About Us

Meet Rochelle -

Meet Rochelle -


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

With nearly 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 a lifelong passion for supporting young minds through child-led, developmentally attuned approaches. I've worked in childcare centres and kindergartens, always advocating for each child’s unique rhythm and story.

As a mum to neurodivergent children—including my son, who has autism, ADHD, and the rare 1Q21.1 Duplication Syndrome—I understand the challenges families face. That lived experience, combined with my professional background, gives me a deep empathy for both children and the adults who love them.

I was also diagnosed with autism in adulthood. Growing up, I was often labelled “weird” or “too much,” and laughed along with the jokes at my expense to hide how much they hurt. I became an expert at masking—but the pain stayed hidden behind my smile. Still, I never lost who I was. Today, I embrace my neurodivergence with pride. It’s brought clarity, healing, and a superpower: the ability to deeply connect with neurodivergent children in a way that’s real, respectful, and attuned.

This is why I’m so passionate about play therapy. It gives children the space to be fully themselves—to express, explore, and grow without judgment. And that’s what 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 

  • 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 Sigrid -

Meet Sigrid -

Play Therapist
Creative Arts Counsellor

Specialisation: Creative Arts

Hi, I’m Sigrid!

* I have three children, 2 in primary and one in secondary school.

* I love exploring nature and finding interesting creatures and plants.

* I love bike-riding, craft, playing music and making up stories and songs.

* I love performing on stage - singing, dancing and acting!

I have been teaching drama and the Arts to children of all ages for over 20 years. Throughout this time, I have come to see the value of play and creative expression in enhancing wellbeing, developing and expressing a sense of identity, as well as in the processing of experiences and events within people’s lives and the world around them. 

I have facilitated ‘Wellbeing through the Arts’ sessions with kindy children, utilising play, creativity and imaginative expression to develop emotional vocabulary and processing. 

I have completed a Masters in Guidance and Counselling, and clinical training in play therapy.

Qualifications and training

  • Bachelor of Performing Arts

  • Graduate Diploma in Education 

  • Master of Education (Specialisation Guidance and Counselling)

  • Registered and experienced primary and secondary Arts teacher (drama, music, visual art)

  • Post Graduate Clinical Training in Child Centred Play Therapy

  •  Therapeutic Parenting (Child-Parent Relationship Therapy) Facilitator Course

  • Current registration with Australian Counselling Association (ACA)

Meet Jillian -

Meet Jillian -

Play Therapist

Hi, I‘m Jillian!

I am passionate about early childhood development and have worked in the field for over 14 years in both Canada and Australia. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Child Study and Education. 

As a qualified teacher, I have extensive experience working with children with additional needs and behavioural challenges. My approach to education is child-centered and strengths-focused.

I live in Hervey Bay with my husband, our three young girls, and our golden retriever. In my free time, I enjoy yoga, beach walks, bike riding, and a strong cappuccino.

 I look forward to working in partnership with you and your child.

Qualifications and training

  • Master of Arts in Child Study and Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Honours Psychology

  • Child Abuse Prevention Award (in recognition of outstanding research or practice in child abuse prevention)

  • Post Graduate Clinical Training in Child Centred Play Therapy

Meet Elysia -

Meet Elysia -

Play Therapist

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 Ben -

Meet Ben -

Youth & Adolescent Counsellor

AASW Registered Social Worker

Youth & Adolescent Counsellor

Hi, I’m Ben! 

Hi, I’m Ben – a youth and adolescent counsellor who brings a fun, relaxed, and engaging approach to working with young people. I have a child-like personality that helps kids and teens feel safe, comfortable, and seen for who they are. With over six years' experience in the youth space and a background as a cabinet maker for 18 years, I offer a down-to-earth, relatable style that really connects—especially with young people who might not usually open up in a typical counselling setting.

I support children and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation challenges, family and peer issues, and school difficulties. I also work from a neuro-affirming approach, creating a respectful and empowering space for neurodivergent young people.

My sessions often focus on values, strengths, and practical tools, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in a creative and accessible way. I aim to help young people build confidence, find direction, and feel more in control of their lives—all while keeping things real, honest, and even a little fun.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, going camping, and cheering on the Melbourne Storm during footy season—Go Storm!


Qualifications and training

  • Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

  • Bachelor of Human Services

  • AASW Registered Social Worker

  • Over 6 years' experience working with children and adolescents

  • 18 years as a tradesperson (cabinet maker) – brings a practical, grounded approach

    Trained in and actively uses:

  • CBT – Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

  • DBT – Dialectical Behaviour Therapy

  • ACT – Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

  • Solution-Focused Therapy

    Strong focus on:

  • Values and strengths-based work

  • Neuro-affirming practice

  • Trauma-informed care

Meet Jasmine -

Meet Jasmine -

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