MA Child Play Therapy. DipEd (Early Childhood) B.Ed. (Early Childhood) Grad Dip Child Play Therapy. Registered VIT (Early Childhood Educator)

Annamaria has worked in the Early Childhood field for over 20 years as an Early Childhood Educator providing play-based educational programs.  A strong focus of her role is delivering rich, meaningful play invitations which allow children to discover themselves through play.  Annamaria values play as a tool for learning, recognising that children learn and grow best in a safe, secure environment that nurtures and values each child.  She is passionate about the role of play as a therapeutic agent, supporting children’s emotional well- being and a sense of belonging in a modality that is developmentally appropriate.  Building trusting relationships, nurtures connections which she believes fosters compassion and a deep understanding of the emotional challenges that young children face.  Annamaria is currently completing her Masters of Play Therapy at Deakin University and has a growing interest in how play therapy can support children to regulate and release emotions.  Annamaria is excited to be part of the team at Play Therapy Melbourne, supporting children and families to connect in positive ways.