Supporting Children Through Play

At St Columba’s Derryvolgie, we are deeply committed to serving our wider community — especially children and families who may need extra care and support. We are delighted to share that, through secured funding provided by the Church of Ireland Children & Orphans Society (COICOS), we have been able to support the delivery of play therapy services in two local primary schools, helping children access professional emotional support in a safe, familiar environment.

We are particularly proud that Derryvolgie is currently the only parish providing this kind of unique and innovative project, responding directly to the emotional wellbeing needs of children within our local community.

This vital work is being carried out by Karen Douglas, an experienced and highly regarded play therapist, through her organisation Mustard Seed Play Therapy.

Why Play Therapy Matters

For many children, emotions can be difficult to express in words. Play therapy provides a gentle, child-centred way for children to explore feelings, build emotional resilience and develop coping strategies – all through play, creativity and trusted relationships.

Through structured yet flexible sessions, children are supported to:

• Process emotions in a safe, supportive space

• Build confidence and self-esteem

• Develop emotional literacy and resilience

• Improve focus, relationships, and overall wellbeing

Play therapy meets children where they are, allowing healing and growth to happen naturally over time.

The Work of Karen Douglas and Mustard Seed Play Therapy

Karen Douglas, founder of Mustard Seed Play Therapy, brings a wealth of experience, compassion and professionalism to her work with children. Her approach is rooted in care, consistency and respect for each child’s individual journey.

Through Mustard Seed Play Therapy, Karen delivers sessions that are:

• Child-led and trauma-informed

• Grounded in best practice and safeguarding standards

• Carefully adapted to the needs of each school community

The impact of this work is seen not only in individual children, but also across classrooms, families and the wider school environment.

A Community Partnership in Action

We are incredibly thankful that funding from the Church of Ireland Children & Orphans Society (COICOS) has enabled St Columba’s Derryvolgie to partner in this important initiative. Their support has made it possible to deliver a project that is both innovative and deeply rooted in compassion.

By supporting play therapy in local schools, we are investing in the emotional wellbeing of children at a crucial stage of life – reflecting our wider mission as a church to serve with care, respond to real needs and support the flourishing of our community in practical and meaningful ways.

Looking Ahead

We are encouraged by the positive difference this work is already making and remain committed to exploring further opportunities to support children, families and schools across our area.

If you would like to learn more about Derryvolgie Church’s community outreach, or the work of Mustard Seed Play Therapy, please feel free to get in touch.

Together, even the smallest seeds of care can grow into lasting change 🌱