346 | What to Do When the Child Dictates the Session and Controls the Dialogue

Episode summary

In this episode, I respond to a question from Lungile, a clinician in South Africa working with a 9-year-old girl who engages in highly directive role play—assigning roles, limiting dialogue, and scripting the session. When sessions become this structured, how do we remain faithful to the CCPT model, especially when reflective responses are limited?

I talk through what it looks like to stay within the model even when you feel like you're not "doing enough." I also share some practical ideas for subtly integrating reflective responses into role play scenarios—even when you're given a script—so that the child still experiences attunement and emotional presence. If you've ever wondered how to navigate sessions where you're limited in what you can say, this episode will give you clarity and reassurance.