Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on engaging with children through their creative and non-verbal expression; play. Creating a safe space and a trusting relationship, CCPT aims to boost self-esteem, confidence, and support the unique emotional growth of each child. CCPT helps children process trauma and identity so they can create a world that makes sense to them. To witness play is to have a key into their minds and hearts.

As a therapist, this is my chance to sit, create safety and say… “I hear you …”

As Dumbledore said to Harry Potter; “A childs voice, however honest and true, is meaningless to those
who’ve forgotten to listen.”

My studio is located on beautiful acreage at the northern end of the Sunshine Coast. My aim was to establish a unique safe space where children feel secure and their loved ones are welcome. It’s a place where a child can explore a world that makes sense to them through the language of play.

As a professionally trained Child-Centered Play Therapist, my focus is on prioritising play and providing a space of acceptance, empathy, and trust. If you believe Play Therapy could benefit your family, please consider visiting the studio for a complimentary meet and greet session.

Who I am … My name is Denise, and I am a registered Counselor and Play Therapist, as well as the proud owner of Bananas are Blue, a business idea I created 15 years ago. At the age of 4, I painted some Bananas Blue at playgroup. This was just the beginning of the many things that would set me apart… I was once told that bananas were yellow, and I was asked to re-do my picture to make it ‘right’. This seemingly small incident stuck with me until I discovered I had ADHD at the age of 33. The world has always appeared different to me, and I realised that I didn’t need to change who I am.

I have 2 beautiful neurodiverse children, lots of animals and an unwavering commitment to every family I have the pleasure of meeting. I have a neuro-affirming approach and one that doesn’t just work with the child, but with the whole family.

Filial Therapy

A 10 session program where parents can learn play therapy techniques with their child. My goal is to never keep a child in therapy longer than they need to be; working WITH families is how we reach positive outcomes. Empowering Parents, Enriching Connections

Filial therapy is more than just a parenting approach—it’s a transformative journey that brings families closer, strengthens bonds, and fosters emotional wellbeing from the inside out. Rooted in the powerful principles of play therapy, filial therapy puts parents in the therapeutic driver’s seat, offering them the tools and support to connect deeply with their child in a safe, playful, and meaningful way.

???? Why Filial Therapy Stands Out

• Builds trust, empathy, and emotional security between parent and child
• Teaches parents proven play therapy techniques they can use at home
• Helps children express feelings, manage emotions, and thrive socially
• Reduces stress and behavioral challenges through shared understanding
• Whether you’re navigating tantrums, anxiety, or simply seeking to enhance your parent-child connection, filial therapy offers a warm, guided approach backed by decades of research and heart-centered practice

At our play therapy space, we invite you to be the change your family needs—because healing and connection start at home, and you don’t have to do it alone.