Joanna Fortune (MICP; MIFPP; Reg Pract APPI; CTTTS; ApSup PTI) is an accredited psychotherapist and attachment specialist.

She is the author of the 15-Minute Parenting series of books (0-7 years; 8-12 years and the Teenage years) published by Thread Books.  She is the host of the 15-Minute parenting podcast.  She founded the Solamh Parent Child Relationship Clinic in Dublin in 2010 where she works with families around a variety of issues. She is a recognised supervisor, trainer and conference speaker in her field. In 2017 she delivered a TEDx Talk on the topic 'Social media – the ultimate shame game?' Having previously written a parenting column for The Sunday Times she continues to write and contribute to articles on child development and parenting in various other print publications. She is also a regular media contributor to a variety of radio (RTE, Newstalk and regional radio) and TV shows (RTE and Virgin Media Television). She is the parenting consultant on the weekly parenting slot on Newstalk’s Moncrieff for over 2 years.

In May 2022 World English Language rights to Why We Play: How to find joy and meaning in everyday life were acquired by Claire Bord at Thread

Drawing on over twenty years of neuroscientific research and clinical practice, Joanna has discovered that play is central to the human experience – and is the key to living a happier, joyful life.

Claire said:  ‘Joanna reveals how we’re never too old for play and her proven approach is full of practical advice, simple techniques and insights that show how play is the key to alleviating stress, unlocking creativity and problem-solving, strengthening relationships and forms an important part of trauma recovery.’

Joanna commented: ‘As children playing is how we make sense of the world and our place in it but as adults we often forget how to play. Play shapes our experiences and relationships with others and I want to give people the tools to help them integrate play into daily life, and show them what a positive difference it can make.’

Why We Play is published in ebook, paperback original, and audio on 14th September 2022.

Praise for Why We Play:

“Brilliant… joyful and transformative.”

Stefanie Preissner

“I absolutely adore this book and it was a such a treat to read”

Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

“The author does a tremendous job at collating scientific data… I am amazed at the writing, it did not lag or lacked any substance”

Amazing!’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars

“I loved the mixture of scientific research and suggestions on how to play... a very accessible read and equally good to read through or just dip into the play suggestions… An excellent and important book that I'd recommend”

NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars

“An excellent reference guide to how we can introduce play and fun into every aspect of our lives, including the workplace where “a curious mind is a playful mind”. The exercises are terrific!”

NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars

“What I like most about the book are the many exercises you can try to play, either alone or with another person. I really enjoy being silly so some of her exercises already belong to my daily routine. Seeing even more ideas was very inspiring for me… I would recommend this book to everyone who might feel stuck in the seriousness of life and is looking for more joy as part of their daily routine”

Victoria’s Vlog

“A necessary book for those aiming to improve their day-to-day lives through something as easy as PLAY!”

Goodreads Reviewer

“A great book… highly recommend”

Angelic Light Book Review

Praise for the 15-Minute Parenting series

As featured in Grazia's 21 of the Best Parenting Books in 2020

“Joanna's books give you every answer to every question you have as a parent with practical methods to tackle every obstacle and connect with your child and help them flourish.”

Madeleine Shaw

“Now that we have to be teachers and coaches as well as parents - and feel guilty and overburdened - it's the perfect time for psychotherapist Joanna Fortune's new book.”

Sunday Independent

“In an "Age of Anxiety" for parents, Joanna was able to dispense reassuring advice and practical tips from her 15 Minute Parenting Model for time-pressed parents who want the very best for their children's development and well-being”

Marena Duffy, Chairperson of Cuidiu (the National Parent to Parent Voluntary support network)

Dublin North West

“Makes you reflect on your own childhood and how this can influence your parenting. Some interesting and thought-provoking sections”

Goodreads Reviewer

“Absolutely love this! I've read multiple parenting books as a daddy blogger and this is BY FAR one of my favourites!”

Amazon Reviewer

“A must read for all parents! Absolutely loving this book. Joanna has a no frills, relaxed attitude towards parenting and brings fun into it. She made me realise that we don't need to question ourselves as much as we do”

Amazon Reviewer

“It's expert advice but advice that's accessible and smart and actually kind of fun. All the exercises are easily implemented and kids respond to them immediately. A parenting book can seem like "work" after a long day, but this book is well broken down so that whatever crisis you're dealing with today you can jump straight to the few pages (and solutions) about that issue.”

Amazon Reviewer

“Simple and effective. Totally love this book, such simple creative and inspiring ideas on how to just come back to your kids in this crazy busy world we live in. Fabulous chapter on relationships covering how to stay connected to your partner which I feel gets left out from other books I've read”

Amazon Reviewer

“A gentle and kind book...Certainly think it can help parents that feel they can't find their own way back”

Goodreads Reviewer

Instagram: @joannafortune

Twitter: @TheJoannaFortun