Theraplay ®

Theraplay ® focuses on improving a child’s behavioral and emotional wellbeing through the development of the parent/carer – child relationship.

Theraplay ® is available at our centre in Yarraville and our South East Melbourne location in Moorabbin. 

What is Theraplay ®

In a session the parent/carer and child are guided through playful games, challenging activities and nurturing interactions.

Theraplay ® helps the child to overcome fear and increase trust by finding new ways to navigate previously difficult situations. This assists in creating a positive change in the child’s sense of self.

Theraplay ® helps the parent/carer to understand the motivation and underlying needs of the child’s behavior.  Parents/carers are also taught how to manage environmental stimuli and how to carefully challenge the child in a safe space

What makes Theraplay® unique?

Theraplay® focuses on the parent/carer – child relationship which is the most powerful and influential element to create change.

Other therapies may work primarily with the child alone or simply work with parents/carers on managing the child’s behaviours.

Theraplay® is unique because:

• It is appropriate for all ages from infancy to adolescence.
• It directly involves parents or caregivers.
• It is active, interpersonal, and fun – not “talk therapy”.
• Progress can be made more quickly.
• It focuses on the here and now – not the past. It can be used with children with developmental delays.
• It is effective in working with children who have experienced trauma in their lives.
• The model flows easily into the home environment.

Theraplay® can assist children and their families experiencing a variety of challenges, including:

• Acting out, angry or disruptive behaviour.
• Defiant or controlling behaviour.
• Shy, withdrawn, or clingy behaviour
• Stress and anxiety
• Selective mutism.
• Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and other Developmental Disorders.
• Attention and hyperactivity concerns.
• Social interaction.
• A history of trauma or neglect.
• Attachment issues due to adoption or multiple family placements.