Lessons from the Playroom
The Synergetic Play Therapy Institute’s “Lessons From the Playroom” podcast is a series of audio and video recordings heard in over 150 countries. Every other week, Lisa shares her wisdom or is joined by special guests to explore some of the little lessons kids teach us that make a big difference in the play therapy process and offer ways to transform both you and the clients that you work with. Transform you, your child(ren) and your child clients from the inside out! This podcast is for mental health professionals, those in related roles (e.g., child life specialists, school counselors, occupational therapists, coaches, etc.), and parents/caregivers. Lisa Dion, LPC, RPT-S, is an international teacher, creator of Synergetic Play Therapy, founder and President of the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute, co-founder of the Synergetic Education Institute, creator of the Business of Therapy and host of the Lessons from the Playroom podcast. She is the author of Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach for Integrating Intensity.
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Why Negative Self-Talk Isn’t the Enemy (Best Of)
11/18/2025
Why Negative Self-Talk Isn’t the Enemy (Best Of)
Original Air Date: November 7, 2023 Join Lisa Dion as she dives into a topic we all experience—therapists, parents, children—negative self-talk. Despite the countless affirmations we try, negative self-talk refuses to go away. But what if it wasn’t meant to? In this perspective-shifting episode, Lisa explores the purpose behind negative self-talk and how it can actually support us. What You’ll Learn: How negative self-talk shows up in thoughts like “I should,” “I shouldn’t,” and “I’m not good enough” Why positive affirmations alone often don’t work The surprising function of negative self-talk and what it’s really trying to do The neuroscience behind it as a homeostatic mechanism in the mind Shifts in understanding depression and the role of negative self-talk Strategies to honor yourself while working with your inner critic How negative self-talk can become an ally in your journey toward authenticity Tune in to gain a new perspective on your inner dialogue and discover how understanding negative self-talk can help you navigate life with wisdom, self-compassion, and authenticity. 💕 Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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The Clients We Attract: Mirrors for Therapist Growth (Best Of)
11/11/2025
The Clients We Attract: Mirrors for Therapist Growth (Best Of)
Original Air Date: October 24, 2023 In this captivating episode, Lisa Dion is joined by three incredible colleagues—Michelle Wayman, Mili Shoemaker, and Lisa Walton—from Argentina, Australia, and the United States. Together, they explore a fascinating question: why do therapists attract the clients they do? Have you noticed patterns in your caseload, with clients showing up who reflect similar struggles or challenges? Lisa and her guests dive into how these connections are far from random. Clients often act as mirrors, reflecting parts of our own experiences and guiding us toward self-discovery and growth. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why the clients who enter our therapy spaces are not random and what they reveal about our own journeys How clients serve as teachers, mirroring experiences we might be avoiding or haven’t yet integrated Why countertransference can be embraced as a tool for deeper understanding and connection How awareness of these patterns can transform your practice, infusing it with curiosity, self-awareness, and deeper opportunities for co-regulation and healing This episode is a heartfelt reminder that clients are more than recipients of therapy—they are guides and mirrors helping us illuminate where we need to grow, heal, and show up more fully. Tune in to explore how understanding these connections can enrich both your professional practice and personal journey. 💕 Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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Nurturing Your Brain and Your Inspiration as a Play Therapist (Best Of)
11/04/2025
Nurturing Your Brain and Your Inspiration as a Play Therapist (Best Of)
The brain is a high-maintenance organ—and it thrives on challenge! In this episode, Lisa Dion explores how play therapists can stay energized, inspired, and fulfilled by giving the brain the growth it craves while also giving ourselves permission to be authentically ourselves. “We all have deep within us the desire to pursue something that inspires us. We have a natural desire to evolve and grow.” – Lisa Dion Tune in to discover practical ways to honor your brain’s need for growth, embrace what excites you, and stay connected to what drew you to play therapy in the first place. This episode is a reminder that personal evolution and professional fulfillment go hand in hand. Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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Supporting Children Through Suicidal Thoughts: Insights for Caregivers and Therapists (Best Of)
10/28/2025
Supporting Children Through Suicidal Thoughts: Insights for Caregivers and Therapists (Best Of)
Original Air Date: October 10, 2023 In this powerful episode, Lisa Dion is joined by the incredible Heather Fairlee Denbrough—Certified Synergetic Play Therapist/Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor—to tackle one of the most challenging and important topics in child therapy: supporting children experiencing suicidal ideation or attempts. This conversation is an essential resource for caregivers and professionals alike. Lisa and Heather offer practical guidance, hope, and strategies to help children navigate these overwhelming experiences safely and compassionately. What You’ll Learn: How to recognize subtle signs of suicidal thoughts in children Creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for children to share their feelings Using play as a tool for children to explore and shift their stories Developing safety plans with children and caregivers, identifying triggers and red flags Facilitating open conversations about suicidal ideation with children and families Prioritizing therapist self-care and maintaining emotional safety in difficult sessions Accessing support networks and resources for challenging situations Join Lisa and Heather for this crucial conversation that emphasizes empathy, connection, and compassion when supporting children through some of life’s most difficult moments. ❤️ Note: This episode is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice. Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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Broken Toys and Other Hidden Messages in Play (Best Of)
