We are able to offer play therapy and counselling that suits your child and family
About Michelle
Counsellor and Owner
As a Lockyer Valley local of 20 years I have raised my family in the region and have a strong sense of family, community and support. I have 15 years experience working in the human services field and am thrilled to work in the Lockyer Valley to support families, carers, support networks and especially children and young people.
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I have experience working with children and their families and carers in child protection and children who are neurodiverse, have disabilities or developmental delay. I have worked closely with NDIS since it was rolled out in the Darling Downs and understand the difficulties it can present, but have also seen it work well to provide support families need for their children.
When I discovered child centred play therapy, I knew I found something special, that would actually work and ever since I have dedicated my studies and work to supporting children and their families.
Child centred play therapy is an evidence base practice and one I am passionate about. I love talking about play therapy, please contact me if you have any questions.


"Enter into children's play and you will find the place where their minds, hearts, and souls meet."
Virginia Axline - Child-Centred Play Therapist Pioneer
Qualifications
Michelle is a fully qualified and experienced counsellor and play therapist, dedicated to providing highest quality therapy for your child. With a commitment to ethical and professional standards, you can trust that your child will receive compassionate and effective support. Michelle's expertise ensures a safe and nurturing environment for children to explore their feelings and develop essential coping skills. Rest assured, your child's well-being is her top priority.
Master of Counselling Advanced Practice
(Unisq)

Bringing Up Great Kids Facilitator
(Australian Childhood Association)

Child- Centred play therapy postgraduate certificate (C4Pt)
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Level 4 Registered Counsellor (Australian Counselling Association)

Autplay Therapy Accredited Practitioner

Post Graduate Diploma of Counselling Loss and Grief
(AIPC)
Services
We offer children's counselling, a vital mental health service that focuses on emotional well-being and personal growth. This approach is different to occupational therapy (OT) and other more directive therapies because it emphasises understanding and processing feelings rather than just addressing specific skills or behavioural managment. Our counselling sessions provide a safe space for children to be themselves, explore their emotions, and develop coping strategies tailored to their individual needs. This holistic approach fosters resilience and empowers children to navigate their challenges effectively and safely.

"This therapy is particularly beneficial for children who have had challenging experiences with therapy in the past or who find it difficult to communicate their thoughts and feelings"
Child-Centred Play Therapy
Discover the healing power of child-centered play therapy for children who have experienced trauma or have disabilities. Our tailored approach helps children express themselves and process their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
Specialised Care
We provide specialised care for children, offering individualised therapy to meet the unique needs of each child. We focus on building trust and creating a nurturing space for healing and growth.
Empowering Children
Through child-centered play therapy, we empower children to explore their feelings, develop coping skills, and build resilience. Our goal is to support children in overcoming challenges and thriving in their daily lives.
Supportive Environment
In the playroom, we create a supportive and inclusive environment where children feel valued, heard, and understood. We are dedicated to helping children reach their full potential and lead happier, healthier lives.
Autplay Therapy
Autplay Therapy, developed by Dr Robert Jason Grant, is a specialised, child-centred approach that helps children, adolescents, and adults express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences through play. Many children—especially those who are neurodiverse or have experienced stress, anxiety, or trauma—communicate more naturally through play than words, and this therapy provides a safe and engaging way for them to explore feelings and work through challenges.
In Autplay Therapy, the therapist observes and interacts with the child in both structured and unstructured play activities, supporting the development of social, emotional, and problem-solving skills. It promotes confidence, self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience, while also offering families valuable insights into their child’s strengths and needs. Particularly helpful for children who struggle with verbal expression or managing emotions, Autplay Therapy allows them to feel seen, understood, and supported. By combining observation, reflection, and therapeutic guidance, this approach empowers children to navigate their world with greater understanding, resilience, and overall emotional wellbeing.

Neurodiverse Affirming Counselling and Support
Neurodiverse-affirming counselling is about creating a safe, respectful space where young people, adults, and particularly girls can explore their experiences without feeling like they need to “fit a mould.” Many girls and women are overlooked or misunderstood in the diagnostic process, and their strengths, struggles, and unique ways of seeing the world can be missed. Affirming counselling recognises and values neurodiversity, supporting identity, self-acceptance, and emotional wellbeing, while also addressing the challenges that come with living in a world that isn’t always designed with neurodivergent minds in mind. This approach empowers individuals to build confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.

Navigating NDIS can be tricky – we can help with observations, letters and reports for professionals, and general information.
How to Access Play Therapy or Counselling
Private Clients
Private Health Insurance
Provider
NDIS Plan Managed Participants
NDIS Self Managed Participants
Contact
Gatton Senior Citizens
Consultation Rooms
13 North Street, Gatton
0435 891 290