Play Therapy Psychologists and Therapists in Balmain, NSW

Photo of Anna Cohen - Kids & Co Clinical Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kids & Co Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Kids & Co provides psychological care for children, adolescents and their families. Kids and Co offers psychological assessment and treatments for a wide range of childhood emotional, behavioural and family problems. Kids & Co Psychologists have extensive training and experience in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental health, personal, and family issues. Their experience and expertise in the field of child and family psychology is well recognised by colleagues, media agencies and the wider community.
Kids & Co provides psychological care for children, adolescents and their families. Kids and Co offers psychological assessment and treatments for a wide range of childhood emotional, behavioural and family problems. Kids & Co Psychologists have extensive training and experience in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental health, personal, and family issues. Their experience and expertise in the field of child and family psychology is well recognised by colleagues, media agencies and the wider community.
(02) 9158 6217 View (02) 9158 6217
Photo of Chloe Southern - Inner Child Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Inner Child Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Balmain, NSW 2041
Waitlist for new clients
Inner Child Psychology is a neuroaffirming child psychology practice offering autism and ADHD assessments, therapy, and parent support across Inner West Sydney, with clinics in Alexandria and Balmain.
Inner Child Psychology is a neuroaffirming child psychology practice offering autism and ADHD assessments, therapy, and parent support across Inner West Sydney, with clinics in Alexandria and Balmain.
(02) 9978 0163 View (02) 9978 0163
Photo of Samantha Joplin, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Samantha Joplin
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Our experienced psychologists can help you overcome stress, anxiety, depression, cognitive difficulties, and other issues. We can also provide guidance to help you prioritise your mental health, achieve meaningful changes, build self-awareness, and gain insight into your unique difficulties. Through therapy, you can learn new strategies to better manage your thoughts, behaviours and emotions throughout challenging times. Establishing functional psychological skills and habits can bring about lasting change that extends beyond your time in therapy. Our psychologist also offer assessments for ADHD, ASD and learning disorders.
Our experienced psychologists can help you overcome stress, anxiety, depression, cognitive difficulties, and other issues. We can also provide guidance to help you prioritise your mental health, achieve meaningful changes, build self-awareness, and gain insight into your unique difficulties. Through therapy, you can learn new strategies to better manage your thoughts, behaviours and emotions throughout challenging times. Establishing functional psychological skills and habits can bring about lasting change that extends beyond your time in therapy. Our psychologist also offer assessments for ADHD, ASD and learning disorders.
(02) 8319 1970 View (02) 8319 1970
Photo of Pat Wood-Collier, Counsellor, MA, CCAA
Pat Wood-Collier
Counsellor, MA, CCAA
Serves Area
I am flexible and able to work with both males and females. Age does not preclude me from seeing someone. I am accepting of anyone who is looking for someone to listen to and see them. Together we will discover and give them their voice. I worked in Samaritans and Lifeline for 20 years. I work with various addictions and traumas. I counsel the addict, or the family, and friends of the addict. Working with discovering purpose, trust and sobriety, I am able to hold the person in a safe space while dealing with trauma by using different counselling modalities suited to them.
I am flexible and able to work with both males and females. Age does not preclude me from seeing someone. I am accepting of anyone who is looking for someone to listen to and see them. Together we will discover and give them their voice. I worked in Samaritans and Lifeline for 20 years. I work with various addictions and traumas. I counsel the addict, or the family, and friends of the addict. Working with discovering purpose, trust and sobriety, I am able to hold the person in a safe space while dealing with trauma by using different counselling modalities suited to them.
(02) 5504 5434 View (02) 5504 5434
Photo of Dr Frank Valzano, Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
Dr Frank Valzano
Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may be carrying pain that's hard to put into words. Perhaps it's the echo of past trauma, the fog of anxiety or depression, or the quiet ache of grief that doesn't seem to shift. Maybe you've spent years trying to hold everything together, all while feeling like you're falling apart inside. You're tired—of the overthinking, the emotional numbness, the disconnect in your relationships, the constant inner critic. You long for relief, but more than that, you want clarity, self-compassion, and a sense of wholeness. That's where we begin.
You may be carrying pain that's hard to put into words. Perhaps it's the echo of past trauma, the fog of anxiety or depression, or the quiet ache of grief that doesn't seem to shift. Maybe you've spent years trying to hold everything together, all while feeling like you're falling apart inside. You're tired—of the overthinking, the emotional numbness, the disconnect in your relationships, the constant inner critic. You long for relief, but more than that, you want clarity, self-compassion, and a sense of wholeness. That's where we begin.
(02) 8000 0047 View (02) 8000 0047
Photo of Olivia Mackay - Olivia Mackay Therapy, Counsellor
Olivia Mackay Therapy
Counsellor
Serves Area
When working with children I use play and other expressive ways to facilitate communication and expression.