10/21/2025
Broken Toys and Other Hidden Messages in Play (Best Of)
Original Air Date: September 19, 2019 “Broken toys may be a metaphor for how children see themselves.” – Lisa Dion In this episode, Lisa tackles the “little” questions that often carry big meaning in the playroom. What do you do with broken toys? How should you handle food, lying, or a child wanting to take a toy home? Each situation offers insight into a child’s inner world and an opportunity for connection, growth, and understanding. Tune in as Lisa shares practical strategies and thoughtful reflections to turn everyday playroom moments into meaningful learning experiences. Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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Honoring Boundaries as an Act of Self-Love & Worthiness (Best Of)
10/14/2025
Honoring Boundaries as an Act of Self-Love & Worthiness (Best Of)
Often, when we think about boundaries, we imagine a list of rules and restrictions like: you can’t do this, you can do this, and if you don’t do this, this is going to happen. But this isn’t actually the essence of a boundary and it’s not what the boundary is designed for. Setting boundaries is actually a courageous act that requires self-awareness and self-love. It's about prioritizing your own well-being and honoring your own needs. And by understanding the importance of boundaries, we can navigate relationships and maintain our connection to ourselves. Join Lisa in this episode where you’re invited to embrace a more flexible approach to boundaries … but we get it - even the words "flexible" and "boundary" may seem contradictory to you right now. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why boundaries are flexible and can change from moment to moment; How setting boundaries is about taking responsibility for ourselves, not controlling others; How to recognize the clues (in our bodies) that tell us when it’s time to set a boundary; Why nervous system work is essential for boundary work; Different ways to set boundaries, such as redirecting, being honest, or removing oneself from the situation; Why rejection often makes setting boundaries challenging (... and when we don’t set a boundary, how it’s a form of self-rejection); Why sometimes perceived deal breakers aren’t actually deal breakers; and How to translate this more relational-boundary setting into our work as clinicians. Tune in to this episode and discover how honoring your boundaries not only allows for connection and maintains relationships, but is a deep act of self-love and acknowledgement of your own worthiness. ✨ Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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Multiculturalism in Play Therapy with Dr. Dee Ray (Best Of)
10/07/2025
Multiculturalism in Play Therapy with Dr. Dee Ray (Best Of)
Original Air Date: July 30, 2023 In this deeply insightful episode, Lisa Dion is joined by Dr. Dee Ray, an expert in the field of multicultural play therapy, to discuss an incredibly important and timely topic for every play therapist: Multiculturalism in Play Therapy. If you don’t already own Dee’s book, Multicultural Play Therapy, you’ll definitely want to grab a copy after listening to this conversation—it’s an essential resource for therapists working with children! In this episode, you’ll hear Dr. Ray’s wisdom on how to integrate multiculturalism into your play therapy practice to connect more deeply with your clients from diverse backgrounds. In this episode, you’ll learn: 🌎 What multicultural play therapy is—and what it means to be a culturally-inclusive play therapist. 🤝 Cultural humility—How cultural humility is the cornerstone of creating cultural opportunity in therapy. ⛔ Barriers and fears—Identifying and addressing barriers that prevent us from fully connecting with ourselves and our child clients. 🔨 Repairing ruptures—What to do when a rupture occurs in the therapeutic relationship and how to use cultural humility and cultural comfort to bring about cultural opportunity. 👨👩👧 Working with families—How to develop a more multicultural orientation when working within the family system and with parents/caregivers. 📚 Multicultural playroom—What research says about creating a multicultural playroom and how to incorporate multiculturalism into your play therapy room. This episode is a must-listen for all clinicians, especially those working with children from diverse backgrounds. Dr. Ray offers practical insights and advice on how we can be more culturally aware and inclusive in our work as play therapists. Don’t miss this important conversation that will inspire you to bring multiculturalism more consciously into your practice and to create an environment where all children feel seen, understood, and valued. 🌟 Listen now and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from learning about multiculturalism in play therapy. Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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Perfectionism in the Playroom: What’s Really Going On Beneath the Surface? (Best Of)
09/30/2025
Perfectionism in the Playroom: What’s Really Going On Beneath the Surface? (Best Of)
"Perfectionism is the strategy the child is using to manage their anxiety and fear." – Lisa Dion That child who needs everything just right? Who gets upset when the block tower falls or the drawing isn't “perfect”? There’s more going on than meets the eye. In this episode, Lisa unpacks the deeper truth behind perfectionism in the playroom—and why it’s not just about wanting to do things well. At its core, perfectionism is often a protective strategy, a way for a child to manage inner uncertainty, fear, and anxiety. You’ll learn how to recognize the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways perfectionism shows up in your sessions, and most importantly, how to help children return to themselves—to a place of safety, self-trust, and inner regulation. This episode is a beautiful reminder: we don’t have to “fix” perfectionism—we just have to meet it with presence. Original Air Date: November 22, 2019
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Understanding and Working with Deaf Children in the Playroom | Gabriel Lomas (Best Of)
09/23/2025
