Play Therapy Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW
Like a flower, we bloom in the right environment; in the play therapy room I work with empathy and acceptance to create a safe space for children and families in order for them to work through their issues and “grow”.
Play is how children learn and develop and also how they regulate their emotions and communicate with others. Where an adult might seek talking therapy, play therapy is a developmentally appropriate therapy for children to explore and deal with stuck thoughts or feelings. Play is a child's language.
Like a flower, we bloom in the right environment; in the play therapy room I work with empathy and acceptance to create a safe space for children and families in order for them to work through their issues and “grow”.
Play is how children learn and develop and also how they regulate their emotions and communicate with others. Where an adult might seek talking therapy, play therapy is a developmentally appropriate therapy for children to explore and deal with stuck thoughts or feelings. Play is a child's language.
I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years.
The relationship I develop with your child supports them to feel fully understood and develop communication and strategies to deal with overwhelming emotions. This in turn supports your child’s self esteem, behaviours and relationships with others.
I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years.
The relationship I develop with your child supports them to feel fully understood and develop communication and strategies to deal with overwhelming emotions. This in turn supports your child’s self esteem, behaviours and relationships with others.
I am a Social Worker and a Gestalt Psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health, disability, with the aged and the dying. Throughout my life journey I have come to have a deep appreciation of the human spirit and its capacity for growth and development. I understand that we are all unique in our response to the challenges that we face, and I work towards creating a supportive and safe environment that allows exploration of what is currently occurring in your life and how it is impacting your ability to live as you would like. Through this process, awareness deepens and the possibility and opportunity for change can occur.
I am a Social Worker and a Gestalt Psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health, disability, with the aged and the dying. Throughout my life journey I have come to have a deep appreciation of the human spirit and its capacity for growth and development. I understand that we are all unique in our response to the challenges that we face, and I work towards creating a supportive and safe environment that allows exploration of what is currently occurring in your life and how it is impacting your ability to live as you would like. Through this process, awareness deepens and the possibility and opportunity for change can occur.
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.
More Therapists Nearby
Using evidence-based approaches, we offer individual and couples therapy, specialised child and adolescent counselling, and play therapy incorporating art, sand tray, and AutPlay techniques.
You might be experiencing anxiety or depression, seeking ways to manage ADHD or autism, or working through trauma and PTSD. Perhaps you're looking to develop a healthier relationship with food and your body, or wanting to strengthen your relationship with your partner. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or your child, taking the first step towards change shows courage. At Olivia Hawkins Psychology, we provide compassionate psychological care across all life stages.
Using evidence-based approaches, we offer individual and couples therapy, specialised child and adolescent counselling, and play therapy incorporating art, sand tray, and AutPlay techniques.
You might be experiencing anxiety or depression, seeking ways to manage ADHD or autism, or working through trauma and PTSD. Perhaps you're looking to develop a healthier relationship with food and your body, or wanting to strengthen your relationship with your partner. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or your child, taking the first step towards change shows courage. At Olivia Hawkins Psychology, we provide compassionate psychological care across all life stages.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking cognitive and ADHD assessments or support with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and life transitions. Many feel overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with school, work, relationships, or confidence.
With over 25 years’ experience across education and care settings, I bring a strong developmental perspective. My approach is warm, collaborative, and strengths-based, focused on building practical skills, improving coping, and supporting meaningful, lasting change.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking cognitive and ADHD assessments or support with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and life transitions. Many feel overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with school, work, relationships, or confidence.
With over 25 years’ experience across education and care settings, I bring a strong developmental perspective. My approach is warm, collaborative, and strengths-based, focused on building practical skills, improving coping, and supporting meaningful, lasting change.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, emotionally shut down, or constantly “on edge.” Maybe anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, neurodivergence, or major life transitions are affecting your relationships and sense of self. You want support that feels safe, thoughtful, and genuinely understanding — not rushed or surface-level.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, emotional regulation challenges, and neurodiversity (including autism and ADHD).
You might be feeling overwhelmed, emotionally shut down, or constantly “on edge.” Maybe anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, neurodivergence, or major life transitions are affecting your relationships and sense of self. You want support that feels safe, thoughtful, and genuinely understanding — not rushed or surface-level.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, emotional regulation challenges, and neurodiversity (including autism and ADHD).
I am a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming therapist who works with individuals and families affected by trauma, including domestic and family violence, coercive control, and relational trauma. I understand that trauma can affect every part of life, including relationships, parenting, self-worth, emotional wellbeing, and the way we experience the world around us.
My aim is to offer a space where you feel safe, seen, and held with care — a space where you can begin to make sense of what you have been through, reconnect with yourself, and move toward healing at a pace that feels right for you.
