Hi! I’m Penelope Walley,

I have worked in education for over 20 years initially as a Drama teacher, then within specialist education teaching from early years through to post 16 with children and young people with additional needs varying from learning difficulties, neurodiversity, communication and language and sensory and physical impairments.

I have experience of working with looked after children and young people and those who have struggled with education, which led me to train to become a Creative Arts and Play therapist. I recognise that all children and young people should be able to have positive emotional and mental health and the coping skills to recognise their strengths and develop their resilience when life gets tough!

I am passionate about working in a child centred manner, adapting my practise to suit the needs of the client what ever their age or ability. I feel that developing a positive respectful relationship is paramount and with the child or young person’s permission communicate with school or home, to find ways to support their needs.

I have worked with children and young people with a variety of presenting issues as a therapist and as a wellbeing officer in North Wales; supporting children in year 6 transition to Secondary school and helping to improve young people’s emotional health and wellbeing through a youth work approach, where young people are empowered to make their own goals and are supported to reach them. I have worked significantly with young people who find it difficult to regulate their emotions or manage their emotional distress.