Embracing Play Sandalan Court, Bushland Beach, Queensland 4818

Welcome to Embracing Play, a trusted institution located in the beautiful Bushland Beach, Sandalan Court, Australia. We specialize in providing individual therapy and psychological counseling for children, adolescents, and adults.

At Embracing Play, we understand that each individual has unique needs, which is why we tailor our therapy sessions to meet those specific requirements. Our approach combines Child Centered Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy, which allows us to gain insight into a child's world and their thoughts about themselves and others through play, drawing, and talking. By using play therapy, our psychologists can tap into the child's inner-directed, constructive, forward-moving, creative, and self-healing power.

In addition to play therapy, our psychologists also utilize directive approaches to help children understand and cope with symptoms such as upset stomachs, poor sleep, shaky hands, or excessive worrying. We blend developmentally appropriate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with play therapy to provide a holistic approach to counseling.

For teenagers who may find it challenging to discuss difficult situations or express their feelings, we prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship. Once the teenager feels comfortable and open, we incorporate CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help them live the life they want, manage difficult emotions, and develop strategies to cope with various struggles. We also utilize CBT, ACT, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to process adverse experiences or traumatic events, fostering healing and positive changes.

We firmly believe in the power of EMDR, a process that allows the brain to heal, just like the body. Negative thoughts and emotions can stem from past, present, or future events, leading to high levels of stress, low mood, and doubts. Through EMDR therapy, we aim to remove emotional distress attached to memories, paving the way for positive thoughts, feelings, and an improved life. EMDR can be provided to children, teenagers, and adults.

As a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), I have completed Advanced Clinical Training in Child Centered Play Therapy and I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist. I am also trained in EMDR and provide counseling to children, teenagers, and adults. Additionally, I am able to see clients through the NDIS who are self or plan managed.

My journey into psychology and play therapy began after spending over 15 years working in school settings as a teacher and counselor. Embracing Play is the realization of my dream to work for myself and support others. I am deeply passionate about working with families, particularly through Play Therapy, and I am committed to providing counseling services to adolescents and adults as well.

Embracing Play is a small, home-based practice designed to create a comfortable and safe space for children and families. When you visit, please park on the street as we are located at the end of a court. Enter through a side pathway and make yourself at home in our shaded back patio area, equipped with toys, books, and magazines. Our counseling services are available across the lifespan.

During your first session, which is an intake appointment, we will spend one hour getting to know each other and understanding your specific needs. Play therapy sessions are 45 minutes long, with an additional 10 minutes allocated for parent support when necessary. Psychological counseling sessions are 50 minutes in duration.

We believe that there is no such thing as a bad question when it comes to mental health. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are committed to providing the best care and experience possible.

Thank you for considering Embracing Play. We look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey towards healing and positive change.