Therapy Dog at Bloom Play Studio

Zeeva is a gentle, highly trained black Labrador who supports children and families at Bloom Play Studio through calm, responsive, and relationship-based therapeutic interactions. She works alongside our therapists to help create a sense of safety, connection, and emotional regulation for children who may find traditional therapy environments overwhelming.

Zeeva is not a pet or a reward tool. She is an intentional therapeutic support, integrated thoughtfully into sessions where it is clinically appropriate and beneficial for the child.

Zeeva has been trained and placed through Guide Dogs Victoria, ensuring she meets rigorous standards for temperament, behaviour, and working suitability in therapeutic and educational environments.

Black Labrador retriever puppy with a purple collar sitting and looking directly at the camera.
Meet
Zeeva
Collage of two images showing a black dog wearing a blue vest labeled 'Wellbeing Dog' sitting on grass near a basketball court and the same dog lying indoors on a carpet chewing a colorful woven toy.

Who Is Zeeva?

Zeeva is known for her calm presence, intuitive responsiveness, and affectionate yet respectful nature. She has a natural ability to meet children where they are—whether that means quietly resting nearby, offering gentle physical contact, or engaging in playful interaction when invited.

Children often describe Zeeva as:

  • "Calming”
  • "Safe”
  • "Easy to talk to”
  • “Someone who understands without words”

For many children, Zeeva helps reduce anxiety, build trust, and support emotional expression in ways that feel natural and non-threatening.

How Zeeva Supports Therapy

Zeeva’s presence can enhance therapeutic outcomes in a range of ways, including:

  • Supporting emotional regulation and nervous system calming
  • Reducing anxiety and stress in unfamiliar or challenging environments
  • Encouraging engagement for children who are reluctant to participate in therapy
  • Supporting social communication, confidence, and connection
  • Providing comfort during moments of dysregulation or overwhelm

Her involvement is always guided by the therapist, with clear therapeutic goals and careful consideration of each child’s individual needs, sensory profile, and consent.

Where Zeeva Works

Zeeva supports children across multiple therapeutic environments, depending on individual needs and goals.

In-Studio at Bloom Play Studio

Within the studio setting, Zeeva may:

  • Provide calm companionship during play therapy sessions
  • Support emotional regulation and co-regulation
  • Assist children to feel safe and settled in the therapy space
  • Support engagement for children who find adult-led interactions challenging

Her involvement is always guided by the therapist and aligned with the child’s therapy goals.

School-Based Support

Zeeva also visits schools as part of outreach and school-based therapeutic support. In school environments, she may assist with:

  • Reducing anxiety related to school attendance or transitions
  • Supporting emotional regulation within the classroom or wellbeing spaces
  • Building trust and engagement with therapeutic or wellbeing staff
  • Supporting students during high-stress periods or emotional overload

All school visits are carefully planned in collaboration with families and school staff, with consideration of safety, consent, and individual student needs.

Approach

At Bloom Play Studio, we work from a neuro-affirming, child-centred framework. Zeeva’s role is never to “fix” or change a child’s behaviour. Instead, she supports emotional safety, co-regulation, and authentic connection.

Children are never required to interact with Zeeva. Choice, autonomy, and respect are central to every interaction. Some children prefer not to have Zeeva in session, or to observe from a distance, while others form a strong bond. All experiences are equally valid.

Training, Welfare & Safety

Zeeva’s wellbeing is as important as the wellbeing of the children she supports.

  • She is professionally trained and temperament-assessed for therapeutic work
  • Her sessions are carefully scheduled with regular rest breaks
  • She is closely monitored for signs of fatigue or stress
  • Strict hygiene and safety protocols are followed at all times

Zeeva works only when she is comfortable, regulated, and genuinely enjoying her role.

Is Therapy With Zeeva Right for My Child?

Zeeva may be a wonderful addition to therapy for children who:

  • Experience anxiety or emotional overwhelm
  • Find it difficult to engage with adults initially
  • Benefit from sensory or relational supports
  • Respond positively to animals

Her involvement is always discussed with families beforehand, and therapy plans are tailored to each child’s needs.

A Valued Member of the Bloom Play Studio Team

Zeeva is more than a therapy dog—she is a trusted co-regulator, a gentle presence, and a valued member of the Bloom Play Studio team.

Her work reflects our commitment to compassionate, developmentally informed, and child-led therapeutic practice across both studio and school environments.

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a gentle, child-centred approach that uses play to help children explore and express their emotions in a safe, supportive environment. By engaging in structured play, children are empowered to process difficult feelings, build resilience, and develop essential life skills. This specialised therapy provides a caring space where your child can thrive, grow, and overcome challenges at their own pace.

Useful Info

Location & Service Areas

Sessions are held at our Play Studio in Essendon, providing a dedicated space for therapeutic play.

However, we understand that attending the Studio may not always be convenient, so we offer outreach services to homes and schools as well. With my background as a teacher and school counsellor, I am well-equipped to work in both school and early childhood settings.

We can travel up to 60 minutes from our office, with the possibility of extending to further locations upon request. Please contact us for more information.

Fees & NDIS funding

A complimentary discovery call is offered to all new clients. Contact us now.

All pricing is in accordance with NDIS price limits and guidelines.

We welcome both NDIS-funded participants and private clients to our services. Whether you are accessing therapy through the NDIS or privately, we are here to support your unique needs. Our goal is to provide high-quality, personalised care, ensuring all clients receive the attention and support they deserve.