"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."

— Carl Rogers

A safe space for your child to
play, heal, and grow.

Child-Centred Play Therapy in Pakenham for children aged 3–10.

The Sunny Nook playroom

Play is a child's natural language.
Toys are their words.

Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) is a specialised, evidence-based mental health intervention for children aged 3 to 12. Unlike traditional approaches which may ask children to articulate complex emotions they may not yet have the vocabulary for, CCPT meets them where they are.

In the playroom, I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where your child leads the way. Guided by the philosophies of Virginia Axline and Carl Rogers, I rely on the child's innate "growth force" — their natural drive to heal and self-actualise. By playing out their experiences, children process their world, develop problem-solving skills, and gain a sense of mastery over their lives.

View Evidence-Based Research →

"The child is the one who knows what is bothering him, and it is the child who must discover the way to handle his problems."

— Virginia Axline

CCPT is beneficial for children navigating…

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Anxiety & Stress

Helping children process "big worries" and find a sense of inner calm.

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Emotional Regulation

Teaching children how to identify, express, and manage intense feelings like anger or sadness.

🤝

Social & Behavioural Challenges

Improving self-control, reducing impulsivity, and enhancing how they relate to peers and family.

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Trauma & Life Transitions

Providing a safe space to process big changes like divorce, grief, or moving to a new country.

Self-Esteem & Resilience

Building a strong sense of "I can" by allowing the child to lead their own therapeutic journey.

Mythri Kariuki

Hi, I'm Mythri.

I believe every child has the ability to heal and thrive — they just need the right space to do it.

As a former primary school teacher and a mum to a child with severe anxiety, I've spent years watching children navigate the world from both a professional and a deeply personal perspective. I know firsthand that when children struggle with "big feelings" or difficult behaviours, they need a language to express what's happening inside.

Returning to my psychology studies later in life was driven by my desire to support children's emotional needs as they navigate the systems that serve them. This journey led me to Child-Centred Play Therapy — a modality that helps young children not only heal from their challenges but truly self-actualise.

"Healing happens when a child feels safe enough to be exactly who they are."

Credentials

  • BSc
  • GradDipEd (Primary)
  • BPsych (Honours)
  • Clinical CCPT Training
  • PTPA Associate Therapist

Practical information

Opening Hours (2026)

Monday 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Saturday 8:30am – 11:30am
Sunday 8:30am – 11:30am

Please get in touch for current fee information. I'm happy to discuss options and answer any questions you have.

CCPT is most effective for children aged 3 to 10, though it can be adapted up to age 12. Feel free to reach out if you're unsure.

Sessions are typically 50 minutes, including a brief check-in with parents/carers.

Every child is different. Research suggests a minimum of 10–15 consistent sessions is most effective. We'll review progress together as we go.

Children attend the playroom on their own — this gives them the freedom to lead and express themselves. I'll keep you informed every step of the way.

Please get in touch to discuss rebate options, as these depend on your circumstances and referral pathway.

Let's talk.

I'd love to hear from you. Reach out and we can find a time to chat.

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Contact Details

📍 Lakeside, Pakenham VIC 3810

✉️ Sunnynookpt@gmail.com

📷 @sunnynookpt

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