Hello!

I'm Alex, or Ali to family and friends, and I've spent 20 years working alongside young people—first as a secondary school teacher, and now as a Registered Play Therapist.

My journey into play therapy began in the classroom, where I saw teens struggling with their mental health yet they were resistant to traditional counselling. That's what led me back to study, and eventually to opening Cubby and Cards Therapy.

My Approach

I hold a Master of Child Play Therapy and specialise in both directive and non-directive play therapy, as well as family therapy. What that really means is this: I follow your child's lead, and I work to their strengths and their interests. We build cubby houses, play cards, race cars, bathe dolls, or do whatever THEY choose that helps them feel safe enough to allow me to enter their world with them.

I use a strengths-based, neuro-affirming approach because every child has their own unique way of being in the world—and my job is to help them thrive as themselves, not to fit a mould.

Specialisations

I'm particularly passionate about supporting children and teens navigating:

Anxiety and emotional challenges
Trauma and big life changes
School disengagement
Neurodiversity (ADHD, autism, and other neurological differences)

A Personal Connection

I'm a mum to three beautifully neurodivergent children. The worry, the advocacy, the moments of feeling alone in it all... I get it! My lived experience means I understand the challenges neurodivergent families face, and I also know the immense pride and joy in the little wins. You're not alone anymore, let's walk this road together.

Qualifications

Play Therapy Practitioner's Association (PTPA) Registered Play Therapist
Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) Registered Certified Practicing Counsellor
Master of Child Play Therapy, Deakin University

All Registered Play Therapists and Certified Practicing Counsellors have completed accredited training and adhere to strict professional standards of practice, as well as consistent national police checks. You are welcome to verify my registrations anytime through the PACFA and PTPA websites.

Whether you're here for your child, your teen, or yourself as a parent navigating the beautiful chaos of raising a child—I'm glad you've found this space.

Cubby and Cards