About Us
Meet Rochelle -
Meet Rochelle -
Hi, I’m Rochelle, founder and director of Play and Beyond!
With 20 years in early childhood education and intervention, my journey began when I saw how my daughter used play to express herself. That moment sparked my passion for supporting children through child-led, developmentally attuned approaches.
As a mum to neurodivergent children—including my son with autism, ADHD, and 1Q21.1 Duplication Syndrome—I understand the challenges families face. My lived experience, combined with my professional background, allows me to walk alongside families with deep empathy and respect.
I was diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life. Growing up, I was often misunderstood, labelled “weird,” and the jokes were at my expense. I masked to fit in, but today I embrace my neurodivergence with pride. It has given me clarity, healing, and what I now see as a superpower—the ability to truly connect with neurodivergent children.
I am especially passionate about supporting families impacted by trauma, particularly domestic and family violence. My mission is to make play therapy more accessible, helping children and families heal, rebuild, and reconnect—so cycles of violence can be broken through early intervention.
Play therapy gives children the freedom to express, explore, and grow without judgment. And I want every child to know: who they are is not just enough—it’s something to be celebrated.
Qualifications and training
Certificate lll in Children's Services
Diploma in Children's Services
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
Post Graduate Clinical Training in Child Centred Play Therapy
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor
Training in Sandtray Therapy
The Creative Use of Puppets in Play Therapy
Counselling - currently studying
Trauma Informed Certificate for Coaches
Certified Facilitator LEGO® Based Therapy
Therapeutic Parenting (Child-Parent Relationship Therapy) Facilitator Course
Adverse Childhood Experiences, Trauma and Child-Centered Play Therapy (with Dr D.C. Ray)
Sexually Traumatised Children in Play Therapy (with Dr Jodi Mullen)
Play Therapist
Proudly Autistic, Passionately Playful
Meet Elysia -
Meet Elysia -
Play Therapist
Play Therapist/Early Childhood Intervention Specialist
Hi, I'm Elysia!
I started my journey in Melbourne with a Certificate II in Children's Services, leading to a Certificate III and Diploma before completing my Early Childhood Teaching degree.
I have been working with young children and their families for over 20 years. After many years of teaching I discovered the Masters in Child Play Therapy at Deakin and fell in love, I completed my Masters in 2021 while travelling around WA with my family.
I moved to Maryborough at the beginning of 2022 with my husband and 2 teenage daughters.
Over the years I have worked with many children with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, developmental delays, and from trauma backgrounds. Working as a play therapist allows me to give individualised attention to those that need it most, something that can be challenging in the classroom environment.
I am trained in Learn to Play Therapy, Child-Centred Play Therapy and Filial Therapy and love to work with children and their families in whatever method suits their individual needs.
Qualifications and training
Cert II, Cert III, Diploma and Advanced Diploma of Early Childhood
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
Grad Certificate of Disability and Inclusion
Master of Child Play Therapy
Qualified in Learn to Play Therapy, Child-Centred Play Therapy and Filial Therapy
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment
Meet Kerry -
Meet Kerry -
Early Childhood Intervention Teacher
Key Worker
Early Childhood Intervention Specialist/Key Worker
Hi, I’m Kerry!
I graduated from QUT with a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) in 1994. I then spend the next 13 years working and travelling overseas. I have over 25 years experience working with children, teaching, childcare, vacation care, nannying and even as a swimming instructor. Most recently I worked as a Kindergarten teacher at a local Kindergarten in Hervey Bay.
I believe in child-centred play-based learning and making connections with children is fundamental in any authentic work with children. I am currently studying a Master of Child Play Therapy at Deakin University.
I really love being in nature and spend time with my family camping whenever we can. I am passionate about recycling and being gentle on the planet. My dream is to live a sustainable life. In the meantime I am a busy Mum of 3 girls. I grew up in Hervey Bay and returned here with my English husband to raise our family. I love being close to my extended family and when I have time I enjoy being in the garden, hanging out with my chooks.
Qualifications and training
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
Master of Play Therapy (currently studying)
Previous swimming instructor
Meet Nettie -
Meet Nettie -
Play Therapist
Early Childhood Intervention Teacher
Play Therapist/Early Childhood Intervention Specialist
Hi, I’m Annette but feel free to call me Nettie!
I hold a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood) and have experience in childcare and early primary education. I have also completed units of a Master of Education (Special Education) and earned a postgraduate certificate in Child Protection Practice.
My teaching career was spent in both Townsville and Hervey Bay.
I have seven years of experience working with the Department of Child Safety in Mt Isa, Emerald and Hervey Bay and additional roles in chiropractic assistance and support work, therefore having a diverse professional background.
I am passionate about supporting children's educational and holistic development, with a particular interest in play therapy.
In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and exploring.
