Associate ProfessorJudi Parson

Associate Professor Judi Parson is a pediatric-qualified Registered Nurse and Registered Play Therapist - Supervisor, leading the Play Therapy discipline at Deakin University. Her doctoral thesis, "Integration of Procedural Play for Children Undergoing Cystic Fibrosis Treatment: A Nursing Perspective," was a turning point in her career, igniting her passion for play therapy. She furthered her expertise by earning a Master of Arts in Play Therapy with Distinction from Roehampton University, London, UK.

Judi is a co-founder of the Australasia Pacific Play Therapy Association (APPTA) and the International Consortium of Play Therapy Associations (IC-PTA), playing a key role in shaping the field on a global scale. A recognised international presenter and author, she bridges theory and practice, with a particular focus on Medical Play Therapy and the integration of digital technologies.

As an educator, she supports the teaching and learning in the Master of Child Play Therapy program, inspiring and mentoring future generations. In 2025, Judi and the Play Therapy team were awarded the Vice-Chancellor's Education Award. This award recognised the play therapy team for their inspiring, person-centred teaching that fosters deep engagement, emotional connection, and transformative learning. Her mentorship extends to providing clinical and research supervision to play therapists and Higher Degree Research students.

Judi's career is a testament to the transformative power of play therapy, fueled by her commitment to improving the lives of children and their families.