LUCIA XU CHARVAT
Therapeutic Play Consultant
Early Childhood & Parenting Support
About Lucia
Hello!
Every child is different, and meaningful support begins by meeting them where they are, linguistically, culturally, and emotionally.
Born and raised in Florence, Italy, and a mother of two, Lucia’s perspective has been shaped by an international journey through Italy, China, and Switzerland. This background allows her to connect with families from many walks of life, while recognising that each child expresses their experiences, challenges, and strengths in their own unique way.
Her work focuses on child development through play. Through guided, developmentally appropriate play, she provides a calm and supportive environment where children can express emotions, navigate challenges, build resilience, and grow into themselves with confidence.
Lucia holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from a top 20 global university and is currently completing her specialisation in play therapy. At this time, Lucia does not offer clinical-based diagnosis or therapy.
Benefits of Play Therapy
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Emotional Expression & Regulation
Play allows children to express what they cannot yet explain—feelings like fear, sadness, or anger, as well as those that sit quietly beneath the surface. Through guided play, they learn to recognise, process, and navigate these emotions in healthier, more grounded ways.
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Social & Relational Development
In a thoughtful, play-based setting, children naturally practise empathy, cooperation, problem-solving, and boundary-setting through interaction and imagination. These skills gradually build confidence and strengthen how they relate to others at home and in everyday life.
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Behaviour and Emotional Growth
Play allows children to explore the deeper emotions behind challenging behaviour or anxiety in a way that feels natural and safe. Rather than being asked to explain or confront these experiences directly, they work through them symbolically, leading to meaningful, lasting shifts.
Your Journey With Lucia
A brief, focused conversation to discuss your child’s needs and ensure Lucia is the right fit for your family.
Discovery Consultation (free)
This is a mandatory initial session designed to establish a foundation. By observing the family dynamic in a shared play environment, Lucia can identify the core patterns that will inform the approach for your individual child.
PARTICIPATION: To ensure a holistic understanding of the child’s world, both parents and any siblings are required to attend (excepting special circumstances).
OBJECTIVE: Bridging the gap between home life and the play space, building a "triangle of trust" between Lucia, the parents, and the child.
OUTCOME: A clear roadmap for the individual play sessions to follow.
Why both parents? Having both parents present is necessary to allow Lucia to observe the full spectrum of family communication/dynamic and ensures that the approach is aligned with the child’s daily experience. This is also an opportunity for the parent to experience the play space.
Session 1 - Family Foundation Session (30 mins)
SESSIONS: Dedicated time for your child to express themselves and explore emotions through play. Sessions are held one-on-one with Lucia, creating a focused, play-based space free from the pressures and influences of daily life.
FEEDBACK: Regular check-ins aligned with your child’s sessions to share observations, progress, and practical ways to support them at home.
IN-DEPTH PARENT CONSULTATIONS (OPTIONAL) Longer, more detailed conversations with one or both parents—typically after 5–6 sessions—to explore key insights and provide tailored guidance. These sessions offer space to reflect more deeply as patterns and progress begin to emerge.
Ongoing 1-on-1 Sessions (45 mins) + Feedback Calls
Get in Touch
A Note from Lucia:
To ensure I can give each family my full presence and high-quality care, I am not taking on any new clients at this moment. However, I would love to learn more about your child and your family’s needs.
Please connect with me below and I will get in touch to discuss how I can support you. Whether you are looking to join my waiting list, or simply have questions about pricing, my methodology, or how my services work, I would love to hear from you!
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