theplayfultherapist.com.au

theplayfultherapist.com.au The Playful Therapist is a counselling service for children aged 2-8 years old. Chat with us today

With the use of evidence based therapy approaches to assist children with their social, emotional, behavioral and family relationships. At The Playful Therapist we can assist children with:
- Low self-esteem
- Quiet, shy or withdrawn
- Build upon and strengthen family connections and relationships
- Stress, anxiety, fears, or sleep disturbances
- Forming friendships
- Bullying
- Trauma
- Difficul

ty managing anger or emotions
- Environmental changes
- Toileting issues
- Grief and loss
- Covid-19 disruptions
- NDIS plan managed or self managed
- Children with a disability, chronic illness or diagnosis
Our mental health services are not limited to this list, if you feel your child may benefit from play therapy please contact Nicole to discuss further. Our services are suitable for children with a NDIS self managed or plan managed plan

31/05/2026

This is where some of the most important work happens.

I’m a play therapist and early childhood teacher based in Melbourne, and after nearly two decades working with young children, I’m still in awe of what happens when a child feels truly safe.

They don’t need to explain themselves. They don’t need the right words. They just need space, and someone who knows how to listen through play.

Some sessions I come in with a goal in mind. Some sessions I follow wherever the child leads. Always, the child is at the centre.

Play therapist | Early childhood Teacher | Melbourne

💛

RelationalPractice

16/05/2026

“A regulated nervous system is a ready-to-receive nervous system.” — Nicole Stavridis

Before a child can learn, connect, or play freely, they need to feel safe in their body first.

This is the foundation of everything I do; in play therapy, in early childhood settings, and in my work supporting educators and health professionals to meet children and families where they are at.

Co-regulation isn’t a strategy we add on top of practice. It’s the practice.

When we as adults tend to our own regulation, we become the environment that makes growth possible for children.

Save this as a reminder for your week. 💛

10/05/2026

What an honour it was to present at the 2026 ADEA VIC/TAS Conference at the MCG in Melbourne this week

Little Patients, Big Feelings: Using Play Therapy to Support Children Living with Diabetes, was a presentation close to my heart. Speaking to a room of incredible diabetes educators about the power of play, connection, and meeting children where they are was something I will not forget.

Conversations like this matter, and I am so grateful to have had the space to have it. ❤️

Thank you ADEA for having me.

Big feelings can feel overwhelming, for both parents and their child. 💕 But these moments are opportunities to build con...
05/12/2025

Big feelings can feel overwhelming, for both parents and their child. 💕 But these moments are opportunities to build connection

When a child is overcome with emotions, they can find it hard to explain what they’re feeling. During these times we focus on connecting by acknowledging their feelings

This simple shift can help a child feel seen, understood, and supported, strengthening your bond. 💞

💡 Want more tips to navigate emotions and foster connection? My Connected Parenting booklet is $19 and filled with practical tips and strategies to support your child’s emotional world.

🌟 Plus BONUS emotions section inside

👉 Grab your copy now—link in bio!

07/09/2025

💞 The Invisible String by Patrice Karst Illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff, is a heartwarming story that helps children understand the power of love and connection, even when they’re apart from someone they care about.

Whether your child is processing emotions connected to separation anxiety, grief, or just missing a loved one, this book can be a wonderful tool to support their emotional journey.

✨ Remember: Every child is unique, so take a moment to read the book first to ensure it’s the right fit for your family.

Nurture bonds even when apart 🌟

📚 Have you read The Invisible String? Share your thoughts below!



👉 Like, follow, and share for more tips on supporting your child’s emotional growth

🌟 The Science of Play Therapy 🌟Did you know that play therapy activates different parts of the brain, helping children n...
03/09/2025

🌟 The Science of Play Therapy 🌟

Did you know that play therapy activates different parts of the brain, helping children navigate emotions and process challenges? Through play, children can express their thoughts and feelings in ways they may not yet have the words for. It’s more than just play, it’s a powerful tool for healing, building resilience, and fostering emotional growth.

Play therapy creates a safe space for children to process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. Let’s support children in expressing themselves and thriving through the magic of play. 💛

🌟 What is Play Therapy? 🌟Play therapy is a powerful, child-centred approach that helps children express their thoughts, ...
14/07/2025

🌟 What is Play Therapy? 🌟
Play therapy is a powerful, child-centred approach that helps children express their thoughts, feelings, and emotions through play. Children can find it hard to verbalise their inner world, play becomes their language and toys their words.

In a safe and supportive environment, play therapy allows children to:
✨ Explore their emotions
✨ Build confidence and self-esteem
✨ Develop problem-solving and social skills
✨ Work through challenges like anxiety, emotions, or changes in their lives

Play therapy is about healing, growth, and connection. 💛

💌 Ready to support your child’s journey? Book a free 15 minute chat today!

Play therapy is often misunderstood, but it’s a powerful tool for helping children express emotions, build social skills...
12/07/2025

Play therapy is often misunderstood, but it’s a powerful tool for helping children express emotions, build social skills, and navigate challenges in a safe, supportive environment. 💛

Swipe through to uncover the truth about play therapy and why it’s so impactful for young minds!



👉 Ready to learn more? Book a free 15 minute chat or visit our website

Hi there! I’m Nicole, a registered Play Therapist and Teacher with over 18 years of experience working with children. I ...
08/07/2025

Hi there! I’m Nicole, a registered Play Therapist and Teacher with over 18 years of experience working with children.

I founded The Playful Therapist on the belief that every child deserves a safe and nurturing space to express themselves, process emotions, and build resilience through play. This foundation helps children develop the confidence, emotional wellbeing, and social skills needed to thrive in all areas of their lives.

Here’s how I can help:
🌟 Play Therapy to support children with anxiety, social difficulties, emotional regulation, and the development of pretend play skills.
👩‍👧 Support for parents to nurture their bond and navigate their child's emotional world.
📚 Educator training to foster emotional wellbeing in classrooms.

📍Brunswick, Ashburton & Telehealth

Let’s create a safe, supportive space for your child to grow and thrive. 💛

Did you know a child doesn't need expensive toys to build upon play skills or explore their internal world? Open-ended m...
31/05/2025

Did you know a child doesn't need expensive toys to build upon play skills or explore their internal world? Open-ended materials and safe everyday household items are just as valuable in creating play narratives, and flexibility in play scripts.

⭐ A box can be a house for a baby doll
⭐ A tennis racquet can be a magic wand
⭐ Even a pine cone can be a dinosaur

The possibilities are endless!

Address

77 Holmes Street
Brunswick, VIC
3056

Opening Hours

Monday 9:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 9:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 9:30am - 5pm

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