Play Therapy Podcast

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Theodore in the UK, who is preparing his playroom and wondering about incorporating games like Jenga and card games into child-centered play therapy. Theodore asks how to balance allowing children to lead the game while still playing "for real." I discuss the importance of letting children set the rules, even if they differ from the traditional way the game is played, and how to follow their lead without imposing any expectations or predetermined structure.

I explain that when children create their own rules, they are playing "for real" in their minds. The key is to follow their cues and let them decide what "real" looks like in that moment. I also provide guidance on handling situations when a child may want to play a game by the traditional rules, as well as how to navigate moments when the child gets frustrated or confused about game rules. Ultimately, it's about maintaining the child-centered approach, allowing the child to be in control, and using "I wonder" statements to gather information about how the child wants to play.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Kira in Texas about children who come into the playroom and do not play. Kira wonders if this behavior could be related to excessive screen use, a topic that resonates deeply with me. While screen time is likely a contributing factor, I explain that there are many other reasons why a child may not engage in play during sessions. High levels of anxiety, learned helplessness, or a lack of creativity and imagination could all contribute to a child's hesitancy to play.

I emphasize the importance of reflecting the child’s feelings, returning responsibility for the play choices to them, and being patient. Children often need time to warm up, especially when they feel anxious or uncertain in a new environment. Over time, every child will eventually engage in play at their own pace. Trusting the child, the process, and allowing them the freedom to choose how and when they play are key principles in child-centered play therapy.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to three insightful questions from Texie in Michigan. She asks about managing aggressive play where a child consistently "kills" her in the playroom, handling what to do when the therapist is "dead," and transitioning children from directive therapy into child-centered play therapy. I break down each question, offering practical guidance for therapists navigating similar challenges in their sessions.

For the first question, I discuss the importance of understanding the deeper themes behind aggressive play and how we, as therapists, should follow the limit setting criteria. Texie's example of good guy versus bad guy play is a powerful theme, and I emphasize the significance of not interfering with this processing work unless it violates our personal boundaries.

Regarding the second question about being “dead” in the playroom, I highlight that therapists should continue engaging with the child, even if they’ve been "killed," unless the child explicitly tells them to remain silent. 

Lastly, I provide a step-by-step approach to transitioning children from directive therapy to CCPT, ensuring parents are on board and helping children adjust to the new approach where they are in charge of the play.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

In this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I explore a common misinterpretation in child-centered play therapy: assuming that aggression in a child’s play is rooted in anger. While aggression may appear linked to anger, it’s essential not to make that assumption unless the child explicitly communicates it verbally or through non-verbal cues. I dive into the various reasons behind aggressive play—such as seeking power and control, releasing anxiety, or enacting justice—and explain why therapists should carefully assess the root cause before reflecting emotions.

I offer practical guidance on how to track behavior when unsure of the emotional root, ensuring therapists don’t default to labeling it as anger. By taking a moment to analyze the child’s behavior and the themes present, we can make more accurate emotional reflections and deepen the therapeutic process. This episode challenges us to move beyond surface-level assumptions and truly understand the underlying emotions in aggressive play.

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer three insightful questions from Grace in California, covering topics from book recommendations for counselors who are Christian to navigating the first session with a new client. I share two of my favorite books, Jesus CEO and Jesus Prom, both of which have significantly influenced my work as a counselor. These books highlight the importance of leadership and love in our profession, especially when engaging with children and their families.

I also address how to approach the first play therapy session.   Lastly, I discuss how to assess for potential child abuse, including strategies for making non-directive observations of physical marks like bruises, while maintaining the integrity of the child-centered play therapy model.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Nada in Texas about working with a six-year-old boy who is fascinated with "Bad Guys" behavior in his play. The child often portrays himself as a bully or a criminal in both his drawings and role play, which has raised concerns for his parents about the social implications and his future behavior. Nada asked whether it’s appropriate to encourage this type of play or whether it should be redirected, as well as whether introducing themed toys, like police or criminal kits, would be helpful.

I explain that playing out "good vs. bad" themes is a healthy part of child development, especially for children who may feel powerless in their everyday lives. Children often adopt "bad guy" personas because it gives them a sense of power and control. I caution against parents actively trying to facilitate or direct this type of play at home, as children typically work through these feelings in the playroom. Instead, I suggest supporting the child’s growing identity by fostering his interests in activities that boost his confidence and self-esteem, while providing a space where he can freely express his emotions and work through feelings of powerlessness.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Laura in Washington about whether child-centered play therapy (CCPT) can be effectively conducted via telehealth. As telehealth becomes more common, this question has surfaced repeatedly, especially for younger clients. Laura’s situation involves an 11-year-old who may only be able to meet virtually.

I share my experience from when COVID-19 forced us to move sessions online and how we managed to stay connected with families through Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT). I explain why traditional CCPT is challenging to implement over telehealth and the importance of maintaining in-person play therapy to ensure the effectiveness of treatment. I also offer suggestions on how to advocate for in-person sessions, set clear boundaries, and provide parents with the "why" behind the need for face-to-face interactions in the playroom.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

First things first... If you are planning on going to the Oct. 2024 APT Conference in Atlanta, GA, and would like to attend the Play Therapy Podcast meetup, please click the link: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com/meetup.     I need to know how many are coming so I can plan for the venue.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Judith in Michigan about working with a child who refuses to play in the playroom. This is a common concern among play therapists, especially when working with children who crave structure and find it challenging to engage in free play. I discuss the pitfalls of mixing directive and non-directive approaches, which can create confusion and hinder progress for the child.

I explain how children who resist play often exhibit high levels of anxiety and need time to feel comfortable in the playroom. By reflecting their feelings and being patient, we allow them to work through their discomfort at their own pace. I also touch on how children gravitate towards activities that feel safe, such as arts and crafts, and how our role is to create a space where they can explore their choices freely. This episode dives into trusting the CCPT process, letting go of interventions, and fully embracing the child-centered approach.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

In this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss a common habit in the playroom: saying "thank you" to children. While it might seem polite and appropriate in everyday conversations, thanking a child during a child-centered play therapy session can inadvertently shift the dynamics of the relationship. I explore how saying "thank you" can communicate conditional acceptance, suggesting that the child has pleased the therapist, which can unintentionally reinforce people-pleasing behaviors and perfectionism.

Instead of saying "thank you," I suggest focusing on tracking the child's choices with statements like, "You chose to give me the sword," or "You chose to clean up." This approach reinforces the child's sense of agency and keeps the focus on their actions and decisions rather than the therapist's approval. By being mindful of our language, we can support the child’s intrinsic motivation and maintain the child-centered nature of the playroom.

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Linae in Colorado, who is working with a child that refuses to make choices during sessions. This is a common issue, as children often struggle with power and control, anxiety, or both, which can lead to resistance in making decisions. I explore how to identify the root cause of this behavior and offer strategies for reflecting feelings, narrating the situation, and using a subtle technique to return responsibility to the child without directly forcing a choice.

I also discuss the importance of reflecting on the underlying reasons for the child's discomfort with decision-making. Whether it’s due to a lack of practice in making choices or an attempt to avoid the consequences that come with decision-making, understanding these motives can guide us in supporting the child through this process. This episode is packed with practical tips and a helpful "ninja trick" for therapists when navigating similar scenarios in their play therapy sessions.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common 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. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). 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.