Hi, I'm Alex

Theray At Play Founder & Play Therapist (Masters of Child Play Therapy)

I am a qualified therapist, having completed a Masters of Child Play Therapy at Deakin University. Most importantly, I am passionate about working with children and their families, to achieve best outcomes for all.

I have worked closely with children and families for the past eight years across both educational and therapeutic settings.  

Through my work, I have seen and supported children to overcome challenges, work through trauma, and gain understanding and confidence within themselves and those around them. 

Additionally, I have worked with families to learn and implement strategies that have strengthened their relationships with their children and their ability to communicate openly with one another to achieve desired outcomes.  

I firmly believe that when children are provided a safe and supportive environment to play and be themselves, they gain skills and strengths that will last a lifetime. I am committed to offering support to children and families within a caring environment - with a focus on facilitating continual growth and strengthening of skills. I believe in the growth mindset of children and the importance and impact of their families and caregivers on their development.

Meet our amazing Play Therapists

Sally Brakha

Child Play Therapist (Master)

Sally understands that play is a child’s natural language, and so she provides a safe and nurturing environment where children can discover and express their voice. By entering into a child’s play, Sally listens deeply and seeks to understand both the child and their world. She fosters an atmosphere where children feel free to play authentically and be themselves, allowing the therapeutic powers of play to nurture their inner strengths, self-confidence, and resilience.

Before resuming her studies in Child Play therapy, Sally worked as a primary school teacher, gaining extensive experience collaborating with families across diverse sectors, including disability services and community health. Her career has been defined by a deep commitment to understanding each family’s unique aspirations, values, and needs, ensuring a compassionate and personalized approach to her work.

Sofia Smythe

Child Play Therapist (Master)

Sofia holds a Master of Child Play Therapy from Deakin University. Before resuming her studies, she gained over fourteen years of experience supporting children across medical, educational, therapeutic and in-home settings.

Sofia believes the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of effective play therapy. She strives to create a safe, trusting and attuned environment where children feel seen, heard, understood and valued. Her approach is grounded in curiosity, connection and a deep respect for each child’s inner world, meeting them where they are and honouring their unique pace and experience.

Sofia is passionate about collaborating closely with caregivers and families, understanding that supporting children begins with supporting those who nurture them and strengthening the caregiver-child relationship.

Sofia finds deep fulfilment in the small, magical moments that emerge within her play therapy practice, recognising that often the quietest changes are the most meaningful. Sofia honours the extraordinary power of play to help children express themselves, explore their world, discover new strengths, heal and grow.

Ella Mansfield

BPsych(Hons), Child Play Therapist (Master)

Ella believes that every child deserves a safe and supportive space where they can feel accepted, understood, and free to express themselves. She understands that children often communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through play, and she strives to create an environment where children can explore their world, build confidence, deepen emotional awareness, and strengthen resilience at their own pace.

With a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), a Master of Child Play Therapy, and experience supporting children and families across educational and therapeutic settings, Ella has a strong understanding of child development, emotional wellbeing, and mental health. She is passionate about helping children navigate challenges and discover their strengths through the power of play.

At the heart of Ella's work is the therapeutic relationship. She values building warm, trusting connections with children and works collaboratively with parents, caregivers, and other important people in a child's life to support meaningful and lasting change. Ella feels privileged to walk alongside children and families as they discover their strengths, navigate challenges, and grow together.

- THERAPY AT PLAY MODALITIES & TRAINING -

Masters of Child Play Therapy / Non-Directive Play Therapy / Directive Play Therapy / Learn to Play Therapy / AutPlay Training / Child Attachment Environment and Trauma/  Systemic Play Therapy/  Synergetic Play Therapy /  LEGO® based Therapy Facilitation / Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

NDIS Accredited Practitioner

At Therapy at Play, we are happy to work with clients that are NDIS funded as well as clients that are independent and booking privately.  

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"Alex has been pivotal in our child's development, and has helped him gain a much greater capacity to express what he's going through. Play Therapy has been the perfect vehicle for our family's growth."

- Previous Client