Play Potential

Get to know Play Potential

From Play Potential's website.

• Our approach

  Play Potential uses a play-based approach to therapy, grounded in over 60 years of play therapy research. Sessions are tailored to each child's developmental stage and can be either directive (therapist-led with specific goals) or nondirective (child-led with freedom to choose activities). The therapist creates a safe environment where children are free to express themselves and solve their own problems, using toys, creative play, storytelling, role-play, arts and crafts, music, and movement. Occupational therapy sessions focus on building the skills children need for daily life, school participation, emotional regulation, and social connection, with the therapist adapting tasks and the environment to support learning. Parent coaching is also available to extend support beyond therapy sessions.

• Working with families

  Parents and carers are involved in therapy through parent coaching sessions, which help extend learning and strategies into the home and everyday life. The occupational therapy approach includes problem-solving collaboratively with parents and children to address challenges in daily tasks and routines. Play therapy can strengthen family relationships as part of its therapeutic benefits. The therapist works with parents to understand the child's needs and goals, and provides recommendations and resources to support the child's development across all the environments where they spend time.

• Meet the team

  Deanna Wainwright is the therapist at Play Potential, a paediatric occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience. She holds a Masters in Occupational Therapy from the University of Queensland (2001), a Bachelor in Music Therapy from the University of Queensland (1999), and a Masters in Child Play Therapy from Deakin University (2016). She is registered with AHPRA as an Occupational Therapist, registered with the Australasia Pacific Play Therapy Association as a Registered Play Therapist, and is a member of OT Australia. Her background includes work at Queensland Children's Hospital in rehabilitation, child and youth mental health services, and experience supporting children with physical disabilities and diverse developmental needs.

• Your first visit

  Your child's first appointment will be an assessment lasting one hour, during which the therapist gathers information to understand your child's needs and strengths. A summary report with recommendations is provided following the assessment. The specific type of assessment can include occupational therapy assessment, ADOS 2 assessment for autism evaluation, and/or sensory assessment depending on your child's presentation and your questions. Sessions can take place at the clinic, your home, or your child's school. This initial visit helps establish goals and guide the direction of therapy moving forward.