Play Therapy Counselling in Forster, NSW

Photo of Kim O'Donnell, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Kim O'Donnell
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The one constant we all share, regardless of our gender, wealth, race, location or religious beliefs is that we will spend our life in our body. This will also be one of the most confronting, challenging and potentially beautiful relationships we'll ever experience. Can we fully embrace our body? Can we come to terms with the social and cultural factors surrounding our body and, when the time comes to leave our body, will we do so with love and gratitude for how it helped us to connect with ourselves and others? Let's explore those questions together.
The one constant we all share, regardless of our gender, wealth, race, location or religious beliefs is that we will spend our life in our body. This will also be one of the most confronting, challenging and potentially beautiful relationships we'll ever experience. Can we fully embrace our body? Can we come to terms with the social and cultural factors surrounding our body and, when the time comes to leave our body, will we do so with love and gratitude for how it helped us to connect with ourselves and others? Let's explore those questions together.
(07) 3050 0663 View (07) 3050 0663
Photo of Amber Hunter, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Amber Hunter
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Enjoy being outdoors in natural spaces? Me too! I offer walk & talk therapy in natural environments from North Ryde to Hornsby to Berowra. Compassionately & empathically passionate about helping young people live their best lives. Assessing and supporting neurodivergence (ADHD & Autism) and it’s impacts on mental health i.e. anxiety, stress, depression, is of special interest to me. Therapeutically I am committed to empowering people to achieve healthy and enjoyable lives by developing a greater capacity for resilience and more positive & meaningful relationships with themselves & others in a safe supportive environment.
Enjoy being outdoors in natural spaces? Me too! I offer walk & talk therapy in natural environments from North Ryde to Hornsby to Berowra. Compassionately & empathically passionate about helping young people live their best lives. Assessing and supporting neurodivergence (ADHD & Autism) and it’s impacts on mental health i.e. anxiety, stress, depression, is of special interest to me. Therapeutically I am committed to empowering people to achieve healthy and enjoyable lives by developing a greater capacity for resilience and more positive & meaningful relationships with themselves & others in a safe supportive environment.
(02) 8403 1535 View (02) 8403 1535

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jamie Dimech - DOMIA Mind Body Connect, Counsellor, ACA-L2
DOMIA Mind Body Connect
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My name is Jamie and I have supported children, young people, adults, foster and kinship carers in the therapeutic space for over 10 years. Sessions are guided by your needs and what feels most safe for you to explore at any given time. I am there to act as a guide to support you on your healing journey. As a mother of two little ones, I understand the challenges and fulfillment we experience as parents. I am deeply passionate about supporting parents, foster, and kinship carers to navigate the complexities of fostering, parenthood as well as preparing for birth and beyond.
My name is Jamie and I have supported children, young people, adults, foster and kinship carers in the therapeutic space for over 10 years. Sessions are guided by your needs and what feels most safe for you to explore at any given time. I am there to act as a guide to support you on your healing journey. As a mother of two little ones, I understand the challenges and fulfillment we experience as parents. I am deeply passionate about supporting parents, foster, and kinship carers to navigate the complexities of fostering, parenthood as well as preparing for birth and beyond.
(02) 6564 1969 View (02) 6564 1969
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Taree, NSW 2430
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930

Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel Wendt - Oracle Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Oracle Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Childhood is the most important time in an individual's life and professional advice can play an essential role in promoting development.
Mr Daniel Wendt is the Principal Clinical Psychologist and Director of Oracle Psychology. His qualifications in both Education and Psychology offer a unique combination of expertise which is well suited to assisting children and young people. We also assist adults and practice across the lifespan. Oracle Psychology's clinicians are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). They have extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults. Our staff are passionate about the wellbeing of individuals in Newcastle, the Hunter and Central Coast.
Childhood is the most important time in an individual's life and professional advice can play an essential role in promoting development.
Mr Daniel Wendt is the Principal Clinical Psychologist and Director of Oracle Psychology. His qualifications in both Education and Psychology offer a unique combination of expertise which is well suited to assisting children and young people. We also assist adults and practice across the lifespan. Oracle Psychology's clinicians are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). They have extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults. Our staff are passionate about the wellbeing of individuals in Newcastle, the Hunter and Central Coast.
(02) 4077 2916 View (02) 4077 2916
Photo of Denise Leigh, Counsellor, PACFA
Denise Leigh
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
When working with children, I use a range of creative and play therapies and I like to support the family as well as the child individually.
I believe that we can all lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, regardless of, and in spite of our circumstances, background, abilities, diagnoses or age. My aim to help you find your purpose, and uncover the significance of your life. It is a joy is to assist clients of all ages and backgrounds, on their individual and uniquely crafted journey towards new possibilities. I use a range of counselling and psychotherapy techniques including some creative therapies.
