Lessons from the Playroom

Lisa Dion

The Synergetic Play Therapy Institute's "Lessons From the Playroom" Podcasts are a series of recorded podcasts designed to help therapists understand the little lessons that kids teach us that make a big difference in the play therapy process. Our podcast host, Lisa Dion, LPC, RPT-S, is an innovative and inspiring teacher and pioneer in play therapy. She founder and President of the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute and the creator of Synergetic Play Therapy, a cutting-edge model of play therapy that bridges the gap between neuroscience and psychology. Lisa teaches and supervises all over the world, helping transform the lives of thousands of therapists and children. With these podcasts, she'll teach you practical ways to transform both you and the child clients you work with. These inspiring educational lessons are sure to leave you feeling more confident and excited for your next session!

  1. 13h ago

    Little Lessons Series: Navigating the Teenage Terrain - Q&A with Lisa (Best of)

    Original air date: Oct 01, 2024 Lisa is back to answer more of your burning questions! And this time, we're diving deep into the world of teens, one of the most complex and rewarding populations to work with in the playroom.  In this episode, Lisa addresses 3 thought-provoking questions submitted by listeners, shedding light on adolescents' nuanced and sometimes perplexing behaviors. Karen asks: "What do you do when a teen doesn't want to engage or say anything?" Lisa explores multiple angles to approach this challenge and offers insights into how to keep the relational connection alive, even when words are few. Sorina wonders: "How do you handle it when tweens repeatedly ask when the session can be done or if they can be done with therapy (parent wants them in therapy)?" Lisa explores how to respond to these moments and how to create a space that aligns with a teen's unique needs and interests, even when those interests clash with their parents'. Mary asks: "What do you say when a 17-year-old autistic teen is showing you their video game. You don't understand something and you ask them a question. Their response is, 'That is the dumbest question anyone could ever ask'?" Lisa shares how to handle these tricky situations and turn them into opportunities for deeper understanding and connection, using key concepts from Synergetic Play Therapy. Join us for a rich discussion filled with insights, strategies, and reminders on how to connect with and support teens in a meaningful way.  *We appreciate your questions and encourage you to keep them coming! If you have a question or a scenario you'd like Lisa to discuss, email us at info@synergeticplaytherapy.com, or better yet, send an audio clip of your question. Your questions help us all grow and learn together in this beautiful journey of play therapy. Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

    26 min

  2. May 26

    Beyond Toys: Play Therapy Across Medical, Occupational, and Animal-Assisted Settings (Best of)

    Original air date: May 14, 2024 Lisa is joined by three remarkable professionals, Jacque Maben, Cara Smith, and Amy Pennington, to uncover the boundless potential of play therapy across various contexts and non-traditional mental health settings. This episode expands the definition of play beyond traditional toys to encompass movement, body experiences, and relational dynamics.  Meet our guests: Cara Smith, a Certified Child Life Specialist; Amy Pennington, an Occupational Therapist; and Jacque Maben, an Equine/Animal Assisted Therapist. Learn more about them below. In this episode, each guest infuses the principles of play therapy into their unique practices, resulting in a magical fusion of healing modalities.   Cara enlightens us on integrating play into medical settings, using it as a tool to alleviate stress and anxiety surrounding medical procedures. Amy brings play into the realm of occupational therapy, shedding light on how it aids in sensory processing and skill development. Jacque shares her insights into incorporating animals, particularly horses, into play therapy, emphasizing their authenticity and ability to provide a sense of safety. Discover how these professionals serve as external regulators, co-regulating with children toward trauma integration across various contexts. Tune in to explore the myriad forms of play and the transformative power it holds in diverse therapeutic practices, witnessing the beautiful unity that emerges when harnessing play therapy principles for healing in any setting.  Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

    52 min

  3. May 19

    Books as Bridges: Co-Regulation and Attachment through Bibliotherapy with Tammi Van Hollander (Best of)

    Original air date: September 3, 2024 Lisa welcomes Tammi Van Hollander, LCSW, RPT-S, to explore a transformative approach to bibliotherapy. Moving beyond the traditional view of books as cognitive tools, Tammi introduces us to using bibliotherapy as a means for co-regulation, attachment, and creating a sense of safety within the therapeutic space. Tammi, who was initially trained in client-centered play therapy, shares her journey of discovering the profound impact that books can have when used as co-regulators. Through her experiences and insights, she reveals how stories can extend beyond mere words, becoming powerful tools that facilitate deeper connections between children and their caregivers. Key Takeaways: Tammi's Journey with Bibliotherapy: How she discovered the power of books as a co-regulation tool. A Paradigm Shift: Using bibliotherapy from a "bottom-up" approach to support attachment, safety, and emotional regulation in children. Integrating Books into Play Therapy: Practical strategies for making books an extension of a child's play, fostering a more client-centered therapeutic experience. Engaging Kids Who Aren't Interested in Reading: Innovative ways to use books beyond just reading the words. Types of Bibliotherapy: Differentiating between developmental, therapeutic, and play-based bibliotherapy. Enhancing Parent-Child Relationships: How books can strengthen the bond between parents and children, addressing attachment and repair in relationships. Attunement and Trusting the Process: The importance of being present and attuned to the child, allowing books and other tools in the therapy space to facilitate healing naturally. *Check out Tammi's new book on Amazon, PESI website, or Tammi's website: The Bibliotherapy Toolbox: 100+ Creative and Playful Story-Based Interventions to Help Kids Create Safety, Overcome Challenges, and Build Resiliency. *Tammi Van Hollander, LCSW, RPT-S™, is a leading expert in attachment, sandtray play therapy, and sensory integration with over 25 years of experience. She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania and advanced training from the Family and Play Therapy Center in Philadelphia. Tammi is the author of Casey's Greatness Wings and The Bibliotherapy Toolkit, and she delivered a TEDx Talk, "Stories in the Sand: Healing Trauma, Anxiety, and Grief," in 2023. Connect with her on Instagram and Facebook. Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

