Description
Your source for centered and focused Play Therapy coaching. A "Master-Class" in Play Therapy. Breaking down the barriers to high-quality Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) education. No paywalls, no ads, no fluff... all content — just expert, accessible training for every play therapist, free of charge.
Episodes
- 2025 / 9 / 16337 | Art of the Session: Narrative Commentary in CCPTIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I introduce a skill I call Narrative Commentary—a powerful tool for those quiet, reflective moments in session when neither content nor emotion is being...
- 2025 / 9 / 11336 | When a Child “Breaks” Limits: Staying True to the CCPT ModelIn this episode, I respond to a question from Jordan in New York about handling repeated limit “testing” in the playroom—especially in the context of children navigating divorce. I walk through the essential...
- 2025 / 9 / 9335 | Art of the Session: Play Session Guidelines - Labeling, Following the Metaphor, & NeutralityIn today’s episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue our Art of the Session series by outlining three key session guidelines that don’t fall into the typical “skills” category, but are essential to...
- 2025 / 9 / 4334 | Preparing Parents for What’s Coming: Set Expectations Early or Struggle LaterIn this episode, I answer two important questions from McKenzie in Illinois—both centered around session frequency and resistance during therapy. I explain why weekly sessions are ideal in child-centered play...
- 2025 / 9 / 2333 | Art of the Session: Encouragement and Esteem Building - Helping Kids Believe They’re CapableIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I explore the final pillar of Child-Centered Play Therapy—Encouragement, with a bonus deep-dive into esteem-building responses. I explain why encouragement is...
- 2025 / 8 / 28332 | The Screen-Free Playroom: Holding the Line in a Digital WorldIn this episode, I respond to a question from Kaylia in Arkansas about how to handle children who want to look something up on a phone during a play session. As screens become more prevalent in kids’ lives,...
- 2025 / 8 / 26331 | Art of the Session: The ACT of Setting LimitsIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I walk through one of the trickiest and frequently rushed CCPT skills: limit setting. We revisit why going back to the basics is so important—because true...
- 2025 / 8 / 21330 | From Over-Attachment to Avoidance: Making Sense of Child Responses in CCPTIn this episode, I respond to a listener question that highlights two very different—but equally important—play therapy dynamics. One child clings to the therapist immediately, handcuffing herself to me in...
- 2025 / 8 / 19329 | Art of the Session: Empowerment Through Choice GivingIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I focus on the second pillar of CCPT: choice giving. While limit-setting often leads to enforcement choices, empowerment choices are much rarer—and very...
- 2025 / 8 / 14328 | When They Want It Left Just the Way It Was - Permanence Response in CCPTIn this episode, I respond to a listener question about how to handle situations where children want their creations or work in the playroom to remain untouched between sessions. Whether it’s a LEGO build, a...
- 2025 / 8 / 12327 | Art of the Session: Reflecting Feelings with Effectiveness and Precision in CCPTIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I walk through one of the most important and most underutilized CCPT skills: reflecting feelings. Despite its central role in both the reflective responses...
- 2025 / 8 / 7326 | Setting Up for Success: HTP Assessments and the Glue Dilemma in CCPTIn this Q&A episode, I answer two questions from Mara in North Carolina—one about the House-Tree-Person drawing assessment and one about the use of consumables like glue and paint in the playroom. I clarify...
- 2025 / 8 / 5325 | Art of the Session: Why Reflecting Content Keeps You Engaged Without Taking OverIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I focus on the skill of Reflecting Content—what it is, when to use it, and how to do it well. Reflecting content helps us stay connected and engaged in the...
- 2025 / 7 / 29324 | Art of the Session: Tracking Behavior—The Skill You Can Always Use In Any Given MomentIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I focus on one of the most foundational yet misunderstood CCPT skills: tracking behavior. I explain what it is, when to use it, and why it matters—even when...
- 2025 / 7 / 25323 | What to Do When Time Is Up But the Child Isn’t Regulated YetIn this episode, I respond to a question from Crystal, a school-based clinician in Minnesota, about how to end sessions when a child is emotionally dysregulated. Especially in settings like schools, where...
- 2025 / 7 / 22322 | Art of the Session: The CCPT Therapist’s Shortlist—11 Responses That Work In Any Given Moment In A SessionIn this Art of the Session episode, I walk through one of the most empowering and clarifying truths about CCPT: there’s a finite list of responses we use in session—and mastering those is enough. I outline...
- 2025 / 7 / 18321 | Managing Repetitive, Attention-Seeking Behaviors in the Playroom: Staying Neutral in CCPTIn this episode, I answer a unique and surprisingly common question from Zoe in Texas: what do you do when a child in CCPT is consistently farting in session—and seems to be doing it on purpose? We unpack how...
- 2025 / 7 / 15320 | Art of the Session: The Exact Words You Say When Entering the PlayroomIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I focus on a key moment that sets the tone for every CCPT session: the exact phrase you say when entering the playroom. While it may seem like a small detail,...
- 2025 / 7 / 8319 | Art of the Session: Empowerment on the Way to the PlayroomIn this episode of the Art of the Session series, I walk you through a phase of the play therapy process that’s often overlooked—what happens on the way to the playroom. This moment may feel small, but it...
- 2025 / 7 / 7318 | Mastering CPRT Announcement + Q&A: CCPT Termination Criteria (How to Know When a Child Is Truly Ready)Mastering CPRT is open for registration - go to playtherapynow.com and use the code “CPRT100” to get $100 off for 10 days. It goes up to full price after 10 days, so grab this offer today! In this episode, I...
- 2025 / 7 / 4317 | CCPT with Tweens: Navigating the Shift from Play to ConversationIn this episode, I respond to a thoughtful question from Dearbhla in Ireland about working with a 12-year-old client who prefers to talk rather than engage in traditional play. As children get older, CCPT...
- 2025 / 7 / 3316 | When Parents Join the Session: Why It Compromises the CCPT ModelIn this episode, I answer a question from Hope in Kentucky about incorporating parents into the CCPT process. Her case involved a foster mom participating in session—and the outcome revealed why that’s not...
- 2025 / 7 / 2315 | Theoretical Integrity in Play Therapy: Why One Model Matters (The Case Against Integrative Play Therapy)In this episode, I respond to a thoughtful question from Cassie in North Carolina about integrative play therapy and the belief that there’s no “one size fits all” approach. As a CCPT purist, I explain why I...
- 2025 / 7 / 1314 | Art of the Session: What Happens in the Lobby Matters TooIn this episode of the Art of the Session summer series, I talk about one of the most overlooked parts of the CCPT process—our relationship with parents. While we spend most of our time and training focusing...
- 2025 / 6 / 24313 | Art of the Session: Setting Up the CCPT Playroom With Purpose and IntegrityIn this first episode of the Art of the Session summer series, I walk through one of the most essential components of effective CCPT work: the playroom itself. I share the practical, intentional choices that...
- 2025 / 6 / 20312 | CCPT Mindset: The Final Mindset Shift…From Doing CCPT to Being CCPTIn this final episode of the CCPT Mindset series, I wrap up with one of the most foundational shifts we must make as child-centered play therapists: moving from doing to being. I explore how the pressure to...
- 2025 / 6 / 17311 | Two Questions, One Answer: Trust the Process in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode, I answer two great questions from Joy in Maryland. First, we talk about kids who spend most of their session playing with slime. I explain why that kind of repetitive play often falls into...
- 2025 / 6 / 13310 | CCPT With Toddlers and Preschoolers: What Changes and What Doesn’tIn this episode, I respond to a question from Mara in North Carolina—and a handful of other listeners—about working with very young children in Child-Centered Play Therapy, specifically those under the age of...
- 2025 / 6 / 11309 | CCPT Mindset: When Progress Anxiety Undermines the ModelIn this episode, I continue the CCPT Mindset series with a deep dive into something we all wrestle with at some point: progress anxiety. As child-centered play therapists, it’s easy to slip into the trap of...
- 2025 / 6 / 6308 | Toileting Battles and the Need for Power: CCPT Parent CoachingIn this episode, I respond to a question from Rachel in Missouri about a 5½-year-old client who refuses to poop in the toilet and insists on using a pull-up. We explore how this long-standing habit is likely...
- 2025 / 6 / 5307 | When Parents Call It a Bribe: Defending Choice Giving in CCPTIn this episode, I respond to a question from Sarah in California about how to explain the difference between bribery and choice giving in CCPT—specifically after a parent watched the Cookies, Choices, and...
- 2025 / 6 / 3306 | CCPT Mindset: The Myth of the Therapeutic AgendaIn this episode of the CCPT Mindset series, I unpack the “myth of the therapeutic agenda” and how even well-intentioned goals can lead us away from true child-centeredness. It’s easy to think we’re being...
- 2025 / 5 / 30305 | Shared Walls and Noisy Lobbies: Preserving the CCPT Playroom EnvironmentIn this episode, I answer a question from Jill in Pennsylvania about how to handle playrooms that share a wall with a waiting area—and the issues that come with that setup. From parents commenting on sessions...
- 2025 / 5 / 29304 | Facilitating CPRT With Challenging Parent DynamicsIn this episode, I respond to a question from Tess in Illinois about coaching parents with personality disorders—specifically borderline and narcissism—within the CPRT (Child-Parent Relationship Therapy)...
- 2025 / 5 / 27303 | CCPT Mindset (New Series): Examining the Language That Pulls Us from the ModelIn this episode, I kick off a new CCPT Mindset Series focused on the hidden beliefs and unconscious language that quietly pull us away from full adherence to the CCPT model. I begin with one of the most...
- 2025 / 5 / 23302 | Bringing CCPT Into Schools: Group Sessions, Teacher Buy-In, and Special Education SupportIn this episode, I answer a question from Robin in New York, a school-based counselor who’s navigating how to implement Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) in an academic setting. From managing large caseloads...
- 2025 / 5 / 22301 | CCPT Skills for Quiet Sessions: Narrative Summary & Commentary ExplainedIn this episode, I talk about how to use narrative summary and narrative commentary in Child-Centered Play Therapy sessions—especially when you're working with a child who is quiet, repetitive, or nonverbal...
- 2025 / 5 / 17300th Episode Livestream: Three Years, One Mission—Preserve and Advance the Classical CCPT ModelIn this special 300th episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, and on a special day (the podcast launched three years ago today!), I share the full audio from our recent livestream celebration—a live Zoom event...
- 2025 / 5 / 13299 | You’re Not Behind—You’re Becoming: The CCPT Growth Journey Via the Summit FrameworkIn this episode, I offer encouragement and clarity for those of you who feel like you're not where you “should” be in your CCPT journey. If you’ve ever felt behind, inadequate, or unsure if you’re doing it...