I specialise in psychodynamic psychotherapy, a therapeutic approach which involves collaborative work between the client and therapist. I create a safe, inclusive and neuro-affirming space where we can explore persistent issues or patterns of behaviour, including: Relationship difficulties Anger, anxiety and depression Childhood trauma and abuse Attachment issues and parenting Identity and self-concept Chronic illness Misophonia (‘sound rage’)
When working with children I use play and other expressive ways to facilitate communication and expression.
I specialise in psychodynamic psychotherapy, a therapeutic approach which involves collaborative work between the client and therapist. I create a safe, inclusive and neuro-affirming space where we can explore persistent issues or patterns of behaviour, including: Relationship difficulties Anger, anxiety and depression Childhood trauma and abuse Attachment issues and parenting Identity and self-concept Chronic illness Misophonia (‘sound rage’)
(02) 9100 0105 View (02) 9100 0105
Photo of Voula Kougelos, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Voula Kougelos
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
With over 35 years experience in various therapy and senior health management roles including President of the NSW Association of Adolescent Health, I have had the privilege and opportunity to listen to and develop a deep understanding of the needs of others. I use a range of evidence based, wholistic, strength focussed and trauma informed strategies to support, empower and enhance mental wellbeing.
With over 35 years experience in various therapy and senior health management roles including President of the NSW Association of Adolescent Health, I have had the privilege and opportunity to listen to and develop a deep understanding of the needs of others. I use a range of evidence based, wholistic, strength focussed and trauma informed strategies to support, empower and enhance mental wellbeing.
(02) 8599 0768 View (02) 8599 0768

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Natasha Martin, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Natasha Martin
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Marrickville, NSW 2204
My counselling room is a space that can hold your fears, your anger, your grief, and even your happiest moments, the whole of you. It is a space where you no longer have to hold onto the mask. A space where you can take it off, feel seen, and explore your experiences without judgment. My role is to be present alongside you, offering support, curiosity, and compassion as we make sense of what has brought you here.
My counselling room is a space that can hold your fears, your anger, your grief, and even your happiest moments, the whole of you. It is a space where you no longer have to hold onto the mask. A space where you can take it off, feel seen, and explore your experiences without judgment. My role is to be present alongside you, offering support, curiosity, and compassion as we make sense of what has brought you here.
0403 639 080 View 0403 639 080
Photo of Natalie Bishara, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Natalie Bishara
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Glenmore Park, NSW 2745
I am a registered psychologist with a deep interest in working with adolescents and adults seeking support and treatment for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, relationship issues, and trauma. I endeavour to tailor treatment to my clients through working throughout treatment collaboratively with their medical treatment team and/or supporting individuals in meeting their treatment goals.
I am a registered psychologist with a deep interest in working with adolescents and adults seeking support and treatment for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, relationship issues, and trauma. I endeavour to tailor treatment to my clients through working throughout treatment collaboratively with their medical treatment team and/or supporting individuals in meeting their treatment goals.
(02) 8105 6942 View (02) 8105 6942
Photo of Karina Feldmann, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Karina Feldmann
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Seeking support is a courageous step — and finding the right person to walk alongside you matters deeply. I'm Karina, a warm and dedicated Registered Psychologist with over 18 years of experience supporting children (from age 3), teenagers, and adults across a wide range of life challenges. My approach is empathic, non-judgmental, and deeply personal — because I believe that feeling truly heard and understood is the foundation of all meaningful change. I work with each person as a whole — not just a diagnosis or a presenting problem.
Seeking support is a courageous step — and finding the right person to walk alongside you matters deeply. I'm Karina, a warm and dedicated Registered Psychologist with over 18 years of experience supporting children (from age 3), teenagers, and adults across a wide range of life challenges. My approach is empathic, non-judgmental, and deeply personal — because I believe that feeling truly heard and understood is the foundation of all meaningful change. I work with each person as a whole — not just a diagnosis or a presenting problem.
(02) 8403 0272 View (02) 8403 0272
Photo of Erin Chan, Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Erin Chan
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Sydney, NSW 2000
Erin is a PACFA Registered Clinical Counsellor. She's warm and thoughtful providing individual, couples and relationship therapies. She provides a safe, non-judgmental space where her clients feel heard and supported to reconnect. Trained in various modalities e.g. Gottman Method, Erin helps couples and individuals break negative patterns, improve communication, rebuild trust, and deepen intimacy and connection. She also supports neurodiverse individuals, couples and families with practical, evidence-based strategies. Whether navigating conflict, grief, parenting stress, or life transitions, Erin offers calm, structured guidance.
