Play Therapy Psychologists and Therapists in Cronulla, NSW

Photo of Laura Therese Turner, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Laura Therese Turner
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Cronulla, NSW 2230
There's a particular kind of tired that comes from holding it all together on the outside while everything underneath feels like it's barely keeping up. With this can come anxiety, overwhelm, rage, and maybe even a sense of having lost yourself somewhere along the way. I work with women across Cronulla and the Sutherland Shire, in person and online, supporting them to create space for what's been asking to be felt, and find their way back to feeling lighter, more resourced, and more in control. Reach out for a free 20-minute consultation
There's a particular kind of tired that comes from holding it all together on the outside while everything underneath feels like it's barely keeping up. With this can come anxiety, overwhelm, rage, and maybe even a sense of having lost yourself somewhere along the way. I work with women across Cronulla and the Sutherland Shire, in person and online, supporting them to create space for what's been asking to be felt, and find their way back to feeling lighter, more resourced, and more in control. Reach out for a free 20-minute consultation
(02) 7501 1182 View (02) 7501 1182
Photo of Jessica Condell, Social Worker, AMHSW
Jessica Condell
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Cronulla, NSW 2230
I help adults 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 adults 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 Jackie Lou Humphries, Counsellor, PACFA
Jackie Lou Humphries
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with young people aged 12–25 and their parents. Some families come to me for the everyday challenges of growing up — anxiety, friendship struggles, low self-esteem, grief, school stress, or not feeling like they belong. Others are in harder territory — withdrawal, school refusal, substance use, rage, or behaviours that keep parents awake at night. Most parents arrive with the same question: Why isn’t what I’m doing working, and how do I reach my kid again? I help families answer that — by decoding what’s driving the behaviour and creating a space young people feel safe enough to do the work.
I work with young people aged 12–25 and their parents. Some families come to me for the everyday challenges of growing up — anxiety, friendship struggles, low self-esteem, grief, school stress, or not feeling like they belong. Others are in harder territory — withdrawal, school refusal, substance use, rage, or behaviours that keep parents awake at night. Most parents arrive with the same question: Why isn’t what I’m doing working, and how do I reach my kid again? I help families answer that — by decoding what’s driving the behaviour and creating a space young people feel safe enough to do the work.
(02) 7501 0365 View (02) 7501 0365
Photo of Tyla Stroebel, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Tyla Stroebel
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Tyla, a psychologist with lived experience and a passion for helping people understand the way their unique brain works. I focus on neurodiversity-affirming assessments and support for children, teens, and adults, both in person and online. I have a special interest in assessing the more internalized presentations of Adhd and autism. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and respectful of each individual’s lived experience, including the ways we mask, cope, and thrive in a world that often wasn’t designed for neurodivergent minds.
I’m Tyla, a psychologist with lived experience and a passion for helping people understand the way their unique brain works. I focus on neurodiversity-affirming assessments and support for children, teens, and adults, both in person and online. I have a special interest in assessing the more internalized presentations of Adhd and autism. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and respectful of each individual’s lived experience, including the ways we mask, cope, and thrive in a world that often wasn’t designed for neurodivergent minds.
(02) 8105 6892 View (02) 8105 6892
Photo of Anthony Colantuono, Social Worker, AMHSW
Anthony Colantuono
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Anthony is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than 20 years’ experience providing person-centred, confidential counselling to adults, adolescents, and children. Based in Caringbah, he offers appointments in person and online via secure video link across Australia.
Anthony is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than 20 years’ experience providing person-centred, confidential counselling to adults, adolescents, and children. Based in Caringbah, he offers appointments in person and online via secure video link across Australia.
