Individual Therapy
Personalized activity and play therapy sessions for ages 2-25, addressing various challenges:
- Trauma & Complex Behaviors
- Anxiety & Depression
- Attachment Issues
- Self-esteem & Identity
Play Therapist
Qualified North Adelaide Social Worker Supporting Diverse Communities
At Activity & Play Therapy, we go beyond the surface to nurture emotional well-being, meaningful connection, and a strong sense of belonging for every individual.
All therapies are evidence based
About Us
Meet Marlene Faitele
Marlene Faitele
Qualified Social Worker & Counsellor
Qualifications
- BSSc. Social Work
- Certificate in Community Services
- BCS. Counselling (completion 2024)
- Member of Australian Association of Social Workers
Hi my name is Marlene and I am a qualified social worker and counsellor. I am deeply committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where children, teens and young adults can thrive emotionally, socially, and psychologically.
“Together, we can help them build the tools and confidence they need to conquer any challenge”
My life has been a journey of strength and compassion. Overcoming trauma and going through things like PTSD plus raising a son who is neurodivergent has given me a unique way of seeing the world. My own experiences have drawn me to wanting to help prevent others having to experience the same.
Because of these experiences, I see the world through the eyes of those who might feel invisible or unheard. That's why I'm so passionate about working with neurodivergent children and young adults. It's not just about the challenges they face, it's also about seeing their incredible strengths and resilience.
Cultural inclusivity and sensitivity are one of my core values. Our community has a beautiful mix of cultures and backgrounds. To truly support our children and families, we are sensitive to these differences. It's all about creating a space where everyone feels welcome, respected, and understood.
Our Services
Mental Health & Social Support Services
Supporting Mental Health and Social Well-being for children, juveniles and young people
Family Support
Comprehensive family-centered support including:
- Family Changes & Transitions
- Sibling Conflicts
- Domestic & Family Violence Support
- Transition from Care
School & Social Support
Addressing educational and social challenges:
- School-related Difficulties
- Peer Relationships
- Selective Mutism
- Social Skills Development
Specialized Support
Expert care for specific needs:
- Neurodivergent Children & Young Adults
- Loss & Grief Counseling
- Functional Capacity Assessments
- NDIS Support Services
Elder Care (65+)
Activity and play therapy for seniors:
- Dementia Support & Cognitive Health
- Managing Chronic Health Challenges
- Reducing Social Isolation
- Emotional Support & Connection
Justice System Support
Specialized support for:
- Young People Transitioning from Corrections
- Rehabilitation Programs
- Community Integration
- Behavioral Intervention
Social & Play Groups
Weekly Community Programs
Bringing children, teens, and young adults together through play, learning, and connection.
Thursday Social Groups
Join our community groups designed for connection, support, and fun!
Children's Group
Ages 8-12 | Every Thursday
Adolescent Group
Ages 13-18 | Every Thursday
Young People's Group
Ages 19-25 | Every Thursday
Monday Play Group
A welcoming space for parents, carers, and guardians to connect with children play and explore in a safe, supervised environment.
When:
Every Monday
Who:
Children ages 5-11 with their parents, carers, or guardians
Benefits:
Connect, share, and help children develop social skills through play.
Who We Work With
Tailored Support for Every Stage of Growth
We work closely with children, adolescents, and young adults—adapting our therapeutic approaches to meet their emotional, developmental, and social needs at every life stage.
Children (0-12 years old)
Every playtime is an adventure from giggles to growing minds helping your child thrive as we follow your child's lead & nurture their unique talents.
Adolescents (13-19 years old)
Supporting teens through their complex emotional journey with understanding, respect, and age-appropriate therapeutic approaches.
Young People (20-25 years old)
Empowering young adults to navigate transitions and challenges in life, build independence, and develop essential life skills for their future.
Our Therapeutic Approach
Evidence-Based Strategies Tailored to Individual Needs
We blend evidence-based methods with compassionate care—using play, creativity, and personalized strategies to support emotional growth, resilience, and meaningful connection.
Expression and Exploration
We use activities and play to help you express yourself, especially if verbal communication is difficult. Through play, you can explore your emotions, experiences, and challenges in a safe and indirect way. The fun part is that all play and activities are led by you.
Building Skills
Activities can be designed to target specific challenges you face. This could involve social skills practice, emotional regulation exercises, or problem-solving games tailored to your unique needs.
Strength-Based
We'll focus on identifying and building upon your strengths. This empowers children and young adults to overcome obstacles and find solutions that work for them.
Testimonials
Kind Words From Those We've Helped
Discover how our therapeutic support has made a lasting difference in the lives of children, teens, and families.
“The support my son received here was truly life-changing. The therapists were patient, playful, and really understood his needs.”
IM
Isabella M.
Parent of a 7-year-old
“As a teenager, it's hard to open up — but here, I felt listened to without judgment. They helped me manage my emotions and feel more in control of my life.”
DB
Darla Brown
17-year-old client
“The sessions gave me a space where I could figure things out for myself with someone who truly cared. I've grown so much in just a few months.”
J
John
21-year-old client
“From the first session, I knew I was in the right place. My calls are heard and my concerns are addressed — Marlene and her team truly made the difference.”
IK
Ibrahim Khan
Parent of a 5-year-old
Mobile Service
Mobile Services – We Come to You!
Mobile Services – We Come to You!
We bring support directly to you in Adelaide and Rural Areas in South Australia!
At Activity & Play Therapy, we understand that life can be busy, and sometimes getting the help you need can feel like another hurdle. That's why we offer the convenience of mobile services, bringing our expertise directly to you!
Imagine this: skip the travel time and long waits at appointments. Instead, receive top-notch care in the comfort and familiarity of your own home or a mutually convenient location.
We travel anywhere across Adelaide, South Australia.
Contact Us
Connect With Us
Ready to take the next step? We're here to support you with care, compassion, and understanding.
Send Me A Message
Contact Information
Phone
Email Address
Service Type
Mobile Services – We come to you!
Specialization
NDIS Plans Accepted, Serving All Children and Adolescents
Niina Marni (A Kaurna phrase for 'Hello, how are you?')
Activity & Play Therapy acknowledges that we are meeting on the traditional Country of the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains and pays respect to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land. We acknowledge that they are of continuing importance to the Kaurna people living today. And we also extend that respect to other Aboriginal Language Groups and other First Nations.