Play therapy for the community Campaign

Hi, my name is Victoria and I am the Grade 2 teacher and manager of Bhongolethu Foundation, since 2018. Bhongolethu Foundation Primary School is a non-profit organisation bordering the community of Masiphumelele. In the time that I have been working here, I have noticed that children are exposed to daily trauma and they don't have the tools to cope.

These children would benefit from having an inhouse play therapist, that is available to the children of Bhongolethu. Parents of these children are in survival mode themselves, they cannot afford therapy for their children, let alone put a decent meal on the table.

Play therapy can be a valuable and effective approach for children in disadvantaged communities, as it provides a unique way for them to express themselves, process emotions, and develop essential social and emotional skills. In disadvantaged communities, children may face various challenges such as poverty, violence, trauma, and limited access to resources. Play therapy can be adapted to address these specific needs and create a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth.

The decision to become a play therapist is a personal one, and there are several factors that make me well-suited for this profession. Here are some qualities and reasons why I should be these children's Play Therapist:

Passion for Working with Children:

I have a genuine passion for working with children, understanding their needs, and helping them navigate emotional challenges.

Creativity and Imagination:

I am creative and able to engage in imaginative play. I enjoy thinking outside the box, using creativity in therapeutic interventions, and adapting activities to meet individual needs.

Empathy and Compassion:

An essential quality for any therapist, including play therapists, is empathy. I am able to understand and share in the feelings of others, especially children. I can create a supportive and healing therapeutic environment.

Strong Communication Skills:

While play therapy is non-verbal in nature, effective communication is still crucial. I am able to communicate clearly and empathetically with both children and their families.

Understanding of Child Development:

Knowledge of child development is vital in play therapy. Understanding the stages of emotional, social, and cognitive development helps play therapists tailor their interventions to meet the specific needs of each child. Since I am a qualified teacher, I possess these skills too as it is part of the curriculum.

Patience and Flexibility:

Working with children and families can be unpredictable, and progress may take time. Patience and flexibility are essential qualities that I possess.

Ability to Create a Safe Environment:

Play therapists must create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to express themselves through play. I am able to build trust and ensure a secure environment for the therapeutic process.

Commitment to Continued Learning:

The field of mental health is dynamic, and staying updated on the latest research, therapeutic techniques, and best practices is important. I am committed to ongoing professional development.

Respect for Diversity:

Play therapists work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Working at Bhongolethu has taught me how to be respectful and culturally sensitive for understanding and addressing the unique needs to each client.

Collaboration with Families:

Play therapists often involve families in the therapeutic process. A willingness to collaborate with parents or caregivers and provide support beyond individual sessions can enhance the effectiveness of play therapy. At Bhongolethu we do our best to work closely with the parents.

Before pursuing a career in play therapy, it's important to obtain the necessary education and training. Typically, play therapists have a background in counseling, psychology, teaching, or social work and may pursue additional certifications or specialized training in play therapy techniques.

My dream is to bring play therapy to the children of Bhongolethu. The funds raised will cover the training I need to complete in order to make this dream a reality. Please consider donating to my campaign.