About Us
The Child Therapy Summit WA was created to support Allied Health Professionals in delivering tailored and effective therapeutic services to children and young people.
It is important that all West Australian practitioners have access to the latest research, remain connected with their peers and network with government, non-government and primary health sectors.
Strong working relationships between our sponsors and delegates will create lasting benefits to children in WA.
Our Story
Well hi there!
We are Claire and Donna, two cousins from rural WA and both now working in private practice in Perth, with a shared passion for supporting children and young people to live their best lives! We are also your hosts for the inaugural Child Therapy Summit – an event designed to bring quality professional development and connection opportunity to WA practitioners, rather than the other way around.
We have both worked in this field for over 20 years, and know full well the vibrancy and depth of skill and expertise that exists within WA, so join us as we showcase and celebrate this talent and enjoy a day of learning and connection in the gorgeous surrounds of Mandoon Estate, on the banks of the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River).
The Summit is a compilation of innovative workshops, presentations of current research and applications, and sharing of practice wisdom. As well as all the learning, connect with peers and explore the exhibitors’ showcase, enjoy good food, maybe win a prize or two, and slide on into a relaxing sundowner to end the day with wine (or soft drink) and canapes.
The Summit is centred on the premise of Head, Heart & Hands, recognising that effective work in this space requires evidence-based knowledge, a deep connection to the ‘why’ of what we do, and skills in the modalities and approaches that facilitate outcomes that matter to children and young people.
Our aim is for you to leave this event with new knowledge, expanded skills and confidence translating evidence into practice, ultimately feeling connected, equipped and revitalised for this work.
We know a lot of thought goes into making decisions about where and how to spend our finite PD dollars and time, so we are committed to creating a value-dense event for you, without the need to travel interstate. And yes, yes, it’s great being able to do PD online.. in your pj’s… with the cat… We get it. BUT, there’s nothing quite like the buzz of an in-person event; our nervous systems crave it and they sure respond to it. Look there’s no way to say this without referencing the Castle. It just really is the vibe. You know what we’re talking about. Add to that the promise of good food (read: No Subway), plenty of opportunities for fresh air, chances to win prizes, and did we mention the sundowner??
Honestly we are so excited about this event.
We believe that walking alongside children, young people and their networks is vital, sacred and fulfilling work. We also believe this work is highly nuanced, requires adaptive and advanced skillsets, and can be complex and challenging! Part of our vision for this event is linked to our broader mission of ensuring this specialised field can continue to interest and retain amazing practitioners, who are equipped and supported to translate evidence into practice in order to promote positive outcomes for children and young people.
Whether you are just dipping your toes into the world of working with children, have been doing this for a while but no longer feeling the shine, or are a seasoned professional who still bubbles over with excitement for their work, this is an event not to be missed!
See you there. We can't wait to meet you.
Claire and Donna
Co-Directors, Child Therapy Summit