Understanding and Working with Deaf Children in the Playroom | Gabriel Lomas (Best Of)
In this groundbreaking episode, Lisa is joined by Gabriel (Gabe) Lomas, an expert in the field of play therapy, to address a topic rarely discussed in the world of therapy: working with deaf children in the playroom. This episode offers a unique and insightful perspective that will deepen your understanding and approach to supporting children who are deaf. In this episode, Gabe shares his expertise on the challenges and nuances of working with deaf children in therapy, helping to shine a light on an often misunderstood and overlooked aspect of play therapy. In this episode, you'll hear: 🔍 Understanding deaf children—Why deaf children are often misunderstood and how to address these misunderstandings in the therapeutic space. 💬 Challenges of being deaf—The emotional and developmental challenges deaf children face, especially in the parent-child relationship. 🗣️ Effective communication—Why it's crucial to speak to deaf children in a language that makes sense to them and how this influences the therapeutic relationship. 🎲 The role of play therapy—How play therapy can bridge the gap, helping deaf children explore perceptions of themselves and their world. 🤝 Joining the world of a deaf child—How to offer deaf children a felt sense of being understood, seen, and validated during play therapy sessions. 🔊 Advocacy for deaf children—What therapists, educators, and caregivers need to be aware of when advocating for deaf children’s needs in therapy and beyond. This episode will provide you with deep insights into the lived experiences of deaf children and how to be a more effective and compassionate therapist, parent, or educator for them. Gabe shares real-life case examples from his own experiences in child welfare and play therapy, and he even reveals what he believes to be the superpowers of deaf children—a powerful ending you won’t want to miss! 🌟 Listen to this episode and gain a profound understanding of how to support and advocate for deaf children in your practice and beyond. Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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In Memory of Carmen Jimenez-Pride – Internal Family Systems in the Playroom (Best of)
09/16/2025
In Memory of Carmen Jimenez-Pride – Internal Family Systems in the Playroom (Best of)
Original Air Date: July 5, 2022 We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Carmen Jimenez-Pride—a fellow SPTer, therapist, healer, and a beautiful example of what it means to live fully, expansively, authentically, and without playing small. Carmen left her mark in countless ways—through her innovative tools, creative resources, powerful trainings, books, advocacy, and her deeply healing presence. She poured her heart into supporting the play therapy community, always pushing the edges of what was possible with boldness, brilliance, and compassion. Her clients, colleagues, supervisees, trainees, and all who knew her were profoundly touched by her gifts. We hold them—and her loved ones—in our thoughts during this time. In her honor, we are resharing this powerful and inspiring conversation between Lisa and Carmen on integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS) into the playroom. Like Carmen’s work, this episode continues to expand hearts and inspire play therapists around the world. 🌿💜 In this conversation, you’ll hear Carmen and Lisa explore: What IFS looks like in the playroom and with child clients How to help clients build a relationship with all their parts (exiles, protectors, firefighters) How to support children in fully embracing who they are and the experiences that shaped them Ways to share IFS work with parents/caregivers and help them understand their own parts How to recognize our own therapist parts and how they might show up in sessions One of the biggest lies play therapists often tell themselves—and why it impacts our wellbeing And as a bonus, you’ll get to hear a funny story about how Carmen didn’t want to be a therapist at first … and the journey that eventually brought her here (thank goodness it did!). 🌿 Carmen, thank you for everything you gave. Your legacy lives on in the many marks you’ve made on this world. 💜
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✨ 200: The Final Chapter—Listening to the Wisdom of the Body (with Avery Dion) ✨
09/09/2025
✨ 200: The Final Chapter—Listening to the Wisdom of the Body (with Avery Dion) ✨
This is both a milestone and a farewell. After years of heartfelt conversations, transformative insights, and connections across the globe, Lessons from the Playroom reaches its 200th—and final—episode (at least for now). To mark this occasion, Lisa is joined by someone who has been part of the podcast from the very beginning: her daughter, Avery Dion. Many listeners will remember Avery’s sweet childhood voice in the podcast jingle—today, at 19 years old, she returns for her third and most profound conversation with Lisa. Together, they explore what it truly means that the body keeps the score. Avery courageously shares her lived experience with chronic Lyme disease and the surprising ways her body has become both messenger and teacher. From pain and symptoms that point toward hidden truths, to the psychology of autoimmune illness and the role of self-compassion, Lisa and Avery dive into the raw, real, and deeply human ways the body holds memory, emotion, and wisdom. Together, they explore: How the body holds memory, emotion, and unfinished stories Avery’s journey with chronic Lyme disease and the wisdom it revealed The connection between autoimmune illness and self-criticism Why pain and symptoms can be seen as protectors and messengers What it means to find neutrality and balance in life’s highs and lows An invitation for listeners to pause, tune into their bodies, and welcome symptoms as guides toward authenticity Recorded in the intimacy of their own space, this episode is as tender as it is inspiring. It is not only about Avery’s healing, but also about the ways her journey has shaped Lisa as a therapist, teacher, and mother. As Lisa closes this chapter of Lessons from the Playroom, she extends deep gratitude to every listener who has been part of this journey. While the podcast itself is wrapping up, the library of 200 episodes remains—an ongoing resource and companion for therapists, parents, and seekers of wisdom both inside and outside the playroom. 💜 Thank you for listening, sharing, and growing alongside us. May these lessons continue to guide and inspire you for years to come.
