Meet Katie

I’m passionate about supporting children to express their inner world through play, often long before they have the words to do so. Through my work with vulnerable children, I’ve witnessed how naturally they communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through the worlds they create. This has deepened my understanding of how children use play as their language and how we, as adults, can gently listen and respond.

I believe every child has their own unique way of making sense of their experiences. My role is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where children feel truly seen, heard, and accepted. Within this environment, they can explore, process, and grow at their own pace.

I value working collaboratively with families and caregivers, recognising that children heal and thrive within their relationships. When children feel genuinely understood, they are better able to build resilience and move toward healing in their own way.

Professional Experience 

 

For over a decade, I have worked alongside vulnerable children and young people, including in residential care and supporting families in crisis impacted by family and domestic violence. I have developed and delivered arts therapy programs that support mothers and children in their healing and recovery.  I have supported neurodivergent children in therapeutic and home settings.

Currently, I facilitate the Play and Connect Program at the Fremantle Language Development School, providing play-based therapeutic support for children experiencing a wide range of developmental, social, and emotional challenges.

Qualifications

 

  • Deakin Master’s in Child Play Therapy (2025)
  • Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Child Play (2024)
  • Deakin Award for highest academic achievement (2024)
  • Advanced Diploma in Transpersonal Arts Therapy (2018)

Training

 

  • Trauma-informed training
  • Child protection and workplace safety
  • Protective Behaviour
  • Basic Keyword Sign
  • Challenging behaviors and strategies
  • Ongoing Professional Development 

Licenses & Membership

 

  • Professional membership with Australasia Pacific Play Therapy Association (APPTA)
  • Professional membership with International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT)
  • First Aid Training
  • NDIS Screening Check