When working with children, I use a range of creative and play therapies and I like to support the family as well as the child individually.
I believe that we can all lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, regardless of, and in spite of our circumstances, background, abilities, diagnoses or age. My aim to help you find your purpose, and uncover the significance of your life. It is a joy is to assist clients of all ages and backgrounds, on their individual and uniquely crafted journey towards new possibilities. I use a range of counselling and psychotherapy techniques including some creative therapies.
(02) 8188 3934 View (02) 8188 3934
Photo of Amanda Labron Johnson, Counsellor, PACFA
Amanda Labron Johnson
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Scone, NSW 2337
Counselling is a creative, very human process. I work with a person centred, integrative approach drawing from a range of counselling modalities. Attunement in the therapeutic relationship is key. This ensures that the counselling process is flexibly designed to meet your needs. Reflecting on one’s deepest issues, life path, pain and joy can be a transformative experience leading to insights and change. Witnessing and facilitating this therapeutic process and positive outcomes for clients is what continually renews my passion for this work. I work with adults, teens and children. For younger children I work with play therapy.
Counselling is a creative, very human process. I work with a person centred, integrative approach drawing from a range of counselling modalities. Attunement in the therapeutic relationship is key. This ensures that the counselling process is flexibly designed to meet your needs. Reflecting on one’s deepest issues, life path, pain and joy can be a transformative experience leading to insights and change. Witnessing and facilitating this therapeutic process and positive outcomes for clients is what continually renews my passion for this work. I work with adults, teens and children. For younger children I work with play therapy.
(02) 5504 1906 View (02) 5504 1906
Photo of Mahalia Hartas, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mahalia Hartas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Tuggerah, NSW 2259
Waitlist for new clients
I tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual, drawing from a variety of evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, play based, mindfulness-based therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
As a psychologist, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and improve their mental wellbeing. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I strive to create a nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and working towards their goals.
I tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual, drawing from a variety of evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, play based, mindfulness-based therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
As a psychologist, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and improve their mental wellbeing. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I strive to create a nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and working towards their goals.
(02) 4307 0000 View (02) 4307 0000
Photo of Lorena Fernandez Collazo - Link To Us, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Lorena Fernandez Collazo - Link To Us
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Tuggerah, NSW 2259
I provide therapies, such as CBT, ACT, play&creative therapy, for children, adolescents, families and adults struggling with behaviours of concern, negative thoughts, ADHD, Autism, depression and trauma, I help clients process emotions, build resilience, and develop coping skills in a safe space, fostering empowerment, growth, and hope for a brighter future
I am a registered clinical counsellor specializing in supporting children, adolescents, and families facing modern challenges. I am a Domestic Violence Advocate and I provide a safe space to explore emotions, process experiences, and rebuild trust. Using trauma-informed, evidence-based therapies like CBT, creative therapies, mindfulness, guided visualisations and breathing techniques, I help clients navigate difficult emotions, behaviours and challenges and build lifelong tools for well-being. I focus on fostering resilience, restoring safety, and reclaiming self-identity to help clients achieve their goals and embrace growth.
I provide therapies, such as CBT, ACT, play&creative therapy, for children, adolescents, families and adults struggling with behaviours of concern, negative thoughts, ADHD, Autism, depression and trauma, I help clients process emotions, build resilience, and develop coping skills in a safe space, fostering empowerment, growth, and hope for a brighter future
I am a registered clinical counsellor specializing in supporting children, adolescents, and families facing modern challenges. I am a Domestic Violence Advocate and I provide a safe space to explore emotions, process experiences, and rebuild trust. Using trauma-informed, evidence-based therapies like CBT, creative therapies, mindfulness, guided visualisations and breathing techniques, I help clients navigate difficult emotions, behaviours and challenges and build lifelong tools for well-being. I focus on fostering resilience, restoring safety, and reclaiming self-identity to help clients achieve their goals and embrace growth.
(02) 4307 5583 View (02) 4307 5583
Photo of Shené Regan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Shené Regan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
My practice includes play-based and creative therapies for children and adolescents.
Hey there! I'm Shené, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, specialising in supporting children, adolescents, and women. From a young age, I envisioned creating a place where children and their families could find the support they need. Over time, this vision has evolved. Today, I am driven not only to assist children coping with loss but also to support anyone navigating the profound impact of trauma, and grief and loss. My passion extends to nurturing thriving families, with a particular focus on supporting new mothers and their babies through the transformative and often challenging post-natal period and beyond.
My practice includes play-based and creative therapies for children and adolescents.
