Indigenous youth are 3.1 times more likely to die by suicide and 20 times more likely to be in youth detention than their non-Indigenous counterparts. Some of the primary causes of both suicide and crime rates in remote First Nations Communities are attributed to Intergenerational Trauma and feelings of helplessness and hopelessness which have been driven by ongoing Government policies since colonisation.

The RFDS Mental Health and Wellbeing Team have partnered with remote Central Australian First Nations Communities to support them to address some of these drivers of crime and suicide. Child Centred Play Therapy is one therapeutic approach being utilised as an early intervention strategy to support school aged children to process Intergenerational Trauma and develop a strong sense of self. The aim of this non-directive and child led therapeutic approach is to meet the emotional and psychological needs of children in order to promote empowerment and an opportunity for a brighter future.

While traditional talk therapies rely on language, Play Therapy allows children to use play as their natural method of expression. Without relying on language to build connection, Play Therapy provides a culturally inclusive service to children in First Nations communities where English is unlikely to be their first language. Further to this, the principles of unconditional acceptance, connection and attunement transcend cultures and allows the therapeutic relationship to support healing, growth and development.

Early indicators suggest Play Therapy in remote First Nations Communities offers a unique and powerful insight into the child's internal world. It provides a safe environment for children to explore issues pertaining to overwhelming feelings and emotions, attachment ruptures, low sense of self and early childhood trauma experiences.