Play Therapy Podcast

Jan 30 2025 263 ep. 17 mins 28
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Your source for centered and focused Play Therapy coaching. All content, no fluff.

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Clear Policies + Systems = Happy Clients: Managing Cancellations, No-Shows, and Expectations

Jan 30 2025 14 mins  
In 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 to provide an exceptional experience for families while also maintaining clear policies that support our work. I discuss how policies and systems creates clarity and prevents

House-Tree-Person in CCPT: Why I Use It and How It Helps

Jan 29 2025 10 mins  
In 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 first introduced to HTP in graduate school and why I believe it aligns well with the child-centered play therapy (CCPT) model. While assessments aren’t required for CCPT, I exp

Mastering Neutrality: Foundations for Neutrality in Child-Centered Play Therapy

Jan 28 2025 19 mins  
In 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 neutrality into four key principles: not taking sides, withholding judgment, allowing children to solve their own problems, and embodying deep empathy. I explain how these elements

Navigating Tough Conversations with Parents in CCPT

Jan 23 2025 19 mins  
In 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 with parents when their responses to their child’s anxiety inadvertently reinforce the behavior they’re trying to address—like avoiding school due to weather-related fea

Early Termination, Rewards, and Night Terrors: Q&A Addressing Unique Playroom Challenges

Jan 22 2025 15 mins  
In 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 experiencing night terrors. I share guidance on managing early terminations, including setting limits and maintaining neutrality when faced with aggression directed at the therapis

Mastering Neutrality: Letting Go of Control and Embracing True Neutrality in the Playroom

Jan 21 2025 12 mins  
In 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 aside our personal feelings, agendas, and control to fully accept and support the child’s process. I discuss how true neutrality means honoring the child’s emotions and b

Jan. 3rd Live Event - Q & A Session

Jan 16 2025 37 mins  
In 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 covered a wide range of topics, including how to ethically document CCPT for older clients who primarily engage through conversation, strategies for addressing parentification i

Theoretical Consistency: Avoiding Burnout When Working with All Ages

Jan 15 2025 9 mins  
In 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 from a wholly person-centered approach for older teens and adults. Since CCPT is rooted in Carl Rogers' person-centered theory, the core principles—reflecting feelings, providi

Mastering Neutrality: Practicing Neutrality Means Letting Go of Expectations, Not Emotions

Jan 14 2025 20 mins  
In 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 emotional responses while avoiding expectations that could pressure or influence a child. I share real-life examples and listener questions that highlight the delicate line b

From Cutting to Conversations: Handling Safety Concerns in CCPT

Jan 09 2025 11 mins  
In 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 approach such sensitive issues within the child-centered play therapy (CCPT) model, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the framework while addressing safety concerns. I dis