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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

• 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)