Play Therapy Podcast

In this episode, I delved into another control and safety theme—the "failure to fix" theme. It's a counterpart to the "fixing play" theme we explored last time. Understanding these play themes is vital for effective therapy. Failure to fix happens when a child actively tries to repair something but eventually gives up, acknowledging it cannot be fixed. I provided examples, like a pretend town being devastated by a sandstorm in play, followed by attempts to rebuild that ultimately fail. This theme often mirrors a child's feelings of hopelessness or doubts about whether any help is possible. In some cases, it's a way for the child to test the therapist, to see if they'll attempt to "fix" them. I stressed the importance of sticking to the child-centered model, highlighting how crucial it is in addressing these themes appropriately in therapy. This episode offered valuable insights into this aspect of play therapy, helping us better understand children's emotional expressions and needs.   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor   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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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 delve into the crucial topic of managing messy play within the therapeutic setting, especially when dealing with limited resources (if you don't have an office manager to help you clean between sessions). I stress the importance of making strategic choices when it comes to selecting materials for the playroom aligning them with your own tolerance for mess. Moreover, I underscore the significance of understanding personal boundaries in this context. I make a clear distinction between messy and mess-making play, and I emphasize the need to provide creative alternatives that allow for artistic expression while maintaining the overall cleanliness and order of the therapeutic space. Striking this balance is essential for nurturing creativity while ensuring a sense of order, benefiting both the therapist and the child in therapy.   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor   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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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.

Today, we're diving into the "fixing play" theme in child-centered play therapy. This theme often follows "broken play" and is closely tied to control and safety themes. In essence, it's about a child or character working to mend something broken through actions like gluing, taping, or providing medical care.   So, why is fixing play significant for a child? Firstly, it can symbolize their understanding of the therapeutic process. Kids may not fully grasp it, but they sense healing and fixing occurring, helping them navigate their journey to feeling better. Secondly, fixing play can stem from a deep desire to be okay, emphasizing the innate human drive for happiness and healing. Lastly, it can be a way for children to regain control after play goes too far, allowing them to undo what they felt was unacceptable.   Fixing play is a window into a child's world, reflecting their therapeutic progress, longing for well-being, and their need for control.   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor   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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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 the critical topic of working with children who have experienced sexual abuse or exhibit sexualized behaviors. Combining questions from listeners Monica and Anna, I delve into three key aspects: acknowledging and accepting your own discomfort, defining personal boundaries, and setting appropriate limits in the therapeutic setting. I discuss these topics through the lens of the child-centered approach, allowing children to naturally develop coping skills and self-regulation through play therapy, ultimately leading to positive results. I hope this episode gives you valuable insights into handling sensitive situations in child-centered play therapy.   Main topics: Accept and be aware of your own discomfort Know your own boundaries Effectively use limit setting     Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor     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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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, we delve into the "Broken Play Theme" in child-centered play therapy's category of safety and control themes.   Exploring Broken Play Theme: Children depict brokenness in their play through two lenses: a broken self or a broken object. This theme delves into hurt, sickness, and damage, whether internal or external.   Healing and Insights: Broken play offers a unique healing potential, allowing children to confront and mend their perceptions of brokenness, whether within themselves, relationships, or the world.   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor     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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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, we're delving into the intriguing burying or drowning theme, a part of our ongoing exploration of control and safety themes.   Burying involves hiding characters or objects under sand, toys, or even clothes, symbolizing various intentions. It can represent secrecy, offering a sense of power through possessing hidden knowledge. Alternatively, it might signal safety, as characters hide to shield themselves from danger.   Drowning play often carries deeper emotional undertones, reflecting desperation and hopelessness. This theme can provide a platform for children to express complex emotions.   Both burying and drowning themes tie into the overarching concept of control and safety, shedding light on children's intentions and emotions.   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor     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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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.

When you've trained directly with Dr. Garry Landreth, you gain vast knowledge and helpful perspective on the child-centered play therapy model. Join me for an insightful chat with my mentor, Dr. Jennifer Baggerly, a specialist directly trained by the renowned Dr. Garry Landreth in child-centered play therapy. Listen in as Dr. Baggerly sheds light on key aspects of this approach.   Dr. Jennifer Baggerly shares her wisdom on the following topics:   Advice for new child-centered play therapists What she loves about the child-centered model Why CCPT is so effective across all populations   Discover tips for new child-centered play therapists straight from Dr. Baggerly's experience. Hear her genuine enthusiasm for the child-centered model and understand why Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) works wonders for people of all backgrounds.   In this interview, Dr. Baggerly also shares heartwarming stories from her journey, illustrating the power of CCPT in her clients' lives. Tune in for an engaging conversation about child-centered play therapy and its incredible impact.   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor     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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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.

Today, we're entering the realm of control and safety themes, marking a transition from our previous categories. Specifically, we're exploring the intriguing concept of fire play. Children engage in fire play with remarkable diversity, expressing it through a spectrum of scenarios. Whether it's something catching ablaze, flames engulfing, or even extinguishing a fire, this theme is unmistakably evident.   Fire play often unveils deeper emotions within children. In instances where intense rage simmers, children might use fire as a symbolic channel for their anger, essentially allowing them to obliterate what they find infuriating. This dynamic reveals a profound representation of their emotions, and at times, children who fear their own powerful feelings might turn to fire play.   The theme is not limited to anger; fire play can be a tool for addressing avoidance. Children may burn objects that evoke discomfort or unease, effectively erasing them from their world. Interestingly, fire play can also intertwine with other themes, such as heroism or protection, as fire becomes a conduit for bringing broader narratives to life.   Remember, these themes of control and safety underpin the tapestry of play therapy. By understanding the core motivations behind a child's choice of fire play, we gain insights into their emotional landscape. Join me next week as we explore the themes of burying and drowning, and continue this enriching journey together.   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor     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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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.

Listener, Yanna, emailed me with a scenario... she is seeing a child that acts like a puppy all session and she was wondering how I would handle that. I actually have a client right now that is doing that! So this was a timely question.   In this episode, I discuss the following topics:   How to respond, staying true to CCPT principles Identifying the "why" for the behavior How to elicit feedback from the child (staying true CCPT) so you can engage with the child and continue in the child's play How to preserve the relationship with unconditional acceptance   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor     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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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 concluding episode of the Nurturing & Caregiving category, we delve into the intriguing realm of the Adult Activity Theme. This distinctive theme revolves around activities that distinctly mimic adult behaviors. Join me as we explore the nuances of this theme within children's play, unraveling its significance and the deeper layers of meaning it holds.   Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com Play Therapy Training HQ: https://www.playtherapynow.com Email me: brenna@thekidcounselor.com Follow me on Twitter: @thekidcounselor   https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor     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. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-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.