Podcast Episodes
When a Child Falls Asleep in Play Therapy: Trusting the CCPT Process
In 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 of trusting the process in CCPT, recognizing when a child is...
Adulthood Bias: The Barrier to Parents Understanding Children’s Behavior
In 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 adults to assume that children should think, reason, and...
When You and the Child Don’t Speak the Same Language in CCPT
In 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 interaction is a key part of the process. I explain how both...
Think You’re an Independent Contractor? You Might Not Be. Know the Difference Between Independent Contractor Vs. Employee Categorization
In 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 subcontractors and employees in private practice. Many therapists find...
Fighting for CCPT: How to Advocate for Child-Centered Play Therapy in Sexual Abuse Cases and Trauma Work
In 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 toward directive interventions, often dismissing CCPT. However,...
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 these more advanced skills, emphasizing that enlargement...
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 therapist in the UK. She beautifully captures what it truly means...
Clear Policies + Systems = Happy Clients: Managing Cancellations, No-Shows, and Expectations
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...
House-Tree-Person in CCPT: Why I Use It and How It Helps
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...
Mastering Neutrality: Foundations for Neutrality in Child-Centered Play Therapy
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,...
Navigating Tough Conversations with Parents in CCPT
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...
Early Termination, Rewards, and Night Terrors: Q&A Addressing Unique Playroom Challenges
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...
Mastering Neutrality: Letting Go of Control and Embracing True Neutrality in the Playroom
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...
Jan. 3rd Live Event – Q & A Session
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...
Theoretical Consistency: Avoiding Burnout When Working with All Ages
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...