Worried about your child, and not sure how to help?
When your child is struggling, you don't have to work it out alone. Our child and teen counselling and play therapy in Engadine helps young people make sense of big feelings through play, creativity and gentle conversation, in a space made just for them. And we walk alongside you, as their parent, every step of the way.
Feeling like you've tried everything?
You've been the listening ear, the calm voice, the advocate at school. You've read the articles and tried the strategies, and still something doesn't feel right.
Watching your child struggle is one of the hardest things a parent can go through. Reaching out isn't a sign you've failed. It's a sign of how much you love them.
Noticing your child just isn't themselves?
Children often don't have the words for what's going on inside, so it shows up in other ways:
Big emotions, meltdowns or tears that seem to come from nowhere
Worries that won't settle, or not wanting to go to school
Withdrawing, going quiet or shutting down
Trouble sleeping, or tummy aches with no clear cause
Changes after a loss, a separation or something frightening
We support children and teens through anxiety, grief, trauma, family changes, friendship struggles and big feelings. Our approach is warm and neuroaffirming, which means we celebrate who your child is, rather than trying to change them.
Wondering how therapy can help a child?
For younger children, play is how they talk. Through play and creativity, children can show us what they can't yet say, in a way that feels natural and safe.
Older children and teens often enjoy a mix of creative activities and conversation, and they have a real say in how their sessions go.
Our dedicated play and art therapy room in Engadine is designed to feel welcoming and calm from the moment your child walks through the door.
Not sure how to begin?
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A confidential time to share what you've noticed and what you're hoping for.
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We take time to help your child feel safe and comfortable. All our practitioners work with clients for a minimum of six sessions, because we believe change happens over time, in spaces that feel predictable and consistent. For children, this matters even more.
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We keep you in the loop and share ideas to help at home, while always respecting your child's trust.
Want someone who truly understands trauma?
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Melissa Connolly
Child and Youth Counsellor with a special interest in anxiety, neurodiversity and sensory needs. Works closely with parents. Engadine. $140.
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Sammy Wynn
Practice Principal, with specialist training in childhood grief and trauma, and a deep passion for play therapy. Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator. Engadine. $150.
Would your child feel better with others who understand?
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The Brave Space
For primary school children who worry, with Melissa.
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Transition to School
Emotional and social support for 5 to 6 year olds starting school, with Melissa. Runs every Term 1 and 4.
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HeARTful Expressions
A small-group art therapy program for primary school children.
Have a question? You're not the only one.
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No. You can book with us directly. There's no need for a GP referral, mental health plan or diagnosis.
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Individual sessions are $130 to $150, depending on your practitioner. You'll find all our session and program fees on our Fees page.
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Our counselling sessions aren't covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Some of our children's programs may be claimable under a self-managed or plan-managed NDIS plan. Please email us before booking and we'll let you know.
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Everyone is different. All our practitioners work with clients for a minimum of six sessions, because we believe change happens over time, in spaces that feel predictable and consistent.
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Your first session is simply a chance to get to know each other. There's nothing to prepare, and you can share as much or as little as you're ready to. If you're booking for your child, we start with a Parent/Carer Briefing Session, just for you.
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Yes. Mira offers online sessions for adults anywhere in Australia, including evenings. Sessions with Sammy and Melissa, and our children's programs, are in person at our Engadine practice.
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Have a look at our team page, or book a free connection call with Sammy. She'll listen to what's going on and help you find the right fit.
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Yes. What you share stays between you and your practitioner, with a few legal exceptions if someone's safety is at serious risk. You can read more in our Privacy and Confidentiality Policy.
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Life happens. You can reschedule without a fee with at least 48 hours' notice. Cancellations within 48 hours, and missed sessions, are charged the full fee. Programs, events and workshops aren't refundable, as your place is held for you.
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Our practice is on Level 1 at 55-57 Station Street, Engadine, and is reached by stairs. There are female and male toilets on site. If stairs are difficult for you, please let us know before booking and we'll talk through your options, including online sessions with Mira.
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Yes. The safety and wellbeing of every child we work with comes first. You can read our Child Safety Policy here.
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We're not a crisis service. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. For 24/7 support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
