Opening Doors Play Therapy is built on the foundation of providing an environment for children where they feel deeply seen, heard and accepted. As a Registered Play Therapist and Certified Practising Counsellor, I understand that a child must feel physiologically and emotionally safe before they can access reflection or learning. It is for this reason my priority is always meeting the child in front of me exactly where they are at. This helps to reduce any pressure to turn up in a certain way and invites a sense of unconditional acceptance for who they are.

Why Play Therapy

Play is the natural language of the child; in play therapy the toys become the child’s words. This provides them with an extra sense of safety as they are not demanded to verbalise tricky situations, that they may not yet have language for. As a play therapist I am specifically trained to be able to identify and understand this. The ability to enquire into a child’s play is like having a key into their world. This unlocking is achieved by creating a space of empathy, acceptance and non-judgement.  The strong empathic relationship provided in the playroom has been evidenced to help children feel calmer, allow them to process big feelings and become more connected to themselves.

Beyond carrying these principles into my 1:1 play therapy sessions with children and in my work with parents. I believe play therapy is about enhancing the systems around the child to facilitate an environment in which they can flourish. I am very passionate about listening and supporting families in their understanding of their child in a way that aligns authentically with their family values.

My journey began as a Chiropractor, where I witnessed firsthand the profound connection between the body, our thoughts, and our feelings. This holistic perspective, combined with a Master of Child Play Therapy, drives my belief in creating a nurturing and empathic therapeutic environment. As part of my ongoing passion for supporting families and children I am completing my Masters in Neuroscience by Research with a focus area in Autism. This helps me to link my understanding to the natural neurobiological processes that operate within all of us.

Qualifications

·       Master of Child Play Therapy – Deakin University

·       Master of Chiropractic Science – Macquarie University

·       Bachelor of Chiropractic Science – Macquarie University

·       Learn to Play Therapy Advanced Workshop

·       Circle of Security (COSP)™ Facilitator Training

Registrations

·       Registered Play Therapist – Australasia Pacific Play Therapy Association (APPTA)

·       Certified Practising Counsellor – Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA)

·       Chiropractor (Non-Practising) – Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)