Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from a session?
Your child will attend the session independently in the playroom while you remain in the waiting area.
Sessions may be lively or quiet, and children usually leave feeling settled, though some may need extra reassurance afterward. Your child may choose to share about their session or keep it private, and both responses are completely fine.
How many sessions will my child need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your child’s needs and goals. Some children benefit from short-term support, while others engage longer-term.
Can I be in the sessions with my child?
Play Therapy provides a private and safe space for your child, so parents typically wait outside the session. If a child needs extra support, we can gently include you and work toward separation over time. In the future, we will also offer parent–child approaches such as filial therapy (child-parent relationship therapy) when appropriate.
Should I talk to my child about what happens in sessions?
Play therapy is a space free from expectations, including the expectation to explain or report back. Avoid asking questions about the session and instead keep transitions neutral and supportive. If your child chooses to share on their own, it’s welcome and encouraged.
Will play therapy teach my child how to play?
No. Children already know how to play in the way that is right for them. Rather than directing play, the therapist follows your child’s lead and learns their unique way of communicating through play. This helps children feel respected, understood, and emotionally safe.
How is play therapy different from my child's play at home?
While play happens everywhere, play therapy includes a therapeutic relationship and psychological understanding. It adds meaning, intention, and emotional support to your child’s play. This allows deeper expression and healing beyond everyday play.
How will I know if it’s working? Do you provide updates?
Progress is discussed during regular parent/carer check-ins with your therapist. Early sessions focus on trust-building, so changes may not appear straight away. Over time, you may notice improvements in emotional regulation, behaviour, or resilience.
Yes, regular parent or carer updates are part of the therapeutic process. These sessions focus on themes, progress, and how to best support your child at home.
Do both parents need to consent for a child to attend therapy?
If there is no court order, consent from one parent is sufficient, though we prefer both parents are informed. We can offer separate communication and updates if needed. Where court orders exist, therapy must align with the legal requirements.
Is play therapy covered by NDIS funding?
At present, sessions may be accessed privately, as our NDIS registration in still underway. In the future, NDIS self and plan managed options will be available.
What if my child doesn’t want to attend?
It’s normal for some children to feel unsure at first. Therapists work gently at your child’s pace to build trust and safety. Attendance often becomes easier as the relationship develops.
What is the difference between a Play Therapist and a Child Psychologist?
A Play Therapist uses play as the main way to help children express feelings, work through challenges, and heal. Because children often don’t have the words to explain how they feel, play becomes their natural language. Sessions are non-directive, meaning the child leads the play while the therapist carefully follows and supports them. This approach allows children to express themselves at their own pace in a safe and accepting space, focusing on emotional expression, regulation, relationships, and building confidence.
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A Child Psychologist is trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health concerns. Their sessions are generally more directive and structured, using talking, guided activities, assessments, and other therapies. Psychologists can also provide formal diagnoses, reports, and treatment plans when these are needed.
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Play Therapy may be a good fit if your child is young, finds it hard to talk about feelings, or benefits from a child-led, play-based approach.
A Child Psychologist may be helpful if your child needs assessment, diagnosis, or a more structured therapeutic approach.