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Helping Kids & Families Navigate Screen Time Balance | Stacy Jagger (Best Of)
09/02/2025
Helping Kids & Families Navigate Screen Time Balance | Stacy Jagger (Best Of)
Original Air Date: June 22, 2023 We are so excited about this hot topic and our incredible guest—Stacy Jagger! Stacy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S), and AAMFT Approved Supervisor. She is the founder and clinical director of Music City Family Therapy and the author of 30 Day Blackout and A Letter from Emma. You may have seen her as a regular guest on “Today in Nashville” or sharing her expertise on child development on local morning and evening news. In this episode, Stacy and Lisa dive into how screens—phones, tablets, TVs, and computers—impact children and families. For many families, screens have become a distraction from connection or a way to avoid deeper issues. More importantly, excessive screen use is a major cause of dysregulation in kids' nervous systems. 💡 What you’ll learn in this episode: 📱 The impact of screen time on children—How excessive digital engagement can influence nervous system regulation and emotional well-being. 🔍 Assessing screen time use—How to evaluate a child and family's screen habits and connect it to their treatment goals. 🔄 Shifting focus to connection—Ways to help families disconnect from screens and rebuild relationships with themselves and each other. ⏳ The 30-Day Digital Detox—What it looks like to recalibrate a child and family’s nervous system through a screen-time blackout (or greyout). 🌱 Rebuilding a new normal—How to artfully reintegrate screens after a blackout period without returning to old habits. This powerful conversation will give you insights, tools, and practical strategies to help families find balance in their screen use and prioritize connection over digital distraction. 📌 Curious to see if your family (or your clients) might benefit from a 30-Day Blackout? Take Stacy Jagger’s Screen Time Quiz: Click here to take the quiz. 🌟 Listen now and discover how to help families reset, reconnect, and create a healthier digital balance. Additional Resources: 💜 📚 ✨ 🔗 🔗
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199. EMDR Sand Tray Therapy for Trauma Healing: Ana Gomez on Symbols, Attachment, & Integration
08/26/2025
199. EMDR Sand Tray Therapy for Trauma Healing: Ana Gomez on Symbols, Attachment, & Integration
In this episode, Lisa welcomes back Ana Gomez, internationally recognized expert in EMDR Therapy, complex trauma, and dissociation, for her third appearance on the podcast. Ana shares insights from her brand-new book, EMDR Sand Tray-Based Therapy: Healing Complex Trauma and Dissociation Across the Lifespan, offering practical, innovative strategies for trauma work. Together, Lisa and Ana explore the evolution of Ana’s integrative approach, combining her love of symbols, dreams, and sand tray work with EMDR therapy. This powerful union creates a flexible pathway for clients to safely access and process traumatic experiences, reorganize their relationship with their life stories, and unlock reparative, healing moments—even when verbal language is limited. In this episode, you’ll learn about: How sand tray symbols and avatars act as “story keepers,” allowing children and adults to safely engage with overwhelming experiences. Real-life clinical examples, including a transformative case with a child in foster care who connected with his experiences through symbolic play before he could verbalize them. Strategies for integrating EMDR and sand tray therapy with individual clients, parent-child dyads, families, and group settings. How to honor protective patterns and internal defenses while gradually moving experiences from implicit memory into explicit awareness. Ways parents can actively participate in sessions, supporting attachment completions and delivering guided interweaves under the therapist’s guidance. Practical insights for therapists, play therapists, and trauma professionals seeking adaptable, client-centered approaches that facilitate healing, integration, and identity work. Ana also shares where to find her book and access her global trainings and workshops, providing clinicians with tools to deepen their practice and expand their therapeutic repertoire. Whether you’re EMDR-trained, a play therapist, or simply curious about innovative trauma work, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical guidance for your clinical toolkit.
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Vicarious Trauma & Compassion Fatigue: What Every Therapist Needs to Know (Best Of)
08/19/2025
Vicarious Trauma & Compassion Fatigue: What Every Therapist Needs to Know (Best Of)
Original Air Date: May 3, 2020 The word compassion means ‘to suffer with’ or merge with. This is different than empathy." – Lisa Dion As play therapists, we hold so much. And often, we don’t realize how deeply the work impacts us—especially when we’re navigating crises both personally and professionally. In this essential episode, Lisa explores the nuanced differences between vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue—experiences that are far more common in the field than we may recognize. She also reflects on what happens when therapists are living through the same crises as their clients (as many did during the COVID-19 pandemic), and how that overlap can amplify the emotional toll. This is a deeply important conversation that shines a compassionate light on the realities of holding space for others—without losing ourselves in the process. 🎧 If you’re a play therapist, caregiver, or anyone who supports others through pain, this one is for you.
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198. Wounded Healers in the Playroom: How Attachment Histories Shape Our Work
08/12/2025
198. Wounded Healers in the Playroom: How Attachment Histories Shape Our Work
What happens when therapists bring their own attachment histories into the playroom—consciously or not? In this deeply validating and insightful conversation, Lisa welcomes back Dr. Clair Mellenthin—renowned play therapist, author, and professor—to unpack her groundbreaking dissertation research and explore how a therapist’s personal story shapes their clinical work, especially within family-based play therapy. Together, they explore: Why many play therapists are drawn to the work as “wounded healers” Research that debunks the myth of needing to be fully healed to help others How personal attachment wounds show up in the playroom—and why doing our own work matters The power of mentorship and community in creating earned security and ongoing healing How support systems help therapists feel seen, grounded, and more confident with families Common struggles therapists face when working with parents, especially with limited training Practical steps for building confidence through integration, connection, and focused learning Moving stories that show the healing ripple from therapist to family Whether you’re a student, seasoned therapist, or supervisor, this episode offers normalization, challenge, and inspiration—helping you reflect on your therapeutic presence, embrace your vulnerabilities, and cultivate authentic connection in the healing space.
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Special: Where Are We Now? Reflecting on the Evolution of Play Therapy
08/05/2025
Special: Where Are We Now? Reflecting on the Evolution of Play Therapy
This episode originally aired in June 2023 when Synergetic Play Therapy turned 15 this year 🎉 (and was also Lisa’s birthday week! 🥳), which made it the perfect moment to pause and reflect on how far the field of play therapy has come—and where it might be headed next. In this celebratory episode, Lisa dives into the evolution of the mental health and play therapy fields—from early models focused on behavior change to today’s integrative approaches that honor the nervous system, the body, and the power of relationship. You’ll hear about the rise of neuroscience, Polyvagal Theory, interpersonal neurobiology, and the increasing recognition that you—the therapist—are the most important toy in the playroom. 💕 And of course, Lisa can’t help but look to the future, offering thoughts on what might be next for the field, including the emerging role of perception and the mind in the healing process. 🎧 Whether you’ve been tuning in since 2017 or just recently joined us, thank you. We’ve reached over a million downloads, and we’re so grateful you’re part of the journey.
