“Enter into children’s play, and you will find the place where their minds, hearts, and souls meet.” — Virginia Axline.
Psychology and Play Therapy for children and families in Melbourne
About me
Hi, I'm Danni (she/her).
Danni Exadactylos, M.Psych
I am a Melbourne / Naarm based registered psychologist and registered play therapist, with an approach informed by analytic theory. I specialise in child therapy, using play to nurture a child’s sense of self.
My practice is client-led and trauma-informed, with a focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship. This allows me to focus on the child as a whole, rather than just their struggles. This gentle and strengths-based approach facilitates healing and growth.
I have worked in schools and private and public care settings, with extensive experience in a large paediatric hospital working with children who have experienced significant trauma. I have also guest lectured at tertiary institutions on the topics of trauma and play therapy.
My Practice
“Toys are children’s words and play is their language” — Gary L. Landreth.
Play therapy allows children to show us what is happening in their inner world. It helps children explore their experiences using toys rather than language.
I endeavour to create a safe and protected space to foster a strong emotional connection with the children I work with. When children feel safe in a therapeutic relationship, they are able to use play to show me what they are feeling. My job is to interpret and put words to their experience. This helps children make sense of themselves and their world.
Play therapy allows a child to feel more in control of their experiences and emotions. It helps to integrate their inner and outer worlds, leading to increased states of regulation and connection.
My Experience
Qualifications
- Master of Psychology (Counselling), Monash University
- Post Graduate Diploma Psychology, Swinburne University
- Graduate Diploma of Child Psychotherapy, Monash University
- Play Therapy Certification, Queensland Institute of Play Therapy
Professional Memberships
- Registered Psychologist, Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra)
- Member of Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi)
- Registered Play Therapist, Australian Play Therapy Association (APTA)
Sessions and Fees
As I am an Ahpra registered psychologist, you may be eligible to obtain a Medicare rebate with a Mental Health Treatment Plan referral from your General Practitioner (GP).
For detailed information about my consultation fees and payment options, please get in touch.
My consulting room is located on the Melbourne CBD fringe, in Carlton. Sessions typically last 50 minutes and I endeavour to include parents/carers throughout treatment.
Respect and Community
I acknowledge and pay respect to the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples as the traditional owners of the land on which I practise. I give thanks for the privilege of working on their unceded land. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.
I am a proud ally. My consulting room is an LGBTQIA+ friendly space.