Frequently
Asked
Questions
Is Play Therapy effective?
Research shows Play Therapy is a safe, effective and developmentally appropriate intervention to support children with a wide range of presenting concerns. ​ The evidence base shows Play Therapy is effective in addressing issues with internalising and externalising behaviours, parent/carer/sibling/child relationships, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, illness or medical trauma, self-esteem, social and emotional difficulties, and more. Play Therapy supports overall development, including cognitive, emotional, fine and gross motor and communication skills. ​
What happens in a session?
The therapist ensures each session begins and ends in the same way. The playroom is set up in the same way each session. Most sessions are child-led. This means your child will get to choose the toys and play in almost any way they need to. Toys and resources have been specially chosen to facilitate representation and expression of a range of emotions and experiences. In the playroom there are a range of toys including domestic/real life (cooking, home activities, shopping, vehicles), nurturing (dolls, teddies, baby care), puppets, toys to release aggression, role play toys, sand tray and miniatures, sensory/regulation toys, games, pretend play and symbolic items (toys to represent a range of feelings and experiences). There is also art, craft and playdoh for regulation and creative expression. The Play Therapist creates a safe and accepting space for your child to play out what they need to. The Play Therapist uses their clinical skills to observe and interpret the content and themes of your child's play, and supports them to explore, process and express their thoughts, feelings and experiences. More information on how sessions run and how to prepare your child will be given to you at your initial intake session.
Do I join my child in their session?
Ideally, your child will have their therapy session on their own. Like counselling for adults, a Play Therapy session is a private time and space for the child to explore their thoughts and feelings. However, your child feeling safe and secure is a priority and is imperative for successful therapy. If they need a parent/carer to join their session, this is welcome. Shorter sessions may also assist in initial stages of therapy. Your child feeling safe is of most importance.
How do I book?
Please click here to contact me to check availability.
If I do not have availability I can place your child on my waitlist. I will also refer you to another provider if I cannot see you.
I can see your child for Play Therapy at school/kinder, depending on location and availability. This is subject to approval from your child's school/kinder and availability of a suitable space. I love supporting children in the school setting, and am passionate about supporting inclusion, increasing felt safety and helping children feel good at school.
* Availability for outreach is currently limited
Where are you located?
Shine Play Therapy is located at 8/3 Archer Drive, Mornington. ​
Do you do home visits?
Home visits may be available, this is on a case by case basis.
Can I claim from Medicare for Play Therapy?
No, unfortunately Play Therapy is not yet recognised by Medicare. Mental Health Care Plans cannot be used for Play Therapy. Play Therapy is privately/self-funded or NDIS funded for plan or self-managed NDIS participants.