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Hi, I’m Rochelle, founder and director of Play and Beyond!

With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education and intervention, my journey into play therapy began through watching my own daughter use play to express emotions and experiences she did not yet have words for. That moment sparked a deep passion for supporting children through child-led, developmentally attuned and relationship-based approaches.

As both a professional and a mum to neurodivergent children — including my son with autism, ADHD and 1Q21.1 Duplication Syndrome — I understand the joys, complexities and challenges many families navigate every day. My lived experience, combined with my professional background, allows me to walk alongside families with empathy, understanding and authenticity.

Later in life, I was also diagnosed with autism and ADHD myself. Growing up, I often felt misunderstood and different, learning to mask in order to fit in. Today, I see my neurodivergence not as something to hide, but as one of my greatest strengths. It has given me a deeper understanding of the inner world of neurodivergent children and a strong belief that every child deserves to feel safe, accepted and valued for exactly who they are.

I am especially passionate about supporting children and families impacted by trauma, including domestic and family violence. My passion for making therapeutic support more accessible also led me to found Play 4 Change, a community-focused not-for-profit supporting children and families impacted by trauma and adversity.

I believe play therapy provides children with a safe and developmentally appropriate way to express, process, explore and grow — without pressure or judgment.

Most importantly, I want every child to know this: who they are is not something that needs fixing — it is something that deserves to be understood, supported and 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

• Sandtray Therapy training

• 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)