Welcome!

I am Sammy Kinder, the founder of Kind.er Counselling.

I am a registered Counsellor with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), holding a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science/Counselling and further training/certificates in talk, play and creative therapies.

With over 10 years of experience, I specialise in supporting children and teens (ages 2-18) through a range of emotional and developmental challenges. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies like Child-Centred Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and more.

I am deeply passionate about children's mental health and strive to create a space where your child feels seen, heard, and supported. Whether through talk therapy, creative expression, or play-based therapies, I aim to help your child explore their emotions in a way that feels safe and empowering to them. My neuro-affirming approach focuses on your child’s strengths, encouraging them to navigate their challenges with confidence and resilience.

Alongside my work with children, I have a special interest in supporting parents on their unique journeys. As a parent of neurodiverse children myself, I understand the ups and downs of parenthood and believe in the power of authentic, practical, evidence-based techniques to strengthen your connection with your child. I am here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and encouragement as you grow in your parenting journey.

I would love the opportunity to meet you and your uniquely wonderful child!

Meet the Team

  • Lauren (Loz)

    PLAY THERAPIST & CHILDREN'S COUNSELLOR

    Lauren is a qualified and registered counsellor and play therapist with a Master's in Counselling and extensive training in child-centred and dyadic play therapy.

    With 18 years of experience as a primary school teacher, Lauren specialised in kinder and primary aged children and brings a playful approach. Lauren is attuned to the importance of creating a developmentally-appropriate, safe and emotionally supportive environment where every child feels valued.

    As a mother of two, Lauren has a profound understanding of the challenges of modern parenting and holds a deep commitment to attachment-focused and neuro-affirmative practices.

  • Jodie

    PLAY THERAPIST

    Jodie is a qualified Play Therapist with a Bachelor of Psychology and a Masters of Child Play Therapy. As a mother of four and a grandmother to three, Jodie brings decades of experience and insight into understanding children- not just through formal study but through a lifetime of hands-on learning.

    Jodie is passionate about supporting the whole child- their emotions, personality, and unique quirks- helping them to grow into their best selves. With over 35 years experience, she has witnessed the ever-changing world of children’s play and uses current and evidence-based play therapy to create a safe engaging space where kids can explore their feelings, build confidence, and overcome challenges.

  • Harriet

    PLAY THERAPIST

    Harriet is a dedicated Play Therapist with a strong background in Early Childhood Education spanning 10 years.

    With a Bachelor of Education and a Masters of Child Play Therapy, Harriet is more than equipped with the skills and knowledge to support children facing various challenges. Her passion is to support children’s happiness, engagement, and resiliency through play. She believes that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and Play Therapy provides the perfect avenue for children to express themselves, develop coping skills, and overcome obstacles in a safe and supportive environment.

  • Gemma

    MOTHER'S/WOMEN'S COUNSELLOR

    Gemma is currently completing her Masters of Counselling at Monash University and brings over 20 years of experience working with women across the globe. As a mother of two boys herself, Gemma deeply understands the ups and downs of family life and is passionate about helping women, especially mothers, feel safe, supported, and connected. Gemma’s approach is warm and person-centred, offering a space where women can unload, reconnect with themselves and navigate motherhood with confidence and care.

  • Jannah

    PRE-TEENS (12+), TEENS & WOMENS COUNSELLOR

    Jannah is a qualified and registered counsellor with a Masters in Counselling. As a mother of three and an experienced primary teacher with over 15 years in education, Jannah brings a uniqe blend of professional insight, understanding and nurturing care.

    Jannah specialises in supporting pre-teens, teens and women through life’s challenges, and she is dedicated to empowering individuals to cultivate self-compassion and self-worth. Jannah’s approach is kind, nurturing, growth focused, and tailored to help people find their authentic selves.

  • Bek

    TEEN MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID TRAINING FACILITATOR (FOR SCHOOLS)

    Alongside Sammy Kinder, Bek will offer Teen Mental Health First Aid Training courses to schools and students years 7-12 across the Mornington Peninsula & Greater Melbourne regions.

    Bek has facilitated Mental Health First Aid training courses for the past seven years, focusing on youth, teen, and non-suicidal self-injury training. With over 25 years experience in community and youth work, Bek holds a Bachelor of Youth Work and a Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Arts Practices.

Join the growing team!

Are you a Children’s Play Therapist, Occupational Therapist or Speech Therapist? Are you seeking a beautiful clinic space? A better work-life or work-motherhood balance? Control over your working hours and client load?

We pride ourselves on being a motherhood-accomodating and neuro-inclusive workplace, where YOU get to call the shots on what suits YOU as a person and therapist!

If you live by the same values as us (Kindness, Excellence, Teamwork, Respect, Child-Centred, Neuro-Affirming & Trust) and wish to explore or join us- please click below to contact us today.