Play Therapy Psychologists and Therapists in Surry Hills, NSW
At the core of my therapeutic practice is healing through connection. Focusing on the relationship between client and therapist, I create a safe, warm and supportive environment. My experience is that this relational capacity and self-knowledge developed in therapy can then extend outside the therapy room, into the life of the client. Underpinning this, I believe feeling safe is the healing aspect, and so I create a space where clients can fully bring themselves, where vulnerability is welcomed, and where deep personal transformation can unfold. True healing begins when we feel seen, heard, and held without judgment.
At the core of my therapeutic practice is healing through connection. Focusing on the relationship between client and therapist, I create a safe, warm and supportive environment. My experience is that this relational capacity and self-knowledge developed in therapy can then extend outside the therapy room, into the life of the client. Underpinning this, I believe feeling safe is the healing aspect, and so I create a space where clients can fully bring themselves, where vulnerability is welcomed, and where deep personal transformation can unfold. True healing begins when we feel seen, heard, and held without judgment.
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.
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.
With specialist skills in grief, chronic illness and infertility I work from a somatic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about companioning people through adversity, and believe that it through support and connection that we are able to come back to ourselves. I combine my love of neuroscience with an integrative approach, drawing on a number of modalities to support healing. Initially trained as a teacher I have worked extensively in education and health, working therapeutically with children, young people and their families in hospice and hospital to support coping with chronic illness for over 25 years.
With specialist skills in grief, chronic illness and infertility I work from a somatic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about companioning people through adversity, and believe that it through support and connection that we are able to come back to ourselves. I combine my love of neuroscience with an integrative approach, drawing on a number of modalities to support healing. Initially trained as a teacher I have worked extensively in education and health, working therapeutically with children, young people and their families in hospice and hospital to support coping with chronic illness for over 25 years.
With expertise in child and family therapy, play therapy, and trauma-informed care, I provide a safe, understanding space to explore emotions, build coping strategies, and create positive change.
My ideal client feels overwhelmed—perhaps a parent navigating a child’s neurodivergence, someone coping with grief, or an individual struggling with self-doubt and emotional exhaustion. They need a safe space to process emotions, gain coping strategies, and feel heard without judgment. Their goal is to build resilience, manage stress, and create meaningful change. They want to feel more confident, balanced, and in control of their emotions. With warmth and understanding, I help them navigate life’s challenges, reconnect with joy, and move forward with clarity and strength.
With expertise in child and family therapy, play therapy, and trauma-informed care, I provide a safe, understanding space to explore emotions, build coping strategies, and create positive change.
My ideal client feels overwhelmed—perhaps a parent navigating a child’s neurodivergence, someone coping with grief, or an individual struggling with self-doubt and emotional exhaustion. They need a safe space to process emotions, gain coping strategies, and feel heard without judgment. Their goal is to build resilience, manage stress, and create meaningful change. They want to feel more confident, balanced, and in control of their emotions. With warmth and understanding, I help them navigate life’s challenges, reconnect with joy, and move forward with clarity and strength.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
I enjoy engaging with young children in play therapy on up through teens and adults who have a desire or need for hope and change.
In my role as a clinicaI Counsellor and acquainted beliefs I will listen to you. I was drawn to the helping profession through each day, my ministry experiences and a deep desire to understand emotional processes and healing. A wealth of life experience provides me with an ability to understand common patterns which affect most people in their journeys. I have a passion for emotional healing that improves relationships and the overall quality of daily experiences for each individual, family, youth, children, women and elders mindfulness, specifically emphasises the value and the importance of them due to the vulnerability of life
I enjoy engaging with young children in play therapy on up through teens and adults who have a desire or need for hope and change.
In my role as a clinicaI Counsellor and acquainted beliefs I will listen to you. I was drawn to the helping profession through each day, my ministry experiences and a deep desire to understand emotional processes and healing. A wealth of life experience provides me with an ability to understand common patterns which affect most people in their journeys. I have a passion for emotional healing that improves relationships and the overall quality of daily experiences for each individual, family, youth, children, women and elders mindfulness, specifically emphasises the value and the importance of them due to the vulnerability of life
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.
