FAQs
Got questions? You're not alone.
Here are some of the most common questions parents and carers ask.
Starting Your Journey
Everything you need to know to take the first step.
How do I know if play therapy is right for my child?
If something does not feel quite right, or you are noticing changes in your child's behaviour, emotions or wellbeing, it is okay to trust that feeling.
Play therapy can support children who are experiencing big emotions, anxiety, behavioural challenges, life changes, or difficulty expressing themselves.
You do not need to have all the answers. We can explore this together and decide what feels right for your child and your family.
How do I get started?
Getting started is simple. You can reach out via the contact form, email or booking a free chat to organise an initial conversation.
This gives us a chance to talk about your child, your concerns, and what you are hoping for, so we can decide on the next steps together.
How can play therapy be funded or accessed?
There are a few different ways sessions may be accessed or funded, depending on your situation.
- NDIS funding — Self and plan managed
- Early Childhood Intervention ages 0-6 and 9 and over
- Privately funded
- Case Worker approved
Understanding Play Therapy
What it is, how it works, and what to expect.
What is play therapy and what happens during a session?
Play therapy is similar to counselling for adults, but instead of relying on words, children use play to express themselves.
Through toys, creativity and imagination, children can safely explore emotions, process experiences, and make sense of their inner world in a way that feels natural to them.
Each child is welcomed into a dedicated play space where they can explore, create and express themselves using tools such as toys, Lego, creative arts, puppets and music.
Sarah works alongside your child, gently supporting and responding to their play in a way that meets their unique needs, allowing them to communicate, connect and process at their own pace.
How long does play therapy take and how is progress tracked?
Every child's journey with play therapy is different.
Some children benefit from short term support, while others may engage in longer term sessions depending on their needs, experiences, and goals. This will always be guided by your child's individual progress and discussed with you along the way.
Your involvement is an important part of the process. We will schedule parent update sessions, either over the phone or in person, where we come together to discuss progress, answer any questions, and gently plan the next steps.
You are also always welcome to reach out via email with any general questions or concerns. If something would benefit from a deeper conversation, we can arrange a time to connect more thoroughly.
Every Child is Different
Play therapy can support a wide range of children.
Can my child access play therapy if they are neurodivergent, non-speaking or don't have a diagnosis?
Yes! Your child is welcomed just as they are, whether diagnosed or not.
If you feel your child may benefit from support, that is enough to begin. You do not need to have all the answers or a formal label to access play therapy.
Flourish Within proudly practises in a neuro affirming way and warmly welcomes all children.
Whether your child is Autistic, ADHD, neurodivergent, non speaking, or you are still exploring what best supports them, we can work together to understand their needs and strengths.
Play is the tool and the way children communicate, express and process their world. Therapy is not reliant on verbal language alone. Sessions incorporate body language, facial expression, and connection in a way that meets your child where they are.
If your child uses an AAC device, this is always welcomed and supported.
Most importantly, your child is accepted exactly as they are. At Flourish Within, acceptance is unconditional.
What ages do you work with?
Flourish Within supports children from age 3 to 17 years.
Is play therapy suitable for older children or teens?
Yes, play therapy can be adapted to suit older children and teens.
While the tools and approach may look different, the focus remains the same — creating a safe space for expression, connection and emotional support in a way that feels comfortable and appropriate for them.
Your Role in the Process
We're in this together. Here's how you'll be involved.
What is my role as a parent and how will I be involved?
You are the most important part of your child's journey.
We will begin with an Intake session, enabling us to gather your concerns, goals and needs for your child. Here we work together to understand your daily living and structure support accordingly.
Parent Updates then take place at regular intervals, to discuss and ensure that the process is effective for your child and family.
We can also connect whenever you are needing extra assistance or may have a particular concern.
This approach allows your child to have their own safe space, while also ensuring you feel informed, supported and included along the way.
The Details
The practical stuff, answered.
Where are you located?
Flourish Within is based in Swan Hill, with families from surrounding areas accessing support.
Address: 21A Rutherford St, Swan Hill VIC 3585
Located inside Eloquent Speech Pathology
Do you offer online sessions?
This can depend on your child's needs and what will best support them.
Play therapy is most effective in person, however we can discuss options together if online support is something you are considering.
For Professionals
Information for case workers and referrers.
I'm a case worker, how do I find out more?
You are welcome to get in touch via email or phone to discuss your client's needs.
We can talk through suitability, availability, and how we can best support the child and family you are working with.
Still have a question?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Feel free to get in touch with Sarah today!