Original Air Date: October 11, 2022 In this exciting episode, Lisa is joined by the extraordinary Terry Kottman, founder of Adlerian Play Therapy, to explore the heart and soul of this impactful therapeutic approach. Known for her fun, engaging style and groundbreaking contributions to play therapy, Terry shares her wisdom, humor, and deep insights into how therapists can elevate their practice. Here’s what you’ll learn: How to bring more of yourself into your sessions to create authentic connections; Tips for custom-designing sessions to meet the unique needs of each client; Ways to deepen your client’s self-awareness (… and what it means to “spit in the client’s soup”); Strategies for navigating therapeutic work when the process doesn’t follow clear-cut phases; and Insights into attuning not only to your client but to their entire treatment process—an advanced “meta-attunement” approach. 🎧 Tune in to be inspired by Terry’s brilliance, practical advice, and her ability to re-energize your passion for play therapy. Prepare to feel jazzed about your work and ready to embrace new possibilities in your sessions! ✨ Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/ Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website: https://learn.synergeticplaytherapy.com/ FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/free-resources/  Aggression in Play Therapy: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/books/ * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.  

Mili Shoemaker, a Synergetic Play Therapy supervisor trainer, joins to illuminate the crucial concept of attachment to self. They discuss how this form of attachment diverges from traditional theories and emphasize the importance of mindful awareness in healing. The conversation explores the fluidity of attachment styles and their connection to personal perception and self-regulation. Mili shares personal stories and practical strategies for therapists to cultivate self-attachment, underscoring its transformative power in building secure relationships.

Original Air Date: March 14, 2023 In this episode, Lisa is joined by the trailblazing Dr. Risë VanFleet for an inspiring conversation about Filial Therapy—a transformative model where parents and caregivers play a central role in their child’s therapeutic journey. Dr. VanFleet shares her incredible expertise in this psychoeducational approach, offering insights into how Filial Therapy strengthens the parent-child relationship and enhances therapy outcomes. Here’s what you’ll learn: The fascinating history of Filial Therapy and the theoretical foundations that drive its success; Why Filial Therapy is a psychoeducational model, not a medical one; The 7 essential components that make Filial Therapy both elegant and effective; How parents and caregivers become the primary change agents for their child; Ways to integrate Filial Therapy with other therapeutic approaches for even greater impact. 🎧 Tune in to hear how this empowering model can deepen the therapeutic process and learn practical tools to bring Filial Therapy into your practice. Dr. VanFleet’s inspiring journey into the field of play therapy adds a personal touch to this enriching discussion! Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

“Every child has the capacity to heal and grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are—with respect, curiosity, and an understanding of their unique needs.” – Natascha Lawrence In this episode, Lisa reconnects with Natascha Lawrence, a Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor, EMDR Practitioner, and founder of the FASD Institute, for an essential conversation about supporting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) through play therapy. This is Part 2 of their dialogue, revisiting a topic that rarely gets the attention it deserves in the field of play therapy. Together, Lisa and Natascha dive into: What play therapists need to know about FASD: A holistic understanding of FASD as a whole-body diagnosis and its implications for therapeutic practice. Creating neurodivergent-friendly play spaces: Practical steps to make playrooms sensory-safe and accessible for children with FASD and other neurodiverse conditions. The FASD iceberg analogy: Understanding the layers beneath the surface and how they influence behavior, communication, and regulation. Challenging the stigma: Reframing the narrative for children with FASD and their families, starting with compassion and respect. Supporting caregivers: Why empowering parents and destigmatizing FASD is vital for meaningful therapeutic outcomes. With Natascha’s blend of professional expertise and personal insights as a parent of a child with FASD, this conversation provides invaluable tools and perspectives for therapists and caregivers alike. Join Lisa and Natascha for this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, and discover how to make your play therapy practice more inclusive, effective, and empowering for children with FASD. 🌟 Podcast Resources:  Learn more about Natascha’s work and the FASD Institute: www.fasdinstitute.com Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.  

