Frequently Asked Questions

Play is a natural way for children to express their feelings and emotions when they may not be able to say in words.

Play therapy will assist them to communicate these feelings at their own level using the day to day toys. As an evidence-based approach for children, play therapy allows them to find ways to learn, process their emotions, and make meaning of the world around them. It can be used for trauma, autism, behavioral issues, attachment disorder, and language difficulties.

No. You don't need any referral to book a session.

All you have to do is complete the intake form on our website (the “Intake form” button in the menu bar) and we will be in touch with you to discuss the next steps.

We are a private practice that sees both NDIS and non-NDIS children. We are not registered for Medicare and costs can be discussed individually in the initial session.

However, if we identify the need for the child to receive extra support, we can make the referral to NDIS.

It's recommended that parents/caregivers stay in the room or waiting outside (somewhere within the child's reach) to avoid feelings of abandonment or lack of emotional support. This will allow the therapist to build trust with the child.

The need for the presence of a parent/caregiver in the room could last for up to three sessions or the child might decide that it's not necessary.

The best way is to complete the intake form on our website. Once you submit the form, we will contact you to discuss the next steps and book your appointment.

Alternatively, you can send us an email at barbarab@playfulhealingtherapy.com

Barbara’s practice follows the eight principles of child-centred play therapy set out by Virginia Axline. In everyday words, the therapist:

1. Builds a warm, friendly relationship with the child, so that trust and rapport grow as early as possible.
2. Accepts the child exactly as they are.
3. Creates a safe, permissive space where the child feels free to express their feelings fully.
4. Recognises the feelings the child is expressing and reflects them back, so the child gains insight into their own behaviour.
5. Respects the child’s ability to solve their own problems. The choices, and the change, belong to the child.
6. Does not direct the child’s play or conversation. The child leads and the therapist follows.
7. Does not hurry the therapy. It is a gradual process and moves at the child’s pace.
8. Sets only the limits needed to keep the therapy grounded in reality and to help the child understand their responsibility in the relationship.

Every child moves through play therapy in their own time, but most pass through four stages:

1. Warm Up. The child gets to know the therapist and the playroom. Play is often cautious while trust is built.
2. Aggression. As the child feels safer, big feelings such as anger, fear or frustration can come out through play. The therapist stays calm, accepting and sets safe limits.
3. Regression. The child may play in younger, more nurturing ways, revisiting needs that were missed. Some regression is a normal and healthy part of healing.
4. Mastery. The child shows growing confidence, problem-solving and emotional regulation, and often brings these skills home and to school.

Because therapy follows the child, we cannot say in advance how many sessions it will take to reach Mastery. Review meetings with parents/carers keep everyone informed along the way. See the full play therapy process.