My name is Helen Richardson
Play therapist and founder of blue balloon children's therapy.
I am passionate about enabling children to reach their full potential and assisting them to develop resilience, self-esteem and a sense of self via the power of play. During my various roles helping children and families in schools, not for profit agencies and in private practice I have supported children to work through and heal from difficult experiences.
Witnessing individuals in my own family struggle with anxiety and trauma, I knew there had to be a better way to support children other than the traditional ‘talking’ therapy. As play is a child’s natural language, play therapy provides a developmentally appropriate environment for healing. Play enables children to express and explore their emotions and behaviours and as a play therapist I provide a safe, secure relationship for this to occur. I understand that each child’s journey is unique and that children are best supported when their parents and carers are included in the therapeutic process in association with their school and other professionals involved.
To relax and unwind in my free time, I love spending time in nature and enjoy bush walking with my family.
I also love enjoying a cuppa with a friend or whilst losing myself in a good book.
My qualifications are:
Masters of Child Play Therapy
Bachelor of Health Sciences
Trained and qualified in Filial (Family) Therapy
Trained and qualified in Learn to Play
Certified Facilitator of LEGO® Based Therapy
Certificate in Foundational TraumaPlay® Training
Registered with Play Therapy Practitioner's Association
