My Story
My career with children and families commenced over 30 years ago when I trained in childcare. In the early stages of my career I worked in family homes and managed a large, local nursery before going on to work within Health Visiting services.
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Following adverse experiences I accessed therapy for myself and through this I discovered how my childhood influenced my thoughts and beliefs in adulthood. As a lone parent this awareness empowered me to support my son with his emotional well-being whilst he processed his grief, and struggled with a neurological disorder, and its side effects.​
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​​It was from these experiences that my desire to support the emotional well-being, and mental health, of children and young people evolved and I undertook 3 years of training, alongside my family and work, to become a Certified Play Therapist, so that I could better support children and their families. And more recently I have qualified as a Systemic Family Practitioner, having studied at Kings College.
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Since qualifying I have had the privilege of using my skills and knowledge to work with many children and families, with a diverse range of needs, in the charity sector and CAMHS. This includes, whilst not exhaustive: life limiting illness; autism and ADHD; undiagnosed developmental needs; bereavement; selective mutism; attachment difficulties; maladaptive coping strategies; anxiety and depression.
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Having observed positive outcomes, which are also measured with assessment tools, I truly believe in the power of play therapy; children can heal and gain a greater sense of self. My passion to continue to support children and their families is written in the words of one of my all time favourite songs by Whitney Houston
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‘I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside. Give them a sense of pride to make it easier’.
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Kerry Hayns - Certified Play Therapist
