Integrating CCPT Principles into Child-Led Educational Settings

Jan 8, 2025

In 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 preschool setting, how to provide therapeutic benefits without formal one-on-one play therapy, and whether mindfulness and social-emotional learning (SEL) activities are beneficial. I explain how CCPT principles can seamlessly blend into child-led educational environments, benefiting all children, not just those in therapy.

I also dive into the pitfalls of agenda-driven activities like emotion charts and breathing activities, explaining why these often reflect adult priorities rather than children’s developmental needs. By trusting the CCPT process and allowing children the time, tools, and relationship they need, we can foster their self-actualization without imposing unnecessary burdens. This episode is packed with practical insights for educators and therapists alike.

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References:

Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G. L. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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