- 2025 / 5 / 8298 | They Promised No Court—Then Sent a Subpoena: What Now? - Court and Legal Policy in CCPTIn this episode, I respond to a question from Lujaina in Texas about what to do when you've clearly communicated that you won’t participate in court proceedings—only to be served a subpoena anyway. I walk...
- 2025 / 5 / 6297 | CCPT Purism: The Child Knows the Way—A Call to Re-CenterIn this final episode of the CCPT Purism series, I wrap up our 11-episode journey with a reflection on what it truly means to live and practice Child-Centered Play Therapy with integrity. I walk through the...
- 2025 / 5 / 2296 | Responding to Suicidal Statements in CCPT SessionsIn this episode, I respond to powerful questions from Angelica and Mikayla about how to approach suicidal statements made by children in CCPT sessions. These statements—like “I want to die” or “I wish I was...
- 2025 / 4 / 30295 | Confidentiality, Character Toys, and Religious Topics in CCPTIn this episode, I answer a thoughtful series of questions from Mikayla in Illinois that touch on several important topics in CCPT practice: confidentiality when sharing success stories, using neutral versus...
- 2025 / 4 / 29294 | CCPT Purism: Practicing CCPT in a Directive WorldIn this episode of the CCPT Purism series, I talk about the reality of practicing child-centered play therapy in a world that doesn’t understand it. From insurance documentation and school interventions to...
- 2025 / 4 / 22293 | CCPT Purism: Why Non-Directivity WorksIn this episode of the CCPT Purism series, I take a deep dive into one of the most foundational—and often misunderstood—truths of our model: non-directivity works. I respond to common questions and doubts,...
- 2025 / 4 / 18292 | When It Feels Like “Nothing” Is Happening in Session—How to Add Variety Without Losing the ModelIn this episode, I respond to a question from Melissa in Colorado about how to handle sessions where children aren't showing much emotion or verbalizing content—especially when they spend multiple sessions...
- 2025 / 4 / 17291 | When Kids Assign You Roles: Staying Adherent to the CCPT Model During Role-Play ScenariosIn this episode, I answer a question from Amanda in Wisconsin about how to respond when a child assigns us a role in play and expects us to make choices—like picking a color or drawing freely—within that...
- 2025 / 4 / 15290 | CCPT Purism: Small Drifts and Deviations That Undermine the ModelIn this episode of the CCPT Purism series, I talk about a critical but often overlooked common drift points that shift us from pure CCPT practice. These are small, often unconscious shifts we make in...
- 2025 / 4 / 8289 | CCPT Purism: The Paradox of Non-Directive but Highly StructuredIn this episode of the CCPT Purism series, I unpack one of the most misunderstood truths about Child-Centered Play Therapy: that while it’s non-directive, it is also deeply structured and intentional. I walk...
- 2025 / 4 / 4288 | Making Sense of "Baby Talk" in a CCPT Playroom: What It Means and How to RespondIn this episode, I answer a question from Kelli in Washington about how to respond when children use baby talk in the playroom. While it may seem like a small thing, baby talk always carries meaning in a...
- 2025 / 4 / 2287 | “You Be the Baby!” — What to Do When Kids Assign You Roles — Staying Child-Centered During Dramatic PlayIn this episode, I answer a question from Laura, a grad student in Canada who’s navigating how to stay fully adherent to the CCPT model during dramatic play—especially when a child assigns her a role and...
- 2025 / 4 / 1286 | CCPT Purism: How Garry Landreth Established and Preserved the Integrity of the Child-Centered Play Therapy ModelIn this episode of the CCPT Purism series, I focus on Garry Landreth and the essential role he played in shaping modern Child-Centered Play Therapy. While Rogers, Axline, and the Guerneys laid the...
- 2025 / 3 / 27285 | Q&A Lightning Round #8: Four Questions From Three Listeners AnsweredIn this episode, I answer four questions from three different listeners in another Q&A Lightning Round. I talk with Megan in Pennsylvania about how to present CCPT case conceptualizations in group supervision...
- 2025 / 3 / 25284 | CCPT Purism: How The Guerneys and Filial Therapy Extended the CCPT ModelIn this episode of the CCPT Purism series, I explore the work of Bernard and Louise Guerney, who extended the principles of child-centered play therapy beyond the playroom through the development of filial...
- 2025 / 3 / 20283 | Supporting Parents Through Divorce: A Conversation with Dr. Lisa Marie BobbyIn this special episode, I’m joined by Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby—licensed psychologist, marriage and family therapist, and founder of Growing Self Counseling & Coaching—to talk about one of the most challenging...
- 2025 / 3 / 18282 | CCPT Purism: From Rogers to Axline and the Eight Principles That Shaped the Child-Centered Play Therapy ModelIn this episode of the CCPT Purism series, I take you through the foundational role of Virginia Axline in translating Carl Rogers’ person-centered theory into what we now know as Child-Centered Play Therapy....
- 2025 / 3 / 17281 | Playroom Representation: Sensitivity Without Over-ComplicationIn this episode, I answer a question from Mia in California about how to approach dollhouse families and representation in the CCPT playroom. We don’t often talk about specific toys, so I enjoyed diving into...
- 2025 / 3 / 14280 | When Kids Say “Stop Copying Me”, Session Outside? Sandtray Use? Can I Take This Toy Home? Answering Real CCPT QuestionsIn this episode, I answer questions from Heather, who provides play therapy in a boys’ home setting for ages 10–12. We cover a wide range of topics, including how to respond when a child says “stop copying...
- 2025 / 3 / 13279 | Client "Fit" in CCPT Isn’t About the Child—It’s About Expectations, Policies, and ProcessesIn this episode, I answer a question from Chloe in Georgia about how to assess whether a client or family is a good "fit" for CCPT. I clarify that CCPT is developmentally appropriate for every child, and that...
- 2025 / 3 / 11278 | CCPT Purism: The Core Tenets & Conditions That Shaped Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode, I continue the CCPT Purism series with a deep dive into the core tenets and core conditions of Child-Centered Play Therapy. I walk through Rogers' foundational ideas—including the tendency to...
- 2025 / 3 / 7277 | When Directive Play Therapy Backfires: A Case for CCPTIn this episode, I respond to a question from Sasha in Oregon about a challenging session with a 9-year-old client. She attempted to incorporate directive techniques to help him process his anger, but he...
- 2025 / 3 / 5276 | Following a Child’s Lead vs. Returning Responsibility: Knowing the DifferenceIn this episode, I answer a question from Sandi in Iowa about how to respond when children ask or tell us to do things in the playroom. Whether it’s a power and control need, learned helplessness, or...
- 2025 / 3 / 4275 | CCPT Purism (New Series): How Rogers Broke the Rules—And Changed Child-Centered Play Therapy ForeverIn this episode, I kick off a brand new series: CCPT Purism—a deep dive into what it truly means to be a pure Child-Centered Play Therapist. I’ve seen a growing trend where therapists think they are...
- 2025 / 3 / 1274 | Room Wrecking, Risk-Taking, and Sensory-Seeking: What’s Behind the Play?In this episode, I answer a question from Danielle in Georgia about a six-year-old child processing grief after the loss of his father. His play includes room wrecking, risk-taking, and sensory-seeking...
- 2025 / 2 / 27273 | Keeping CCPT on Track: When a Child Refuses to Stay in the PlayroomIn this episode, I answer a question from Hannah in Texas about what to do when a child leaves the playroom mid-session—especially when limits have already been set. This is one of the most common challenges...
- 2025 / 2 / 25272 | Fine Tuning Limit-Setting: Clarifying the "A" in the ACT FrameworkIn this episode, I clarify the difference between reflecting feelings as a standalone reflective response and reflecting feelings within limit-setting (ACT model). While both serve important functions in...
- 2025 / 2 / 21271 | When Limit-Setting Feels Endless & Does Setting Limits in CCPT Feel Coercive? Let’s ClarifyIn this episode, I answer two questions from Michal in New York. The first question explores whether setting limits in CCPT could feel manipulative or coercive to a child, particularly when giving ultimate...
- 2025 / 2 / 20270 | When a Child Falls Asleep in Play Therapy: Trusting the CCPT ProcessIn this episode, I answer a question from Chris about working with a 14-year-old client who frequently falls asleep during play therapy sessions. This situation raises important considerations about the role...
- 2025 / 2 / 18269 | Adulthood Bias: The Barrier to Parents Understanding Children's BehaviorIn this episode, I introduce the concept of adulthood bias—the tendency for adults to forget what it was like to be a child, leading to unrealistic expectations for children's behavior. This bias causes...
- 2025 / 2 / 13268 | When You and the Child Don’t Speak the Same Language in CCPTIn this episode, I address a question about the role of verbal communication in CCPT. Research shows that play therapy is effective even when the therapist and child don’t speak the same language, yet verbal...
- 2025 / 2 / 11267 | Think You're an Independent Contractor? You Might Not Be. Know the Difference Between Independent Contractor Vs. Employee CategorizationIn this episode, I take a break between series for a much-needed "palate cleanse" to address an issue that keeps coming up in conversations with play therapists—understanding the difference between...
- 2025 / 2 / 10266 | Fighting for CCPT: How to Advocate for Child-Centered Play Therapy in Sexual Abuse Cases and Trauma WorkIn this episode, I answer a question from Lisa in Maryland about the role of Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) in cases involving trauma and sexual behavior. Many legal and child protection systems lean...
- 2025 / 2 / 5265 | When and How to Use Enlargement in CCPT & Tracking Progress in CCPT (What to Do When Stages Aren’t Clear)In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer two questions from Terry in Ireland. First, I break down the role of enlargement and self-esteem-building responses in CCPT. I explain when and how to use...
- 2025 / 2 / 4264 | Mastering Neutrality: Wrap-up (A Reflection on What It Means to Be CCPT)In this final episode of the Mastering Neutrality Series on the Play Therapy Podcast, I reflect on the essence of child-centered play therapy (CCPT) through a deeply moving piece written by Lee, a CCPT...
- 2025 / 1 / 30263 | Clear Policies + Systems = Happy Clients: Managing Cancellations, No-Shows, and ExpectationsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a fantastic question from Tess in Illinois about balancing boundaries and customer service in private practice. As child-centered play therapists, we want...
- 2025 / 1 / 29262 | House-Tree-Person in CCPT: Why I Use It and How It HelpsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a great question from Zoe in Texas about why I use the House-Tree-Person (HTP) and Kinetic Family Drawing assessments in my practice. I share how I was...
- 2025 / 1 / 28261 | Mastering Neutrality: Foundations for Neutrality in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue our neutrality series by exploring what neutrality truly looks like in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). I break down the practical components of...