(02) 9538 7967 View (02) 9538 7967

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rupa Parthasarathy - Mindkshetra, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Mindkshetra
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Wentworthville, NSW 2145
Whatever life adversity/situation/issues the young(er) person is muddling through - anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger management, stress, bullying, friendship issues, social anxiety, learning difficulties and building self-confidence, dealing with loss - We are invested in helping the young(er) person navigate through this sensitive stage with a focus on strengthening their overall wellbeing using creativity as a means. We also help adults cope with a range of life issues like coping with stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, divorce or separation, identity and acculturation issues, improving communication. ​
Whatever life adversity/situation/issues the young(er) person is muddling through - anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger management, stress, bullying, friendship issues, social anxiety, learning difficulties and building self-confidence, dealing with loss - We are invested in helping the young(er) person navigate through this sensitive stage with a focus on strengthening their overall wellbeing using creativity as a means. We also help adults cope with a range of life issues like coping with stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, divorce or separation, identity and acculturation issues, improving communication. ​
(02) 8806 1337 View (02) 8806 1337
Photo of Noyonika Banik, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Noyonika Banik
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I believe that no issue is minor. Whatever someone is going through, it’s valid and deserves support. My ideal client is anyone who needs that space to heal or grow through therapy. Whether they’re facing trauma, family conflict, identity struggles, or simply feeling lost or overwhelmed, I’m here to walk alongside them. They might not always know exactly what they need, but they’re open to exploring, feeling, and slowly rebuilding. What they want is to feel understood, to make sense of their experiences, and to move forward with more clarity and self-compassion.
I believe that no issue is minor. Whatever someone is going through, it’s valid and deserves support. My ideal client is anyone who needs that space to heal or grow through therapy. Whether they’re facing trauma, family conflict, identity struggles, or simply feeling lost or overwhelmed, I’m here to walk alongside them. They might not always know exactly what they need, but they’re open to exploring, feeling, and slowly rebuilding. What they want is to feel understood, to make sense of their experiences, and to move forward with more clarity and self-compassion.
0484 298 458 View 0484 298 458
Photo of Kerry Kostinsky Verlingieri - Renewed Hope Counselling Services, Counsellor, PACFA
Renewed Hope Counselling Services
Counsellor, PACFA
Edensor Park, NSW 2176
It deeply affects me to see people living with wounds caused by trauma, abuse, grief, relationship breakdown, or overwhelming life experiences. Many feel trapped inside patterns of fear, shame, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion that were never theirs to carry. I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where clients can feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward healing and stability. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds, with particular experience in trauma and domestic violence.
It deeply affects me to see people living with wounds caused by trauma, abuse, grief, relationship breakdown, or overwhelming life experiences. Many feel trapped inside patterns of fear, shame, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion that were never theirs to carry. I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where clients can feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward healing and stability. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds, with particular experience in trauma and domestic violence.
(02) 9159 6284 View (02) 9159 6284
Photo of Sandy Ford - Northground, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Northground
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I'll calm your nervous system in ways that are realistic, unique, and tailored to you using somatic practices, sensory regulation, "spoon theory" thinking, curiosity, and even play.
If you’re living with complex conditions like POTS, Long COVID, MCAS, EDS, CFS, or Autoimmune disorders, your nervous system is likely in a constant state of high alert. When a body is stuck in a cycle of flares, exhaustion, and medical gaslighting, "just talking about it" often isn't enough. You can’t talk your way out of a physiological nervous system response. My practice is designed for those who have hit a wall with traditional talk therapy and are seeking a body-based, neuroaffirming approach to find stability again.
I'll calm your nervous system in ways that are realistic, unique, and tailored to you using somatic practices, sensory regulation, "spoon theory" thinking, curiosity, and even play.
If you’re living with complex conditions like POTS, Long COVID, MCAS, EDS, CFS, or Autoimmune disorders, your nervous system is likely in a constant state of high alert. When a body is stuck in a cycle of flares, exhaustion, and medical gaslighting, "just talking about it" often isn't enough. You can’t talk your way out of a physiological nervous system response. My practice is designed for those who have hit a wall with traditional talk therapy and are seeking a body-based, neuroaffirming approach to find stability again.
