Play Therapy & Theraplay
Therapeutic, play-based interventions that strengthen attachment, emotional regulation and the relationship between a child and their caregiver.
What is play therapy & Theraplay?
Play therapy uses play — a child's natural language — to help children process difficult experiences, build attachment security and develop emotional regulation. Theraplay is a structured, attachment-focused approach that strengthens the child–caregiver relationship through playful, nurturing interaction.
At Gallore, play-based engagement is central to how we hear and support children. Our Director, Dr Lisa O'Reilly, holds a Diploma in Play Therapy and Theraplay Level 1 training, and has designed and researched play-based approaches for use in child protection and family social work.
How we work
Building a safe space
We create a warm, child-friendly environment where a child feels safe enough to play and express themselves.
Play-based engagement
We use play, drawing and creative methods matched to the child's age, stage and abilities.
Supporting attachment
Where appropriate, we use Theraplay-informed, attachment-focused activities to strengthen the child–caregiver relationship.
Emotional release
We help children safely express and regulate feelings that are hard to put into words.
Working with caregivers
We support parents and carers with practical, attachment-informed strategies rather than punishment, shame or control.
Related research
- The Everyday Guide to Attachment, Play, Connection & Emotional ReleaseO'Reilly, L. (2020)
- The Child Attachment Relationship (CAR) GuideO'Reilly, L. (2021)
- The Use of Play Skills during Child Protection AssessmentsO'Reilly, L. & Dolan, P. (2017), Routledge
- The Introduction of Attachment Play in Child and Family Social WorkO'Reilly, L. (2020), The Irish Social Worker
Why Gallore
- Led by a qualified play therapist with Theraplay Level 1 training.
- Play-based engagement grounded in our own published research.
- Attachment-focused approaches that support the child–caregiver relationship.
- Warm, child-centred practice that never relies on punishment or shame.
- Nationwide coverage, from our base in Longford.
Talk to us
Get in touch to discuss play-based support for a child or family.