- 2025 / 1 / 23260 | Navigating Tough Conversations with Parents in CCPTIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to Michelle from Ireland, who posed three important questions about challenges in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). First, I discuss how to communicate...
- 2025 / 1 / 22259 | Early Termination, Rewards, and Night Terrors: Q&A Addressing Unique Playroom ChallengesIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer three questions from Melissa in Colorado, covering early termination with clients, the use of rewards for desired behaviors, and how to help children...
- 2025 / 1 / 21258 | Mastering Neutrality: Letting Go of Control and Embracing True Neutrality in the PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I dive deeper into the concept of neutrality in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). I explore the profound idea of “dying to self” in the playroom, where we set...
- 2025 / 1 / 16257 | Jan. 3rd Live Event - Q & A SessionIn this special live Q&A episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I connected with listeners from around the world to answer their most pressing questions about practicing child-centered play therapy (CCPT). We...
- 2025 / 1 / 15256 | Theoretical Consistency: Avoiding Burnout When Working with All AgesIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Chiara in Florida about working with clients over the age of 14. I explain how child-centered play therapy (CCPT) naturally evolves...
- 2025 / 1 / 14255 | Mastering Neutrality: Practicing Neutrality Means Letting Go of Expectations, Not EmotionsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue exploring the essential role of neutrality in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). I unpack how neutrality balances with congruence—honoring our genuine...
- 2025 / 1 / 9254 | From Cutting to Conversations: Handling Safety Concerns in CCPTIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Christy in New Mexico about working with a 12-year-old client who has a history of cutting and suicidal thoughts. I explore how to...
- 2025 / 1 / 8253 | Integrating CCPT Principles into Child-Led Educational SettingsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a series of thoughtful questions from Emily in Washington State, who runs an outdoor playschool. Emily asks about integrating CCPT principles into a...
- 2025 / 1 / 7252 | Mastering Neutrality: The "Missing Tenet" in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I introduce a new series focused on neutrality in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Neutrality is a foundational yet often overlooked aspect of maintaining...
- 2025 / 1 / 6251 | Becoming a Person of Impact: Beyond the Playroom in 2025In this special "live" episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I reflect on the concept of impact and how we, as child-centered play therapists, can think beyond our immediate work to make a broader difference....
- 2025 / 1 / 2250 | How to Approach Autism Concerns with Parents as a Child-Centered Play TherapistIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Bracha in New York about working with children who might be on the autism spectrum. Bracha asks how to discuss concerns with parents...
- 2025 / 1 / 1249 | Permission-Seeking and Negative Self-Talk: Staying Neutral in the Child-Centered PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to Anna from Virginia, a new child-centered play therapist, who seeks advice on a variety of scenarios with her young client. Anna’s questions revolve...
- 2024 / 12 / 31248 | Adherence, Power, and Certification: A Global CCPT DiscussionIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer three questions from Mai in Bahrain, a mental health counselor in training. Mai asks about integrating brief interventions within the child-centered play...
- 2024 / 12 / 30247 | From Frustration to Confidence: Why Theoretical Adherence Matters in Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I dive into the importance of theoretical adherence in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). As we wrap up 2024 and look forward to 2025, I reflect on the...
- 2024 / 12 / 20246 | Why Hiding Toys Matters: Reflecting Permanence and Trust in the Child-Centered PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Rob in Arizona about a child who hides toys and asks if they will be safe while he’s gone. Rob has been using reflective responses and...
- 2024 / 12 / 19245 | Separation Anxiety and Resistance: Trusting the CCPT ProcessIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address two questions from Alison in Arkansas related to separation anxiety and resistance in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Alison shares concerns about a...
- 2024 / 12 / 18244 | Why Kids Use "Potty Talk" in Session — And How to Stay Child-Centered When RespondingIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Monica in California about how to handle “potty talk” in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Monica shares that her 5-year-old client...
- 2024 / 12 / 17243 | A Tidal Wave of Change: How CCPT is Transforming Lives WorldwideIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I share a collection of inspiring emails from therapists, parents, and listeners who have fallen in love with child-centered play therapy (CCPT). These stories...
- 2024 / 12 / 13242 | Children Deserve Therapy: The Case for Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Yehudis in New York about the growing belief that child therapy should be a “last resort” and that the focus should be on working with...
- 2024 / 12 / 12241 | Short on Time, Big on Impact: CCPT for Kids with Communication BarriersIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Ailene in North Carolina, a clinical counseling student working with a partially deaf child who speaks Spanish. Ailene is concerned about...
- 2024 / 12 / 11240 | It’s Not About the Toys: The Power of the Therapeutic Relationship in CCPTIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer two thoughtful questions from Mikayla, a graduate student and new play therapist in Illinois. Mikayla asks whether child-centered play therapy (CCPT) will...
- 2024 / 12 / 10239 | The Power of "Yet": A Simple Word That Changes Reflective Responding in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I share a simple but powerful "Pro Tip": the importance of adding the word “yet” when returning responsibility to children in the playroom. When children struggle...
- 2024 / 12 / 5238 | Transitioning from Directive to Non-Directive: From Moms in the Room to Letting Go of PlansIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer two questions from Alyssa in California, a therapist in training, about working with children in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). First, Alyssa asks...
- 2024 / 12 / 4237 | Navigating End-of-Session Challenges: Taking Toys and Child Won’t Leave the PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Jess in Florida about how to handle a child who refuses to leave the playroom after being asked to return a toy. Jess shares her...
- 2024 / 12 / 3236 | Session Savvy Finale: Preserving the Classical CCPT ModelIn this Session Savvy "wrap-up" episode, I end the series by emphasizing the importance of preserving the classical child-centered play therapy (CCPT) model. Reflecting on Louise Guerney’s powerful foreword...
- 2024 / 12 / 1235 | Session Savvy: Neutral Language in the Child-Centered PlayroomIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss the potential impact of using the word "silly" in the playroom and why it’s essential to choose language carefully in child-centered play...
- 2024 / 11 / 30234 | Trusting CCPT with Anxious Kids: Why CCPT Works for Every ChildIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Mary Clare in Illinois, who is working with a 10-year-old client and feeling unsure if child-centered play therapy (CCPT) is the right...
- 2024 / 11 / 29233 | Incorporating Sand Trays in the Child-Centered Play Therapy PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Laura in Washington about incorporating sand trays in a child-centered play therapy (CCPT) playroom. Laura is hesitant due to her...
- 2024 / 11 / 20232 | Session Savvy: Avoiding a Common Choice-Giving Mistake in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss the critical importance of phrasing choices correctly in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). While we often focus on including the word...
- 2024 / 11 / 15231 | How to Overcome Parental Doubts as a Non-Parent Child-Centered Play TherapistIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a thoughtful question from Malley in Texas, who wonders how not having children might influence her work as a play therapist, especially in building...
- 2024 / 11 / 14230 | The Calm Before the Storm: Understanding Shifts in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Jyotsna in India about a child who enters the playroom calm and reserved but then suddenly shifts to destructive, aggressive play...
- 2024 / 11 / 13229 | Why Children Ask ‘How Much Time Is Left?’ and Recognizing Termination ReadinessIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer two questions from Chris in the Virgin Islands. First, Chris asks about how to respond when children frequently ask how much time is left in their...
- 2024 / 11 / 12228 | Session Savvy: Staying Neutral and Avoiding "Body" Commentary in CCPTIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I talk about the importance of avoiding commentary on a child’s body or physical actions in the playroom, such as saying, “Your body is telling you...
- 2024 / 11 / 11227 | Revisiting SMART Goals with CCPT for School SettingsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Sandy in Iowa about creating SMART Goals, referencing the four universal outcomes in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Sandy wanted...
- 2024 / 11 / 8226 | When Therapy Approaches Collide: Supporting Siblings with Different TherapistsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Sarah Beth in North Carolina about handling a tricky situation with two siblings in therapy. Sarah Beth’s client feels jealous because...
- 2024 / 11 / 7225 | Session Savvy: Avoiding Value-Laden Language & Reflecting Without OwningIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss the importance of staying neutral and avoiding value-laden language when a child disagrees with us in the playroom. Often, therapists may...
- 2024 / 11 / 6224 | CCPT and Autism: Child-Centered Play Therapy with Children on the SpectrumIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Michelle in Texas regarding how child-centered play therapy (CCPT) aligns with the needs of children on the autism spectrum. Michelle...
- 2024 / 11 / 5223 | Preparing Children for Therapist Absences: Maternity Leave and VacationIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Melissa in Colorado about how to communicate upcoming absences to children and their parents. Melissa specifically asked about handling...
- 2024 / 11 / 4222 | The Universal Efficacy of CCPT: How to Address DoubtersIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Nicole in Indiana about finding research that compares child-centered play therapy (CCPT) with other types of therapy. Nicole, whose...
- 2024 / 11 / 1221 | Staying True to the Model: Encouraging New Therapists to Trust CCPTIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Deidra in Virginia, a first-year supervised therapist whose supervisor isn’t child-centered and often suggests teaching coping skills...
- 2024 / 10 / 31220 | Repetitive Play and/or Self-Soothing in Early SessionsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Suzanne in Maryland, who has been working with a six-year-old child that engages in repetitive dressing and undressing of Barbie dolls in...
- 2024 / 10 / 29219 | Session Savvy: Reflecting Content Without Assuming EmotionIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss an important topic: not assuming that content is emotionally connected in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). I explain that therapists...
- 2024 / 10 / 24218 | Mastering In-Session Note-taking in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to Ethan from Virginia, who asked about writing in-session notes during child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Ethan wants to know what kinds of things to...
- 2024 / 10 / 23217 | Sending Birthday Cards: Balancing Customer Service and ConfidentialityIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to Brianna from Texas, who asks about the process of sending birthday cards to clients while maintaining confidentiality. I explain the benefits of...
- 2024 / 10 / 22216 | Session Savvy: Eliminating "Fluff" Words in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss a common deviation in child-centered play therapy (CCPT)—using phrases like "you feel," "you must be," or "you seem" when reflecting a...
- 2024 / 10 / 18215 | Environment and Expectation Changes in a Child-Centered Play Therapy PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to Nneka from England, a returning listener who recently transitioned from being a mobile therapist to setting up a permanent play therapy space. Nneka...
- 2024 / 10 / 17214 | Understanding "Storytelling" in the Playroom: A Child-Centered Play Therapy ApproachIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Sweeney in India about how to handle a 12-year-old client who frequently makes up elaborate stories in the playroom. Sweeney is concerned...
- 2024 / 10 / 16213 | House-Tree-Person Assessment: When and How to Use It in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Christina in Vermont regarding the first session with a child in the playroom and how to incorporate an intake assessment without...