0411 607 463 View 0411 607 463
Photo of Tanja Rose Limnios - Thinkahead, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Thinkahead
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
Are you suffering a mental health condition? Are you struggling dealing with your childs behaviour or simply need an assessment for learning difficulties/ADHD/ASD? You may simply be feeling a little lost with little direction and clarity. If this is you, then make a change today and reach out and speak to one of our clinicians. We use a multidisciplinary approach and have a team of Psychologists, Occupational Therapist, Behaviour Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Art Therapists, Learning/ Remedial Support Teachers, Physiotherapists. We see NDIS, AccessPlus, Medicare, WC, CTP, VS, EAP clients
Are you suffering a mental health condition? Are you struggling dealing with your childs behaviour or simply need an assessment for learning difficulties/ADHD/ASD? You may simply be feeling a little lost with little direction and clarity. If this is you, then make a change today and reach out and speak to one of our clinicians. We use a multidisciplinary approach and have a team of Psychologists, Occupational Therapist, Behaviour Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Art Therapists, Learning/ Remedial Support Teachers, Physiotherapists. We see NDIS, AccessPlus, Medicare, WC, CTP, VS, EAP clients
(02) 9053 4507 View (02) 9053 4507
Photo of Sorcha Conlan - Sorcha Conlan Therapeutic Services, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Sorcha Conlan Therapeutic Services
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Quals-Narrative therapy, Interpersonal therapy, trauma and attachment, DBT, Response based practice, play therapy & systemic approaches.
Clinical Psychotherapy, Collaborative Supervision, Consultation and Facilitation.
Quals-Narrative therapy, Interpersonal therapy, trauma and attachment, DBT, Response based practice, play therapy & systemic approaches.
Clinical Psychotherapy, Collaborative Supervision, Consultation and Facilitation.
(03) 4829 5216 View (03) 4829 5216
Photo of Emma Djukic, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Emma Djukic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Hornsby, NSW 2077
We all need a safe space to explore our difficult feelings, challenges and hopes for the future.
We all need a safe space to explore our difficult feelings, challenges and hopes for the future.
(02) 8403 2468 View (02) 8403 2468
Photo of Sarah Antonia De Pasquale - Thrive within Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Thrive within Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals who are ready — whether confidently or cautiously — to explore what’s happening beneath the surface. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, or difficulties with identity and relationships. I often support people experiencing mental health concerns, alcohol and other drug (AOD) challenges, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community seeking a safe and supportive space. My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. Together, we work at your pace using evidence-based strategies to help you feel heard, empowered, and supported
I work with individuals who are ready — whether confidently or cautiously — to explore what’s happening beneath the surface. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, or difficulties with identity and relationships. I often support people experiencing mental health concerns, alcohol and other drug (AOD) challenges, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community seeking a safe and supportive space. My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. Together, we work at your pace using evidence-based strategies to help you feel heard, empowered, and supported
(08) 7110 0028 View (08) 7110 0028
Photo of Minky van der Walt, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Minky van der Walt
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Welcome! If you’ve tried talk therapy & still find yourself lying awake at night or feeling stuck, there are ways beyond words that can help you find ease & a path forward. With 25+ years of experience, I offer evidence-based, trauma-informed support that helps calm an overworked nervous system and reconnect you with your inner resources. Alongside EMDR, IFS-informed, somatic, & creative arts therapies, I also offer innovative, short-term, intensive therapy options for clinicians & leaders seeking deeper, faster trauma recovery & renewed vitality. Together, we’ll find a way forward grounded in respect, choice, and collaboration.
Welcome! If you’ve tried talk therapy & still find yourself lying awake at night or feeling stuck, there are ways beyond words that can help you find ease & a path forward. With 25+ years of experience, I offer evidence-based, trauma-informed support that helps calm an overworked nervous system and reconnect you with your inner resources. Alongside EMDR, IFS-informed, somatic, & creative arts therapies, I also offer innovative, short-term, intensive therapy options for clinicians & leaders seeking deeper, faster trauma recovery & renewed vitality. Together, we’ll find a way forward grounded in respect, choice, and collaboration.
(03) 6155 0510 View (03) 6155 0510
Photo of Venessa Diab, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Venessa Diab
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Hurstville, NSW 2220
As a dedicated and compassionate psychologist, I endeavour to make therapy a supportive and welcoming space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings. I specialise in providing evidence-based therapies for anxiety, depression, adjustment to change, stress, sleep, work challenges and relationship issues. I understand that life can be difficult and stressful at times and my aim is to provide you with practical tools to help you improve your life and achieve your wellbeing goals.
As a dedicated and compassionate psychologist, I endeavour to make therapy a supportive and welcoming space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings. I specialise in providing evidence-based therapies for anxiety, depression, adjustment to change, stress, sleep, work challenges and relationship issues. I understand that life can be difficult and stressful at times and my aim is to provide you with practical tools to help you improve your life and achieve your wellbeing goals.