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.
I support adolescents, adults and families who feel overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or impacted by trauma, neurodivergence, grief, phobias, burnout, distressing memories, shutdowns or strong emotional responses. Clients often come to therapy wanting to feel safer in themselves, understand their patterns, and find practical ways to move forward. I offer a warm, neuroaffirming and trauma-informed space where clients feel understood, supported and respected.
I support adolescents, adults and families who feel overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or impacted by trauma, neurodivergence, grief, phobias, burnout, distressing memories, shutdowns or strong emotional responses. Clients often come to therapy wanting to feel safer in themselves, understand their patterns, and find practical ways to move forward. I offer a warm, neuroaffirming and trauma-informed space where clients feel understood, supported and respected.
With children, I draw on play and narrative therapies; older children benefit from CBT, and OCD is treated with ERP.
When relationships feel strained or your child is struggling, it can be hard to know where to begin. You may feel stuck in the same arguments, distant from your partner, or unsure how to best support your child’s emotional or behavioural needs. Seeking therapy can feel vulnerable — but it can also be the beginning of meaningful change.
I am a Clinical Psychologist working with couples, children, adolescents and families. My approach is evidence-based, trauma-informed and grounded in attachment science.
With children, I draw on play and narrative therapies; older children benefit from CBT, and OCD is treated with ERP.
When relationships feel strained or your child is struggling, it can be hard to know where to begin. You may feel stuck in the same arguments, distant from your partner, or unsure how to best support your child’s emotional or behavioural needs. Seeking therapy can feel vulnerable — but it can also be the beginning of meaningful change.
I am a Clinical Psychologist working with couples, children, adolescents and families. My approach is evidence-based, trauma-informed and grounded in attachment science.
Highly experienced NDIS Behaviour Support practitioner (Advanced) and registered Counsellor (PACFA). Offering BSP and allied heath services
Highly experienced NDIS Behaviour Support practitioner (Advanced) and registered Counsellor (PACFA). Offering BSP and allied heath services
I tailor modalities that best suit you eg Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Therapy, Gut-directed hypnotherapy, Prevention therapy (Mindfulness Training, personalised Wellbeing Plan), goal-setting, Psychoeducation, Art/ Play therapy, Self-regulation, motivational training, IPSRT, values-based decision/action.
Across the lifespan my clients are children, youth, adult, senior, family, migrant, employee, carer, people with disability (ADHD, autism, vision-impaired). I support 3 types of needs: 1) Clinical: Anxiety, depression, injury/illness, pain, IBS. I make assessment recommendations too; 2) People facing difficult situations: Stress,exam, job, fussy eater, relationships, separation, coping with loss, suicide, role transition-becoming a parent, teen, marriage, divorce, job promotion, relocation; 3) Enhance performance: Healthy Breathing, Mindfulness training, learn emotional intelligence, cultural intelligence, career counselling.
I tailor modalities that best suit you eg Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Therapy, Gut-directed hypnotherapy, Prevention therapy (Mindfulness Training, personalised Wellbeing Plan), goal-setting, Psychoeducation, Art/ Play therapy, Self-regulation, motivational training, IPSRT, values-based decision/action.
Across the lifespan my clients are children, youth, adult, senior, family, migrant, employee, carer, people with disability (ADHD, autism, vision-impaired). I support 3 types of needs: 1) Clinical: Anxiety, depression, injury/illness, pain, IBS. I make assessment recommendations too; 2) People facing difficult situations: Stress,exam, job, fussy eater, relationships, separation, coping with loss, suicide, role transition-becoming a parent, teen, marriage, divorce, job promotion, relocation; 3) Enhance performance: Healthy Breathing, Mindfulness training, learn emotional intelligence, cultural intelligence, career counselling.
I am a registered psychologist with a deep passion for walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate some of life's most challenging and transformative moments. With extensive experience supporting children, adolescents and young adults, I bring both professional expertise and heartfelt care.
I have experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression and neurodiversity. In addition to a special interest in supporting individuals with eating, feeding or body image concerns.
I am a registered psychologist with a deep passion for walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate some of life's most challenging and transformative moments. With extensive experience supporting children, adolescents and young adults, I bring both professional expertise and heartfelt care.
