Theraplay ®
Theraplay is an attachment-based, experiential form of therapy that uses structured play to build and enhance the connection between a child and their caregiver. Developed in the late 1960s, Theraplay is grounded in the principles of healthy parent-child interactions and draws from neuroscience, developmental psychology, and attachment theory.
Rather than focusing on verbal discussion, Theraplay uses simple activities to foster a sense of safety, trust, and joy.
A Therapy That Feels Like Play
In a Theraplay session, you might find a therapist guiding a caregiver and child through mirror games, feeding each other snacks, wrapping up in blankets, or playing rhythm-based clapping games. While it may look like simple fun, these moments are carefully designed to rebuild trust, promote safety, and offer corrective emotional experiences.
Who Can Benefit from Theraplay?
Theraplay is effective for a wide range of children, including those who:
Have experienced trauma, neglect, or early disruption in care.
Struggle with emotional regulation or behavioural issues.
Are adopted or in foster care.
Have developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder.
Experience anxiety, depression, or social difficulties.
It’s particularly impactful for families where the parent-child relationship has been strained by stress, separation, or challenging behaviours.
Meet the Team
The Allora team is a carefully selected group of specialists, each chosen for their exceptional expertise and alignment with our core vision of 'inspiring connection'. Our professionals hold accreditations as Accredited Mental Health Social Workers, Senior Psychotherapists, and Psychologists. With diverse qualifications and a shared commitment to excellence, our team is dedicated to providing specialised care that empowers individuals and families on their path to improved mental health and wellbeing.
FAQs
-
Sessions are between 50-60minutes long. Sometimes your therapist may suggest a longer session, which is charged at the hourly rate.
-
Costs of therapy sessions start from $165 depending on the session type. Please see our Fees page for further details.
-
Yes, under the Medicare Better Access Scheme, you can receive rebates ranging from $79.05 to $89.90 per session. This is applicable when a GP provides a Mental Health Care Plan. Note that couples counselling and family therapy are not eligible for Medicare rebates.
-
If you are self-managed or plan-managed under NDIS, you can use your package to fund sessions. Some private health funds may cover counselling with social workers or psychologists, but it's recommended to confirm directly with your fund. For WorkCover, Allora is a registered provider, allowing sessions to be covered. Please be aware that you cannot claim both a Medicare and private health rebate for the same session.
-
Appointments can be made directly with Allora Wellbeing without a referral. However please note, to receive a medicare rebate you will require a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP.
-
Allora Wellbeing offers a range of specialised approaches including EMDR, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and more.
-
Yes, we provide the option for online or face-to-face appointments to accommodate different preferences and needs.