Play Therapy Psychologists and Therapists in Brunswick, VIC
With Play and Narrative Therapy, I use stories and creativity to help children express complex feelings that words cannot easily capture.
I view therapy as a partnership: I work alongside you, not in front of you. I don't see people as broken or difficult. Instead, I see human beings doing the absolute best they can with what they’ve lived through, usually with a lot of grit and not nearly enough credit.
My style is warm, practical, and very down-to-earth (I promise there is no lying on a couch talking about your mother, unless you really want to). I want to create a space where you don’t have to hide the anxious, angry, shut-down, protective, or exhausted parts of yourself. Together, we can look at the messy, human stuff that doesn’t come with an instruction manual
With Play and Narrative Therapy, I use stories and creativity to help children express complex feelings that words cannot easily capture.
I view therapy as a partnership: I work alongside you, not in front of you. I don't see people as broken or difficult. Instead, I see human beings doing the absolute best they can with what they’ve lived through, usually with a lot of grit and not nearly enough credit.
My style is warm, practical, and very down-to-earth (I promise there is no lying on a couch talking about your mother, unless you really want to). I want to create a space where you don’t have to hide the anxious, angry, shut-down, protective, or exhausted parts of yourself. Together, we can look at the messy, human stuff that doesn’t come with an instruction manual
Hello! I am passionate about supporting clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, build resilience, and work towards meaningful goals. I believe that the foundation of therapeutic change lies in a strong therapeutic alliance, and am dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for my clients. My clients value my approachable style, relatability, and client-centred focus. I have experience supporting people with a range of challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, grief, and interpersonal difficulties. My particular interests include adolescent mental health, ADHD, and video game addiction.
Hello! I am passionate about supporting clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, build resilience, and work towards meaningful goals. I believe that the foundation of therapeutic change lies in a strong therapeutic alliance, and am dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for my clients. My clients value my approachable style, relatability, and client-centred focus. I have experience supporting people with a range of challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, grief, and interpersonal difficulties. My particular interests include adolescent mental health, ADHD, and video game addiction.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in private practice. I work with children, adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, trauma, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is informed by attachment theory, family systems theory, emotion focused therapy (EFT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I have previously worked in school settings and I have also facilitated therapy groups for social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in private practice. I work with children, adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, trauma, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is informed by attachment theory, family systems theory, emotion focused therapy (EFT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I have previously worked in school settings and I have also facilitated therapy groups for social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
You may be feeling stressed, overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward, and wanting support to better understand yourself and what you’re experiencing. I work with adults and young adults who are seeking to improve their mental health and build more fulfilling relationships with themselves and others. People often come to see me to address anxiety, depression, work/study stress, relationship difficulties, self-confidence concerns, the impacts of trauma and to explore their neurodivergence. In therapy, we work to reduce self-criticism, deepen self-understanding, and help you reconnect with a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.
You may be feeling stressed, overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward, and wanting support to better understand yourself and what you’re experiencing. I work with adults and young adults who are seeking to improve their mental health and build more fulfilling relationships with themselves and others. People often come to see me to address anxiety, depression, work/study stress, relationship difficulties, self-confidence concerns, the impacts of trauma and to explore their neurodivergence. In therapy, we work to reduce self-criticism, deepen self-understanding, and help you reconnect with a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.
If you're constantly trying to "keep up," feeling misunderstood, or wondering why things seem harder than they should, you're not alone. I help people who are struggling with anxiety, burnout, trauma-related experiences, neurodivergence, and those feeling overwhelmed or stuck. I provide human support by helping you build emotional regulation tools, confidence, and practical coping skills so you can feel more in control and better equipped to navigate everyday life. I use evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT, while recognising that no two people are the same. I tailor therapy to suit your lifestyle and values.
If you're constantly trying to "keep up," feeling misunderstood, or wondering why things seem harder than they should, you're not alone. I help people who are struggling with anxiety, burnout, trauma-related experiences, neurodivergence, and those feeling overwhelmed or stuck. I provide human support by helping you build emotional regulation tools, confidence, and practical coping skills so you can feel more in control and better equipped to navigate everyday life. I use evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT, while recognising that no two people are the same. I tailor therapy to suit your lifestyle and values.
Paediatric and adult clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the assessment and management of Autism and ADHD. Services include:
- Neuropsychological assessments including diagnostic assessments to inform treatment, support, and funding applications.
- Intervention and ongoing support e.g., executive functioning, social functioning, learning and memory, study skills and post-diagnosis support.
- WPATH assessments for those seeking gender affirming treatment.
Paediatric and adult clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the assessment and management of Autism and ADHD. Services include:
- Neuropsychological assessments including diagnostic assessments to inform treatment, support, and funding applications.
- Intervention and ongoing support e.g., executive functioning, social functioning, learning and memory, study skills and post-diagnosis support.
- WPATH assessments for those seeking gender affirming treatment.
