249 | Permission-Seeking and Negative Self-Talk: Staying Neutral in the Child-Centered Playroom

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to Anna from Virginia, a new child-centered play therapist, who seeks advice on a variety of scenarios with her young client. Anna's questions revolve around how to handle moments when a child makes assumptions about her thoughts, seeks permission excessively, and expresses negative self-talk in the playroom. I provide practical guidance on maintaining neutrality, reflecting content accurately, and helping children navigate their emotions without intervention.

Through examples, I highlight the importance of adhering to CCPT principles, including how to address a child's anxiety-driven behaviors and negative self-perception in a way that fosters self-regulation and emotional growth. This episode offers actionable insights for therapists navigating similar challenges while staying fully child-centered.

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Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com 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.