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.