- 2024 / 10 / 15212 | Session Savvy: Breaking the Habit of Saying ‘OK’ in the Child-Centered Play Therapy PlayroomIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I talk about the subtle impact of saying "OK" in the playroom. While it seems harmless in everyday conversation, in child-centered play therapy...
- 2024 / 10 / 14211 | Setting Clear Expectations: How to Get Parents to Commit to Weekly SessionsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Sarah in Missouri about encouraging parents to commit to weekly play therapy sessions. Sarah has noticed that some families are...
- 2024 / 10 / 10210 | Why Saying "Good Choice" and "Bad Choice" Is Not Really A ChoiceIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a great question from Vicky in Canada about the language we use with children, particularly the phrases "good choice" or "bad choice." Vicky expressed...
- 2024 / 10 / 9209 | Preventative Power: The Lasting Impact of Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Jonathan in Ohio, who is curious about how child-centered play therapy (CCPT) can be preventative in nature. Jonathan asks about how the...
- 2024 / 10 / 8208 | Session Savvy: Avoiding Value-Laden Words in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I explore the subtle but significant impact of using value-laden words in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). While many therapists avoid praise...
- 2024 / 10 / 4207 | How to Let the Child Lead in Game Play: Child-Centered Examples and GuidanceIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Theodore in the UK, who is preparing his playroom and wondering about incorporating games like Jenga and card games into child-centered...
- 2024 / 10 / 3206 | When Kids Don’t Play: Screen Time or Something Else?In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Kira in Texas about children who come into the playroom and do not play. Kira wonders if this behavior could be related to excessive...
- 2024 / 10 / 2205 | Aggressive Play in the Playroom & Transitioning Kids to CCPT: Three Questions AnsweredIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to three insightful questions from Texie in Michigan. She asks about managing aggressive play where a child consistently "kills" her in the playroom,...
- 2024 / 10 / 1204 | Aggression Isn’t Always Anger: Decoding Aggressive Play in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I explore a common misinterpretation in child-centered play therapy: assuming that aggression in a child’s play is rooted in anger. While aggression...
- 2024 / 9 / 30203 | From Faith to First Sessions to Flags: Answering Three Child-Centered Play Therapy QuestionsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer three insightful questions from Grace in California, covering topics from book recommendations for counselors who are Christian to navigating the first...
- 2024 / 9 / 20202 | Bad Guys Play: Healthy Expression or Cause for Concern?In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Nada in Texas about working with a six-year-old boy who is fascinated with "Bad Guys" behavior in his play. The child often portrays...
- 2024 / 9 / 19201 | Telehealth for Child-Centered Play Therapy: Does It Work?In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Laura in Washington about whether child-centered play therapy (CCPT) can be effectively conducted via telehealth. As telehealth becomes...
- 2024 / 9 / 18200 | Free Play Resistance: Structure-Seeking Kids in Child-Centered Play TherapyFirst things first... If you are planning on going to the Oct. 2024 APT Conference in Atlanta, GA, and would like to attend the Play Therapy Podcast meetup, please click the link:...
- 2024 / 9 / 17199 | Session Savvy: Why We Don’t Say ‘Thank You’ in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss a common habit in the playroom: saying "thank you" to children. While it might seem polite and appropriate in everyday conversations,...
- 2024 / 9 / 13198 | "I'm In Charge, and I Want You To Choose!" - What To Do When Kids Try To Make You Choose (Ninja Trick!)In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Linae in Colorado, who is working with a child that refuses to make choices during sessions. This is a common issue, as children often...
- 2024 / 9 / 12197 | Mobile Child-Centered Play Therapy: Tips for Success Outside the PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer questions from Falon in Pennsylvania and Rudi in Colorado, who are both mobile child-centered play therapists. They are navigating the challenges of...
- 2024 / 9 / 11196 | Separation Anxiety in Play Therapy: When Children Want Parents in the PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Shannon in Iowa regarding managing separation anxiety when children want to bring a parent into the playroom. This is a common challenge...
- 2024 / 9 / 10195 | Session Savvy: Avoiding Detours from the Child-Centered ModelAvoiding Third-Person in the Child-Centered Playroom In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I kick off our new Session Savvy series, designed to help play therapists refine their approach and avoid...
- 2024 / 9 / 6194 | Why Children Don’t Clean Up the Playroom in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer another insightful question from Danielle in Georgia about managing cleanup in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Danielle shared that she typically...
- 2024 / 9 / 5193 | Welcoming Back Clients: Handling Returns to Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Danielle in Georgia about handling a client’s return to child-centered play therapy (CCPT) after a year-long hiatus. Danielle's client...
- 2024 / 9 / 3192 | The Indescribable Moments in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this final episode of the Summer School Series on the Play Therapy Podcast, I delve into the profound insights from Garry Landreth’s The Art of the Relationship. As we wrap up this series, I explore...
- 2024 / 8 / 30191 | Beyond the Diagnosis: How Child-Centered Play Therapy Supports Children with Various Conditions and DiagnosesIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Bailey in Texas about the effectiveness of child-centered play therapy (CCPT) for children with NF1, a genetic condition. Bailey is...
- 2024 / 8 / 29190 | Summer Breaks in Child-Centered Play Therapy: Strategies for ContinuityIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a common issue many of us face every year—how to handle requests from parents to take a break from therapy over the summer. Ethan from Virginia wrote in...
- 2024 / 8 / 28189 | The Power of Boundaries in Child-Centered Play Therapy: Managing Separation AnxietyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Jonathan, whos client wanted to leave the playroom to see her grandmother in the second session. I explore the challenges of handling...
- 2024 / 8 / 27188 | Understanding Child Adjustment Through Play: Lessons from The Art of the Relationship and Moustakas' ResearchIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue our Summer School Series by diving into a unique section from Garry Landreth's The Art of the Relationship, focusing on Moustakas' research about the...
- 2024 / 8 / 22187 | When Therapy is Cut Short: Understanding the Impact on Stages and PhasesIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a listener question from Terri in Ireland, who is navigating the challenges of a truncated therapeutic process. Terri shares her experience with two...
- 2024 / 8 / 20186 | Meeting Children Where They Are: The Power of Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue the Summer School Series by exploring Garry Landreth's Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship, fourth edition. I discuss how play serves as a vital...
- 2024 / 8 / 15185 | Unexpected Breakthroughs: Navigating Power Dynamics When a Child Tapes Your Mouth ShutIn this episode, I address a question from Holly in Virginia about a challenging play therapy session with a 5-year-old child who has a significant trauma background. The child duct-taped Holly's mouth shut...
- 2024 / 8 / 13184 | Unconditional Acceptance: The Heart of Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of our summer school series, I delve into a powerful passage from Garry Landreth's "The Art of the Relationship." I explore the concept of children's unique personalities and how they affect...
- 2024 / 8 / 8183 | Navigating Child and Adult Therapy Coexistence in a Group Practice: Expectations, Communication, and the 'Why'In this episode, I address a question from an anonymous listener who called in. This listener works in a multi-disciplinary practice where child-centered play therapy coexists with adult therapy. The...
- 2024 / 8 / 6182 | Mastering the 5 Goals of Child-Centered Play Therapy Sessions: From Theory to PracticeIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue our summer school series by diving into "A Practical Handbook for Building the Play Therapy Relationship" by Giordano, Landreth, and Jones. I explore...
- 2024 / 8 / 1181 | The Addiction We're Ignoring: Screen Time and Child Mental HealthIn this episode, I dive deep into a concerning trend in child and adolescent psychotherapy: the use of video games in therapy. I address an email from Carolyn in Vermont, who asks about therapists using video...
- 2024 / 7 / 30180 | The Power of You: Why Your Personality Matters in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue our summer school series by diving into the eighth and final principle from Gary Landreth's "Innovations in Play Therapy." This principle focuses on...
- 2024 / 7 / 25179 | Freedom to Be Loud: The Significance of Loud Play in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode... First of all, I'm thrilled to celebrate a major milestone with you all - the Play Therapy Podcast has reached 300,000 downloads! I'm deeply grateful for your continued support and...
- 2024 / 7 / 23178 | The Art of Following: Why Letting Children Lead is Key to Being and Effective Child-Centered Play TherapistIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue our summer school series, diving deep into the principles of effective play therapists as outlined in Landreth's "Innovations in play therapy: Issues,...
- 2024 / 7 / 18177 | Q&A Lightning Round #7: Five Questions From Three Listeners AnsweredIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I dive into a mini lightning round, answering five questions from three different listeners. Before getting into the Q&A, I share a heartwarming email from Tammy...
- 2024 / 7 / 16176 | Trusting the Child's Innate Wisdom: Two More Core Principles of Effective Child-Centered Play TherapistsIn this episode, I continue our summer school series on essential principles for effective play therapists. We explore two key principles from Garry Landreth's "Innovations in Play Therapy": 1. Being...
- 2024 / 7 / 15175 | Play Therapy Challenges: From Credentials to Limit-SettingIn this episode, I answer questions from Sarah, a school therapist in Florida. Sarah's role as an in-school therapist for a therapeutic unit presents unique challenges, and I'm excited to address her...
- 2024 / 7 / 11174 | Beyond Techniques: Cultivating the Therapist's Personality for CCPT SuccessIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue our summer school series on the essential personality characteristics of effective play therapists. We dive into the second and third principles:...
- 2024 / 7 / 4173 | Resistance or Control? Responding to 'Don't Talk to Me' Moments in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode, I answer a question from Julia in New York about handling situations where a child tells us to "leave them alone" or "don't talk to me" during play therapy sessions. I explore two possible...
- 2024 / 7 / 2172 | The Therapist's Self: Unpacking Landreth's Essential Qualities of Effective Child-Centered Play TherapistsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I dive into the essential personality characteristics of effective play therapists. Drawing from Garry Landreth's book "Innovations in Play Therapy," I discuss the...
- 2024 / 6 / 27171 | The Art of Understanding: Mastering the 'Why' in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode, I dive into a question from Ethan in Virginia about understanding the "why" behind a child's behavior in play therapy. As someone who frequently emphasizes the importance of knowing the why,...
- 2024 / 6 / 25170 | Understanding the Foundation: Landreth's 10 Tenets of Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue our ongoing summer school series, focusing on Garry Landreth's "The Art of the Relationship" (4th edition). I discuss the 10 tenets of relating to...
- 2024 / 6 / 20169 | When a Child's Outbursts are Limited to Home: A Child-Centered Play Therapy PerspectiveIn this episode, I answer a question from Tammy in Canada about a 9-year-old child who is well-behaved in settings like school and sports, but has outbursts, hits parents, swears, and calls names when...
