Grow Paediatric Therapy

Get to know Grow Paediatric Therapy

From Grow Paediatric Therapy's website.

• Our approach

  Grow Paediatric Therapy uses an integrative, play-based approach tailored to each child's individual needs. Sessions draw on developmental education, play therapy, sandtray therapy, intensive interaction, and functional capacity assessments, or a combination of these methods chosen specifically for your child. All services are delivered by registered Developmental Educators with post-graduate clinical training in play therapy. Beyond direct therapy, practitioners provide families with practical supports and resources for home, school, or childcare—including social stories, visuals, schedules, and tools for emotional regulation. The therapeutic environment prioritises your child's safety and self-expression, respecting their pace and comfort throughout the process.

• Working with families

  Family involvement is central to the therapeutic process. The initial intake appointment is dedicated to meeting with you and gathering information about your child's needs and goals. Regular parent and caregiver update sessions are scheduled every 5–6 weeks to keep you informed of your child's progress and ensure you remain engaged. The practice actively supports your child's broader network by liaising with other therapists, schools, and organisations involved in your child's care, and will develop resources tailored for home and school settings. If your child needs support transitioning into the playroom, the team works at your child's pace to make this as comfortable as possible.

• Meet the team

  The team comprises four Developmental Educators, each bringing specific expertise and commitment to child-centred care. Director Renee Stewart is a developmental educator and play therapist passionate about relationships and inclusion, supporting children with emotional regulation and self-advocacy. Kayla Partridge specialises in positive behaviour support and has lived experience as a parent of a child with disability, with particular focus on emotional regulation and life transitions. Carly Mercier, a therapeutic play practitioner with over 10 years' experience and lived neurodivergent perspective, brings strengths-focused, play-based support. Olivia Benzi, with five years' disability sector experience, specialises in emotional regulation and family-centred support. All team members are registered Developmental Educators with appropriate qualifications and post-graduate clinical training.

• Your first visit

  The initial appointment is a parent and caregiver intake session lasting one to one-and-a-half hours, conducted between the practitioner and you without your child present. This allows the practitioner to understand your child's needs, goals and background in detail. A schedule of weekly child therapy sessions follows, typically 30 to 45 minutes long (billed with an additional 15 minutes for notes). Regular parent and caregiver update sessions are held every 5–6 weeks, lasting about 30 minutes, to keep you informed of progress and ensure you're actively engaged in your child's therapeutic journey.