    49 min

  4. May 12

    Little Lessons Series: Listener Q&A with Lisa (Best of)

    Original air date: August 20, 2024 In this episode, Lisa responds directly to your questions! And today, we have three fantastic questions from our listeners that Lisa will be answering. Jennifer asks: "What do you do if a child wants to bring food or their own toys into the session?"  Lisa gives insights and shares different ways to respond. She delves into the therapeutic function of foods and emphasizes the importance of including the child's toys in sessions, in line with Synergetic Play Therapy's philosophy. Sarah asks: "What do you do when a child lies or exaggerates their stories?" Lisa helps us understand why it's not about the specific details of the story and highlights what's more important when working with a child who lies or exaggerates. Jennifer asks: "How do you handle it if a child wants to show their caregiver something they created in the playroom?" Lisa discusses the larger question we need to consider first and then offers various ways to respond to different ways that this can play out. We have three amazing questions that came from YOU! Keep your questions coming and join us for an engaging and insightful episode that deepens your understanding of the little lessons children teach us in the playroom. If you would like to be part of the conversation (...because yes, we're going to keep doing these episodes), send your questions to Lisa at info@synergeticplaytherapy.com. Or even better, send us an audio of your question to share. 🙂 Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

    29 min

  5. May 5

    Creating Affirming Play Therapy Spaces for Transgender & Gender-Diverse Children with Jennifer Shivey (Best of)

    Original air date: June 24, 2024 In this episode Lisa welcomes Jennifer Shivey, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, and Approved Clinical Supervisor with a focus on supporting LGBTQ+ children and their families. Jennifer, who has personal experience as the mother of a transgender child, shares her journey and how it transformed her approach to creating safe and affirming play therapy spaces. You'll gain practical insights on inclusive practices, the importance of understanding evolving language around gender diversity, and how to support both children and their families through their journeys of self-discovery. Jennifer emphasizes the ethical responsibilities of therapists to engage in ongoing education and offers advice for those who may feel challenged by these conversations. This episode is a call to action for therapists to reflect on their practices, understand the profound impact of inclusive therapy, and ensure their playrooms are welcoming spaces for all children. Join us for this vital discussion and learn how you can make a difference in the lives of transgender and gender-diverse children. *Want to take a full 90-minute course on this very topic? Join Jen and other amazing presenters including Marshall Lyles, Val Bruno, and Jodi Mullen for the upcoming Play It Forward: Elevating Play Therapy through Education and Service. This one-day virtual summit on July 25th, 2024 is designed to empower therapists while support play therapy training scholarships awarded through the Synergetic Play Therapy Foundation (....yes, every dollar of your registration). Learn about reflections and reflective functioning in Sandtray therapy with Marshall Lyles. Val Bruno will guide you with navigating legal processes as a play therapist. Jodi Mullen will offer insight into play therapy with sexually traumatized children. And Jennifer Shivey will help you to create an affirming play therapy space for transgender and gender-diverse children and their families. Secure your spot today! 🌟 Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

    48 min

  6. Apr 28

    Vision, Momentum, & Mastering the Business of Therapy with Lisa and Jen Taylor (Best of)

    "Your fear will always be the ceiling of your innovation." – Lisa Dion In this special post New Year's episode, Lisa is joined by Jen Taylor, therapist, educator, and mastermind behind Jen Taylor Productions. Together, they kick off the first month of 2025 with an inspiring conversation about goal-setting, vision, and how therapists can master the business side of their practice to create greater impact. Lisa and Jen dive into: The psychology of setting congruent goals that align with your values and what inspires you the most. Why "fantasy goals" often fail and how to replace them with actionable, meaningful ones. The critical difference between resolutions and sustainable visions for growth. How to manage fear and navigate challenges as a therapist and entrepreneur. A behind-the-scenes look at Lisa's Business of Therapy course, which blends strategic planning with emotional and psychological insights to help therapists succeed. This episode will leave you inspired and ready to tackle this coming year with a clear vision and renewed energy. Whether you're looking to build your private practice, expand your offerings, or simply align your goals with what inspires you, this conversation offers practical tools and heartfelt wisdom. Resources Mentioned: The Business of Therapy Course: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/business-of-therapy/  *Original Air Date:  Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

