By Abbey Cannan
Noosa’s first Neuroplay Australia facility has opened and is set to support children’s wellbeing through science and play therapy.
Neuroplay Australia founder and registered play therapist Talia Antoni said play therapy is for children what ’talk therapy’ or counselling is for adults.
“We are committed to creating a safe and supportive space for children and their families that is deeply embedded within the Noosa community and directed at ensuring their safety and wellbeing,“ Ms Antoni said.
“It is estimated that 70 per cent of childhood mental health issues can be solved with early intervention and therapy. Appropriate interventions for children not only benefit the child and family, but also have broader community benefits.“
With a Master of Child Play Therapy from Deakin University, Ms Antoni said play therapy was a valuable, credible, and professional therapeutic intervention.
“Children aged three to 13 benefit from this approach as an appropriate intervention when they are experiencing emotional, behavioural or psychological difficulties,“ she said.
“Neuroplay Australia aims to raise the self-esteem and confidence of all children, to create a sense of cohesion and belonging, a sense of connection with others, to increase emotional expression appropriately and to experience fun and joy.“
Neuroplay Australia is located at the Noosa Leisure Centre and offers humanistic play therapy, family filial therapy and the Learn to Play program.
The Neuroplay program and group play therapy sessions are held at Sunshine Butterflies community facility, Our Backyard, on a weekly basis. Talia is also able to provide a mobile service and this may include a child’s home, hospital, educational setting, or care facility and in critical incident intervention.
For further information visit neuroplayaustralia.com.au or contact Talia Antoni directly on 0409 334 452.