Sophie is a relational gestalt psychotherapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) & clinical supervisor informed by attachment and developmental approaches. Sophie offers a creative, embodied and highly attuned style of therapy that supports change through somatic processing & nervous system regulation within a safe therapeutic relationship. Sophie works in private practice at Abbotsford Convent, Melbourne, and in Frankston South, as well as online. Sophie’s approach is grounded in cultural humility, respect for lived experience, and collaboration, with care shaped to each client’s unique needs and identities.
Sophie is a relational gestalt psychotherapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) & clinical supervisor informed by attachment and developmental approaches. Sophie offers a creative, embodied and highly attuned style of therapy that supports change through somatic processing & nervous system regulation within a safe therapeutic relationship. Sophie works in private practice at Abbotsford Convent, Melbourne, and in Frankston South, as well as online. Sophie’s approach is grounded in cultural humility, respect for lived experience, and collaboration, with care shaped to each client’s unique needs and identities.
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to move forward, whether it’s in their relationships, work, or within themselves.
You may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-doubt, or a life transition that feels especially heavy right now. Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. In therapy, we’ll work together to build on your strengths and develop practical, meaningful strategies to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected.
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to move forward, whether it’s in their relationships, work, or within themselves.
You may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-doubt, or a life transition that feels especially heavy right now. Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. In therapy, we’ll work together to build on your strengths and develop practical, meaningful strategies to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected.
Hello,
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting. I'd love to support in a calm and empowering way where you have choice without pressure. I believe that healing happens when you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted. As a registered Social Worker and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapist, I blend traditional therapeutic insights with the profound healing power of nature and horses to help you navigate life’s challenges. No horse experience needed.
If you're looking for an alternative to traditional room based therapy, find comfort in nature or animals, or feel like trying something different this could be for you!
Hello,
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting. I'd love to support in a calm and empowering way where you have choice without pressure. I believe that healing happens when you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted. As a registered Social Worker and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapist, I blend traditional therapeutic insights with the profound healing power of nature and horses to help you navigate life’s challenges. No horse experience needed.
If you're looking for an alternative to traditional room based therapy, find comfort in nature or animals, or feel like trying something different this could be for you!
Many of my clients are children and teens who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, autism, or challenges at school. Parents often come to me seeking answers, support, and a plan to help their child feel more regulated, understood, and connected. These families want someone who truly “gets it”—who can balance professional skill with warmth and care.
Many of my clients are children and teens who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, autism, or challenges at school. Parents often come to me seeking answers, support, and a plan to help their child feel more regulated, understood, and connected. These families want someone who truly “gets it”—who can balance professional skill with warmth and care.
Hi, I’m Patrick Rory-John (they/them), a Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique journeys. My practice focuses on sexuality, gender, and relationship therapy. I work with individuals experiencing a wide variety of concerns from navigating complex relationships, sexuality, and gender affirming care, to coping with trauma, disability and mental health struggles. I am passionate about creating an environment where clients feel respected heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
Hi, I’m Patrick Rory-John (they/them), a Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique journeys. My practice focuses on sexuality, gender, and relationship therapy. I work with individuals experiencing a wide variety of concerns from navigating complex relationships, sexuality, and gender affirming care, to coping with trauma, disability and mental health struggles. I am passionate about creating an environment where clients feel respected heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
Amber has extensive experience working with individuals aged 4 to 65, supporting a wide range of mental health concerns, including: Anxiety disorders (generalised anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, phobias); Depression and mood disorders, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, Self-esteem and identity concerns, Relationship and interpersonal difficulties. Amber is passionate about helping clients build confidence and resilience. Amber has comprehensive psychological assessments for Autism, ADHD, and Intellectual Disability to assist in diagnosis and support planning.
Amber has extensive experience working with individuals aged 4 to 65, supporting a wide range of mental health concerns, including: Anxiety disorders (generalised anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, phobias); Depression and mood disorders, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, Self-esteem and identity concerns, Relationship and interpersonal difficulties. Amber is passionate about helping clients build confidence and resilience. Amber has comprehensive psychological assessments for Autism, ADHD, and Intellectual Disability to assist in diagnosis and support planning.
I offer a collaborative and reflective space where you can speak freely and feel deeply listened to. My approach is guided by genuine curiosity about who you are. Rather than reducing your experience to a diagnosis, I seek to understand your story: your history and relationships, and the experiences that have shaped you. When given the space to be heard without judgment, new understanding can emerge, and with it, the possibility for meaningful change. I have over ten years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across public and private health settings.
I offer a collaborative and reflective space where you can speak freely and feel deeply listened to. My approach is guided by genuine curiosity about who you are. Rather than reducing your experience to a diagnosis, I seek to understand your story: your history and relationships, and the experiences that have shaped you. When given the space to be heard without judgment, new understanding can emerge, and with it, the possibility for meaningful change. I have over ten years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across public and private health settings.
Some of these are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, self-compassion, mindfulness, attachment theory, expressive arts therapy, play therapy, somatic principles, polyvagal theory and existentialism.
Hello! My name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with adolescents and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
Some of these are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, self-compassion, mindfulness, attachment theory, expressive arts therapy, play therapy, somatic principles, polyvagal theory and existentialism.
