139. Dr. Robert Jason Grant: AutPlay Therapy - Working with Neurodivergent Children & their Families

Dr. Robert Jason Grant, creator of AutPlay Therapy joins Lisa to discuss AutPlay Therapy as an integrative family play therapy approach designed to address the mental health needs of neurodivergent children and their families.  Robert Jason Grant is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Consultant, Trainer, and Neurodiversity Advocate. Robert has a deep understanding of sensory differences, Autism, ADHD, implementing play therapy with groups and play therapy theories.  His development of AutPlay Therapy provides therapists with a play therapy approach that addresses the mental health needs of neurodivergent children and their families. Listen as Robert shares his practical experiences and insight to help therapists understand the importance of “play preferences” to respect a child’s presentation and how therapists can make play therapy a safe space for neurodivergent and neurotypical clients. Plus you’ll learn … How and why Robert developed AutPlay® Therapy and how you can incorporate it into your practice working with kids with sensory issues; A definition of neurodivergence and the connection between neurodivergent and neurotypical;  What the Neurodiversity Paradigm is and how to put it into practice;  How to help a child feel seen, and treated with love and respect at a deeper level; and How to incorporate more neurodiversity affirming practices and principles into your therapeutic practice. This special episode touches on many amazing topics that you’ll find valuable and will help you grow as a therapist to support this misunderstood population to address their mental health needs. And you’ll feel Robert’s love, compassion and empathy for his clients that are neurodivergent and neurotypical - just beautiful!  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.