Hey there! I'm Shené, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, specialising in supporting children, adolescents, and women. From a young age, I envisioned creating a place where children and their families could find the support they need. Over time, this vision has evolved. Today, I am driven not only to assist children coping with loss but also to support anyone navigating the profound impact of trauma, and grief and loss. My passion extends to nurturing thriving families, with a particular focus on supporting new mothers and their babies through the transformative and often challenging post-natal period and beyond.
(02) 5503 9424 View (02) 5503 9424
Photo of Tori Donnelly - Tori Donnelly Counselling and Support , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Tori Donnelly Counselling and Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Tori is a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker and Certified Play Therapist, specialising in sexual abuse and other forms of trauma.
For children aged 4 to 10, Tori uses Child-Centred Play Therapy to allow children to develop self-esteem, a positive self-image and a sense of control. When working with older children and adults, Tori utilises psycho-education, mindfulness, relaxation strategies, art-based therapies, CBT and skills training.
Tori is a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker and Certified Play Therapist, specialising in sexual abuse and other forms of trauma.
For children aged 4 to 10, Tori uses Child-Centred Play Therapy to allow children to develop self-esteem, a positive self-image and a sense of control. When working with older children and adults, Tori utilises psycho-education, mindfulness, relaxation strategies, art-based therapies, CBT and skills training.
(02) 5566 2745 View (02) 5566 2745
Photo of Madeleine Berryman, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Madeleine Berryman
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Belmont, NSW 2280
Over the years I have worked hard to grow skills to be able to work with individuals with a variety of presentations. I work with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders and trauma and much more. It is important that the client and I work collaboratively to meet a clients needs and goals and that we have an open, honest relationship together. It is important for client's to know that they are the master in themselves and that I as a therapist am there to support them to make their own changes to reach their full potential.
Over the years I have worked hard to grow skills to be able to work with individuals with a variety of presentations. I work with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders and trauma and much more. It is important that the client and I work collaboratively to meet a clients needs and goals and that we have an open, honest relationship together. It is important for client's to know that they are the master in themselves and that I as a therapist am there to support them to make their own changes to reach their full potential.
(02) 4058 4419 View (02) 4058 4419
Photo of Samar Castelli - Assess Psychology Central Coast, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Assess Psychology Central Coast
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wyong, NSW 2259
At our practice, we prioritise ensuring that our clients feel truly heard, understood, and respected, regardless of their circumstances, history, or concerns. Taking a positive psychology approach, we firmly believe in the unique strengths inherent in every individual, and our aim is to empower and amplify those strengths.
At our practice, we prioritise ensuring that our clients feel truly heard, understood, and respected, regardless of their circumstances, history, or concerns. Taking a positive psychology approach, we firmly believe in the unique strengths inherent in every individual, and our aim is to empower and amplify those strengths.
(02) 4307 5847 View (02) 4307 5847
Photo of Carly Tredway - Sunnybank Therapies, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sunnybank Therapies
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ourimbah, NSW 2258
Waitlist for new clients
Here at Sunnybank, we specialise in helping people who are experiencing mental health difficulties through understanding complex thoughts, feelings and situations. Our down-to-earth approach, coupled with the beautiful environment here at Sunnybank opens us to the possibility of change. We can sit outside by the fire, on a picnic blanket, inside on the lounge or walk the property- it's experiential, meaning that we help you to experience the change, the healing, the shift. We do it alongside you, we walk together. Our client-led focus can help you to open up and through honesty and sharing your story; you are not alone.
Here at Sunnybank, we specialise in helping people who are experiencing mental health difficulties through understanding complex thoughts, feelings and situations. Our down-to-earth approach, coupled with the beautiful environment here at Sunnybank opens us to the possibility of change. We can sit outside by the fire, on a picnic blanket, inside on the lounge or walk the property- it's experiential, meaning that we help you to experience the change, the healing, the shift. We do it alongside you, we walk together. Our client-led focus can help you to open up and through honesty and sharing your story; you are not alone.
(02) 4307 5805 View (02) 4307 5805
Photo of Sarah Coria, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Sarah Coria
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm passionate about helping people heal their inner child and find peace in their lives. My goal is to provide a safe, empathetic, and supportive space where you can reconnect with your inner child, process those unresolved emotions, and start your journey towards healing.
I'm passionate about helping people heal their inner child and find peace in their lives. My goal is to provide a safe, empathetic, and supportive space where you can reconnect with your inner child, process those unresolved emotions, and start your journey towards healing.