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197. Why the Playroom Must Evolve: Embracing Digital Play Therapy & AI (Part 2)
07/29/2025
197. Why the Playroom Must Evolve: Embracing Digital Play Therapy & AI (Part 2)
In this powerful follow-up episode, Lisa reunites with psychologist, author, and digital play therapy pioneer Dr. Jessica Stone to explore the ever-evolving intersection of technology, artificial intelligence, and mental health. Together, they dive into why the playroom must evolve—offering a grounded, nonjudgmental look at how digital tools and AI are showing up in children's lives and what that means for us as therapists. Together they explore: Is digital play therapy the same as virtual play therapy? How do you ethically use tools like ChatGPT, story generators, or VR in the therapeutic process? And what deeper needs might children be trying to meet when they turn to technology? From theoretical foundations to real-life examples and practical strategies, Lisa and Dr. Stone address common clinician concerns—like fear of the unknown, resistance to change, or overwhelm—and reframe digital tools not as replacements for traditional play, but as powerful entry points for connection, healing, and expression. You’ll hear honest reflections, tips for engaging tech-wary caregivers, and new ways to bring congruence and confidence to your practice—whether you’re curious, cautious, or actively integrating technology into your sessions. 🎧 Bonus: This is Part 2 of Lisa and Dr. Stone’s conversation! Be sure to check out their earlier episode 84: Wrapping Our Minds Around Digital Play Therapy.
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Special: Little Questions, Big Insights: Answering Common Play Therapy Questions
07/22/2025
Special: Little Questions, Big Insights: Answering Common Play Therapy Questions
In this latest episode, Lisa tackles three little, yet powerful questions that every play therapist faces at some point in their practice. These insightful answers will expand your approach and deepen your work with children. 🔹 What to do when you see your clients outside of a session? 🔹 How to navigate working with imaginary friends in therapy? 🔹 What to do when a child refuses to do their chores or other tasks they should be doing? These are just a few of the essential questions Lisa dives into, giving you practical answers that can make a world of difference in your play therapy work. 🎧 Don't miss part 1 of this series (Episode #57), where Lisa answers even more common "little questions" such as: What to do with broken toys The role of food in the playroom How to handle lying in the playroom What to do when a child tries to take a toy home Get answers to the questions you might not have learned in graduate school but will absolutely need in your play therapy practice. Original Air Date: June 24, 2021 *** 💜 Learn More About Synergetic Play Therapy: 👉 Visit our website for courses, resources, and certification opportunities – 📚 Explore Our Books: Aggression in Play Therapy – 🎧 Listen to Our Podcast: Lessons from the Playroom – ✨ SPT Foundation: Learn more about it's mission, team and initiatives: 👉 🔗 Connect with Us on Social Media: Follow us on Instagram: Like our Facebook page:
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196. Dissociation Reimagined: Honoring the Inner World of Therapist and Child
07/15/2025
196. Dissociation Reimagined: Honoring the Inner World of Therapist and Child
In this powerful and deeply human episode, Lisa is joined by two internationally recognized leaders in the field of complex trauma and dissociation—Ana Gómez and Jill Hosey—for a heartfelt conversation about their monumental new release: The Handbook of Complex Trauma and Dissociation in Children. More than just a book discussion, this episode offers a reverence-based reframe of dissociation—not as pathology, but as a brilliant, adaptive survival strategy used by children navigating overwhelming experiences. Ana and Jill share their personal insights from editing this groundbreaking 900+ page volume, which weaves together theory, research, clinical case work, and embodied practices from over 60 contributors. Together, they explore the profound responsibility therapists carry—not only to understand dissociation in their clients but to honor how it arises in their own inner worlds. You’ll hear candid reflections on what it means to be a regulated presence in the therapy room, how fear of dissociation may show up in clinicians, and how co-regulation becomes the foundation for relational healing. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the topic of dissociation or are a seasoned trauma therapist, this episode invites you to shift from fear to curiosity—from fragmentation to integration. 💡 Key Topics Include: Why The Handbook is the first of its kind in the field Dissociation as a creative, protective superpower Therapist nervous system responses and the importance of co-regulation Misdiagnosis, marginalization, and what happens when dissociation is misunderstood The emotional labor of this work—for both therapist and client A call to action for deeper training, relational attunement, and self-reflection 📘 is available through Routledge, Amazon, Caversham Booksellers (Canada), and other major online retailers.