- 2024 / 6 / 18168 | Mastering Nuances of Reflective Responding in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn today's episode, I dive into the importance of being attuned and mindful in our play therapy sessions. Today I'm reading from the book A practical handbook for building the play therapy relationship. by...
- 2024 / 6 / 13167 | How to Handle Runny Noses, Licking, Spitting, and Germs in the Playroom: A Child-Centered ApproachIn this episode, I address a great question from Carley in Oregon about how to manage germs in the playroom in a child-centered way. Carley asked about a client who licks and spits on his fingers while...
- 2024 / 6 / 11166 | CCPT is a Way of Being, Not a Technique: Wisdom from Art of The RelationshipIn this episode, I dive into the true essence of Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) by sharing powerful excerpts from Garry Landreth's seminal book "Art of The Relationship". Landreth emphasizes that CCPT is...
- 2024 / 6 / 6165 | Q&A Lightning Round #6: Three Questions From Listeners AnsweredIn this lightning round episode, I tackle three listener questions about child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Cindy from California asked how to respond when parents say kids can learn academics, so why can't...
- 2024 / 6 / 4164 | Not Everything is a Theme! Landreth Sets the Story StraightToday I'm beginning my "Summer School" Series where we are going to go back to the classical texts of child-centered play therapy. In this episode, I dive into the challenges of truly understanding the...
- 2024 / 5 / 30163 | Navigating Play Therapy with Siblings: Practical Tips for Child-Centered Play TherapistsIn this episode, I answer a listener question about working with siblings in play therapy. I share that joint sessions can be beneficial if siblings experienced the same stressful event, but recommend having...
- 2024 / 5 / 28162 | The "I Wonder" Blunder: Avoid Directive Questioning and Master "I Wonder" Statements and Whispers in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode, I dive into the proper use of "I wonder" statements and the whisper technique in child-centered play therapy. I've noticed these skills are sometimes being misused or overused, so I wanted to...
- 2024 / 5 / 24161 | Safe Play: What It Means When a Child Picks the Same Toys Every TimeIn this episode, I address a great question from Katie in Florida about what to do when kids seem unsure of what to play with in later play therapy sessions and gravitate toward the same activities each time....
- 2024 / 5 / 21160 | Making the Transition: How to Shift from Directive to a Child-Centered Play Therapy ApproachIn this episode, I discuss how to transition from a directive or eclectic play therapy approach to a fully child-centered play therapy model. I share tips for communicating this change to both parents and the...
- 2024 / 5 / 16159 | How Child-Centered Principles Transformed My Art Classroom: Gabby's Transformation StoryIn this episode, I shared an inspiring email from Gabby, an art teacher in South Africa who has been applying child-centered play therapy principles in her classroom. Gabby stumbled upon my podcast "by...
- 2024 / 5 / 14158 | The Moment It All Clicked: Unexpected Paths to a Career in CCPTIn this episode, I share some fascinating unofficial data I collected from my email subscribers about their journeys to finding child-centered play therapy (CCPT). I was curious to learn more after noticing a...
- 2024 / 5 / 9157 | Q&A Lightning Round #5: Nine Questions From Listeners AnsweredHere are the listeners and topics of questions answered in this episode: Madison from Iowa - Scheduling parent consultations, child taking lots of medications Maria from California - Child pretends to be an...
- 2024 / 5 / 7156 | Special Interview: Dr. Brandy Schumann, Creator of the 2nd Most Important Toy in the Playroom... the "BoA" (AKA "Bobo")It was my pleasure to interview Dr. Brandy Schumann for today's podcast episode. Dr. Schumann is the creator/owner of the Bag of Air, the best quality and most durable "Bobo" in every play therapist's...
- 2024 / 5 / 2155 | Overcoming Separation Challenges: A Child-Centered ApproachIn this episode, I address a therapist's question about working with a 9-year-old boy struggling with severe separation anxiety. The child's anxiety stems from an experience of an upset stomach while living...
- 2024 / 4 / 30154 | Mastering the Art of Limit-Setting: The Power of the "Pause" in Offering Perfectly Aligned ChoicesIn this episode, we get into the fine details of limit setting in play therapy sessions. I emphasize the importance of the "limit setting pause" – a crucial moment where we take a beat to understand the...
- 2024 / 4 / 25153 | The Inside Track on CCPT Supervision: Why Theoretical Alignment Matters - Part 2 of My Chat with Dr. Jodi MullenIn today's episode, I got to sit down with Dr. Jodi Mullen and talk about CCPT supervision. Dr. Mullen is an RPT-S and CCPT-Master and brings decades of experience to this conversation. I know you hear this...
- 2024 / 4 / 23152 | Special Interview Episode: Dr. Jodi Mullen - Talking Child-Centered Play Therapy and Child Trauma (part 1 of 2)In today's episode, I got to sit down with Dr. Jodi Mullen and talk about the world of CCPT, and specifically, Dr. Mullen's specialty of childhood trauma. I hope you enjoy this special episode as much as I...
- 2024 / 4 / 18151 | Understanding and Managing Bathroom Accidents in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode, we tackle a sensitive but common issue faced in child-centered play therapy: managing enuresis and encopresis among young clients. I answer a question from Juliette in Georgia, addressing how...
- 2024 / 4 / 16150 | Mastering Limit Setting in Child-Centered Play Therapy: A Deep DiveIn this episode, we take a pause from my planned curriculum to address a crucial skill that many therapists find challenging: limit setting in child-centered play therapy. Over the next two weeks, we will...
- 2024 / 4 / 11149 | Silence in the Playroom: Navigating Child-Centered Play Therapy with a Selectively Mute ChildIn this episode, I tackle a nuanced situation shared by Nell from Maryland, a play therapist working with an 11-year-old client who does not speak during therapy sessions. Despite not being diagnosed as...
- 2024 / 4 / 9148 | Reverse Pandora's Box: Understanding Progress and Regression in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn today's episode, I start the first episode in a new series on advanced CCPT concepts. Today I'm discussing a metaphor/story that I tell parents during consultations that I refer to as the Reverse Pandora's...
- 2024 / 4 / 4147 | Exploring the Therapeutic Use of Board Games in a Child-Centered PlayroomIn today's episode, I answer a question from Summer in Illinois. She asked about the use of board games in the playroom. As a tool in child-centered play therapy, board games serve as a conduit for emotional...
- 2024 / 4 / 2146 | 6 Takeaways from "Filial Therapy Using Child Parent Relationship Therapy"In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I continue the discussion into the child-centered filial approach within play therapy. I recently conducted a filial CEU course, and I want to share the insights I...
- 2024 / 3 / 28145 | Navigating the First Session: Achieving the "Touchstone Story" Goals with a Child-Centered ApproachIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Marian in Ireland regarding the Touchstone story, a method sometimes used in initial therapy sessions. While acknowledging the intention...
- 2024 / 3 / 26144 | Filial Therapy: Understanding Goals for Parents, Children, and TherapistsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I cover the goals of filial therapy. I'm focusing primarily on the Child-Parent Relationship Training (CPRT) model. Facilitators need to understand the importance...
- 2024 / 3 / 21143 | Q&A Lightning Round #4: 5 Questions From Listeners AnsweredLightning Round Q&A #4! - Four listeners contacted me with five questions, so here we go with Lightning Round #4. I'm so grateful to you and your investment in child-centered play therapy. You are why I do...
- 2024 / 3 / 19142 | From Playroom to Home: Integrating Filial Therapy into PracticeIn this episode, we delve into filial therapy, continuing our exploration of working with parents and families. Filial therapy, derived from the Latin word for family, encompasses various theoretical...
- 2024 / 3 / 14141 | Understanding Children's Battle Scenes: Insights into Repetitive Play in TherapyIn today's episode, we dive into a question from Ariana about children's consistent play themes of battles and fights in therapy sessions. Ariana shares her experiences with clients repeatedly setting up...
- 2024 / 3 / 12140 | Client vs Customer and Delivering Value: Redefining Parent Relationships in Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I'm going to take one more week to drive home the most important concept in engaging parents in the play therapy process. Through numerous discovery calls for the...
- 2024 / 3 / 8139 | Transformation Stories: How Child-Centered Play Therapy Changes LivesIn this special episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I deviate from our usual schedule to share an inspiring email from a listener named Nathan. His email details how child-centered play therapy (CCPT) has...
- 2024 / 3 / 5138 | Collaborating with Schools: Communicating with Teachers as a Play TherapistIn this episode, I discuss effective strategies for communicating with schools as a play therapist. It's important to understand that school personnel aren't always trained in mental health, so approaching...
- 2024 / 2 / 29137 | Decoding Screen-Influenced Play: Insights for Play TherapistsIn this episode, I delve into a question from Batsheva about how to distinguish between play that stems from a child's imagination versus play influenced by screen time. As someone who authored the book...
- 2024 / 2 / 27136 | Parent Talk: Balancing Transparency and Confidentiality in Play TherapyIn this episode of The Play Therapy Podcast, I tackle a critical issue: how to communicate with parents while keeping confidentiality intact. Drawing from my experiences at my center and insights from my...
- 2024 / 2 / 23135 | Rethinking Credentials and Embracing ExpertiseIn this episode, I address a question from Margaret in Indiana regarding credentialing for play therapy. Margaret, like many others, expressed concern about her lack of formal training in child development...
- 2024 / 2 / 20134 | Equipping Parents: Communicating Strategies for Dealing with Child BehaviorIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I look into the intricacies of helping parents navigate problematic behaviors exhibited by their children. I provide insights from three different angles:...
- 2024 / 2 / 15133 | I Don't Use Case Conceptualization, But If I Did...In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Alexa in Texas about case conceptualization. Alexa, soon to be an RPT, seeks guidance on how case conceptualization fits into the...
- 2024 / 2 / 13132 | Unlocking Parental Resistance: 6 Reasons and Strategies for OvercomingIn today's episode, we delve into the topic of engaging resistant parents, a common frustration among child-centered play therapists. From discussions in the Six Figure Play Therapist Coaching and the CCPT...
- 2024 / 2 / 8131 | Q&A Lightning Round #3: 4 More Questions From Listeners AnsweredLightning Round Q&A #3! - Four listeners contacted me with 5 topics of questions, so here we go with Lightning Round #3. Thank you to Jess for calling into the new call-in number, (813) 812-5525. I'm so...
- 2024 / 2 / 6130 | Structured Conversations: The Five-Week Parent Consultation StrategyIn this episode, I discuss the importance of setting up structured meetings with parents in child-centered play therapy. A best practice that we have established and perfected at my practice includes parent...