I have experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression and neurodiversity. In addition to a special interest in supporting individuals with eating, feeding or body image concerns.
I help children and families through play-based, skills-focused therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and emotion-focused strategies.
I am a counsellor currently working at Better Families Health Services, a private kid's clinic that offers a warm and welcoming environment where children feel safe, understood, and supported.
I support children and families navigating emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioural challenges, stress, ADHD, and Autism. Parents often seek practical, compassionate guidance when their child struggles with big emotions, transitions, or social skills. I provide a safe, structured space and clear strategies to build confidence, coping skills, and emotional security so children can thrive.
I help children and families through play-based, skills-focused therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and emotion-focused strategies.
I am a counsellor currently working at Better Families Health Services, a private kid's clinic that offers a warm and welcoming environment where children feel safe, understood, and supported.
I support children and families navigating emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioural challenges, stress, ADHD, and Autism. Parents often seek practical, compassionate guidance when their child struggles with big emotions, transitions, or social skills. I provide a safe, structured space and clear strategies to build confidence, coping skills, and emotional security so children can thrive.
I have a particular interest in working with children and young people and enjoy using creative approaches such as art and play in therapy.
I am an ACA registered counsellor and the co-director of Wattlebird Therapy based in Elderslie. I have experience working with a range of clients with a particular focus on children and young people, as well as the LGBTIQA+ community, NDIS support, and people accessing support under the Victims Support scheme. Some of the concerns I have supported my clients through include emotional regulation issues, low self-esteem and confidence, social skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, and anger management.
I have a particular interest in working with children and young people and enjoy using creative approaches such as art and play in therapy.
I am an ACA registered counsellor and the co-director of Wattlebird Therapy based in Elderslie. I have experience working with a range of clients with a particular focus on children and young people, as well as the LGBTIQA+ community, NDIS support, and people accessing support under the Victims Support scheme. Some of the concerns I have supported my clients through include emotional regulation issues, low self-esteem and confidence, social skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, and anger management.
I am a registered psychologist with over 15 years’ experience supporting children, adolescents and adults. I specialise in trauma, attachment difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief, parenting and school difficulties. I also have experience and a special interest in working with First Nations families. With additional training in dramatherapy, I integrate creative and talk-based approaches to help clients find ways to express their internal world and make sense of their experiences. As a board approved supervisor I provide supervision to psychologists working with children and adolescents.
I am a registered psychologist with over 15 years’ experience supporting children, adolescents and adults. I specialise in trauma, attachment difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief, parenting and school difficulties. I also have experience and a special interest in working with First Nations families. With additional training in dramatherapy, I integrate creative and talk-based approaches to help clients find ways to express their internal world and make sense of their experiences. As a board approved supervisor I provide supervision to psychologists working with children and adolescents.
Healing is a personal journey.
Working for 20yrs, has guided me to know that the responsibility I carry as a therapist is to listen to your experience of pain and work collaboratively with you in recovery pathways where you feel your mind, your body and your spirit is getting stronger.
Healing is a personal journey.
Working for 20yrs, has guided me to know that the responsibility I carry as a therapist is to listen to your experience of pain and work collaboratively with you in recovery pathways where you feel your mind, your body and your spirit is getting stronger.
I help women find clarity, confidence and contentment. If you're finding yourself stuck in a rut, at a cross-roads, anxious, overwhelmed, having relationship issues, lacking confidence, questioning your career or anything else that is having a negative impact on your life, I can help. Let's work together to create the life you really want to live.
I help women find clarity, confidence and contentment. If you're finding yourself stuck in a rut, at a cross-roads, anxious, overwhelmed, having relationship issues, lacking confidence, questioning your career or anything else that is having a negative impact on your life, I can help. Let's work together to create the life you really want to live.
See more therapy options for Surry Hills
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Surry Hills
- Alexandria
- Annandale
- Balmain
- Bondi Junction
- Darlinghurst
- Double Bay
- Glebe
- Leichhardt
- Marrickville
- Newtown
- Randwick
- Sydney
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.