About me...
Jane Parkinson (she/her)
~ Director @ Kind Connections ~
Jane is a Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor (APTA), Clinical Counsellor (PACFA), EMDR Practitioner & Certified Synergetic Play Therapist & Supervisor, working with individuals with a range of challenging and complex needs.
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What is Synergetic Play Therapy?
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Synergetic Play Therapy® (2008) is a researched-informed model of play therapy blending the therapeutic power of play with nervous system regulation, interpersonal neurobiology, physics, attachment, mindfulness, & therapist authenticity. It's primary play therapy influences are Child-Centered, Experiential, & Gestalt theories.
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Although Synergetic Play Therapy® is a model of play therapy, it’s also a way of being in relationship with self and others. It’s an all-encompassing paradigm that can be applied to any facet of life, at any stage of life. As a Synergetic Play Therapist, my ability to engage in mindfulness & model regulation of my own nervous system is the foundation for how your child is able to learn how to manage his/her/their own nervous system.
*For more info on SPT, see https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/what-synergetic-play-therapy/
My therapeutic lens is attachment focused, trauma-responsive and neuro-affirming. Utilising the transformative power of play as a therapeutic tool, healing and growth can occur when a safe space is created for children and their families to show up as their authentic and often disregulated selves.
As a Counsellor, my clinical experience has primarily been in the complex trauma space, supporting women and children who have experienced the impacts of family violence. ​Ia lso provide parenting education & support to parents/caregivers as part of the therapeutic plan, and feel strongly that collaboration with a child's educational setting is another crucial aspect of supporting the 'whole family' (for more info see Kind Kids Play Therapy).
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As Play Therapist Supervisor (APTA), I draw on my strong therapeutic experience, in combination with the values that stem from my work as a clinician myself; to guide fellow therapists along their own path of self-discovery in a safe and supportive space (where the clinician gets to show up as their authentic self in a curious and playful way!). I am strongly committed to promoting best practices, ethical standards, and encouraging ongoing professional development within the Australian Play Therapy community.
*I am a PACFA Reg. Clinical Counsellor (30578) & Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor (APTA).
"The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) is a leading national peak body for the counselling and psychotherapy profession".