ANGELIQUE FERNANDES

I am a passionate and dedicated Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Play Therapist.

I have more than 20 years of experience working with children and families.

Since 2001 I have worked in a range of settings including primary and secondary schools, non-government and government agencies and health services as a:

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  • child protection worker,

  • family caseworker,

  • parent educator,

  • child and family therapist, and

  • school counsellor.

I have received Advanced Clinical Training in Play Therapy through Play Therapy Australia.  I ensure that my practice is current and effective by having regular supervision.

In addition to my Play Therapy experience and qualifications I have experience providing a range of therapies for children including: cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), acceptance commitment therapy (ACT) , strength-based practice, narrative therapy and psycho-education.

I am trained in group programs that support children experiencing anxiety, these include: the Cool Kids Anxiety Program developed by Macquarie University Emotional Health Clinic and ProACTive developed by Westmead Children’s Hospital Department of Psychological Medicine.

I am an accredited clinician in Tuning In To Kids, Circle of Security, Filial Therapy/Child Parent Relationship Therapy and Autplay Therapy.

My most recent passion and training is in understanding the connection between body and mind, to support healing and growth, and completed Level 1 Sensorimotor Psychotherapy for Trauma Themes.

My work with children and families is informed by child development theory, attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology, grief and loss, somatic and trauma theory.

 

I am a member of the Australian Social Workers Association and I abide by their professional code of ethics in all my work.



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Values and Beliefs

I understand that families come in many shapes and sizes. I value and respect each family for their unique strengths and challenges.

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Every child and family contains an inherent wisdom. I work to develop a caring, safe, empathic, and non-judgemental relationship with each child and family so they can develop their unique capacity for healing and growth.

I have a deep experience working with families from a range of cultural backgrounds and I’m committed to working in a culturally sensitive way.

I am passionate about working with children. Their insights, understanding, and ability to adapt to an adult-centric world never cease to amaze me. There is so much to learn from children. They are often my best teachers.

I understand that children are part of a community. Their experiences take place within the context of a network of relationships. I work collaboratively with parents, caregivers, school personnel, and other professionals.

I embrace inclusion and diversity regarding ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity, with a commitment to creating a safe environment for all people

My hope is to help kids move towards growth and healing. I want to help them find their voice so those who love them most may understand them better and discover new ways to support them.