Teleplay Virtual Wellbeing Rooms

22 February 2022

We’re excited to announce our new Teleplay program, which provides free, online play therapy and support for 0-11-year-olds impacted by the East Gippsland bushfires. 

The program is delivered in partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service Victoria, and funded by Gippsland Primary Health Network, which is leading the mental health response to bushfire-affected areas of Gippsland. 

Support is available for families who currently live in the East Gippsland area, as well as those who were holidaying or living in East Gippsland at the time of the bushfires. 

How does it work?

Teleplay is an online program that allows counsellors to provide high quality play therapy to children via a video link. Sessions enable children to have a positive, fun and engaging experience, with opportunities to take part in a wide range of therapeutic activities. 

Children begin by ‘lighting’ an imaginary candle with the play therapist to symbolise the start of the session. 

They then do a drawing task designed to help them explore their feelings, worries and thoughts. This is followed by some grounding/breathing exercises and drawing and storytelling activities. 

The child is then invited into a virtual playroom, where they can explore interactive online areas such as a sand tray, dolls house and games room, with gentle guidance and support from the play therapist.  

At the end of the session, the child and the play therapist ‘blow out’ their imaginary candle. 

How can Teleplay help?

Teleplay can help children to: 

• alleviate feelings of anxiety and worry 
• develop coping strategies and creative problem-solving skills 
• support taking more responsibility for certain behaviours 
• learn self-respect 
• learn empathy and respect for others 
• fully experience and express their feelings. 

This is a great opportunity for children to get support in a safe and familiar environment, and without the need for travel, during these uncertain COVID-19 times.

Please note: Funding for this service ended in December 2022.