(02) 4071 2932 View (02) 4071 2932
Photo of Shelley Puru - Shelley Puru - Harmony Well-being Services, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Shelley Puru - Harmony Well-being Services
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Toronto, NSW 2283
Waitlist for new clients
Specialising in children, youth and individuals who are stressed, anxious and generally overwhelmed with life’s curve balls. Do you have children with behaviours that are challenging, diagnosis’ of ADHD, Autism or similar? Do you have teens that feel like no one understands them? Do you want to create a sense of contentment in your life? To gain some connection within your family, to feel a greater sense of self-worth and self-acceptance? To understand and not vilify the many different parts of who you are? Congratulations on taking the first and often most difficult step in your well-being journey!
Specialising in children, youth and individuals who are stressed, anxious and generally overwhelmed with life’s curve balls. Do you have children with behaviours that are challenging, diagnosis’ of ADHD, Autism or similar? Do you have teens that feel like no one understands them? Do you want to create a sense of contentment in your life? To gain some connection within your family, to feel a greater sense of self-worth and self-acceptance? To understand and not vilify the many different parts of who you are? Congratulations on taking the first and often most difficult step in your well-being journey!
(02) 4005 0240 View (02) 4005 0240
Photo of Louise Kanjee, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Louise Kanjee
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Telarah, NSW 2320
I work with clients who are looking for understanding, empathy and acceptance. I am experienced with working with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse and eating disorders. People who are looking to not just talk through their issues but who want to be in a space to work on and transform their inner worlds and the way they approach life find that the way I work alongside them as well as the space I provide resonates with them. Maybe you have tried lots of different therapists and are looking for someone different and who thinks out of the box - if so, I may be the person for you!
I work with clients who are looking for understanding, empathy and acceptance. I am experienced with working with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse and eating disorders. People who are looking to not just talk through their issues but who want to be in a space to work on and transform their inner worlds and the way they approach life find that the way I work alongside them as well as the space I provide resonates with them. Maybe you have tried lots of different therapists and are looking for someone different and who thinks out of the box - if so, I may be the person for you!
(02) 4012 4906 View (02) 4012 4906
Photo of Rebecca Saalfeld, Counsellor, PACFA
Rebecca Saalfeld
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Lambton, NSW 2299
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling? Would you like to deepen your understanding of yourself and what is important to you? Would you like to feel more confident? Would you like to make choices that better serve you? Would you like to explore your concerns using dialogue, 2 chair work, art, body wisdom or dreams? Would you like to deepen your self awareness and authentic experience? Do you want to work in a way and at a pace determined by your needs? All sessions are mutually respectful and confidential.
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling? Would you like to deepen your understanding of yourself and what is important to you? Would you like to feel more confident? Would you like to make choices that better serve you? Would you like to explore your concerns using dialogue, 2 chair work, art, body wisdom or dreams? Would you like to deepen your self awareness and authentic experience? Do you want to work in a way and at a pace determined by your needs? All sessions are mutually respectful and confidential.
(02) 4082 8292 View (02) 4082 8292
Photo of Hannah Robertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Hannah Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
New Lambton, NSW 2305
With over 10 years of experience as a Social Worker in varying roles, Hannah has specific expertise working with children and young people. In particular children and young people who have complex trauma backgrounds, who have experienced grief and loss, and are experiencing behavioural challenges. Hannah is passionate about supporting children and young people to reach their full potential.
With over 10 years of experience as a Social Worker in varying roles, Hannah has specific expertise working with children and young people. In particular children and young people who have complex trauma backgrounds, who have experienced grief and loss, and are experiencing behavioural challenges. Hannah is passionate about supporting children and young people to reach their full potential.
(02) 4012 2403 View (02) 4012 2403
Photo of Kasia Aksamit - Casuarina Holistic Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Casuarina Holistic Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anambah, NSW 2320
Each of us is a unique being trying to navigate the world that was not build for us and our individual needs. That can feel overwhelming and we encounter blocks and obstacles that stop us from living a fulfilling life. I offer a space where you can explore your longings, desires, goals and blocks, in a presence of an attuned witness. A place to be heard and listened to, where you can cultivate trust and safety. Many of people that come to me- adults, teens and kids- seek support with neurodivergence, trauma, depression or anxiety. My wish is to support you with understanding and tools, so you can become your authentic self.
Each of us is a unique being trying to navigate the world that was not build for us and our individual needs. That can feel overwhelming and we encounter blocks and obstacles that stop us from living a fulfilling life. I offer a space where you can explore your longings, desires, goals and blocks, in a presence of an attuned witness. A place to be heard and listened to, where you can cultivate trust and safety. Many of people that come to me- adults, teens and kids- seek support with neurodivergence, trauma, depression or anxiety. My wish is to support you with understanding and tools, so you can become your authentic self.
(02) 5562 8620 View (02) 5562 8620

See more therapy options for Forster

Play Therapy Counsellors

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.