Podcast Episodes
Q&A Lightning Round: 7 Questions From Listeners Answered
In 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 Virginia - Length of sessions - Katarina - Hugging, terminating...
Unpacking Play Therapy Themes: A Key to Effective Parent Engagement
In 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 documenting themes in therapy sessions is not just for the...
Sexual Curiosity Theme in Play Therapy
In 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 children may have regarding body parts and sexual exploration...
Sexual Talk Theme in Play Therapy
In 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 both the child and the therapist. Sexual talk includes...
Why Child-Centered Play Therapy Works for Every Child: The Evidence to Navigate Skepticism
In 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 work and the effectiveness of the child-centered model....
Sexual Behaviors Directed At The Therapist Theme In Play Therapy
In 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 exhibitionism or attempts to view the therapist's body. I...
SMART Goals and Child-Centered Play Therapy: How to Bridge the Gap in a School Setting
In 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, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. Emery highlights...
Sexualized Activity Theme In Play Therapy
In 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 play sessions. I emphasize the need for careful interpretation...
Toy Takers!: Setting Limits On Children Taking Toys Home
In 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 but respects the limit. I explain that children often want...
Failure Theme In Play Therapy
In 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 previous episode. Failure play can be linked to issues such as...
Tackling “Boredom”: Exploring the Deeper Meanings Behind a Child Saying That Play Therapy Is Boring
In this episode, I respond to a question from Yanna in Massachusetts about how to handle a child who says play therapy is boring. Yana also expressed feeling hurt when the client seemed excited that their next session was canceled after seven months of therapy for...
Mastery/Competence Play Theme In Play Therapy
In 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 these types of play, like building, stacking, or balancing,...
Hugs And I Love You’s: Responding to Children’s Affection
In 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 when children express love or seek hugs during therapy...
Exploratory Theme in Play Therapy
In 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 work with children and families. Today, we delve into the...
To Clean or Not to Clean: The Role of Playroom Cleanup in Child-Centered Play Therapy
In 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 regarding this aspect. I highlighted my approach, established...