- 2024 / 2 / 1129 | Q&A Lightning Round #2: 7 More Questions From Listeners AnsweredLightning Round Q&A #2! - I've gotten emails saying you like the lightning round format, and the downloads support that opinion, so here we go with Lightning Round #2. Don't forget that I now have a call-in...
- 2024 / 1 / 30128 | Enhancing Outcomes: Effective Communication with Parents in Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss the importance of involving parents in the child-centered play therapy process. While parental engagement isn't a prerequisite for a child's progress, it...
- 2024 / 1 / 25127 | Q&A Lightning Round #1: 7 Questions From Listeners AnsweredIn this episode, I get caught up on questions that listeners have emailed to me. So put your seatbelt on and hang on for the lightning round of Q&A. Here are the topics of questions answered: Donna in...
- 2024 / 1 / 23126 | Unpacking Play Therapy Themes: A Key to Effective Parent EngagementIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, we dive into the practical application of understanding and using play therapy themes, which have been a hot topic in the therapy community. Recognizing and...
- 2024 / 1 / 18125 | Sexual Curiosity Theme in Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss the theme of "sexual curiosity" in child-centered play therapy. This is the last of the sexualized play themes. This episode focuses on the curiosity...
- 2024 / 1 / 16124 | Sexual Talk Theme in Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I take on the theme of "sexual talk" in child-centered play therapy. I emphasize the importance of recognizing this theme and understanding its implications for...
- 2024 / 1 / 12123 | Why Child-Centered Play Therapy Works for Every Child: The Evidence to Navigate SkepticismIn this episode, I address a question from Barbara in California about how to explain to others that child-centered play therapy can work for any child. This is a crucial topic because it helps justify our...
- 2024 / 1 / 9122 | Sexual Behaviors Directed At The Therapist Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, I delve into the challenging theme of sexual behaviors directed at the therapist in play therapy sessions. This difficult subject can manifest in various ways, from sexualized contact to...
- 2024 / 1 / 4121 | SMART Goals and Child-Centered Play Therapy: How to Bridge the Gap in a School SettingIn this episode, I respond to a question from Emery in New Jersey, a school-based child-centered play therapist, about setting therapeutic goals in a school setting that emphasizes SMART (Specific,...
- 2024 / 1 / 2120 | Sexualized Activity Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, we dive into the challenging topic of sexualized play themes in child-centered play therapy. I discuss how children may act out sexual activities using miniatures, dolls, or figures during...
- 2023 / 12 / 28119 | Toy Takers!: Setting Limits On Children Taking Toys HomeIn this episode, I respond to a question from Stacy in Colorado about children taking toys from the playroom. Stacy describes a situation where a girl repeatedly tries to take toys home, while her sister asks...
- 2023 / 12 / 26118 | Failure Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, we explore the theme of failure in play therapy sessions. I dive into the nuances of failure play and how it differs from mastery play, which was discussed in a...
- 2023 / 12 / 21117 | Tackling "Boredom": Exploring the Deeper Meanings Behind a Child Saying That Play Therapy Is BoringIn this episode, I respond to a question from Yanna in Massachusetts about how to handle a child who says play therapy is boring. Yanna also expressed feeling hurt when the client seemed excited that their...
- 2023 / 12 / 19116 | Mastery/Competence Play Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, we're diving into the category of mastery and competence play by looking at Mastery Theme play. This is where kids engage in activities that require a sense of accomplishment. I discuss how...
- 2023 / 12 / 14115 | Hugs And I Love You's: Responding to Children's AffectionIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a significant question from Tammy in rural British Columbia and I received a similar question from listener Katarina. Both inquire about how to respond...
- 2023 / 12 / 12114 | Exploratory Theme in Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, we begin the final category of themes—exploration and mastery. It's been incredible to witness your enthusiasm for understanding and applying these themes in your...
- 2023 / 12 / 7113 | To Clean or Not to Clean: The Role of Playroom Cleanup in Child-Centered Play TherapyIn this episode, I answered questions raised by two listeners, Meredith and Katarina, about the role of cleaning up toys at the end of a play therapy session. Both wondered about the child-centered approach...
- 2023 / 12 / 5112 | Escape Play Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, we delve into the fifth theme within the safety play category: Escape Play. This particular theme marks a shift from the previous ones – containing, protection, danger, and rescue. Here, the...
- 2023 / 11 / 30111 | Building Trust: The Key to Engaging Parents in Play TherapyIn this episode, I address a crucial question from Bethany in Mississippi about how to handle corporal punishment in her community where it's still prevalent. Although it's not directly linked to the...
- 2023 / 11 / 28110 | Rescue Play Theme In Play TherapyIn this week's episode, I delved into rescue play, which happens to be the fourth of the five safety play themes. Rescue play is often intertwined with the danger theme, providing a powerful means for...
- 2023 / 11 / 24109 | Decoding Chaotic/Messy Play: Embracing A Child's Emotional ExpressionIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss a question by Emma in Georgia about managing messy play in therapy sessions. Emma describes a child who engages in a flurry of activities, making a mess...
- 2023 / 11 / 22108 | Danger Play Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, we explore the concept of danger as a safety play theme in the playroom. So we will dive into the nuances of this theme, clarifying that despite its name, danger...
- 2023 / 11 / 16107 | Highlights From My 60 Minute Conversation With Dr. Garry LandrethDr. Garry Landreth doesn't do "interviews" anymore, but I had the opportunity to speak with him on the phone for a whole hour last month. Of course, the conversation turned to Play Therapy, and all the...
- 2023 / 11 / 14106 | Protection Play Theme in Play TherapyIn this episode, we're delving into the theme of Protection Play, the second segment within the safety play themes. It's crucial to distinguish Protection Play from Containing Play, ensuring a clear...
- 2023 / 11 / 9105 | Child-Centered Healing: Trauma Processing in the PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Marisol, a newcomer to play therapy, who's working in a community impacted by a traumatic school shooting incident. We delve into...
- 2023 / 11 / 7104 | Containing Play Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, I start into the category of safety play by focusing on the first theme: containing play. I explore the five themes under safety play, emphasizing their focus on ensuring safety for a child...
- 2023 / 11 / 3103 | When Kids Want Out: Strategies For Play Therapists When Kids Try To Leave The Session EarlyIn this episode of the podcast, I answer an email from Nell in Maryland. Nell asks what to do when a child wants to leave the play therapy session early. When it rains, it pours... not only have I had a...
- 2023 / 10 / 31102 | Sorting Play Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, we wrap up our exploration of the Control and Safety themes with a focus on 'sorting play.' I share an anecdote from my graduate school experience, illustrating what sorting play entails and...
- 2023 / 10 / 26101 | Therapist Dilemma: What To Do When A Child Falls Asleep In SessionIn this episode, I addressed a question from a listener, Kianna in Pennsylvania, who is in an internship and recently inherited a playroom. She's working with three boys whose parents are going through a...
- 2023 / 10 / 24100 | Mess-Making Play Theme in Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I dive into the theme of mess making play in child-centered play therapy. Mess making play is when a child intentionally creates chaos and disorder within the...
- 2023 / 10 / 1999 | From Meltdowns to Milestones: Supporting Parents and Children in Play TherapyIn this episode, I respond to a question from Kaylee in Georgia regarding how to support parents in child-centered play therapy. It's crucial to prepare parents for the fact that behaviors can initially...
- 2023 / 10 / 1798 | Cleaning Play Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I'm excited to explore the cleaning play theme. As a child-centered play therapist, I've observed various ways children engage in this play, from physically...
- 2023 / 10 / 1297 | The Art Of Not Answering: Remaining Child-Centered When Children Ask Questions In The PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a common concern from our listeners: how to handle children's questions during play sessions while maintaining a child-centered approach. Three listeners...
- 2023 / 10 / 1196 | Instability Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, we're diving into the theme of instability. It's a theme that often partners up with others, like good versus bad play or rescue play. Picture this: in a child's...
- 2023 / 10 / 695 | How To Stay True To Child-Centered Play Therapy With Teens And TweensIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, we dive into a question raised by three listeners: Nneka from England, Anna from Canada, and Grace from California. They're curious about adjusting child-centered...
- 2023 / 10 / 394 | Bridge-Building Play Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I explore the world of bridge building play, a theme within the broader category of control and safety. Bridge building play isn't just about literal bridges; it...
- 2023 / 9 / 2893 | Tuning In: The Power Of Tone Of Voice In Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I delve into a topic of the power of tone of voice in play therapy. A listener from Maryland named Batsheva posed an excellent question about how our tone can...
- 2023 / 9 / 2692 | Self-Fixing Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I delve into a significant theme: self fixing in the context of play therapy. We've explored fixing and failure to fix before, but self fixing presents a unique...
- 2023 / 9 / 2591 | Play Therapy's "Progress Puzzle": Navigating Norms, Progress, and ExpectationsIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a thoughtful question from Julia in California. Julia's concern revolves around children's progress not aligning with the standard timeline or phases...
- 2023 / 9 / 2090 | Failure To Fix Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, I delved into another control and safety theme—the "failure to fix" theme. It's a counterpart to the "fixing play" theme we explored last time. Understanding these play themes is vital for...
- 2023 / 9 / 1289 | Navigating Messy Play: Balancing Client Needs And Cleanliness In The PlayroomIn this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I delve into the crucial topic of managing messy play within the therapeutic setting, especially when dealing with limited resources (if you don't have an office...
- 2023 / 9 / 788 | Fixing Play Theme In Play TherapyToday, we're diving into the "fixing play" theme in child-centered play therapy. This theme often follows "broken play" and is closely tied to control and safety themes. In essence, it's about a child or...
- 2023 / 9 / 287 | Q&A: Working With Kids With Sexual Behavior Or Abuse BackgroundsIn this episode of The Play Therapy Podcast, I address the critical topic of working with children who have experienced sexual abuse or exhibit sexualized behaviors. Combining questions from listeners Monica...
- 2023 / 8 / 3086 | Broken Play Theme in Play TherapyIn this episode, we delve into the "Broken Play Theme" in child-centered play therapy's category of safety and control themes. Exploring Broken Play Theme: Children depict brokenness in their play through...
- 2023 / 8 / 2485 | Burying Or Drowning ThemeIn this episode, we're delving into the intriguing burying or drowning theme, a part of our ongoing exploration of control and safety themes. Burying involves hiding characters or objects under sand, toys,...
- 2023 / 8 / 1784 | My Complete Interview With Dr. Jennifer Baggerly About Child-Centered Play TherapyWhen you've trained directly with Dr. Garry Landreth, you gain vast knowledge and helpful perspective on the child-centered play therapy model. Join me for an insightful chat with my mentor, Dr. Jennifer...
