About Us
Empowering children, teens, and young adults through compassionate, culturally responsive therapy
About Us
Meet Marlene Faitele
Marlene Faitele
Qualified Social Worker & Counsellor
Hi, my name is Marlene and I am a qualified social worker and counsellor. With a strong background in social work, child psychology, and therapeutic practices, I founded Activity & Play Therapy in Adelaide to provide a supportive environment that helps children, teens, and young adults grow with resilience and confidence. I am deeply committed to nurturing their emotional and social wellbeing.
My Journey
My life has been a journey of strength and compassion. Overcoming trauma and living with PTSD while raising a neurodivergent son has shaped how I see the world. These experiences have inspired me to help prevent others from going through the same.
I see the world through the eyes of those who often feel invisible or unheard. With my son, I’ve often had to be his voice and advocate, navigating a system that didn’t always understand his needs—opening my eyes to the gaps that still exist.
My Qualifications
- BSc. Social Work
- Certificate in Community Services
- BCS. Counselling (Completion 2024)
- Member of Australian Association of Social Workers
- Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy with Autism & ADHD Clients
- ADHD, Neurodiversity, and Clinical Practice
- APTA – Australian Play Therapists Association (Member #20190318)
- Bachelor of Social Work – AASW (Member #666053)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (C-DBT) Certification Training
- EMDR & Play Therapy: A Multimodal Approach
- Currently completing final year of Bachelor of Psychological Science
My Passion
That’s why I’m so passionate about working with neurodivergent children and young adults. It’s not just about the challenges they face, it’s also about seeing their incredible strengths and resilience. The best part is working collaboratively in a team to build on those strengths. When we focus on what they can do, it empowers children and young adults to truly thrive.
Cultural Inclusivity
Cultural inclusivity and sensitivity are one of my core values. Our community has a beautiful mix of cultures and backgrounds. To truly support our children and families, we are sensitive to these differences. It’s all about creating a space where everyone feels welcome, respected, and understood. By embracing cultural diversity, we are building a more compassionate, loving, and connected environment.
My Approach & Values
We blend evidence-based methods with compassionate care—using play, creativity, and personalized strategies to support emotional growth, resilience, and meaningful connection.
Professional Integrity
Upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice.
Respect for Persons
Honoring the dignity and worth of every individual.
Social Justice
Advocating for fairness and equality for all.
Cultural Responsiveness
Embracing and celebrating cultural diversity.
Holistic Well-Being
Supporting complete mental, emotional, and social health.
Empowerment
Building confidence and resilience in every client.
My approach to therapy is rooted in a profound respect for the unique journey of each person. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where children aged 2–12, teens 13–18, and young people 19–25 can freely express themselves, explore their emotions, and develop essential life skills through the medium of play and structured activities.
Testimonials
Kind Words From Those We’ve Helped
Discover how our therapeutic support has made a lasting difference in the lives of children, teens, and families.
From the first session, the right place to grow.
Ibrahim
Parent
The support my son received here was truly life-changing.
Isabella M.
Parent of a 7-year-old
As a teenager, it’s hard to open up — but here, I felt listened to without judgment.
Darla Brown
17-year-old client
Mobile Service
Mobile Services - We Come to You!
Mobile Services – We Come to You!
We bring support directly to you in Adelaide and Rural Areas in South Australia!
At Activity & Play Therapy, we understand that life can be busy, and sometimes getting the help you need can feel like another hurdle. That’s why we offer the convenience of mobile services, bringing our expertise directly to you!
Imagine this: skip the travel time and long waits at appointments. Instead, receive top-notch care in the comfort and familiarity of your own home or a mutually convenient location.
- • Gawler and surrounding areas
- • Salisbury and northern suburbs
- • Modbury and nearby locations
- • Up to 20km from North Adelaide
- • Rural areas with immediate availability
- • Angle Vale and Two Wells
Contact Us
Connect With Us
Ready to take the next step? We're here to support you with care, compassion, and understanding.
Send Me A Message
Contact Information
Phone
0433 085 232
Email Address
Service Type
Mobile Services – We come to you!
Specialization
NDIS Plans Accepted, Serving All Children and Adolescents
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Niina Marni (A Kaurna phrase for 'Hello, how are you?')
Activity & Play Therapy acknowledges that we are meeting on the traditional Country of the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains and pays respect to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land. We acknowledge that they are of continuing importance to the Kaurna people living today. And we also extend that respect to other Aboriginal Language Groups and other First Nations.