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Special: Understanding Sexualized Play in Therapy with Dr. Jodi Mullen
07/08/2025
Special: Understanding Sexualized Play in Therapy with Dr. Jodi Mullen
One of the most highly requested topics in play therapy is finally here—understanding sexualized play in the playroom. In this deeply insightful episode, Lisa Dion is joined by Dr. Jodi Mullen, a leading expert in play therapy and child trauma, to explore what it means when sexualized play emerges in sessions. 🔹 How to trust your felt sense as a clinician when sexualized play appears 🔹 Identifying red flags and themes that may indicate sexual trauma 🔹 Understanding transference and countertransference as clinical clues 🔹 The key differences between medical trauma vs. sexualized trauma 🔹 How aggression presents in children with sexual trauma and what it means 🔹 How to talk to parents and caregivers when trauma or abuse is suspected 🔹 The single most important thing we can do for children when justice isn’t possible Dr. Jodi Mullen shares real-life examples, clinical insights, and powerful strategies to help play therapists feel more prepared and confident when working with children who have been sexually abused or demonstrate sexualized play. ✨ This episode is a must-listen for any therapist navigating this complex and sensitive work. Original Air Date: August 29, 2023 *** 💜 Learn More About Synergetic Play Therapy: 👉 Visit our website for courses, resources, and certification opportunities – 📚 Explore Our Books: Aggression in Play Therapy – 🎧 Listen to Our Podcast: Lessons from the Playroom – ✨ SPT Foundation: Learn more about it's mission, team and initiatives: 👉 🔗 Connect with Us on Social Media: Follow us on Instagram: Like our Facebook page:
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195. When the Body Remembers: Psychosensory Healing, Play Therapy & the Wisdom Within with Kim Barthel
07/01/2025
195. When the Body Remembers: Psychosensory Healing, Play Therapy & the Wisdom Within with Kim Barthel
She’s back—and the energy in the room just elevated. In one of the most moving and illuminating episodes to date, Lisa Dion reunites with internationally renowned occupational therapist, author, and teacher Kim Barthel—one of the most beloved guests in the podcast’s history. Together, they take us deep into the world of psycho-sensory interventions, a term Kim coined decades ago during a pivotal moment that forever changed her clinical approach. Through a powerful real-life case study, this conversation explores how the body holds the story of trauma, how sensation can unlock memory, and why true healing happens when we integrate the mind, body, and play. Through their dual lenses—Lisa’s Synergetic Play Therapy perspective and Kim’s expertise in sensory integration, posture, and neurobiology—they reflect on working together with a young client whose developmental trauma was revealed not only through his play, but through his body, his relationships, and the clinician’s own internal experience. You’ll also hear about Kim’s early work with children on the streets of Winnipeg, the origin of psycho-sensory work, and how her interdisciplinary lens continues to evolve after 40+ years of practice. This episode will invite you to: Track what the body is telling you through posture, breath, and muscle tone See play as only one part of the unfolding story—because the story lives in the body Tune into the relational field and your own body as a source of insight Slow down and meet your clients where they are developmentally and neurologically Embrace an embodied approach to healing that honors both the child’s and the therapist’s nervous systems ✨ Whether you’re a seasoned play therapist, an OT, or simply curious about trauma-informed care, this conversation will expand your lens, deepen your embodiment, and remind you that healing isn’t something we do to a child—it’s something that unfolds when we trust the wisdom of the body. Take a breath, drop into your own body, and press play. You won’t want to miss this one.
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Special: The 3 Types of Relationships in Play Therapy with Parents & Caregivers
06/24/2025
Special: The 3 Types of Relationships in Play Therapy with Parents & Caregivers
What makes working with parents and caregivers feel smooth—or challenging—in play therapy? In this insightful episode, Lisa Dion explores three distinct types of relationships that shape our interactions with parents and caregivers in the therapeutic process. Understanding these dynamics can transform your approach, helping you create deeper, more conscious relationships that honor both you as a therapist and the parents you support. 🔹 Discover the three types of relationships that influence every interaction in and beyond the playroom 🔹 Learn how these relationship dynamics shape your work with parents and caregivers 🔹 Uncover why certain parent-therapist relationships feel more challenging than others 🔹 Find out how to create a space where parents feel safe to show up authentically 🔹 Explore how these relationships impact your nervous system—and what you can do to stay regulated By recognizing and navigating these relationship patterns, you’ll develop a new level of connection and attunement in your work with parents and caregivers. 🌟 Tune in to shift your perspective and create stronger, more supportive therapeutic relationships! Original Air Date: January 3, 2023 *** 💜 Learn More About Synergetic Play Therapy: 👉 Visit our website for courses, resources, and certification opportunities – 📚 Explore Our Books: Aggression in Play Therapy – 🎧 Listen to Our Podcast: Lessons from the Playroom – ✨ SPT Foundation: Learn more about it's mission, team and initiatives: 👉 🔗 Connect with Us on Social Media: Follow us on Instagram: Like our Facebook page:
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194. Introducing Family Constellation Work: A Systemic Lens for Play Therapists
06/17/2025
194. Introducing Family Constellation Work: A Systemic Lens for Play Therapists
🎙️ She’s back! In her fourth appearance, Lisa welcomes the deeply loved and returning guest Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker—bilingual therapist, teacher, and Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor and Trainer—to introduce a brand-new topic to the podcast: Family Constellation Work. Rooted in systemic and ancestral wisdom, this conversation explores how children’s symptoms often reflect unresolved family dynamics, not just their own inner world. Together, Mili and Lisa unpack key principles from Family Constellation theory—including the Orders of Love—and how therapists can begin using a systemic lens in the playroom, even without formal training. In this expansive and soulful episode, you’ll discover: What Family Constellation Work is and why it matters in therapy How children may carry or express unresolved intergenerational trauma The three core Orders of Love (Belonging, Hierarchy, and Balance of Giving & Taking) How imbalance in these orders can result in symptoms like resentment, overwhelm, or soul entanglements The difference between taking and receiving—and why this matters in the therapy room How to begin integrating a systemic lens into your practice, even without formal training ✨ Whether you’re new to this work or looking to deepen your lens, this episode is filled with insight, heart, and transformative “aha” moments. 🎧 Also check out Mili’s past episodes: A beautiful and eye-opening conversation you won’t want to miss 💖
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Special: Reflective & Relational Play Therapy Supervision: A Deep Dive with Lisa Dion & Guests