Erin is a PACFA Registered Clinical Counsellor. She's warm and thoughtful providing individual, couples and relationship therapies. She provides a safe, non-judgmental space where her clients feel heard and supported to reconnect. Trained in various modalities e.g. Gottman Method, Erin helps couples and individuals break negative patterns, improve communication, rebuild trust, and deepen intimacy and connection. She also supports neurodiverse individuals, couples and families with practical, evidence-based strategies. Whether navigating conflict, grief, parenting stress, or life transitions, Erin offers calm, structured guidance.
(02) 8503 4490 View (02) 8503 4490
Photo of Dayle Johnson - Calm Minds Clinic, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Calm Minds Clinic
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Welcome to Calm Minds Clinic, where your wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our clinicians have a vast amount of experience in treating a range of concerns, whether it be: depression, anxiety, personality, trauma, drug and alcohol or relationship issues that you're facing, we wish to support you in being a happier, healthier, you.
Welcome to Calm Minds Clinic, where your wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our clinicians have a vast amount of experience in treating a range of concerns, whether it be: depression, anxiety, personality, trauma, drug and alcohol or relationship issues that you're facing, we wish to support you in being a happier, healthier, you.
(03) 4233 6470 View (03) 4233 6470
Photo of Paula Noble - Noble Psychology, Psychologist, MAPS
Noble Psychology
Psychologist, MAPS
Serves Area
Treatment approaches include child-centred therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (including the Cool Kids program), emotion regulation strategies using the Zones of Regulation, solution-focused therapy, sandtray therapy, and play therapy.
As an Educational and Developmental psychologist I support children with a range of issues unique to childhood. These can be emotion dysregulation, trouble with sleep, anxious thoughts leading to avoidance or distress, academic difficulties, bullying or peer difficulties at school, and adjustment issues. At times, parents can wonder if their child presents with symptoms indicative of ADHD, ASD or a Specific Learning disorder. In working with parents and children, it is my goal to help lead them to decision making around assessment, treatment and intervention with the view to supporting children to reach their potential.
Treatment approaches include child-centred therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (including the Cool Kids program), emotion regulation strategies using the Zones of Regulation, solution-focused therapy, sandtray therapy, and play therapy.
As an Educational and Developmental psychologist I support children with a range of issues unique to childhood. These can be emotion dysregulation, trouble with sleep, anxious thoughts leading to avoidance or distress, academic difficulties, bullying or peer difficulties at school, and adjustment issues. At times, parents can wonder if their child presents with symptoms indicative of ADHD, ASD or a Specific Learning disorder. In working with parents and children, it is my goal to help lead them to decision making around assessment, treatment and intervention with the view to supporting children to reach their potential.
(02) 8403 1204 View (02) 8403 1204
Photo of Sally Walsh, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sally Walsh
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including poly/open, narcissism
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including poly/open, narcissism
(02) 9100 0123 View (02) 9100 0123
Photo of Emma Chow - Emma Chow | The Filial Space, Psychotherapist, MA
Emma Chow | The Filial Space
Psychotherapist, MA
Ermington, NSW 2115
Filial Therapy is a specialised relationship-focused therapeutic program for parents/ caregivers and their children, in which you learn some of the main tools from the play therapist's toolbox.
Understanding and responding sensitively to your child’s BIG emotions and behaviours can feel overwhelming and exhausting. It’s hard not to feel triggered, slipping into fight, flight, or freeze, or defaulting to unhelpful parenting patterns. The ripple effect on the entire family and beyond - sibling dynamics, peer relationships, school - can feel so disheartening. What you truly want is to support your child’s growth, development, and wellbeing. Most importantly, you long for a stronger, more secure, and trusting relationship with your child, so they feel safe turning to you for the big things.
Filial Therapy is a specialised relationship-focused therapeutic program for parents/ caregivers and their children, in which you learn some of the main tools from the play therapist's toolbox.
Understanding and responding sensitively to your child’s BIG emotions and behaviours can feel overwhelming and exhausting. It’s hard not to feel triggered, slipping into fight, flight, or freeze, or defaulting to unhelpful parenting patterns. The ripple effect on the entire family and beyond - sibling dynamics, peer relationships, school - can feel so disheartening. What you truly want is to support your child’s growth, development, and wellbeing. Most importantly, you long for a stronger, more secure, and trusting relationship with your child, so they feel safe turning to you for the big things.
(02) 7804 4503 View (02) 7804 4503
Photo of Natasha Jassal, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Natasha Jassal
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Bella Vista, NSW 2153
I'm Natasha, a registered psychologist, with over four years of experience in early intervention. I have a deep passion for supporting children and families navigating emotional, behavioural, or developmental concerns in children and adolescents. Whether your child is experiencing emotional regulation concerns, ADHD, ASD, or simply going through a difficult phase, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to unpack challenges and build practical, evidence-based strategies that work in everyday life.