- 2023 / 8 / 1583 | Fire Play Theme In Play TherapyToday, we're entering the realm of control and safety themes, marking a transition from our previous categories. Specifically, we're exploring the intriguing concept of fire play. Children engage in fire play...
- 2023 / 8 / 1082 | Q&A: How To Handle A Child That Makes Animal Noises And Behaves Like A Puppy In SessionListener, Yanna, emailed me with a scenario... she is seeing a child that acts like a puppy all session and she was wondering how I would handle that. I actually have a client right now that is doing that! So...
- 2023 / 8 / 881 | Adult Activity Theme In Play TherapyIn this concluding episode of the Nurturing & Caregiving category, we delve into the intriguing realm of the Adult Activity Theme. This distinctive theme revolves around activities that distinctly mimic adult...
- 2023 / 8 / 380 | Q&A: What To Do When You're "Stuck" With A Client On The Autism SpectrumA listener from the UK emailed me with questions about a client on the autism spectrum. She is feeling "stuck" and was looking for some advice. In this episode, I talk about the following topics: ...
- 2023 / 8 / 179 | Store And Shopping Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, I cover the Store and Shopping Theme. This theme falls under the Nurturing Theme category of themes in play therapy. In addition to discussing this theme in play sessions and its meanings, I...
- 2023 / 7 / 2778 | Q&A: What Play Therapy Theme Does Board Game Play Fall Under?Ethan from VA emailed me a question asking what play therapy theme board game play falls under. Secondly, Ethan asked what theme it is if the child makes up a game. The answer is not as simple as board game...
- 2023 / 7 / 2577 | Neglect, Abuse, or Punishment of Self Themes in Play TherapyIn this episode, I dive into Neglect, Abuse, or Punishment of Self Themes in Play Therapy. I discuss examples of how this theme manifests in play, the differences between similar themes, and how to...
- 2023 / 7 / 2176 | Staying True to the Model: Child-Centered Feedback for Pandemic-Related AnxietyListener Yanna, in MA, emailed me asking about a client who has severe anxiety related to germs, possibly related to the pandemic. I've posted her email below. "I am hoping you could provide some...
- 2023 / 7 / 1875 | Failed Nurturing Theme In Play TherapyFailed Nurturing, essentially, is any time a child uses nurturing activities but they are negative towards the person being nurtured. This can manifest in withholding nurturing or neglecting the person. In...
- 2023 / 7 / 1474 | Defying Opposition: Unveiling the Potential of Child-Centered Play Therapy for ODDListener Cheryl emailed me with the following question: "How does a child with Oppositional Defiance Disorder heal through CCPT? I have one child I’m seeing that seems to have these symptoms, and so I have...
- 2023 / 7 / 1173 | The Self-Nurturing Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode, I talk about the distinction between nurturing and self-nurturing themes. I also discuss the following topics related to self-nurturing play: The child uses infantile baby toys to comfort...
- 2023 / 7 / 672 | Q&A: "Capturing Growth" - Documenting Goals, Objectives & Diagnosis while Honoring the Child-Centered Model in Play TherapyBrooke in Utah & Cheryl in California both emailed me with questions that overlap in content, so I'm doing a double Q&A this episode! Brooke asked what goals and objectives I document and what wording I use...
- 2023 / 7 / 571 | Nurturing & Caregiving Theme In Play TherapyIn this episode I cover another in the Family & Nurturing category of play therapy themes... The Nurturing Theme. This is generally one of the later themes to emerge in a child's play over a complete...
- 2023 / 6 / 2970 | Q&A: Working Through Abuse Narratives In Play Therapy With A Child-Centered ApproachListener Pam emailed me about a child she is currently conducting play sessions with. The child has a history of emotional and physical abuse, and has started playing it out in the play sessions. Pam wanted...
- 2023 / 6 / 2769 | Separation & Reunion Themes In Play TherapyIn this episode I cover Separation, and also Reunion Themes in play therapy. These are both in the Family and Nurturing Category of Play Therapy Themes. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play...
- 2023 / 6 / 2268 | Q&A: When "Aggression" Derails - Addressing "Aggression" With Parents To Prevent Premature Therapy TerminationListener Beth from Wales emailed me with questions about a specific situation regarding caregivers prematurely terminating therapy because the child started showing increased aggression outside of the...
- 2023 / 6 / 2067 | Constancy Theme, AKA Permanence Theme, In Play TherapyWe're finally moving into family and nurturing themes, starting with Constancy Theme, also known as Permanence Theme. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ:...
- 2023 / 6 / 2066 | Q&A: Staying Child-Centered When A Child Invites You Into Their PlayListeners Clay and Joss from Australia emailed me a question for guidance on staying child-centered when a child invites you into their play. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy...
- 2023 / 6 / 1365 | The Seeking Theme in Play TherapyThe last of the 7 power and aggression category of play therapy themes... The Seeking theme. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me:...
- 2023 / 6 / 864 | Q&A: Interpreting the Child's Play Through a Child-Centered Play Therapy LensListener Anna, from Canada, emailed me a question regarding interpreting a child's play for interventions and advisement at schools, etc. In this episode, I best try to answer her question through the lens...
- 2023 / 6 / 663 | The Devouring Theme in Play TherapyAnother theme in the power and agression category of play therapy theme is the devouring theme. In this episode, I discuss an overview of this theme and interpretations. Podcast HQ:...
- 2023 / 6 / 262 | Q&A: Children Bringing Their Own Toys Into The PlayroomKate from South Australia emailed me the following question: "I am wondering what your thoughts are on children bringing in their own soft toys into sessions. I have a new client who has been bringing in his...
- 2023 / 5 / 3161 | Powerful Figure Overcoming The Weaker Figure Theme In Play TherapyThis is the 4th in a series of power and control category of themes in play therapy. In this episode, I cover the powerful figure overcoming the weaker figure. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com...
- 2023 / 5 / 2560 | Q&A: The Art Of Play Therapy Supervision (Getting The Most From Your Supervisory Experience)In this episode, I answer a listener's question about supervision. Jeremy from the UK emailed me with the following question: "I am completing my training in the UK and I love every moment in my playroom,...
- 2023 / 5 / 2359 | Death Theme In Play TherapyAnother theme in the power and control category of themes is "death" play. I explain this multi-faceted theme, and also discuss how to share with parents in a way that maintains confidentiality, and also...
- 2023 / 5 / 1958 | Q&A: How To Handle Children Shooting And Using Swords On YouCindy from Australia emailed me with a questions asking how I handle children who shoot and use swords on me. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ:...
- 2023 / 5 / 1957 | Aggression And Aggressive Victim Themes In Play TherapyIn this episode, I'm continuing our discussion of Power and Control themes in play therapy with the Aggression and Aggressive Victim themes. I discuss the difference between these two theme, as well as...
- 2023 / 5 / 1256 | Q&A: How To Best Communicate With Parents, Teachers, and School Counselors When Working With A ChildJeremy from Illinois emailed me with the following question: "I have a six-year-old client who is getting angry and aggressive at school. History of witnessing domestic violence. I have had five sessions with...
- 2023 / 5 / 1055 | Themes In The Playroom: Good Vs BadIn this episode, we finally begin a series on themes in the playroom. I've been getting emails and feedback that so many of you wanted this content, so I'm glad we've finally made it! Within themes, there are...
- 2023 / 5 / 554 | Q&A: What Is The ONE THING I Need To Know To Be A Better Play Therapist?I talk to a lot of play therapists, and I review a lot of sessions. I get a version of a question from everyone I interact with who is looking for advice in their play therapy practice: What is the one thing...
- 2023 / 5 / 353 | 4 Stages Of Play Therapy (The Child's Therapeutic Progress)In the previous curriculum episode, we talked about the 4 phases of play therapy. This week I'm focusing on the 4 STAGES of play therapy. This differs from the phases, in the sense that the phases describe...
- 2023 / 4 / 2852 | Q&A: How To Engage A Client Who Colors Silently (And How To Explain It To Their Parents!)Jen in the UK emailed me with the following question: "I have several recent new clients who are choosing to be silent colorers in my room. I'm spending a lot of time tracking coloring behaviour and...
- 2023 / 4 / 2751 | 4 Phases Of Child-Centered Play Therapy (Landreth Model)In this episode I cover the 4 phases of the Landreth child-centered play therapy model. It's important to know these phases to recognize where a child is in the process. It's also helpful to know how to...
- 2023 / 4 / 2150 | Q&A: How Do We Explain To Parents Why We Allow A Child To Curse In The Playroom?Listener Ethan emailed me with another question. This time he asked my opinion on how I explain to parents why I allow cursing in the playroom. This is a fantastic question, and I'll do my best to explain the...
- 2023 / 4 / 1949 | Encourage Creativity And Freedom... With Freedom Comes ResponsibilityIn this episode, I go over the last of the encouragement principles from CPRT, "Encourage Creativity And Freedom... With Freedom Comes Responsibility" My three main points for this principle are: The...
- 2023 / 4 / 1448 | Q&A: What To Do When A Child Is "Stuck"This week's question comes from Yanna in Massachusetts. She poses the question: "I have been working with a 6 year old girl for over 6 months now, my interventions have consisted of child-centered play...
- 2023 / 4 / 1247 | Never Do For A Child That Which They Can Do For ThemselvesThis is the third of four encouragement principles from CPRT, "Never Do For A Child That Which They Can Do For Themselves." Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ:...
- 2023 / 4 / 1046 | Q&A: Child-Centered Play Therapy With ToddlersAlicia from Colorado wrote me an email saying "My background is actually Early Intervention, working with families with kids birth to three, so if you feel like discussing your thoughts on...
- 2023 / 4 / 445 | Encourage The Effort, Rather Than Praise The ProductThe second encouragement principle "Encourage The Effort, Rather Than Praise The Product." In this episode I will go over this principle and specifically touch on the following topics: The difference...
- 2023 / 3 / 3144 | Q&A: What If Kids Don't Move From Aggression To Nurturing Play?As a result of listening to the podcast on aggression in the playroom, listener Ethan emailed me "I was wondering if you have worked with a child who has ever played out the aggressive part but never seemed...
- 2023 / 3 / 3143 | Noticing The Child Is A Powerful Builder Of Self-EsteemIn this episode, I go over the first of the encouragement principles... "Noticing The Child Is A Powerful Builder Of Self-Esteem" Topics I address: Attention is everything Kids being "lost in the sea of...
- 2023 / 3 / 2342 | Q&A: How To Become A Registered Play TherapistTricia emailed me the following question: "Hello! I am currently a graduate student in mental health counseling in the state of New York. Unfortunately there aren’t many resources for play therapy in the...