I am a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming therapist who works with individuals and families affected by trauma, including domestic and family violence, coercive control, and relational trauma. I understand that trauma can affect every part of life, including relationships, parenting, self-worth, emotional wellbeing, and the way we experience the world around us.
My aim is to offer a space where you feel safe, seen, and held with care — a space where you can begin to make sense of what you have been through, reconnect with yourself, and move toward healing at a pace that feels right for you.
Carawan
Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Wentworth Point, NSW 2127
As a clinical psychologist, I support people during times when things feel heavy, uncertain, or overwhelming. This is your time, to be heard, to grow, and to heal in a way that’s true to you. You might be feeling anxious, adjusting to parenthood, grieving a loss, or navigating past trauma. Maybe you're simply looking for space to breathe and be heard. My clients often seek clarity, relief, and a deeper sense of connection, to themselves, to others, and to their own healing. They’re ready to be gently supported on a path toward change, even if they don’t know where to start.
As a clinical psychologist, I support people during times when things feel heavy, uncertain, or overwhelming. This is your time, to be heard, to grow, and to heal in a way that’s true to you. You might be feeling anxious, adjusting to parenthood, grieving a loss, or navigating past trauma. Maybe you're simply looking for space to breathe and be heard. My clients often seek clarity, relief, and a deeper sense of connection, to themselves, to others, and to their own healing. They’re ready to be gently supported on a path toward change, even if they don’t know where to start.
My ideal client may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally stuck. They may be navigating trauma, family conflict, life transitions, or cultural pressures. Some struggle with stress, low mood, or relationship challenges that impact daily life. They are seeking a safe, supportive space where they can feel heard and understood. Their goal is to gain clarity, build emotional resilience, strengthen relationships, and feel more confident and in control. They want practical strategies and lasting change, not just temporary relief
My ideal client may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally stuck. They may be navigating trauma, family conflict, life transitions, or cultural pressures. Some struggle with stress, low mood, or relationship challenges that impact daily life. They are seeking a safe, supportive space where they can feel heard and understood. Their goal is to gain clarity, build emotional resilience, strengthen relationships, and feel more confident and in control. They want practical strategies and lasting change, not just temporary relief
I am an easy going psychologist who doesnt take things too seriously, however I still love to produce results. I have a wealth of experience under the NDIS, but do delve into private, work cover, CTP and victims services to broaden my experience.
I like to ensure I am the right psychologist first, and try to help refer out to someone who is suitable if I am not.
I am an easy going psychologist who doesnt take things too seriously, however I still love to produce results. I have a wealth of experience under the NDIS, but do delve into private, work cover, CTP and victims services to broaden my experience.
I like to ensure I am the right psychologist first, and try to help refer out to someone who is suitable if I am not.
I am a registered psychologist with over 14 years of clinical experience working with a wider range of range of client group in UK and Australia. Services that I deliver includes: Treatment for anxiety, depression, PTSD, behavioural difficulties and other mental health issues for children, adolescents, and adults. *Post and perinatal depression *Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD *Cognitive Assessments: including WISC-V, WPPSI- IV, and *Parenting Skills Training for behavioural management of children and adolescents with challenging behaviours.
I am a registered psychologist with over 14 years of clinical experience working with a wider range of range of client group in UK and Australia. Services that I deliver includes: Treatment for anxiety, depression, PTSD, behavioural difficulties and other mental health issues for children, adolescents, and adults. *Post and perinatal depression *Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD *Cognitive Assessments: including WISC-V, WPPSI- IV, and *Parenting Skills Training for behavioural management of children and adolescents with challenging behaviours.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Cheryn is a Clinical Psychologist. Cheryn’s qualifications are a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) and a Master of Clinical Psychology. Cheryn loves her work and is a very dedicated, warm and engaging therapist, with a keen sense of the privilege and responsibility that her role involves. She enjoys accompanying her clients on their path through difficulty and grounds her work in an attuned and genuine understanding of her clients and their needs. Cheryn has an affinity working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and her experience has enabled her to become resourceful in adapting therapies.
Cheryn is a Clinical Psychologist. Cheryn’s qualifications are a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) and a Master of Clinical Psychology. Cheryn loves her work and is a very dedicated, warm and engaging therapist, with a keen sense of the privilege and responsibility that her role involves. She enjoys accompanying her clients on their path through difficulty and grounds her work in an attuned and genuine understanding of her clients and their needs. Cheryn has an affinity working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and her experience has enabled her to become resourceful in adapting therapies.
I support parents, retirees and families navigating the emotional toll of caregiving, parenting, and life transitions. While I specialise in women’s mental health, I also work with fathers, couples, and whole families to strengthen relationships, set boundaries, and build resilience. Using a systemic approach, I help families communicate better, reduce conflict, and function more cooperatively. I also support young people to develop emotional regulation skills for long-term wellbeing and healthy relationships.
