Melissa is a certified AutPlay® therapist with extensive experience supporting children and adolescents, particularly those who are autistic or have ADHD. AutPlay therapy is a specialised, evidence-informed play therapy approach designed to support the developmental, emotional and behavioural needs of neurodivergent children.
Melissa has undertaken specialised training and professional development in working with children and families across areas including trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, perfectionism, social anxiety, separation anxiety, anger, confidence and self-esteem, grief and loss, and self-harm. Her approach integrates AutPlay therapy with schema-informed interventions and a brain-body parenting framework, supporting both children and parents to build regulation, resilience and stronger emotional connections.
AutPlay® Therapy is a play therapy approach designed specifically for autistic children and children with ADHD. It recognises that many neurodivergent children experience the world differently and may communicate their thoughts, feelings and needs more easily through play rather than conversation alone.
Play is a child’s natural language. Through structured play-based activities, AutPlay Therapy helps children develop important skills such as emotional regulation, social understanding, communication, confidence and coping strategies. The therapy is tailored to each child’s developmental needs, strengths and challenges.
Children may express difficulties through behaviours such as anxiety, emotional outbursts, withdrawal, perfectionism, social struggles or low self-esteem. AutPlay Therapy provides a safe and supportive environment where children can explore these experiences, practise new skills and build resilience.
Parents are also an important part of the process. Therapy often includes guidance and support for parents, helping them understand their child’s needs and develop practical strategies that support regulation, connection and emotional development at home.