I'm Natasha, a registered psychologist, with over four years of experience in early intervention. I have a deep passion for supporting children and families navigating emotional, behavioural, or developmental concerns in children and adolescents. Whether your child is experiencing emotional regulation concerns, ADHD, ASD, or simply going through a difficult phase, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to unpack challenges and build practical, evidence-based strategies that work in everyday life.
(02) 8609 3652 View (02) 8609 3652
Photo of Adrienne Alexander, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Adrienne Alexander
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Hornsby Heights, NSW 2077
Each of us holds an innate capacity for healing, joy, and creative expression. Whether you’re feeling stuck, seeking deeper meaning, or yearning to bring more light and inspiration into your life, this space is for you. I work with individuals of all ages, couples and families who are searching for something more: a reconnection to their authentic self, a sense of purpose, and the freedom to live a more colourful, meaningful life. Through creative exploration, gentle guidance, and a supportive presence, I invite you to rediscover your inner spark.
Each of us holds an innate capacity for healing, joy, and creative expression. Whether you’re feeling stuck, seeking deeper meaning, or yearning to bring more light and inspiration into your life, this space is for you. I work with individuals of all ages, couples and families who are searching for something more: a reconnection to their authentic self, a sense of purpose, and the freedom to live a more colourful, meaningful life. Through creative exploration, gentle guidance, and a supportive presence, I invite you to rediscover your inner spark.
(02) 8403 0453 View (02) 8403 0453
Photo of Olivia Orru, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Olivia Orru
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Liverpool, NSW 2170
I’m Olivia, a friendly, caring, and outgoing Registered Counsellor and ACA Approved Supervisor, dedicated to providing a warm and supportive space for clients and supervisees. With extensive experience working with diverse individuals—from children up to older adults—I am passionate about helping people navigate their emotional challenges with confidence and resilience. My person-centered approach integrates a range of evidence-based therapies, tailored to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. I strive to create a nurturing environment where individuals and families feel safe, heard, and empowered.
I’m Olivia, a friendly, caring, and outgoing Registered Counsellor and ACA Approved Supervisor, dedicated to providing a warm and supportive space for clients and supervisees. With extensive experience working with diverse individuals—from children up to older adults—I am passionate about helping people navigate their emotional challenges with confidence and resilience. My person-centered approach integrates a range of evidence-based therapies, tailored to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. I strive to create a nurturing environment where individuals and families feel safe, heard, and empowered.
(02) 8105 5362 View (02) 8105 5362
Photo of Jessica Condell, Social Worker, AMHSW
Jessica Condell
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Neutral Bay, NSW 2089
I help people understand how difficult or painful relationship experiences shape connection, trust, boundaries and self-worth. You may find yourself overthinking relationships, people pleasing, struggling to trust others, fearing rejection or feeling lonely, anxious or not good enough. These patterns might show up with partners, in family relationships, workplaces, dating, friendships or parenting. Maybe you recognise similar responses surfacing in your interactions but feel unsure where to begin.
I help people understand how difficult or painful relationship experiences shape connection, trust, boundaries and self-worth. You may find yourself overthinking relationships, people pleasing, struggling to trust others, fearing rejection or feeling lonely, anxious or not good enough. These patterns might show up with partners, in family relationships, workplaces, dating, friendships or parenting. Maybe you recognise similar responses surfacing in your interactions but feel unsure where to begin.
(02) 9538 7368 View (02) 9538 7368
Photo of Shagufta Alam, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Shagufta Alam
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
The Ponds, NSW 2769
I use elements of CBT, DBT, Schema Therapy, Play therapy and Art Therapy.
Shagufta can help individuals who are experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, difficulty focusing and prioritising. I can help children, teenagers and adults with identifying their key problem areas and achieve their goals. I can also help with autism, ADHD and cognitive assessments for children and adults since results from these assessments gives the opportunity understand yourself better and to get the right support at school, home, and from family, friends, teachers and workplace. I can also help people who would like to apply for NDIS, I also work with insurance and workers compensation.
I use elements of CBT, DBT, Schema Therapy, Play therapy and Art Therapy.
Shagufta can help individuals who are experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, difficulty focusing and prioritising. I can help children, teenagers and adults with identifying their key problem areas and achieve their goals. I can also help with autism, ADHD and cognitive assessments for children and adults since results from these assessments gives the opportunity understand yourself better and to get the right support at school, home, and from family, friends, teachers and workplace. I can also help people who would like to apply for NDIS, I also work with insurance and workers compensation.
(02) 8609 3666 View (02) 8609 3666

See more therapy options for Balmain

Play Therapy
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?
Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behaviour and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?
A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?
Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?
Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behaviour.