Butterfly Dreams Play Therapy

05/12/2025

As a parent of a neurodiverse child (autism, PDA, ADHD and anxiety), I know firsthand the challenges families face every day - the worries, the frustrations, and the moments of triumph that can feel so small yet mean the world. 💛

This lived experience has deeply shaped my approach as a play therapist. I bring insight, empathy, and patience to every session, helping children navigate their emotions and build confidence in a safe, supportive environment.

With 16 years of teaching experience and 8 years as a SENDCo, I also bring professional knowledge and practical skills that enable me to support families effectively, understanding both the educational and emotional needs of children.

Through play, children can express themselves, develop coping strategies, and feel truly heard. I work closely with families to ensure that each child is seen, understood, and supported.

If you’re looking for a therapist who understands both the child’s and the family’s journey, then please email me for further information at carly@butterflydreamstherapy.co.uk or check out www.butterflydreamstherapy.co.uk 🦋

02/12/2025

The brand new Butterfly Dreams Play Therapy website is up and running! Check it out and spread the word! 🦋

www.butterflydreamstherapy.co.uk

29/11/2025

I have replied to everyone who has sent enquiries over the last few days. Please let me know if you haven't received this as it appears that my email is being a little temperamental right now!

27/11/2025

I am now taking new referrals for one to one play therapy sessions!

Sessions will start in January 2026 and will take place in my new play therapy room at Essential Space CIC, ideally located between Gloucester and Cheltenham!

If you would like more information, please contact me at carly@butterflydreamstherapy.co.uk.

21/10/2025

🦋🌟 From January 2026, Butterfly Dreams Play Therapy will be accepting private clients for 1 to 1 play therapy! 🌟🦋

Our new premises will be located between Gloucester and Cheltenham, at Essential Space in Kingsley House.

More details will follow over the coming months, as well as our sparkly new website! 🌟🌟 If you would like any further information in the mean time, please email carly@butterflydreamstherapy.co.uk.

15/10/2025

I know I have been very quiet recently but I have been working behind the scenes on something very exciting! 🌟 Come back next week to hear Butterfly Dreams Play Therapy's big news! 🦋

14/09/2025

🦋 Some useful courses for anyone wanting to improve their understanding of neurodiversity 🦋

💡 Learn. Support. Empower. Neurodiversity Sessions Now Open!

Curious about neurodiversity? Want to better support neurodivergent colleagues, friends, or family?
Join our free* online workshops designed to deepen your understanding of neurodivergence and how to create inclusive environments.
Gain insights from people with lived experience.

🦋 Topics include:
Understanding Neurodivergence
ADHD & Tourette’s Syndrome
Autism Spectrum Condition
Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dyspraxia & Dysgraphia

🕒 Choose a time that suits you:
Morning sessions: 10am – 12.30pm
Evening sessions: 6pm – 8.30pm
📲 Sign up now via our Adult Education portal: https://orlo.uk/UnderstandingNeurodiversityCourses_IiEKI
🔍 Tip: Once you're on the site, search keywords like neurodiversity, ADHD, or autism to find the right course. You can sign up for one or more sessions - whatever works for you.

Need to know more before you sign up?
☎️ 01452 583800
💻 megan.thoresson@gloucestershire.gov.uk

* Subject to eligibility. Get in touch for more info.

08/09/2025

🦋 Exciting Update 🦋

I’m delighted to share that I am now a qualified Paediatric First Aider 🌟

The safety and wellbeing of the children I work with is always my top priority. Completing this training means I am fully equipped to provide immediate care in the unlikely event of an emergency during sessions.

If you would like any further information on my services, please email me at carly@butterflydreamstherapy.co.uk 🦋

21/07/2025

Some lovely testimonials from some of the parents of my recent clients 🥰 🦋

08/07/2025

🦋Could your child benefit from Play Therapy? 🦋

I often have parents asking me if I think their child needs Play Therapy due to worrying behaviours they are noticing. If you have wondered whether this could be something that would help your child, but you're still not sure, here are some behaviours you may observe which could indicate that your child could benefit from some therapeutic support:

🦋 frequent emotional outbursts or meltdowns
🦋 trouble sleeping or nightmares
🦋 withdrawing from friends or family
🦋 refusal to go to school
🦋 difficulty with big changes, such as divorce, moving house, changing schools
🦋 anxiety or worries that don't go away
🦋 negative self-talk and low self-esteem

Just remember, you know your child better than anyone ❤️ if something feels 'off' or not quite right, and you find yourself feeling worried about their mental health, trust your gut and explore this 🩵💙💚

If you think your child may benefit from Play Therapy and you would like any further information about the services I provide, you can contact me on carly@butterflydreamstherapy.co.uk .

Photo by Jordan Whitt on Unsplash

15/05/2025

How can you support your child's mental health at home? Read on for some simple every day ways this can be done...

🦋 Help children to name and understand their emotions by using books about feelings and emotion charts. Encourage them to talk openly about these feelings with you.

🦋 Acknowledging what they feel will validate their feelings, but make sure you don't try to fix it for them! Instead of saying, "You don't need to be so angry," you can say, "I can see why that has made you feel so angry."

🦋 Instead of simply telling your child to calm down when they are feeling dysregulated, model emotional regulation to them and practice different calming techniques together such as deep breathing, stretching or using mindfulness apps like Headspace for Kids.

🦋 Talking about your own feelings and how you cope with those feelings is a good way to model self-care and mental health skills to your child. For example, explain to your child that you are going to take some deep breaths to calm yourself down when you feel angry.

🦋 Encourage your child to find different outlets to express themselves through, or to engage in their interests to support their mental health, for example drawing, listening to music, going for walks or riding their bike.

🦋 Ensure your child's routines are consistent and predictable to reduce anxiety levels.

🦋 Being emotionally available for your child is one of the most powerful ways you can support their mental health. Try and find some time each day where you can be present and give them your full attention without any distractions.