(02) 8105 5172 View (02) 8105 5172
Photo of Susana Newcombe, Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L2
Susana Newcombe
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Kellyville, NSW 2155
Using evidence-based programs, such as Cool Kids, play therapy, and creative, solution-focused approaches, I help young people develop coping skills, confidence, resilience, and a positive sense of self, while partnering with parents to support growth at home.
I support children and adolescents with anxiety, ADHD, and autism by providing a safe, caring space to build confidence, resilience, and coping skills. Using the Cool Kids Program and play therapy, I tailor strategies to each child’s needs.
Using evidence-based programs, such as Cool Kids, play therapy, and creative, solution-focused approaches, I help young people develop coping skills, confidence, resilience, and a positive sense of self, while partnering with parents to support growth at home.
I support children and adolescents with anxiety, ADHD, and autism by providing a safe, caring space to build confidence, resilience, and coping skills. Using the Cool Kids Program and play therapy, I tailor strategies to each child’s needs.
(02) 8403 1537 View (02) 8403 1537
Photo of James Raciti, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
James Raciti
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Lane Cove, NSW 2066
I draw from CBT, ACT, schema therapy, mindfulness, and play therapy with children.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, burnout, low mood, or feeling overwhelmed by day to day life. I have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, autism) and parents navigating these challenges. Many clients come to me feeling stuck, misunderstood, or unsure why things feel harder than they should despite their best efforts. I help make sense of what’s going on and work collaboratively to build practical, personalised strategies that lead to meaningful, sustainable change over time.
I draw from CBT, ACT, schema therapy, mindfulness, and play therapy with children.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, burnout, low mood, or feeling overwhelmed by day to day life. I have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, autism) and parents navigating these challenges. Many clients come to me feeling stuck, misunderstood, or unsure why things feel harder than they should despite their best efforts. I help make sense of what’s going on and work collaboratively to build practical, personalised strategies that lead to meaningful, sustainable change over time.
0494 649 122 View 0494 649 122
Photo of Alison Turner, Psychologist, PhD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Alison Turner
Psychologist, PhD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Hornsby, NSW 2077
Alison provides a thoughtful, respectful and caring environment for personal growth, change and well being. Alison’s approach to therapy is based on providing treatment that is tailored to the particular needs, circumstances and personality of her clients. Alison Turner PhD is a Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, she has many years of experience in private practice where she sees individuals, couples, families and children.
Alison provides a thoughtful, respectful and caring environment for personal growth, change and well being. Alison’s approach to therapy is based on providing treatment that is tailored to the particular needs, circumstances and personality of her clients. Alison Turner PhD is a Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, she has many years of experience in private practice where she sees individuals, couples, families and children.
(02) 8074 1784 View (02) 8074 1784
Photo of Rebecca Barnes - Flamelily Connections, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Flamelily Connections
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you have an intellectual or physical disability? Do you find yourself struggling to sleep? Are you struggling with your loved one's challenging behaviours? Do you have panic attacks from nowhere? Do you want to live a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life and enjoy interactions with people around you?
Do you have an intellectual or physical disability? Do you find yourself struggling to sleep? Are you struggling with your loved one's challenging behaviours? Do you have panic attacks from nowhere? Do you want to live a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life and enjoy interactions with people around you?
(02) 8105 5747 View (02) 8105 5747
Photo of Katherine Fallows - Sydney Art Therapy, MA
Sydney Art Therapy
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, NSW 2044
I am Katherine Fallows, I have over 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker and an Art therapist. My 2 x modalities are EMDR and Art Therapy to people across the life span - children to elderly. I specialise in mobile therapy where I can provide therapy at you residence - this is helpful for people with a disability or mental health issues which can other wise be an obstacle for people accessing art therapy. Currently my studio/practice in St Peter’s 2044 if you are interested in a reduced rate of therapy and coming to the studio.
I am Katherine Fallows, I have over 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker and an Art therapist. My 2 x modalities are EMDR and Art Therapy to people across the life span - children to elderly. I specialise in mobile therapy where I can provide therapy at you residence - this is helpful for people with a disability or mental health issues which can other wise be an obstacle for people accessing art therapy. Currently my studio/practice in St Peter’s 2044 if you are interested in a reduced rate of therapy and coming to the studio.
(02) 9100 0474 View (02) 9100 0474
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.