Play Therapy
Through therapeutic play a child is able to identify, work through and resolve emotional conflicts that are too difficult to express verbally
In nearly all cases play therapy is one on one, with just the child and play therapist present. The personal nature of play therapy allows a safe and secure bond to form between the therapist and child which is so important to allow the child to fully express themselves and explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. In short, toys are the words and play is the language!
Play Therapists at the MAPP Centre
Diane Canny
B.A. (Psychology and Sociology) with University College Cork
Post-Graduate Dip Play Therapy
Theraplay Level 2
Certificate in The Circle of Security
Filial Training in Play Therapy
Play Therapy Supervisor
Diane is a member of The Irish Play Therapy Association.
Diane has worked for Tusla with teenagers from 1996-2016. She has worked in private practice as a play therapist since 2003, working with a variety of age groups and issues. In 2013 Diane proudly opened The MAPP Centre with 3 colleagues. Since then Diane has had the honour of travelling alongside the children and parents on their emotional journey in play therapy.
Diane’s hope for the families she works with is that they receive a professional, safe, comforting and fun experience.
Laura Carr
B.A. Hons Psychology
Postgraduate Dip. Play Therapy
Laura is a member of The Irish Association for Play Therapy and Psychotherapy. Laura's experience includes work in childcare and working with children with additional needs. She has also worked with the Good Shepherd services in Cork as a carer while also volunteering with the children of Edel House, an emergency residential centre based in Cork City.
Laura is a firm believer and practitioner of the Non-directive child centred model of play therapy. She has always believed that childhood should be a simple, carefree time filled with joy and laughter and she is 100% committed to achieving this for all of her young clients.
Laura set up her private practice in Ballincollig in July 2016, in 2020 Laura joined her colleagues in the MAPP centre. Her playroom is a wonderfully fun yet soothing space that she takes great pride in.