How Does Play‑Focused Counselling Support Neurodivergent Kids and Their Families in Johannesburg?

For many neurodivergent children—including those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, or developmental delays—expressing what they’re feeling can be challenging. Words often don’t capture the complexity of their inner world. That’s where play-focused counselling comes in.

At The Mind Space in Parkhurst, Johannesburg, and online across South Africa, we offer counselling approaches that honour each child’s unique way of experiencing and relating to the world. In this article, we explore how play can be a bridge to connection, communication, and emotional growth—for both children and their families.

What is play-focused counselling—and how is it different?

Unlike traditional talk-based counselling, play-focused counselling uses the language of play to support emotional expression and social development. Through toys, sand, drawing, storytelling, movement, or role-play, children can safely explore feelings and experiences they might not yet have words for.

For neurodivergent children especially, this approach offers a way to engage that doesn’t rely on verbal processing or eye contact—and it meets them exactly where they are.

“Play is not trivial. It is a biological drive as integral to our health as sleep or nutrition.”

- Dr. Stuart Brown

In other words, play isn’t just fun—it’s essential for learning, relating, and healing.

Why is play counselling especially helpful for neurodivergent children?

Neurodivergent children often experience the world in ways that are more intense, nuanced, or differently wired from their peers. A counselling approach that respects this neurodiversity is key — not one that tries to “fix” the child, but one that supports their regulation, sense of safety, and relationships.

Play-focused counselling can support neurodivergent children to:

• Process sensory overwhelm through tactile play or movement

• Explore social interaction and communication in a low-pressure way

• Rehearse real-life scenarios through imaginative roleplay

• Develop emotional regulation tools and routines

• Build confidence, agency and trust in themselves

“Kids do well if they can.”

-Dr. Ross Greene

The goal is never compliance—it’s connection.

What role do parents and caregivers play in the process?

Counselling is most effective when it includes the support system around the child. Parents and caregivers are never left out — in fact, their role is essential. Many sessions include co-regulation strategies, practical tools, and space to process what parenting a neurodivergent child brings up emotionally.

You might learn how to:

• Recognise your child’s sensory or emotional triggers

• Co-regulate during meltdowns or shutdowns

• Shift communication styles to be more attuned

• Build daily rhythms that support safety and predictability

• Understand behaviours as communication, not defiance

At The Mind Space, we work closely with families to ensure they feel resourced, seen, and not alone in the journey.

Does counselling help children with autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivities?

Yes. Play-focused counselling is designed with flexibility in mind—meaning each child is supported in a way that honours their unique profile.

For example:

• A child with ADHD might engage best through movement and energetic storytelling

• A child with autism might feel safer with structured routines, sensory objects, and non-verbal communication tools

• A child with sensory sensitivities might prefer sandplay, weighted items or drawing quietly with a trusted adult nearby

The key is attunement. As counsellors trained in neurodiversity-affirming care, we adjust the pace, environment, and tools based on what feels safe for your child.

How do you create a safe space for children during sessions?

At The Mind Space in Johannesburg, our playroom is designed to be warm, calming, and sensory-friendly—not overstimulating or clinical. Online sessions are also available if a child prefers the comfort of their home environment.

Some of the ways we foster emotional safety include:

• Offering consistent routines and transitions

• Letting the child lead, rather than directing their play

• Validating all emotions—even the big, messy ones

• Using gentle, non-invasive approaches (no forced conversation)

• Welcoming stimming, movement, and sensory needs

“There’s no such thing as being too much. There’s only not being held enough.”

-Dr. Devon Price

Counselling available in Parkhurst or online across South Africa

If you’re in Parkhurst, Johannesburg, our warm and inviting space is available for in-person sessions with your child. We also offer online counselling for children and families across South Africa—with adaptations to ensure virtual sessions remain interactive and engaging.

You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting. Whether your child is struggling at school, showing signs of distress, or simply needs extra emotional support, we’re here to help you find a path forward—together.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What age is play counselling suitable for?

It’s typically helpful for children aged 3 to 12, but we also adapt for pre-teens who prefer creative or expressive outlets over conversation.

2. How long does it take to see progress?

Every child is different. Some respond quickly to having a safe space to express themselves, while others build trust gradually. We’ll regularly check in with you to discuss progress and next steps.

3. Can parents attend sessions too?

Yes—sometimes we do parent-child sessions or separate parent support sessions, depending on the needs of the family.

4. What if my child doesn’t want to talk or play at first?

That’s completely okay. We never force interaction. Many children begin by observing or exploring the space quietly. Over time, trust builds — and connection follows.

Support your child’s emotional world through play-focused

counselling

At The Mind Space, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and accepted exactly as they are. Play-based counselling creates a bridge between their inner world and ours—helping them feel safer, more connected, and more empowered.

📍 In-person sessions in Parkhurst, Johannesburg
🌐 Online counselling available across South Africa
🤝 Neurodiversity-affirming | Trauma-informed | Relationship-based

👉 Find out more or book a session via our Services page.
👉 You can also reach out directly via WhatsApp for a confidential conversation.

👉 Read more about how play counselling supports emotional growth on our blog.

Let’s co-create a safe space where your child can thrive.