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We are able to offer play therapy and counselling that suits your child and family
About Michelle
Counsellor and Owner
As a Lockyer Valley local of 20 years I have raised my family in the region and have a strong sense of family, community and support. I have 15 years experience working in the human services field and am thrilled to work in the Lockyer Valley to support families, carers, support networks and especially children and young people.
I have experience working with children and their families and carers in child protection and children who are neurodiverse, have disabilities or developmental delay. I have worked closely with NDIS since it was rolled out in the Darling Downs and understand the difficulties it can present, but have also seen it work well to provide support families need for their children.
When I discovered child centred play therapy, I knew I found something special, that would actually work and ever since I have dedicated my studies and work to supporting children and their families.
Child centred play therapy is an evidence base practice and one I am passionate about. I love talking about play therapy, please contact me if you have any questions.
Qualifications
Associate Degree
Education Studies USQ
Post Graduate Diploma Counselling (Loss and Grief) AIPC
Training in Synergetic Play Therapy - Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
Diploma of Arts (Human Services) USQ
Certificate of Play Therapy Studies C4PT
Accredited Autplay Therapist
Diploma of Counselling AIPC
Masters of Counselling Advanced Practice
University of Southern Queensland
Australian Counsellors Association Member
Level 3
Amy
Senior Child Counsellor
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Amy is experienced in working with children and families experiencing complex challenges. She holds a Bachelor of Counselling and is a registered Counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) Amy has also undertaken extensive training in expressive arts therapies and understanding the impact of trauma on children and young people.
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Amy’s practice approach is Trauma-sensitive, culturally safe, child-safe, attachment-focused and neuro-affirming. Amy’s practice is underpinned by a strong understanding and embodiment of the neuroscience of human connection and relationship.
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Amy utilises an integrated approach that includes strengths-based and narrative techniques, play-based therapy, mindfulness strategies, traditional “talk-therapy”, expressive arts therapy and somatic interventions. (No ABA!)
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Amy is passionate about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for children to integrate their interior and exterior landscapes through authentic connection, curious play and exploration of self within relationship.
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Amy offers one-to-one counselling and therapy for children, adolescents and young people from the age of 3 years. Amy is also able to provide parenting support, domestic and family violence counselling, personal counselling and therapeutic support for adults,
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In her leisure time, Amy enjoys being with her family, walking her elderly Moodle, Maggie, caring for her green (plant) friends, engaging in creative projects, studying everything, stargazing and immersing herself in nature!
Services
Child Centred
Play Therapy
CCPT is a developmentally appropriate, play-based intervention for young children ages 2 to 12 who are experiencing social, emotional and relational issues.
CCPT utilises play, the natural language of children using the therapeutic powers of play. This includes developing communication, personal strengths, emotional wellness and social relationships
The therapeutic relationship and playroom provides a safe, consistent therapeutic environment in which a child can experience full acceptance, empathy, and understanding from the counsellor and process inner experiences and feelings through play.
In CCPT, a child’s experience within the counselling relationship is important and when trust is developed, healing and meaningful therapy is created ensuring lasting, positive change. Even though the child normally sees the therapist in the playroom, parents and carers are vitally important in CCPT. The most successful therapy is created when children, parents and therapists work together.
Based on person-centered principles, the overarching goal of CCPT is to support the child in reaching their potential to help them move towards integration, increased self esteem and a confident sense of self.
Autplay Therapy
AutPlay® Therapy was created by Dr. Robert Jason Grant and is an integrative family play therapy approach to help address the mental health needs of neurodivergent children ages 3-18 (including autistic children, those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, social anxiety, sensory differences, and developmental and physical disabilities). AutPlay integrates psychological/counselling theory, models of play therapy, and relationship development approaches together in a collaborative protocol to assist children and adolescents toward gains in addressing mental health struggles. Parents and children are considered co-change agents in the therapy process and work as partners with the therapist.
Youth and
Adult Counselling
At Hoffman's Peak Counselling, we believe in the transformative power of connection and authenticity. Our approach is grounded in the principles of person-centered therapy and neurodiversity affirmation, ensuring that every individual we work with feels seen, heard, and valued.
In our practice, we prioritise building genuine connections and fostering trusting relationships, especially when working with youth and adults. We understand that the journey towards healing and personal growth begins with a strong therapeutic alliance.
For youth, in particular, we recognize the profound impact that connection and relationship have on their counselling journey. By creating a safe and supportive environment where they can freely express themselves, we empower young individuals to explore their emotions, navigate challenges, and discover their inner strengths.
Peak Play Therapy and Counselling is happy to discuss NDIS/ECEI questions in relation to therapies and direct you in the right direction to find help to get started on your NDIS journey.
Peak Play Therapy and Counselling is happy to discuss NDIS/ECEI questions in relation to therapies and direct you in the right direction to find help to get started on your NDIS journey.
How to Access Play Therapy or Counselling
Private Clients
NDIS Plan Managed Participants
NDIS Self Managed Participants
ECEI Plan and Self Managed Children
Contact
Gatton Senior Citizens
Consultation Rooms
13 North Street, Gatton
0435 891 290