I support parents, retirees and families navigating the emotional toll of caregiving, parenting, and life transitions. While I specialise in women’s mental health, I also work with fathers, couples, and whole families to strengthen relationships, set boundaries, and build resilience. Using a systemic approach, I help families communicate better, reduce conflict, and function more cooperatively. I also support young people to develop emotional regulation skills for long-term wellbeing and healthy relationships.
Through trauma-informed, person-centred, play-based and equine-assisted therapy, we create a safe, supportive space that builds trust, emotional regulation, and self-awareness—helping clients reconnect with themselves and move forward with confidence.
Trauma-informed counsellor offering person-centred, play-based, and equine-assisted therapy. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, supporting emotional regulation, anxiety, and trauma recovery. Sessions are nature-based, integrating horses, creative expression, and gentle reflection to build trust, and self-awareness in a quiet environment.
Through trauma-informed, person-centred, play-based and equine-assisted therapy, we create a safe, supportive space that builds trust, emotional regulation, and self-awareness—helping clients reconnect with themselves and move forward with confidence.
Trauma-informed counsellor offering person-centred, play-based, and equine-assisted therapy. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, supporting emotional regulation, anxiety, and trauma recovery. Sessions are nature-based, integrating horses, creative expression, and gentle reflection to build trust, and self-awareness in a quiet environment.
Hello. I'm Jessica, a warm and compassionate counsellor dedicated to supporting you on your wellness journey. As an accredited counsellor, I offer a holistic, evidence-based approach to counselling, integrating a variety of therapeutic practices and tailoring them to meet your unique needs. I work with a wide range of concerns, including trauma, chronic health, anxiety, depression and relationships. I believe in creating a supportive and collaborative environment where you truly feel heard.
Hello. I'm Jessica, a warm and compassionate counsellor dedicated to supporting you on your wellness journey. As an accredited counsellor, I offer a holistic, evidence-based approach to counselling, integrating a variety of therapeutic practices and tailoring them to meet your unique needs. I work with a wide range of concerns, including trauma, chronic health, anxiety, depression and relationships. I believe in creating a supportive and collaborative environment where you truly feel heard.
I offer psychology and counselling to children up to young adults, and use trauma-informed & neurodiversity affirming approaches. My experience draws from over 15 years working in psychology, and particular passion in supporting those with mental health challenges, childhood trauma, &/ or neurodiversity.
I offer psychology and counselling to children up to young adults, and use trauma-informed & neurodiversity affirming approaches. My experience draws from over 15 years working in psychology, and particular passion in supporting those with mental health challenges, childhood trauma, &/ or neurodiversity.
Therapy is about learning to be gentle and honest with yourself—finding the courage to face what we've been avoiding and feel what we've been pushing down.
Hi, I'm Stella—a registered counsellor and art therapist.
Maybe you've experienced:
-Lying awake at 3am, thoughts looping endlessly
-Unable to say what you really mean to people you love
-Feeling exhausted but telling yourself "I should do more"
-Looking in the mirror and barely recognising yourself
If this resonates, know that you're not alone. Healing begins when we feel safe and understood.
Therapy is about learning to be gentle and honest with yourself—finding the courage to face what we've been avoiding and feel what we've been pushing down.
Hi, I'm Stella—a registered counsellor and art therapist.
Maybe you've experienced:
-Lying awake at 3am, thoughts looping endlessly
-Unable to say what you really mean to people you love
-Feeling exhausted but telling yourself "I should do more"
-Looking in the mirror and barely recognising yourself
If this resonates, know that you're not alone. Healing begins when we feel safe and understood.
Hi. I’m Colleen Nicholas. I’m an Art Therapist, Sandtray Therapist, Interactive Drawing Therapist and Counsellor. I offer expressive therapies in addition to talk therapy, because sometimes words are not enough. It can be difficult to find words to express what we are thinking, feeling or experiencing. Sometimes we are not aware of the “real issue” that’s causing our distress.
Hi. I’m Colleen Nicholas. I’m an Art Therapist, Sandtray Therapist, Interactive Drawing Therapist and Counsellor. I offer expressive therapies in addition to talk therapy, because sometimes words are not enough. It can be difficult to find words to express what we are thinking, feeling or experiencing. Sometimes we are not aware of the “real issue” that’s causing our distress.
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Petersham
- Alexandria
- Annandale
- Balmain
- Burwood
- Darlinghurst
- Glebe
- Leichhardt
- Marrickville
- Mascot
- Newtown
- Surry Hills
- Wolli Creek
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.