Is JB Psychology currently accepting referrals?

Unfortunately JB Psychology is not currently accepting referrals, due to Jessica Bastiani being on extended maternity leave. Please refer back to your healthcare provider for alternative supports. Emails and telephone messages will be periodically checked, however may not be responded to in a timely manner.

What is CCPT?

Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) is a type of Play Therapy in which the child leads the way, where the focus is on the whole child, rather than the child’s “problems”. Play is the way that children learn, develop, understand and process the world around them, however, Play Therapy is not the same as playing. In Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT), play is used as the language with which children process complicated emotions that they may not be able to express, process and communicate through the abstract nature of verbal language.

The Play Therapist creates a safe, free and protected therapeutic space of unconditional positive acceptance, that allows the child to communicate and process experiences using their natural language. There is a deep respect for the child’s innate ability to work through their difficulties, heal and grow. CCPT is a highly researched and effective therapeutic intervention for children aged 2 to 12 years who may be experiencing social, emotional, developmental or behavioural difficulties, trauma, stress and grief. It’s effectiveness is heightened when parents are actively involved in the child’s therapeutic process. CCPT supports children to express their thoughts and feelings, make better choices, understand their world, learn self-control, build self-esteem and confidence, develop empathy, reduce emotional and behavioural dysregulation, and strengthen relationships.

What is CBT?

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that focuses on an individual’s current functioning, and is based on the principle that psychological problems are based on unhelpful ways of thinking and learned patterns of unhelpful behaviour. CBT holds that symptoms can be reduced by learning better ways of thinking, behaving and coping. CBT is a highly researched and effective means of therapy for children and adults, to address mood and anxiety problems, relationship problems, emotional and behavioural dysregulation, trauma and stress.

Strategies used in CBT include learning to recognise cognitive distortions and challenge them, understand unhelpful behaviour patterns and modify them, better understand the behaviour and motivation of others, develop problem-solving skills and develop a greater sense of confidence in one’s own abilities. CBT places an emphasis on helping individuals to develop the skills needed to be their own therapists and involves exercises/tasks to be completed outside of the therapeutic sessions.

What is ACT?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of psychological treatment that focuses on the present moment (rather than dwelling in the past or excessive worrying about the future) and accept thoughts and feelings without judgement, to assist individuals to move through unpleasant experiences. ACT is based in mindfulness practice, encouraging individuals to accept life experiences as they are, and commit to a positive approach moving forwards, that aligns with their core values. ACT is a well-researched and effective means of therapy for children and adults, to address stress, anxiety, mood symptoms and emotional and behavioural dysregulation.

How does informed consent and confidentiality apply?

At JB Psychology, we offer children a confidential and safe space to be heard without judgement. Confidentiality is the cornerstone of a therapeutic relationship, and plays a vital role in promoting a safe and trusting environment for individuals. If a child feels that the therapeutic space is not confidential, they are far less likely to openly express and process difficult emotions, thoughts and experiences.

Whilst respecting confidentiality, JB Psychology acknowledges the importance and benefit of including parents in child therapy, and will provide regular updates to parents regarding their child’s progress in therapy, and ways they may be able to best support their child.

Confidentiality and the limits to confidentiality are explained to both children and parents at the initial consultation. Limits to confidentiality, for example, include situations where the child requests / agrees to the disclosure of information, where the psychologist believe there to be a safety risk to the child or others, or when legally subpoenaed.