Theraplay is child and family therapy based on attachment theory that aims to address behavioural, emotional, and developmental issues. Theraplay promotes healthy attachments between caregivers and children for them to develop a healthy sense of self. To achieve this, Theraplay has the practitioner, along with the caregiver, facilitate fun, nurturing, and involved activities to build a healthy relationship with the child, allowing them to experience a positive and safe world as they explore their emotional states.
Structure
The caregiver communicates safety by creating organization and predictability for the child.
Engagement
The caregiver is present in a manner that the child experiences being seen, heard, felt, and accepted.
Nurture
The caregiver provides caring that can calm and soothe the child in a manner that makes them feel good physically and emotionally.
Challenge
The caregiver supports the child in the acquisition and mastery of new skills, enhancing the child’s sense of competence and confidence.
Find Out More Information
To find out if Theraplay may be suitable for your child/ren, contact our team at info@yaleelatorrenssocialwork.com.au.
Mental Health Occupational Therapist – Kate Lewer
Kate is a registered Mental Health Occupational Therapist and Expressive Therapist. Kate has worked in Mental Health for some 30 years. Kate was inspired after participating the first Theraplay® Trainings in Australia conducted by Phyllis Rubin in 2005. Kate incorporated Theraplay in her work immediately and commenced supervision with Dr. Phyllis Rubin. Since then, Kate has worked tirelessly promoting and hosting Theraplay® trainings in Australia. Kate is passionate about supporting others to integrate Theraplay® and embrace the road to certification to spread Theraplay in Australia.
Kate has extensive experience working in child and parent welfare/trauma and with bushfire affected families.
Kate’s work is guided by deep principles of social justice and is committed to reconciliation with our First Nations People.
Kate is a Certified Theraplay® Practitioner, Trainer, and Supervisor. Kate is an active member of the Theraplay® Australia Advisory Board and Theraplay® Practice Advisory Committee.