06/10/2025
Special: Reflective & Relational Play Therapy Supervision: A Deep Dive with Lisa Dion & Guests
What makes play therapy supervision truly effective? In this first-ever Lessons from the Playroom episode on supervision, Lisa Dion is joined by Polly Douglass, Kim Buller, and Khris Rolfe—three extraordinary play therapists and top supervisors at the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute. Together, they explore the power of reflective and relational supervision and how it transforms both supervisees and their clients. Whether you're currently in supervision or serving as a supervisor, this episode will offer invaluable insights into: 🔹 What it means to be reflective and relational in supervision 🔹 How to build a supervisor-supervisee relationship that fosters growth and trust 🔹 The role of the supervisor as an external regulator for the supervisee 🔹 How to help supervisees become more embodied in their work as play therapists 🔹 Ways to offer supervision that empowers therapists to trust themselves This conversation weaves together a beautiful tapestry of reflection, relationship, and emotional attunement—helping play therapists feel their clients’ experiences rather than just think about them. 🌟 Tune in and discover how to create a deeply supportive and transformational supervision experience! Original Air Date: April 25, 2023 *** 💜 Learn More About Synergetic Play Therapy: 👉 Visit our website for courses, resources, and certification opportunities – 📚 Explore Our Books: Aggression in Play Therapy – 🎧 Listen to Our Podcast: Lessons from the Playroom – ✨ SPT Foundation: Learn more about it's mission, team and initiatives: 👉 🔗 Connect with Us on Social Media: Follow us on Instagram: Like our Facebook page:
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193. Unleashing your Creativity: A Conversation with Mama Owls Minis
06/03/2025
193. Unleashing your Creativity: A Conversation with Mama Owls Minis
In this heartfelt and most inspiring episode, Lisa sits down with Catherine and Alicia Denham—the visionary clinical duo behind Mama Owls Minis, Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisors with over 40 years of combined experience. Together, they explore the messy, meaningful, and magical journey of creativity in play therapy, inviting listeners to reconnect with their inner artist and trust their instincts. This episode dives deep into how therapists can embrace creativity—not as a quest to be “good at art,” but as a powerful process of authentic expression, moment-to-moment attunement, and healing. From hand-sculpted sand tray minis to a teenage client’s request for a tornado miniature, the conversation is packed with stories, reflections, and practical wisdom that illuminate how creativity invites us to break free from rigid protocols and create what truly fits what the child needs. You’ll hear: How Alicia transformed from doodling to crafting stunning therapeutic figures Why Catherine treasures her first “wonky” sculpture as a symbol of imperfection embraced The creative origins of Synergetic Play Therapy and the tension between formal training and intuitive innovation Insights on parenting as a creative act—like turning a living room into a sensory playground How neurodivergent experiences shaped their unique approach to therapy and creativity Powerful stories of trust, flexibility, and letting go of control in therapy sessions and life An invitation to therapists to give themselves permission to explore and create what is needed despite self-doubt or fear of rejection Whether you’re dreaming of crafting something new for your clients or simply seeking encouragement to trust your own creative voice, this episode offers inspiration and gentle permission to embrace the imperfect, beautiful process of authentic play and healing. 🎧 Tune in and reconnect with your creative self—your clients and children will thank you.
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Special: Ableism & Disablism in the Playroom: A Conversation with Marshall Lyles
05/27/2025
Special: Ableism & Disablism in the Playroom: A Conversation with Marshall Lyles
How does ableism show up in the playroom, and what can we do to create a more inclusive therapeutic space? In this powerful episode, Marshall Lyles (LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S, EMDRIA Approved Consultant) joins Lisa Dion to explore the often unspoken realities of ableism and disablism in play therapy. Marshall, a leading voice in attachment trauma and sandtray therapy, brings invaluable insights into how therapists can become more aware of the biases and systemic structures that impact neurodivergent and disabled clients. 🔹 Uncover how ableism—both personal and institutional—has shaped the field of play therapy 🔹 Learn how to critically assess your playroom and therapeutic practices to ensure inclusivity 🔹 Explore ways to repair ruptures when unintentional harm occurs 🔹 Discover how to fully celebrate and honor the uniqueness of every client 🔹 Gain tools to reflect on your own biases and create a more welcoming therapeutic space This is an invitation to deepen your awareness, challenge assumptions, and cultivate a play therapy practice that truly embraces all minds and bodies. 🌟 Tune in to transform your approach and foster a more inclusive, empowering space for your clients! Original Air Date: July 18, 2023 *** 💜 Learn More About Synergetic Play Therapy: 👉 Visit our website for courses, resources, and certification opportunities – 📚 Explore Our Books: Aggression in Play Therapy – 🎧 Listen to Our Podcast: Lessons from the Playroom – ✨ SPT Foundation: Learn more about it's mission, team and initiatives: 👉 🔗 Connect with Us on Social Media: Follow us on Instagram: Like our Facebook page:
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192. The Final Little Lessons Series: What to Do When You’re Overwhelmed in the Playroom
05/20/2025
192. The Final Little Lessons Series: What to Do When You’re Overwhelmed in the Playroom
Lisa is back with the final episode of the Little Lessons Series, wrapping up this heartfelt Q&A journey by answering your powerful questions including how to navigate moments when connection feels disrupted—whether by a child’s shutdown, caregiver dynamics, or those uncomfortable "I don't know what to do" feelings that arise in the therapy process. In this episode, you’ll hear: Tracy’s question: “What do you do when a child goes into shutdown mode?” Lisa explains how to recognize the signs of a shutdown, why it happens from a nervous system perspective, and how to stay attuned while supporting a child’s regulation and reconnection—without pushing or forcing engagement. Megan’s question: “How do you handle it when a caregiver says their child is manipulative or controlling?” Lisa dives into the layers behind these labels, offering a reframe that helps caregivers understand what’s actually happening beneath the behavior. She shares strategies to shift the conversation from blame to curiosity and co-regulation. Tammy’s question: “What do you do when you feel stuck and like you're not doing enough to help the child?” Lisa gets real about therapist self-doubt, exploring how these moments are often mirrors of the therapeutic process itself. She offers guidance on how to stay regulated, connected, and grounded in presence—even when the answers aren’t immediately clear. Join Lisa for a heartfelt and informative conversation filled with neuroscience, compassion, and real-world wisdom to help you stay present in the messy and beautiful moments of play therapy.
