Karri Kelly

Play Therapist

Children ages 4 - 12 years

Hi there! I’m Karri, a play therapist passionate about helping your child to build important skills like emotional regulation, developing an emotional vocabulary, and navigating the everyday challenges they face. My goal is to make each session a safe and playful space where children feel free to express themselves and grow at their own pace. Through play—children’s natural way of communicating—I guide them in exploring their thoughts, emotions, and relationships.

Along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Play Therapy with the Children’s Therapy Centre where I am currently completing my Master’s Degree in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, I hold a BA (Hons) Degree in Psychology which along with my 15 years experience as a Primary School Teacher, I bring a well-rounded understanding of children’s developmental needs. I have also trained in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills and Understanding Self-Harm, equipping me to support children experiencing a wide range of challenges.

Here at NorthStar, I use a child-centred approach, where your child takes the lead in their therapy sessions, allowing them to explore their feelings and inner world through play. This approach helps them work through their thoughts and concerns without needing to articulate them verbally—much like how adults might “talk out” their feelings. For children, play becomes a powerful way to process and make sense of their experiences.

In each session, I incorporate sensory play and tools that help children manage emotions, build self-esteem, and strengthen resilience. I also have a special focus on understanding the effects of trauma and how the brain responds to it, which can be crucial in helping children who may be navigating tough experiences.

Therapy is a collaborative process, and I value building trusting relationships with both children and their families, creating an environment where everyone feels supported and understood.

At NorthStar, I am dedicated to helping your child flourish, develop a sense of self, and build healthy connections with others.