- 2023 / 3 / 2141 | When There Are No Limits, There Is No SecurityIn this episode, I cover the last of the limit-setting principles. Limit-setting provides the security in which the relationship thrives. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training...
- 2023 / 3 / 1640 | Q&A: What To Do When A Child Does Not Want To Leave The Playroom?Listener Sandi from Iowa emailed me this question: "I am hoping you will assist me with a common issue I find in the playroom. Please share an example of how you respond to a child who doesn’t want to leave...
- 2023 / 3 / 1439 | If You Can't Say It In Ten Words Or Less, Don't Say ItIn this episode I go over the 3rd limit setting principle from CPRT, "If you can't say it in ten words or less, don't say it." Not only is this really important for therapists during limit setting, but it...
- 2023 / 3 / 1038 | Q&A: How To Manage Your Schedule With Non-Weekly ClientsAs part of the "mindset" of being a private practice play therapist, you have to value your time. Especially because we have clients (kids) who mainly can only come to see you during non-school hours (2-7pm)....
- 2023 / 3 / 737 | Limits Are Not Needed Until They Are NeededIn this episode, we cover the second of the limit setting principles, "limits are not needed until they are needed." This comes straight out of the CPRT training by Landreth & Bratton, with some practical...
- 2023 / 3 / 336 | Q&A: Exploring The Sensitive Topic Of Abuse And Neglect In The Playroom: A Guide For Play TherapistsIn this episode, I take on a question that was asked of my by listener Rachel. She asked: "I’m wondering what you do in situations where you have concerns of abuse/neglect. Do you ever take a different role...
- 2023 / 3 / 135 | When A Child Is Drowning, It's Not The Time To Teach Them To SwimIn this episode, I cover the first of the Limit Setting principles, "When A Child Is Drowning, It's Not The Time To Teach Them To Swim." This principle comes out of the CPRT training. What I mean by that is,...
- 2023 / 2 / 2434 | Q&A: How Do You Do Child-Centered Play Therapy With Older Kids (11-14 Year Olds)In this episode I respond to a listener, Rachel, who asked "I would be interested to learn more about child-centered play therapy with older kids (like 11-14). You’ve mentioned before at your facility that...
- 2023 / 2 / 2133 | Big Choices For Big Kids, Little Choices For Little KidsThis episode is the last of the choice-giving principles. This principle comes straight out of the Landreth/Bratton CPRT curriculum. Topics I discuss in this episode are: Age appropriateness of choices ...
- 2023 / 2 / 1532 | My Playroom Was Absolutely Destroyed By A Client (A Debrief, And How I Handled It)Last week I had, arguably, the most challenging session with a child that I've ever had to deal with. I've had a lot of questions from listeners about how to handle aggressive play, so I thought this would be...
- 2023 / 2 / 1031 | Q&A: How To Conduct Sibling/Group Play SessionsIn this episode, I give my input to a listener who emailed me about their client's Mom, that was interested in sibling sessions. The listener wanted to know if there was anything that I would mention or do. I...
- 2023 / 2 / 730 | One Of The Best Things You Can Communicate To A Child Is That They Are CompetentThis episode is a play therapy principle linked to choice giving skill. Topics in this episode: Confidence-confidence spectrum The playroom is the "antidote" to a child's negative inputs ...
- 2023 / 2 / 429 | Q&A: The Use Of Aggressive Toys In The PlayroomIn this week's Q&A episode, I give my take on a listener's question: "I'd love to hear your take on the controversy of using aggressive toys in general." I break down my commentary into the following...
- 2023 / 2 / 228 | Empower Kids By Giving Them Credit For DecisionsIn this episode we dive into the first of the choice-giving principles of play therapy, "Empower kids by giving them credit for their decision" (Landreth/Bratton) Podcast HQ:...
- 2023 / 1 / 2327 | The Use Of Games In The Playroom (And What To Do About Cheating!)Jen, a listener from the UK, wrote me an email and asked "I’m wondering if you might be up for doing a podcast on your take on the use of games- uno, table football and guess who are regulars in my sessions...
- 2023 / 1 / 1326 | 6 Assessments To Support What You Are Doing In The PlayroomAs promised in the last episode, I'm going to go over 6 assessments that can support your work in the playroom. I frequently hear from play therapists that they don't feel supported by peers or employers, or...
- 2023 / 1 / 1125 | What To Do When You Are Not Feeling Supported As A Play Therapist At Your Place Of WorkIn this episode, I'm taking a break from the regular curriculum to answer some questions that have come in from listeners. One of the questions that I get consistently is what do I do when I'm not supported...
- 2022 / 12 / 2724 | Feelings Are Always Valid, Even If The Behavior Is Not AcceptableIn episode #24 we are continuing with the "principles" of play therapy topics. The principle "Feelings Are Always Valid, Even If The Behavior Is Not Acceptable" connects with reflective responding (the...
- 2022 / 12 / 2323 | Reflecting Feelings Helps The Child Feel Understood, Lessens Anger, And Diffuses Intensity Of EmotionIn this episode, I do a deep dive into an aspect of "why" you reflectively respond (track behavior, reflect feelings, reflect content). I discuss three outcomes that should give you a better understanding of...
- 2022 / 12 / 1922 | If You Know Enough To Ask A Question, Then You Know Enough To Make A StatementAnother "Principle of Play Therapy"... "If You Know Enough To Ask A Question, Then You Know Enough To Make A Statement." Questions put children in their heads, but children live in their hearts. How do we...
- 2022 / 12 / 721 | Questions Put Kids In Their Minds, But Kids Live In Their HeartsWe're now moving from the "4 Pillars of Play Therapy", or the skills that we use in the playroom, to the "principles" of play therapy. The first principle comes from the Child Parent Relationship Therapy...
- 2022 / 11 / 3020 | EncouragementIn this episode, I discuss the 4th "Pillar of Play Therapy"... Encouragement! Specific topics: The difference between encouragement and praise How you would use encouragement in the play room ...
- 2022 / 11 / 1119 | Limit SettingIn this episode we explore the 3rd of the 4 Pillars of Play Therapy... Limit Setting. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com References: Cochran, N., Nordling,...
- 2022 / 11 / 318 | Choice GivingIn this episode we explore the 2nd of the 4 Pillars of Play Therapy... Choice Giving. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com References: Cochran, N., Nordling,...
- 2022 / 10 / 2117 | Reflective Responding In Play TherapyIn this episode, I go into more detail on the reflecting responding skill used by child-centered play therapists. Reflecting responding consists of: reflecting feelings, reflecting content, and tracking...
- 2022 / 10 / 1116 | Overview Of Reflective RespondingReflective responding... empathic responding. Whatever it is you call it, it's the skill that play therapists use to ensure that the child is heard, understood, and accepted. It's how you stay present during...
- 2022 / 9 / 2815 | How To Explain The Child-Centered Play Therapy Process To Parents And KidsYou'll need to be able to explain the play therapy process to both parents and kids in order to thrive in your practice. So in this episode, I help you to set expectations with your parents to prepare for...
- 2022 / 8 / 3014 | Specific Toys In Specific Categories In The PlayroomIn this episode, I go into great depth on the toys in your playroom, the categories, and how they should be organized. I also give you a pretty comprehensive list of toys for your room, and some great tips...
- 2022 / 8 / 1813 | The Logistics and Techniques Of Your PlayroomIn this episode, I discuss the logistics of your playroom, including: size of the playroom, toy selection, and and reason behind toy selection, toy "management". I also talk through the 3 or 5 categories of...
- 2022 / 7 / 1012 | How To Answer Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Play TherapyIn this episode, I address concerns and speak to the questions that parents, teachers, and other caregivers have about the play therapy process. So add these tools in your toolbox for how to educate and...
- 2022 / 7 / 311 | The History Of Child-Centered Play TherapyFrom Freud in 1905 to Landreth in the 2000s, I walk through the history that has led to our modern theoretical model of child-centered play therapy. Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Email me:...
- 2022 / 6 / 1910 | Why Child-Centered Play Therapy?In this episode, we pivot from asking why play therapy, to why child-centered play therapy? I cover Axline's eight principles, I dispel myths or incorrect perceptions about child-centered play therapy, and...
- 2022 / 6 / 109 | (Part 6 of 6) Foundations, Principles, and The “Four Pillars” of Child-Centered Play TherapyThis is the sixth of a six part series from a FAPT conference workshop. In this final part, I go over the Child Centered Play Therapy Timeline, which maps to the four phases of therapy a child goes through in...
- 2022 / 6 / 98 | (Part 5 of 6) Foundations, Principles, and The “Four Pillars” of Child-Centered Play TherapyThis is the fifth of a six part series from a FAPT conference workshop. In this fifth part, I go over Skills & Techniques of Interaction, which include: The "4 Pillars" of Play Therapy, Reflecting Feelings,...
- 2022 / 6 / 87 | (Part 4 of 6) Foundations, Principles, and The “Four Pillars” of Child-Centered Play TherapyThis is the fourth of a six part series from a FAPT conference workshop. In this fourth part, I go over Applied Play Therapy, which includes: Be With Attitudes, Reflective Responding, "I Wonder" Statements,...
- 2022 / 6 / 76 | (Part 3 of 6) Foundations, Principles, and The “Four Pillars” of Child-Centered Play TherapyThis is the third of a six-part series from a FAPT conference workshop. In this third part, I go over the Foundations of Play Therapy: Core Beliefs of Play Therapy. The Foundations of Play Therapy are broken...
- 2022 / 6 / 65 | (Part 2 of 6) Foundations, Principles, and The “Four Pillars” of Child-Centered Play TherapyThis is the second of a six-part series from a FAPT conference workshop. In this second part, I review the Foundations of Play Therapy: Philosophy of Play Therapy. The Foundations of Play Therapy are broken...
- 2022 / 6 / 64 | (Part 1 of 6) Foundations, Principles, and The “Four Pillars” of Child-Centered Play TherapyThis is the first of a six part series from a FAPT conference workshop. These next six podcasts are a pre-cursor to the content in future episodes. In this first part, I give an introduction, tell my story...
- 2022 / 6 / 23 | Why Play Therapy?In this episode, I move from "Why Play?" into specifically why play therapy works so well for kids. I encourage you to get the book Child-Centered Play Therapy by Rise VanFleet, et al, as well as...
- 2022 / 6 / 22 | Why Play?In this episode we start with the fundamental question, why play? I know there may be seasoned play therapists that listen to this, but whether you are new to play therapy, or experienced, we start our...
- 2022 / 5 / 171 | Overview And Vision For The Play Therapy PodcastIn this first episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I talk about my vision for the podcast and where we will go along this journey together. Consider this podcast like a Masterclass of Child-Centered Play...