Play Connect Grow

Play Therapy & Psychotherapy

Kia ora, welcome

I'm Natalie Astin and I am a registered psychotherapist and child-centred play therapist. I have a therapy room in Albert Town, Wānaka where I work with children, families and adults. Have a look here to find out about the therapeutic options I provide. I am passionate about creating a therapeutic atmosphere for client's of all ages to create the change they want in their lives to flourish. I am particularly inspired by my young client's creative, unique and joyous solutions to their initial difficulties. I also run mindful parenting courses, teaching skills I use in the playroom to parents and caregivers so they can develop a closer relationship with their children.
Have a look around and reach out to me with your questions or to book an appointment.
Child-Centred Play Therapist
Postgraduate Certificate in Child-Centred Play Therapy, Child Play Works
Registered Psychotherpist
Certified Transactional Analyst PBANZ reg no. 551873 MNZAP
Play Therapy
Adult Psychotherapy
Mindful Parenting Courses
In play, children can make a world where
roles can be changed,
​feelings can be expressed,
dreams can be dreamed,
ideas can be tested
​& problems can be resolved
Emily Oe
Welcome to the playroom!

Client Reviews

  • Natalie was an amazing support for my children post their mother passing. In a very short period of time I could see positive change in behaviour in both children. They used to look forward to the sessions which I'm sure was due to Natalie's expertise and caring nature. Natalie's passion to help is obvious. As a parent I also appreciated updates and feedback. This is a long journey for us as a family but at this stage I would say the kids are thriving which I'm sure a large part is due to the support from Natalie. I'm very appreciative of the wisdom, guidance and support that Natalie offered for my family in a time of need.
    Play Therapy - Parent Review
  • Natalie supported our son to navigate some very tough situations by building his resilience and emotional wellbeing. Natalie provided a space where my son felt safe to express himself and develop his problem solving skills through play. Natalie also provided us with strategies in how we could best support our son.
    Play Therapy - Parent Review
  • The mindful parenting course gave me actionable tools and strategies to use straight away. Frankie and Natalie create a nurturing safe environment for optimal learning. I highly recommend this course. Do I still make mistakes? Yes. Do I feel more in control and function as a better role model for my children? Yes.
    Mindful Parenting Course Participant
  • When I began seeing Natalie I had been having difficulty in my adult life associated with some experiences I had had as a child. This was putting me in situations I wasn't comfortable with, the upshot was I was really down and hard on myself and my family. I had initially dismissed the idea of therapy but after speaking to Natalie on the phone I instantly felt a huge sense of relief that there was someone who was really there for me and wanted to help me. Through Natalie and her warm, calm approach we were able to work through these experiences and develop tools and strategies to help me. As a result of the work we did over our time together I feel much more settled in myself and have the ability to step back from a situation and analyse how its making me (or others) feel and act accordingly. I have found this extremely helpful especially in stressful situations or at times when I would normally have felt like I would just "go along" with circumstances I wasn't happy with. I couldn't recommend Natalie enough and I am very grateful for her help and support.
    Adult Psychotherapy Client
  • In a time when I was feeling I overwhelmed with life Natalie was a great sounding board. A great listener who skilfully used prompting questions to help me get clarity around current situations and realities, bringing a sense of calm and control back. I highly recommend her services.
    Adult Psychotherapy Client

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