Hello! My name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with adolescents and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
You'll experience a calm, creative, and supportive space using approaches such as art and play-based exploration, mindfulness, strengths-based reflection, CBT, narrative and solution-focused techniques.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? Maybe anxiety, depression, or ADHD is holding you back. Perhaps you’re a parent watching your child struggle with emotions or social challenges, or you’re juggling work and life and feeling burnt out. You’re here because you want something to change. You want clarity, balance, and tools that actually help. You want to feel confident, connected, and in control of your life. Whatever your goals—emotional regulation, better relationships, or finding calm in the chaos—I’m here to help you achieve them.
You'll experience a calm, creative, and supportive space using approaches such as art and play-based exploration, mindfulness, strengths-based reflection, CBT, narrative and solution-focused techniques.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? Maybe anxiety, depression, or ADHD is holding you back. Perhaps you’re a parent watching your child struggle with emotions or social challenges, or you’re juggling work and life and feeling burnt out. You’re here because you want something to change. You want clarity, balance, and tools that actually help. You want to feel confident, connected, and in control of your life. Whatever your goals—emotional regulation, better relationships, or finding calm in the chaos—I’m here to help you achieve them.
I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Art and Play Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), depending on what feels most helpful.
No matter your age or where you are in life, there are times when things can feel overwhelming or uncertain. I offer both in-person and online counselling to support you through these challenges.
In our sessions, I aim to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and explore what’s been going on for you at your own pace. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or family challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with care and empathy.
I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Art and Play Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), depending on what feels most helpful.
No matter your age or where you are in life, there are times when things can feel overwhelming or uncertain. I offer both in-person and online counselling to support you through these challenges.
In our sessions, I aim to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and explore what’s been going on for you at your own pace. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or family challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with care and empathy.
Adi is a psychotherapist and creative arts therapist who supports individuals in reconnecting with their bodies, emotions, and inner knowing. She works with adults navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, identity exploration, and relationship challenges.
Her sessions offer a space to slow down, tune in, and gently explore what’s beneath the surface—at your own pace, in your own way. With a warm and grounded presence, Adi offers therapy as a collaborative, compassionate process where all parts of you are welcome.
Adi is a psychotherapist and creative arts therapist who supports individuals in reconnecting with their bodies, emotions, and inner knowing. She works with adults navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, identity exploration, and relationship challenges.
Her sessions offer a space to slow down, tune in, and gently explore what’s beneath the surface—at your own pace, in your own way. With a warm and grounded presence, Adi offers therapy as a collaborative, compassionate process where all parts of you are welcome.
James is an experienced child & youth psychotherapist (social worker) who offers a friendly, relationship-based approach that is fully tailored to suit each child or young person (age 5-18). James works by taking into account each individual’s personal challenges, stage of development, interests, wishes, personality, strengths and life circumstances.
James works with all children and young people. James has significant experience supporting neurodivergent young people.
James is an experienced child & youth psychotherapist (social worker) who offers a friendly, relationship-based approach that is fully tailored to suit each child or young person (age 5-18). James works by taking into account each individual’s personal challenges, stage of development, interests, wishes, personality, strengths and life circumstances.
James works with all children and young people. James has significant experience supporting neurodivergent young people.
Jake is a registered psychologist known for his warm, grounded approach. Founder of Wayfind Psychology and Consulting, he supports children, adolescents, and adults to gain insight into any challenges they're experiencing, and develop practical strategies to navigate them. He provides both in-person and Telehealth support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, and neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, Jake has delivered school-based support, targeted group programs, and professional development.
Jake is a registered psychologist known for his warm, grounded approach. Founder of Wayfind Psychology and Consulting, he supports children, adolescents, and adults to gain insight into any challenges they're experiencing, and develop practical strategies to navigate them. He provides both in-person and Telehealth support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, and neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, Jake has delivered school-based support, targeted group programs, and professional development.
Manisha (they/she) is a queer, neurodivergent, Sri Lankan-Fijian Indian non-binary woman, born and raised in Aotearoa, New Zealand. A person-centred narrative therapist, EMDR practitioner, and resource therapist (parts work), Manisha brings a deep commitment to anti-colonial care. Raised in a bicultural haven, they carry the belief that what's good for Māori is good for all, an ethos woven into both life and practice. Therapy with Manisha is grounded in collective thriving, cultural safety, and the gentle yet powerful art of storytelling.
Manisha (they/she) is a queer, neurodivergent, Sri Lankan-Fijian Indian non-binary woman, born and raised in Aotearoa, New Zealand. A person-centred narrative therapist, EMDR practitioner, and resource therapist (parts work), Manisha brings a deep commitment to anti-colonial care. Raised in a bicultural haven, they carry the belief that what's good for Māori is good for all, an ethos woven into both life and practice. Therapy with Manisha is grounded in collective thriving, cultural safety, and the gentle yet powerful art of storytelling.
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Brunswick
- Ascot Vale
- Brunswick East
- Carlton
- Carlton North
- Clifton Hill
- Coburg
- Fitzroy
- Fitzroy North
- Moonee Ponds
- Northcote
- Pascoe Vale
- Thornbury
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.