About The Therapist
At Play Therapy Dungarvan, children, adolescents and families are welcomed into an open, non-judgemental and confidential space. With more than 20 years’ experience working with children, adolescents and families, the therapeutic work is grounded in care, respect and the belief that every child deserves to feel understood.
A Safe Space For Children To Be Understood
Play therapy supports children to work through emotional, social and behavioural difficulties, while also making space for family concerns. As Garry Landreth (2002) describes it, toys are like a child’s words and play is a child’s language. Sessions are child-led and may use both directive and non-directive approaches, allowing each child or adolescent to communicate at their own pace.
A positive, trusting relationship between therapist and child can offer a corrective emotional experience that supports healing, confidence and connection.
Experience, Training and Professional Care
The therapist , Denise Pattwell, at Play Therapy Dungarvan holds a BA (Hons) in Social Care (2007, South East Technological University); a Postgraduate Diploma in Play Therapy (2018, Children’s Therapy Centre); and an MA in Creative Psychotherapy and Play Therapy (2020, Children’s Therapy Centre).
Further professional development includes a Diploma in Creative Supervision (2026, Children’s Therapy Centre; IAPTP accredited 2026) and a Certificate in Parent-Child Attachment Play (PCAP) (2026, Clear Sky). The practice has been accredited by the Irish Association for Play Therapy and Psychotherapy (IAPTP)
Fully Garda Vetted since 2021 and holds membership insurance with The Psychologists Protection Society (PPS).
Support For Life’s Difficult Moments
Families may seek support for anxiety, emotional regulation, separation anxiety, grief and loss, family separation, friendship difficulties or challenges attending school. Play Therapy Dungarvan also supports children and adolescents affected by trauma, medical trauma or domestic violence, and offers parent and guardian support to strengthen family connections.
Drawing on experience in therapeutic social care, therapeutic fostering support, domestic violence services, Solas, hospital referrals, Family Resource and Tusla settings, the practice takes a strengths-based approach when supporting children and adolescents.
“You do not have to have all the answers before reaching out. Support can begin with a conversation.”
Play Therapy Dungarvan