We support children and youth from birth to 19 years old, with a focus on younger children (ages 3–12) for play-based work.

I’m trained in a wide range of approaches including Synergetic Play Therapy, Expressive Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, AutPlay Therapy, talk-based counselling, and psychoeducation. I use a blended approach based on your family’s learning style and goals.

You can see a full list of my training on the My Counselling Practice page.

Great question! Here’s a quick peek:

Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT): Focuses on co-regulation, nervous system awareness, and relational healing through play.

Sand Tray Therapy: Uses miniatures and sand to create stories that reflect a child’s inner world.

AutPlay Therapy: Designed specifically for neurodivergent children, blending play, regulation tools, and caregiver involvement.

Expressive Play Therapy: Uses art, music, drama, and movement to support growth and processing. (include link)

CBPT & Mindfulness Practices: We sometimes integrate CBT tools and body-based awareness into playful, accessible formats. (include link)

I blend elements from all of these (and more!) to meet your child’s and your family’s unique needs.

Explore more on the My Counselling Practice page!

Nope! The focus is on emotional regulation, connection, and identity-affirming care, not compliance or behavioural “fixing.” We do not force eye contact or expected social behaviours. Sessions are guided by the child’s nervous system, communication style, and sense of safety. We are always happy to explain the difference further.

Play therapy is an evidence-informed approach to counselling that has been around for over 100 years. Since children don't always have the words to explain what they're thinking or feeling, play provides a natural way for them to communicate their inner world, make sense of their experiences, and develop regulation strategies.

Depending on their preferences, kids might build with blocks, create slime, roleplay, draw, explore sensory bins, or just play! We follow their lead while gently supporting therapeutic goals.

Absolutely. Repetition is how many kids process big feelings or confusing experiences. We stay curious and supportive of whatever themes show up.

That’s okay because play is communication. Some kids use metaphor, movement, or expression through toys instead of words. We meet them right where they’re at.

That’s actually one of our superpowers! Whether it’s trains, Roblox, slime, or dinosaurs, we lean into your child’s interests to build trust and connection. When kids feel seen, they engage naturally.

Yes! We offer virtual sessions for caregivers, teens, and some younger children when appropriate.

Sometimes! Digital tools such as co-op video games, therapeutic apps, and avatar-based storytelling may be used when they are a good fit for the child. For some children, digital play is a meaningful way to connect, explore, and regulate. When used intentionally, these tools support emotional regulation, problem-solving, collaboration, and imaginative or parts-based play.

That depends on your goals, your child’s needs, and their pace. Some families come short-term for support around something specific, others stay longer. We’ll check in often to make sure it’s working.

We recommend starting with weekly sessions to build the relationship and therapeutic connection. Once that foundation is established, we can shift to bi-weekly, every three weeks, or even monthly depending on your child’s needs, your family’s schedule, and financial considerations.

The first session is all about making your child feel comfortable with me and the space. There are no pressure or expectations—they get to explore the playroom or virtual space at their own pace, whether that means diving into play right away or simply observing. If your child prefers to engage mostly with you at first, that’s completely normal and okay! The goal is to gently build connection and trust so they want to come back for more. It’s a relaxed, playful, and welcoming start to the therapy journey.

You might be in the room with us (especially for co-regulation work), or wait in the lobby while I work with your child. We’ll also have regular caregiver check-ins so you feel supported and involved. With younger children and when therapeutic goals are more focused on caregiver support, you may have a more active goal with me coaching on the side.

Yes! I love teaming up with OTs, SLPs, Teachers, and other supports in your child’s life. A shared approach leads to more consistent care across environments.

In some cases, yes. Some children engage comfortably in conversation, while others communicate more effectively through play. Children may talk while they play, or they may express their experiences and challenges through play themes and stories. In these instances, play serves as a meaningful metaphor for what is happening in their lives and guides the therapeutic work.

Most extended health plans cover sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), but it’s always best to check with your provider to confirm what’s included.

We also accept Autism Funding (AFU). If you’re using third-party funding, we’re happy to guide you through the process or provide any documents you need.

We do! Please reach out if cost is a barrier. A limited number of sliding scale spots are available for families who need financial flexibility. Just reach out to ask about current availability. We’re happy to chat options.

Easy! You can book online here.

If you’re unsure what you need, send us a message. We’re happy to help.

You can keep it light and friendly by saying something like, “You’re going to a playroom where you get to play and hang out with someone who helps kids with big feelings.” No need to over-explain.

Nope! We have one consistent rate for all sessions. At The Magic Playroom, we believe that families are essential partners in the therapy process, so family involvement is built into how we work, not something extra.

The Magic Playroom is located at B203-2099 Lougheed Hwy in Port Coquitlam, BC. If our location isn’t convenient for you, we also offer virtual sessions for children, caregivers, and families when appropriate. If virtual doesn’t feel like the right fit, we’re happy to recommend a trusted professional in your area whenever possible.

Most children benefit from 50-minute sessions, which allows time for connection, play, regulation, and therapeutic work.

A 75-minute session may be a good fit for children who need extra time to warm up, regulate, or feel comfortable before engaging more deeply in play. The additional time allows for a slower pace, smoother transitions, and a calmer ending.

Longer sessions can also be helpful for families with longer commutes, allowing for fewer trips while still supporting meaningful therapeutic progress.

We’d love to connect and chat more about how we can support your child and family. You’re welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions, learn about our approach, and see if we’re a good fit. Click here to book your consultation.