Harnessing the Transformative Power of Relationships Through Play Therapy

Hi, I’m Tiffany, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and serving board member of the Australian Play Therapists Association (APTA). I have over 14 years experience supporting the mental health and wellbeing of children and families. I live in Geelong, on beautiful Wadawurrung Country, with my husband, our two children, and our dog, Sunny. As a family, we love beach days, outdoor adventures, and spending time in nature, experiences that continue to inspire my playful, creative approach to both life and therapy.

I specialise in supporting children aged 2–10 years who are experiencing emotional, behavioural, psychological, or developmental challenges. My practice is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in attachment and developmental theory, person-centred and systems theory, and contemporary neuroscience.

In my work, I use developmentally aligned, play-based and creative-expressive therapeutic techniques that help children make sense of their inner world, strengthen self-awareness and self-esteem, and build emotional insight and regulation skills. I am committed to creating a safe, responsive space where children feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow in ways that are meaningful to them.

Collaboration with parents and caregivers is a core part of my approach. I recognise that children’s healing and development happens in the context of relationships, and I work closely with families (whether through parent-child therapy sessions and/or parent consultations) to build insight, confidence, and connection with their child, that extends beyond the therapy room.

I’ve worked across a variety of settings including family services, early childhood intervention, forensic services, schools, and private practice. I am deeply committed to reflective practice and ongoing learning, ensuring that the support I offer is evidence-based, ethically grounded, and attuned to each child’s unique experience and needs.

Qualifications & Training

• Bachelor of Social Work - 2011
• Postgraduate Diploma of Mental Health Science in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy – 2021
• Postgraduate Certificate of Play and Art Therapy – 2024
• Certified AutPlay® Therapy Provider
• Trained in Theraplay® and Sunshine Circles®
• Trained in Synergetic Play Therapy®
• Accredited Mental Health Social Worker – AASW
• Associate Member – Australian Play Therapists Association (working towards clinical registration)