Elaine O’Connor
PLAY THERAPIST & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
Elaine has over 20 years' experience as an occupational therapist and a growing focus on child-centred play therapy. She works one-on-one with children, partnering with parents, caregivers and educators to create nurturing environments where children feel safe, supported and understood.
Elaine knows that sometimes occupational therapy is the right approach, sometimes play therapy, and often a combination of both. She leads with connection, curiosity and authenticity — meeting each child where they are and building from there.
A particular area of interest for Elaine is toileting anxiety and stool toileting refusal in young children. She has found that blending occupational therapy strategies with the emotional safety of play therapy creates a uniquely powerful approach, addressing both the physical and emotional layers that so often sit underneath toileting difficulties.
As a mum of three herself, Elaine brings patience, empathy and deep understanding to her work. Elaine practises at Spotswood Wellness Collective through her practice, Pave Your Way Therapy.
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy · Certified Child-Centred Play Therapist · Advanced Certificate of Play Therapy Studies · Certified LEGO® Based Therapy Facilitator · Certified Mindfulness Practitioner · Accredited Provider, Cool Kids Anxiety& Social Stencil Programs
Contact Elaine
Send Elaine a message about working together, ask a question, or request a time for an initial chat — she'll come back to you directly.