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Special: Mandalas in Play Therapy: A Transformative Tool for Healing with Tracy Turner-Bumberry
05/13/2025
Special: Mandalas in Play Therapy: A Transformative Tool for Healing with Tracy Turner-Bumberry
Have you explored the power of mandalas in play therapy? In this episode, Lisa Dion sits down with Tracy Turner-Bumberry (LPC, RPT-S™) to uncover the transformative magic of mandalas—an incredible yet often unexplored tool in clinical practice. Tracy, a Certified AutPlay Trainer, Animal-Assisted Play Therapist, and DBT Therapist, shares how mandalas can create a safe, expressive, and healing space for children and families. 🔹 Discover what mandalas are and their deep multicultural roots 🔹 Learn how "circle art" and "circle play" can demystify mandalas for therapy 🔹 Explore practical applications, from templates to Tracy’s Wellness Mandala practice 🔹 Find out how to adapt mandalas for neurodivergent clients and create a safe space 🔹 Understand the dos and don’ts of using mandalas in therapy—why a child-led, non-interpretative approach matters 🔹 Learn direct and non-directive ways to integrate mandalas into therapy with individuals and families 🔹 Discover how music, color, and the idea of impermanence enrich the mandala experience Tracy also dives into the "safe circle", a concept that helps children feel seen, heard, and emotionally supported. 🌟 Tune in to learn how mandalas can bring introspection, self-regulation, and healing into your play therapy sessions! Original Air Date: December 19, 2023 *** 💜 Learn More About Synergetic Play Therapy: 👉 Visit our website for courses, resources, and certification opportunities – 📚 Explore Our Books: Aggression in Play Therapy – 🎧 Listen to Our Podcast: Lessons from the Playroom – ✨ SPT Foundation: Learn more about it's mission, team and initiatives: 👉 🔗 Connect with Us on Social Media: Follow us on Instagram: Like our Facebook page:
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191. Little Lessons Series: Addressing Hesitation, Aggressive Play, and Emotional Boundaries in Play Therapy
05/06/2025
191. Little Lessons Series: Addressing Hesitation, Aggressive Play, and Emotional Boundaries in Play Therapy
Lisa is back with another episode of the Little Lessons Series, answering your insightful questions about navigating the complexities of the playroom. Today’s episode focuses on how to handle those challenging moments in therapy where uncertainty, emotional flooding, and parents’ concerns come into play. In this episode, you’ll hear: Chrissy’s question: “What do you do when a child can’t decide on what to play with or doesn’t even play after coming for weeks?” Lisa breaks down how to navigate moments of hesitation, offering insights on how to remain present and supportive without rushing to fix the situation. She also discusses how emotional age and developmental stage impact engagement in play. Sally’s question: “What do you do when the parent tells you they don’t want their child to play with aggressive toys or engage in aggressive play, like war play?” Lisa explores the importance of understanding the parent’s concerns and how to guide the conversation to help them see how aggressive play can be therapeutic and necessary for the child’s emotional expression and processing. Carolyn’s question: “How do you respond when a child says ‘I love you’ or asks if you’ll move in with them or be their mother?” Lisa offers valuable advice on how to respond authentically to these deeply emotional moments, explaining how to navigate the child’s need for connection while maintaining professional boundaries and emotional safety. Join Lisa for a candid and thought-provoking conversation, as she offers practical strategies to help you stay grounded and authentic when facing common and challenging scenarios in the playroom. 🎧 Have a question you'd like Lisa to explore in an upcoming episode? Email your question to info@synergeticplaytherapy.com or send in an audio clip. Your curiosity fuels this podcast—and the entire play therapy community grows because of it.
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Special: Exploring Perspective with Dr. Rachel Altvater: How We See Ourselves, Others & the World
04/29/2025
Special: Exploring Perspective with Dr. Rachel Altvater: How We See Ourselves, Others & the World
How do our perspectives shape who we are and how we connect with others—both in the playroom and in life? In this thought-provoking episode, Lisa Dion sits down with Dr. Rachel Altvater (Psy.D., RPT-S™), an award-winning leader in play therapy, to explore the profound impact of perspective on our personal and professional lives. 🔹 Discover the inspiration behind Rachel’s new book, Perspective: Contemplating the Complexities of Our Realities 🔹 Unpack how we form perspectives about ourselves, others, and the world around us 🔹 Learn why perspective awareness is crucial for therapists and caregivers 🔹 Explore powerful self-reflection questions to expand your understanding of your own perspectives 🔹 Gain insights into how your perspectives may be shaping your interactions with clients Rachel also shares a heartfelt message on the ripple effects of healing and connection, reminding us that the more aligned we are with ourselves, the greater impact we have on the world. 🌟 Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will shift the way you see yourself, your clients, and the world around you! Original Air Date: May 9, 2023 *** 💜 Learn More About Synergetic Play Therapy: 👉 Visit our website for courses, resources, and certification opportunities – 📚 Explore Our Books: Aggression in Play Therapy – 🎧 Listen to Our Podcast: Lessons from the Playroom – ✨ SPT Foundation: Learn more about it's mission, team and initiatives: 👉 🔗 Connect with Us on Social Media: Follow us on Instagram: Like our Facebook page:
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