Location: Charleville, Co Cork.
Telephone: (089) 958 1575
Email: nurturingsteps@outlook.com
Qualifications:
MA in Play Therapy – Munster Technological University (MTU)
Postgraduate Diploma in Play Therapy – Munster Technological University (MTU)
BA (Hons) Montessori Education – Munster Technological University (MTU)
Personal Bio:
Aoife has over six years of experience working with children aged 3 months to 12 years in early years and educational settings. She worked in a crèche environment as Room Leader in the baby room, preschool, and afterschool programmes, and also worked as a Home Tutor, supporting children with diverse needs. In this role, Aoife gained valuable experience in helping children with emotional and behavioural challenges, often using creative and therapeutic techniques to promote emotional regulation, resilience, and confidence.
Aoife has a special interest in neurodivergence and supporting neurodivergent children and their families. She is committed to providing a safe, supportive space where each child feels seen, heard, and accepted exactly as they are.
Her play therapy practice is non-directive, meaning the child leads the session through play. This approach allows children to express their feelings and experiences naturally and safely, while Aoife provides empathy, acceptance, and understanding.
Aoife also recognises the importance of working in partnership with parents. She supports parents by offering feedback, guidance, and strategies that help strengthen the parent–child relationship and continue the child’s progress outside the playroom.
Area of Interest:
Aoife is interested in supporting children and their families experiencing emotional and behavioural challenges, difficulties in expressing feelings, developmental delays or disruptions, challenges related to neurodivergence, anxiety, low self-esteem, or difficulties adjusting to change.
Additional Trainings:
- Hanen Teacher Talk – Encouraging Language Development in Early Childhood Interactions
- Introduction to Trauma-Informed Practice in an Early Years Setting
- Positive Behaviour
- Effective Room Leader
- Introduction to Inclusion for Children with Additional Needs (Certified)
- Lámh Module 1
- Introduction to Children First
- Children’s Perspectives on Play