Play is a child's natural way of communicating and making sense of their world. Through play therapy, children can express feelings, process experiences, and develop new skills in a way that feels natural and safe.

Trauma-Informed

I understand how trauma affects the developing brain and body. My approach is sensitive to trauma histories, prioritizing safety, choice, and empowerment throughout the therapeutic process.

Non directive, non judgemental non interpretive approach

Every child's brain works differently. I meet each child as they are and adapt my approach to honor each child's unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world.

Learn More About My Approach

Parent Testimonials

Here's what parents and families have to say about their play therapy journey with me

"I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest thanks now that my son has finished his play therapy with you. The skills you have taught him and myself and husband have truly shone through in the time since his sessions. He's now able to stop and think before reacting to situations both big and small, which is such a huge milestone for him. His outbursts have become fewer and less intense, and he's even mentioned how he's able to let go of things that would have upset him before. I can't fully express in words the help and support you've given to both my son and our family. The tools we have learned from you have made such a difference to us. Your warm, friendly and direct approach was exactly what we needed and we are so grateful for the positive impact you have had on us. Thank you again for everything"

Parent of 8-year-old

Individual Play Therapy

Location

Offering a blend of in person and zoom calls to meet with parents making their children's therapeutic journey accessible at all times

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin office
Dublin

In-Person Sessions

Comfortable Environment

A welcoming space in Dublin, equipped with everything needed for effective play therapy sessions.

Available Hours

  • Monday - Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Friday: Online Only
  • Saturday - Sunday: Closed
Virtual therapy session
Parent Meetings

Virtual Sessions

Convenient Access

Schedule parent meetings in the comfort of your own home.

Available Hours

  • Monday - Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Friday: Online Only
  • Saturday - Sunday: Closed

Get in Touch

Ready to take the first step? Contact me to schedule a consultation or learn more about how I can help your child and family.

Contact Information

Phone

085 733 5544

Email

daynadevlinplaytherapy@outlook.ie

Office Hours

Monday - Thursday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
FridayOnline Only
Saturday - SundayClosed

Send Me a Message

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