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About Me

Marzena Diard | Play Therapist for Children and Families in Sydney

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Marzena Diard

Psychotherapist & Counselor
Grad. Dip in Gestalt Therapy
Advanced Clinical training in Gestalt Therapy
Freedom from Chronic Pain Practitioner Level 1
Violet Solomon Oaklander Certified Play Therapist
Diploma in Counseling

I’m Marzena, a play therapist supporting children, adolescents, and families through gentle, trauma-informed therapy

I believe every child has the ability to move toward health when met with support, safety, acceptance, and compassion.

Children and adolescents are met exactly where they are. Together, we explore their experiences with curiosity, helping them reconnect with their inner strength, wisdom, and sense of self.

My work focuses on the relationship and the present moment, creating a safe foundation where children can express what words alone often cannot - through play, art, and imagination.

I believe healing happens when children feel safe and supported

In a space free from judgement, children can express what feels confusing, overwhelming, or difficult. From here, they begin to:

  • Build confidence and resilience

  • Develop emotional awareness

  • Strengthen their sense of self

  • Find their own way forward

The Oaklander Model supports this by focusing on emotional connection, self-awareness, and building inner strengths - while also supporting parents to guide their child at home.

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Together we curiously explore their experiences of themselves and the world.

My Story

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I have always had a soft spot for children. Perhaps it’s because my own childhood journey wasn’t always smooth - moving countries at a young age and starting over again taught me what it feels like to be unseen, misunderstood, or out of place. I know what it’s like to feel like you never quite get it right, or that you don’t belong.

I trained as a preschool teacher in Germany and have worked with preschool-aged children both in Germany and here in Australia. These experiences gave me a deep understanding of the unique developmental, emotional, and social needs of young children, and strengthened my commitment to supporting them in safe, nurturing ways.

Reading Violet Oaklander’s book The Window to Our Children opened many doors within me — awakening old wounds, insights, and “aha” moments — and sparked a deep wish: if I had known this approach earlier, my life might have taken a very different direction.

My training in Gestalt psychotherapy has given me a deep understanding of human suffering and healing in adults. Extending this to children, my training in Oaklander Play Therapy has deepened my appreciation for the ever-unfolding minds and hearts of young people.

I am also a mum to a wonderful 8-year-old daughter and 16-year-old son, sailing the waters of both childhood and adolescence alongside my clients. This personal journey enriches my understanding of the challenges, joys, and nuances of growing up in today’s world.

I am delighted to offer the Oaklander Model in Sydney, supporting every child in reconnecting with their inner wisdom, resilience, and strength — and walking alongside families as they nurture growth and emotional wellbeing.

The Paperwork:

  • Grad. Dip in Gestalt Therapy

  • Advanced Clinical Training in Gestalt Therapy

  • Freedom from Chronic Pain Practitioner Level 1

  • Violet Solomon Oaklander Certified Play Therapist

  • Diploma in Counseling

  • 15+ years as a preschool teacher (Germany & Australia)

  • 3+ years as a Gestalt Therapist

Work with me

I offer play therapy for children aged 5+ and support for families navigating emotional, behavioural, or developmental challenges.

Sessions are available in my Petersham Clinic in Sydney.

Book an Appointment