Qualifications and training
Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood)
Additional studies in Disability Education (Masters level)
Post Graduate Certificate in Child Protection Practice
Post Graduate Clinical Training in Child Centred Play Therapy
Meet Bec -
Meet Bec -
Early Childhood Intervention Specialist
Child/Teen Counsellor
Child and Family Support Practitioner
Specialisation: Behaviour and Family Support
Hi, I’m Rebecca but I prefer Bec!
With a background in teaching, guidance counselling, early childhood intervention, and behavioural support, I have dedicated my career to supporting the social and emotional well-being of children and their families. I have worked with children across schools, in out-of-home care, and in specialist programs, always with a trauma-informed and child- and family-focused approach.
As a trained Bringing Up Great Kids facilitator through the Australian Childhood Foundation, I am passionate about helping children build resilience, develop healthy relationships, and manage big emotions. My services are designed to support not only children but also parents, providing guidance and strategies to navigate the challenges that come with raising children with disabilities.
Alongside my professional expertise, I bring lived experience as a parent of children with additional needs. This personal insight allows me to walk alongside families with empathy and understanding, offering practical support that strengthens family connections and promotes positive growth for both children and their caregivers.
Qualifications and training
Master of Education (Guidance & Counselling)
Bachelor of Education (Primary & Middle)
Graduate Certificate in Religious Education
Australian Childhood Foundation - Big Tree House Therapeutic Dolls (2024)
Australian Childhood Foundation - Bringing Up Great Kids Facilitator Training (2024)
Child counselling & wellbeing support
Trauma-informed, strengths-based practice
Positive Behaviour Support
Emotional regulation & resilience programs
Meet Jasmine -
Meet Jasmine -
Play Therapist
Play Therapist
Hi, I'm Jasmine!
I am a mother to a primary school-aged daughter, and together, we love to "explore" – whether that’s discovering new parks, visiting unfamiliar places, or going on interstate holidays. We both enjoy spending time outdoors, making forts and cubbies in the lounge, and having dance parties. Our family is completed by our cheeky pug, Donut, who adds joy and personality to our home.
Since high school, I have been deeply passionate about working with children and helping them navigate any challenges they may face. I began my career with the goal of becoming a child psychologist and hold a BA in Psychology. I have also worked as a support worker, assisting families affected by domestic violence, helping them rebuild their lives, which I found incredibly rewarding.
Over time, I developed a strong belief in the effectiveness of Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) and chose to study it, as it offers many benefits over traditional talk therapies with children. I am currently pursuing further studies in counselling, focusing on child and family relationships and grief, and plan to continue my education to better serve my clients and provide the best support possible.
Qualifications and training
BA Psychology- Victoria University
BA Arts- Advocacy & Mediation- Victoria University
Diploma of Leadership & Management
Diploma of Counselling - AIPT (currently studying)
Post Graduate Clinical Training in Child Centred Play Therapy
Meet Bella -
Meet Bella -
Our Creative Arts Guru!
Creative Arts Facilitator
Hi, I’m Isabella (or Bella)!
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Psychology and a lifelong passion for creativity, I bring a unique blend of insight, empathy, and artistic flair to my work. I have extensive experience supporting children and young people aged 2 to 24, particularly those impacted by trauma, and I’m passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces where self-expression is encouraged and celebrated.
I love all things artistic — from sketching and painting to exploring how creativity can be a powerful tool for emotional exploration and healing. My sessions are designed to empower young people to express themselves freely through art and imagination.
Outside of work, you’ll often find me reading fantasy novels or horror stories by Stephen King and Clive Barker, listening to heavy metal and 80s music (I have a soft spot for David Bowie), skateboarding, or relaxing in nature with my two beloved cats.
I aim to bring warmth, authenticity, and a grounded approach to every connection I make with the young people I support.
Qualifications and training
Bachelor of Science (Criminology and Psychology)
• Currently studying an Art Therapy Practitioner Course through Health and Harmony Colleges
• Introduction to Play Therapy through Play Therapy Training Australia
• Qualified Love Bites Respectful Relationships Facilitator
• Qualified Shark Cage Program Facilitator
• Completed QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
• Dean’s Commendation from the School of Business and Law and Letter of Merit from the School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences for receiving outstanding levels of academic performance in my Bachelor’s degree
Meet Izzy -
Meet Izzy -
Support Worker/AHA
Support Worker/Allied Health Assistant
Hi, I'm Izabella but everyone calls me Izzy!
Since finishing school in 2020, I’ve worked with children across OSHC, kindergartens, and now as an inclusion support aide at a private school, mainly supporting pre-teens and teenagers. I’m currently studying Social Work at university with the goal of working with disadvantaged youth, helping them grow into the best versions of themselves.
My passion is supporting children with big behaviours , because I believe those behaviours are simply a call for understanding, and every child deserves someone in their corner.
As someone who is neurodivergent myself, being diagnosed at age 8 and with a younger brother on the spectrum, I bring both lived and professional experience to my work. This allows me to connect with children in a way that is genuine, empathetic, and deeply understanding.
Qualifications and training
Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care
Diploma in School Aged Care
Bachelor of Social Work (currently studying)