FAQs Frequently Asked Questions

Play Therapy is an age-appropriate style of counselling that allows children to express their thoughts and feelings using play. Children take the lead in the playroom and engage with the therapist and the resources available on their own terms, giving the therapist insight into the child’s view of themselves, their relationships, and the world around them. In the playroom, children can safely discuss and process their past experiences while the therapist responds in a way that helps the child build their independence, self-esteem, and ability to self-regulate. The child-led nature of this therapy makes it perfect for children of all ages and abilities.

Play therapy utilizes play and expressive activities to help children communicate and explore their emotions in a non-verbal way, making it especially effective for younger clients or those who struggle with verbal expression. Traditional counselling, on the other hand, relies on verbal communication and cognitive-behavioural techniques to help individuals of all ages understand and address their thoughts and emotions in a structured setting. We understand that one style will not fit everyone and often we use a multifaceted approach and combine different styles of therapy to suit each child.

Play therapy is a versatile and effective approach that can benefit children of various ages, typically ranging from toddlers to preteens. While it is most commonly associated with younger children, older children and adolescents can still gain valuable insights and healing through play therapy techniques. This method allows them to express themselves in ways that traditional talk therapy may not facilitate, using creative play to explore feelings, resolve conflicts, and enhance emotional well-being. If you’re unsure whether your child is a suitable candidate for play therapy, we encourage you to reach out for a consultation to discuss their specific needs and circumstances.

We understand that teenagers may have different needs and preferences compared to younger children. That’s why our dedicated teen room is designed specifically for older youth, featuring a comfortable and mature environment with no toys, but rather card and board games that promote engagement and connection. This setting allows teens to feel respected and understood, fostering a space where they can express themselves freely. Our goal is to ensure that each individual feels comfortable and supported, regardless of their age.

The frequency of your child’s attendance will depend on their individual needs and circumstances. However, we generally recommend sessions on a weekly or fortnightly basis. This regularity helps to build rapport, establish a consistent routine, and ensure ongoing progress in therapy. Ultimately, the schedule will be tailored to best support your child’s development and emotional well-being.

The number of appointments your child may need will depend on their individual circumstances and therapeutic goals. Some children may require ongoing support to address more complex issues, while others might benefit from a shorter-term approach. We prioritize regular parent consultations to keep you updated on your child’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Together, we will ensure that your child receives the appropriate level of support to meet their unique needs.

At the child’s request, parents are welcome to join their child during appointments. Having a parent present can help support your child as they begin their therapeutic journey and make them feel more comfortable in the space. As your child becomes more at ease, they may eventually attend sessions independently. There may also be occasions where a parent is invited to join in for specific discussions or activities, ensuring that you remain informed and involved in your child’s progress.

In addition to our specialized services for children, we offer one-on-one parent support to help caregivers navigate the challenges of parenting. We also facilitate Circle of Security workshops, which provide valuable insights into attachment and relationship-building strategies. Our aim is to support parents and caregivers in fostering healthy connections with their children, ensuring a holistic approach to family well-being.

Unfortunately we are unable to accept Mental Health Care Plans (MHCPs) and do not offer a Medicare or Private Health rebate, as our therapists are social workers and counsellors rather than psychologists. However, this does not mean that the quality of care is reduced in any way. Our qualified professionals are dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based therapeutic support tailored to the unique needs of each client. We are committed to helping individuals and families achieve their goals, ensuring a compassionate and effective approach to therapy.

While we are not NDIS registered, we do accept NDIS funding through self-managed and plan-managed options. This means that if you manage your own NDIS funding or have a plan manager, you can utilize your funding for our services.

We offer two convenient options for paying for your appointment. You can choose to receive an invoice, which will be emailed within 24 hours after your appointment and comes with a 7-day payment term. This option is also available for clients using NDIS funding. Alternatively, you can opt for auto payment, where the fee will be automatically debited from your nominated account, providing a hassle-free payment experience.

Telehealth appointments are available for initial parent-only consultations and ongoing parent consultations. In some cases, depending on your child’s age and ability, we can also provide online sessions for them. We prefer online formats over phone calls, as they allow for a more interactive and engaging experience.

At Northside Counselling and Play Therapy, we intentionally designed our space to feel homely and less clinical, which is why we do not have a reception desk. When you arrive, you can take a seat on one of our big comfy couches. Your child’s therapist will come out to greet you at the scheduled appointment time. This relaxed approach helps create a welcoming environment for both parents and children.

For safety reasons, we prefer that parents remain close by or in the reception area while their child is in their session at Northside Counselling and Play Therapy. This allows us to ensure the well-being of your child and provides support if they need assistance, such as with toileting or any other concerns that may arise.

Yes, at Northside Counselling and Play Therapy, we communicate with schools and other professionals involved with your family, provided we have your consent to do so. This collaboration helps us gain a holistic view of your child’s needs and ensures that we are all working together to support their well-being. We believe that open communication among caregivers and professionals is essential for effective therapy.