Frequently asked questions

Play Therapy is an evidence-based way of working with children. Whilst we as adults tend to process emotions, memories and traumas verbally, children’s natural emotional language is play. Play therapy can offer children a safe and non-judgmental space to express and explore their feelings. At Kin Counselling, Play Therapy may be directive, where the therapist leads specific targeted activities, or child-lead, where the child plays without therapist direction. Whilst Play Therapy has been shown to have positive impacts on behaviour it is not “teaching” behaviour change. It can support children to express emotions and memories, make meaning, and develop a sense of mastery and self-esteem. It can also help children learn how to relate to others and fosters creativity.

Once you have made contact, you are welcome to arrange a free and confidential 15-minute phone consultation to see whether we are a good fit for you. Your first appointment will be a 90 minute parent/carer-only appointment so that we can discuss your concerns and your child’s background without your child present.

Whilst we do require you to stay on the premises during your child’s appointments, you generally won’t be present in the therapy room. This provides your child with a confidential and non-judgemental space to explore their inner world. Some adolescents may understandably wish to make their own way to appointments, and in these instances parents must be available for phone contact from the therapist during and after the appointment if required.

A 90-minute initial Intake appointment (parents/carers only) is $150. After this, appointments are $120 and go for 45-50 minutes, depending on the age of your child. Parenting support appointments are $120 and go for 50-60 minutes. Family appointments are $160 go for 50-60 minutes.

You may be able to claim appointments using your self-managed NDIS fund. Private health fund rebates may apply, please speak with your provider.

Please contact us to discuss fees if you are experiencing financial hardship.

Telehealth appointments can be arranged for adolescent counselling and parenting appointments only. Child counselling is in-person only.

Yes. We believe in holistic support and that working together with other-services can be very beneficial. In-person meetings (eg. with school staff) are charged as a standard appointment. Report-writing fees vary depending on time taken.

Whilst Kin Counselling can support your child understand and navigate their emotional world alongside, or related to, an ADHD or Autism diagnosis, we do not offer Behavioural Therapy. Parenting support focuses on your unique goals and strengths, and is general in nature. Please contact us if you are seeking support specific to your child’s neurodivergence and we will provide a list of support providers in our community.

Counselling is a unique experience for everyone and the length of the process is recommended on a case-by-case basis. Play Therapy is not a “quick fix”, and evidence shows that best outcomes for children occur when parents are engaged in parenting support alongside their child’s counselling.