Play Therapy in Mansfield, VIC
What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate, evidence-based form of therapy designed especially for children. When children can’t find the words to express big feelings, they communicate through play. Whether it’s through art materials, imaginative play, therapeutic dolls or a game, children are supported to work through emotional challenges, express themselves, build resilience, and develop emotional regulation skills—all in a gentle, age-appropriate way.
At our practice, play isn’t limited to the indoors. We also incorporate our outdoor space—including a 4-hole putting green, lawn games, and totem tennis—into the therapeutic process. These activities help children move their bodies, reduce anxiety, and feel more comfortable, making it easier for them to engage and open up during sessions.
Bringing Feelings to Life: How Therapeutic Dolls Help Children Heal Through Play
At Better You HQ, we are trained in the Therapeutic Dolls for Trauma Responsive Practice with Children, developed by the Australian Childhood Foundation. This training equips us to use specially designed therapeutic dolls—like Ellen the Caterpillar and Percy Bee—as powerful tools in our play therapy sessions.
How Play Therapy Helps Children
Children can face many challenges—big feelings, changing school environments, family transitions, or simply the day-to-day struggles of growing up. Play therapy offers a powerful way for them to feel understood and supported.
Our play therapy service in Mansfield supports children experiencing:
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Emotional outbursts or withdrawal
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Separation anxiety
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Friendship difficulties
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Grief and loss
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Neurodivergence, including autism and ADHD
By offering this service locally, families in Mansfield can access compassionate, expert support without needing to travel far from home.
Who is Play Therapy For?
Play therapy is suitable for children aged 3–12 who are struggling with:
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Anxiety or stress
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Big emotions or tantrums
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Changes at home or school
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Trauma or loss
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Sensory sensitivities
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Social difficulties or bullying
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Autism, ADHD, or emotional dysregulation
What to Expect in a Play Therapy Session
Each play therapy session is guided by your child’s pace and needs—because lasting emotional growth doesn’t happen when a child is rushed or pushed. By allowing your child to lead the way, we create a safe and respectful space where they feel in control, understood, and free to express themselves in their own time. This approach is especially important for sensitive or neurodivergent children, helping them feel calm, engaged, and ready to explore. When children feel safe and supported, meaningful healing and growth naturally follow.
Your child might:
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Use books or drawing to tell stories
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Work through tricky feelings using art or role-play
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Engage in stories using 'The Big Tree Therapeutic Dolls'
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Engage in sensory play to regulate their body and emotions
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Build confidence through gentle therapist-guided interactions
Let's Play! Make an Appointment
Fill out the form below to request an appointment or call us on 0413 921 212
