Every Child Deserves the Healing Power of Play Therapy

Across Ireland, thousands of children are struggling with anxiety, trauma, and emotional challenges. Too many are being offered short pilot programmes, which simply cannot meet their needs. Play Therapy gives children the time, space, and safety to express themselves, build trust, and heal — but it requires a minimum of 12–15 weeks to be truly effective.

When children don’t receive consistent support, their emotional distress often shows up as difficulties with concentration, behaviour, and learning. This affects not only their mental health but also their confidence and academic progress. Without sustained Play Therapy, many children fall further behind, and families and teachers are left without the help they need.

We are calling on the Irish Government — including the Department of Education, the HSE, and TUSLA — to fund proper school-based contracts employing Play Therapists for 20–25 hours per week. This model reflects safe professional practice and ensures children can receive the minimum 12–15 weeks of support they need.

The time to act is now — our children deserve lasting care, not short-term pilots.