    48 min

  7. Apr 21

    Little Lessons Series: Authenticity in the Playroom – Q&A with Lisa (Best of)

    Lisa is back with another episode of the Little Lessons Series, where she answers your insightful questions about the complexities of working in the playroom. In this episode, Lisa dives deep into the theme of authenticity and how it plays a critical role in the therapist-client dynamic. Tune in as Lisa responds to 3 thought-provoking listener questions, exploring how to stay genuine and present when navigating imaginative play, emotional congruence, and handling personal questions from clients. In this episode, you'll hear: Carolyn's question: "When doing imagination play and a client assigns you a role, how do you play that role? I'm often asked to be a child and the client is the adult. I find I respond as the "child" in ways that either surprise my client or I'm given the exact lines and actions to portray. My version of the authentic child when I'm improvising without lines isn't always what the client expects, nor is it always the ideal example because I usually play what I would have felt/said/done as a child and wait for guidance from my client. Hmmm?" Lisa breaks down how to stay in the moment and respond from a place of genuineness and presence while allowing the child to lead. An anonymous listener asks: Please elaborate on the statement you (Lisa) made: "I have never seen a child damaged because the therapist was real. However, I have seen children who never deeply connected to their therapist and didn't go as deep as they could have gone because their therapist was too scared to share and express their authentic experience congruently." Lisa discusses how emotional congruence builds trust and safety, and why being authentic helps children connect more deeply in therapy. Patricia's question: "How do you handle personal questions from a child in session?" Lisa explains how to navigate personal inquiries while staying attuned to the therapeutic goals and the child's unique needs. Join Lisa for a rich, reflective conversation that offers practical insights for therapists looking to deepen their authenticity and connection in the playroom. *We love hearing from you! Have a question or scenario for Lisa to discuss? Send your questions to info@synergeticplaytherapy.com or submit an audio clip. Your questions inspire meaningful growth and learning for all of us. *Original Air Date: October 28, 2024 Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

    28 min

  8. Apr 14

    Back to Our Roots: A Deep Dive into Experiential Play Therapy with Nilüfer Devecigil (Best of)

    In this special episode, Lisa reconnects with a long-time colleague, Nilüfer Devecigil, who joins her from Turkey. Nilüfer completed her master's degree in psychology in the US and worked closely with Byron and Carol Norton, the pioneers of Experiential Play Therapy. She's also the lead teacher for Experiential Play Therapy in Turkey. With extensive experience in attachment parenting and trauma healing, Nilüfer currently practices as a play therapist for young children and an attachment parenting therapist for pregnant women and new mothers. Listeners, you might not know that Experiential Play Therapy is one of the foundational models that influenced Synergetic Play Therapy. This conversation feels like we're going back to our roots a bit. Episode Highlights: Lisa and Nilüfer's Journey: Discover how Lisa and Nilüfer met over 20 years ago, learning Experiential Play Therapy together. Foundations of Experiential Play Therapy: Understand the philosophy and humanistic approach championed by Byron and Carol Norton. Parent Involvement: Learn how parents are integrally involved in the therapeutic process, making it very relational. Unique Aspects of Experiential Play Therapy: Explore what sets this modality apart, including the five stages of the therapeutic process and the use of themes and metaphors in play. Active Participation in Play: Lisa shares her appreciation for the unique aspect of experiencing play alongside the child, fully engaging in the roles assigned by the child. Healing Through Play: Hear how parents heal alongside their children through this model of play therapy. Framework and Personal Focus: Discover how Nilüfer integrates her focus on attachment and relational work within the framework of Experiential Play Therapy. Double Awareness in Play Therapy: Learn about the concept of dual or "double awareness" and its significance for both child clients and therapists. Therapist's Own Work: Hear why it's so important for us as therapists to do our own therapeutic work. Experience Experiential Play Therapy through numerous examples and stories of how it works with child clients and their parents. Join us for an enlightening conversation that takes us back to the roots of Synergetic Play Therapy and gives a beautiful overview of this impactful therapeutic approach.  If you would like to connect with Nilüfer Devecigil, follow her on her Instagram page here.  *Original Air Date: August 6, 2024 Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

    45 min
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4.9
out of 5
124 Ratings

About

The Synergetic Play Therapy Institute's "Lessons From the Playroom" Podcasts are a series of recorded podcasts designed to help therapists understand the little lessons that kids teach us that make a big difference in the play therapy process. Our podcast host, Lisa Dion, LPC, RPT-S, is an innovative and inspiring teacher and pioneer in play therapy. She founder and President of the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute and the creator of Synergetic Play Therapy, a cutting-edge model of play therapy that bridges the gap between neuroscience and psychology. Lisa teaches and supervises all over the world, helping transform the lives of thousands of therapists and children. With these podcasts, she'll teach you practical ways to transform both you and the child clients you work with. These inspiring educational lessons are sure to leave you feeling more confident and excited for your next session!

Information

  • Creator
    Lisa Dion
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    329
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2015...2024 Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
  • Show Website
    Lessons from the Playroom

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