The Trainee Play Therapist Diaries

Sarah
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Hello, I’m Sarah — thanks for being here! I’m currently training as a play therapist in the UK, working towards my diploma, and I’ve set up this space to share the real-life journey of becoming a therapist. From essays and placements to supervision and the emotional ups and downs, I’ll be sharing honest reflections along the way. The Trainee Play Therapist Diaries is for anyone training, thinking about training, or simply curious about the world of play therapy. You’re very welcome here.

  1. 6D AGO

    The Power of Reflection

    Today’s episode explores the power of reflection in the playroom why we use it, how it supports children therapeutically and its impact. I also share my own experiences of using reflection, including what I’ve learned along the way and some of the common stumbling blocks I’ve encountered as a trainee play therapist.

    18 min

  2. JAN 29

    Directive and Non Directive Practice- What Does it all mean?

    Today’s episode is something I’ve been thinking about lot about lately. I delve a little deeper into my own beliefs and discuss how these different strategies work in the playroom, when to use them and how I feel about working in different ways. I’d love to know how you feel about working in the directive and non-directive and how it has affected your practice.

    17 min

  3. JAN 22

    From Trainee to Sole Trader: The First Steps

    🧾 In today’s episode I describe some of the things I am currently doing to become a working Play Therapist. Taking those first steps into the world of the self employed can be confusing and a bit daunting! Taxes, websites, contracts, policies, the list goes on 😵‍💫 I hope listening to my process can help you with yours 😊

    26 min

  4. JAN 14

    Getting Paid Work as a Trainee Therapist - is it possible?

    In this episode I wade through some of the grey areas when it comes to gaining paid employment as a trainee. Yes, it is possible! I discuss the correct protocol, being ethical with your work and the process I have been through, to hopefully give you a clearer idea of what we are allowed to do as trainees and best practice. If you’re approaching this stage at your journey give it a listen 🎧

    16 min

  5. JAN 7

    What This Year Has Taught Me As A Trainee Play Therapist

    This week’s episode is a reflection about what this year has taught me as a trainee play therapist. The mistakes I’ve made, the doubts that have plagued me and the learning I’m taking forward into the year ahead.

    19 min

  6. 12/17/2025

    The Trainee Play Therapist Christmas Wishlist…

    🎄 This week’s episode is a Christmas special for trainee play therapists who are crawling to the end of term, slightly over-caffeinated, emotionally full and wondering how to get through the rest of December. In the words of Mariah 🎶 All I Want for Christmas is… less deadlines, more toys (!), less imposter syndrome and more me time 😂 Have a listen while you’re wrapping presents, avoiding assignments, or hiding from everyone for five minutes. You’re doing better than you think and you’re very welcome here ❤️

    15 min

  7. 12/10/2025

    A Beginner’s Guide To The Play Therapy Toolkit

    A Beginner’s Guide to the Play Therapy Toolkit In this episode of The Trainee Play Therapist Diaries, I’m opening up my toolkit and taking you behind the scenes of what I use in the playroom — and why it matters. I’m sharing: 🎨 What a play therapy toolkit actually is 📚 Where I got mine and how it’s grown over time 🐻 My most-used tools (and my personal favourites!) and least used. Whether you’re a trainee, a therapist in practice, or just curious about the magic of play therapy this episode is full of insight, warmth and practical tips.

    23 min

  8. 12/04/2025

    How My Parenting Has Changed Since Starting Play Therapy Training

    In this episode, I talk honestly about the ways play therapy training has influenced my parenting. I share how I’m learning to slow down, listen more and really think about what might be behind my children’s behaviour as well as the guilt and reflection that’s come with looking back at how I used to parent. I also speak about the reality of it all: I’m still busy, still human and I definitely don’t get it right every day. If you’re interested in how therapeutic training can shape everyday family life, this episode might resonate. 💛🌈

    18 min
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About

Hello, I’m Sarah — thanks for being here! I’m currently training as a play therapist in the UK, working towards my diploma, and I’ve set up this space to share the real-life journey of becoming a therapist. From essays and placements to supervision and the emotional ups and downs, I’ll be sharing honest reflections along the way. The Trainee Play Therapist Diaries is for anyone training, thinking about training, or simply curious about the world of play therapy. You’re very welcome here.

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