Original Air Date: May 11, 2021 Separation anxiety is a common challenge in the therapy room—whether it’s the child hesitant to leave their caregiver or the parent struggling to step away. In this episode, Lisa unpacks the nuances of separation anxiety and provides actionable tools for therapists to navigate this tender dynamic. Here’s what you’ll learn: What separation anxiety is, its potential causes, and how to differentiate between normal developmental behavior and when additional support is needed; Creative and playful rituals that foster co-regulation between the child and parent/caregiver; Strategies to help children cultivate an internal sense of safety; Effective interventions for managing separation anxiety in the playroom, including how to support children in expanding their window of tolerance for transitions and separations. 🎧 Tune in for practical insights, playful tools, and a deeper understanding of how to support children and their families through the challenges of separation anxiety in therapy. Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

"Your fear will always be the ceiling of your innovation." – Lisa Dion In this special post New Year’s episode, Lisa is joined by Jen Taylor, therapist, educator, and mastermind behind Jen Taylor Productions. Together, they kick off the first month of 2025 with an inspiring conversation about goal-setting, vision, and how therapists can master the business side of their practice to create greater impact. Lisa and Jen dive into: The psychology of setting congruent goals that align with your values and what inspires you the most. Why “fantasy goals” often fail and how to replace them with actionable, meaningful ones. The critical difference between resolutions and sustainable visions for growth. How to manage fear and navigate challenges as a therapist and entrepreneur. A behind-the-scenes look at Lisa’s Business of Therapy course, which blends strategic planning with emotional and psychological insights to help therapists succeed. This episode will leave you inspired and ready to tackle this coming year with a clear vision and renewed energy. Whether you’re looking to build your private practice, expand your offerings, or simply align your goals with what inspires you, this conversation offers practical tools and heartfelt wisdom. Resources Mentioned: The Business of Therapy Course: https://learn.synergeticplaytherapy.com/business-of-therapy/ Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

Original Air Date: June 21, 2022 In this heartfelt episode, Lisa, dives into the tender and often challenging topic of the “shoulds” and “should nots” that we carry as clinicians. These inner judgments—those persistent whispers of self-criticism—show up in the playroom, in our work with parents and caregivers, and even in our personal lives. Joined by two Certified Synergetic Play Therapists, Helen Ritchie and Kristina Dixon, Lisa leads a deeply personal and empowering conversation to help therapists explore and transform these inner dialogues. Here’s what you’ll discover: Why “shoulds” and unmet expectations trigger a threat response in the brain; Common “shoulds” clinicians face (… and an invitation to reflect on your own); How to navigate the “shoulds” and “should nots” in therapy sessions, with parents/caregivers, and in your personal life; Practical insights for newer therapists grappling with self-doubt and the “Am I ok?” question; Personal stories, including Lisa’s own experiences with these challenges, showing how even seasoned therapists aren’t immune to the “shoulds.” 🎧 Tune in to reconnect with a deeper trust in yourself as a play therapist and celebrate the incredible work you do every day. Big hugs and much love on this journey! 💕 Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

"So much of play therapy is about clearing away the conditions that limit children from discovering who they are." - Georgie Wissen Vincent In this episode, Lisa is joined by Georgie Wissen Vincent.  She is a play therapist, co-founder of the Play Strong Institute, and co-author of The Way of Play: Using Little Moments of Big Connection to Raise Calm and Confident Kids with Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, renowned psychotherapist, speaker, and author specializing in parenting and child development (...you likely know her from her co-parenting books with Dr. Dan Siegel). Together, they dive into the magic of play—not only as a therapeutic tool but as a way to strengthen relationships and foster meaningful connections. Together, Lisa and Georgie explore: Why play is more than just an activity—it’s a language. The importance of involving parents in the therapeutic process and how to make it meaningful. A sneak peek into The Way of Play’s “Play Strong Strategies” that blend neuroscience with practical tools for connection. How this book fills a gap in resources for parents and therapists alike, offering an approachable way to communicate the magic of play. Georgie’s reflections on customizing play therapy to meet the unique needs of every child and family. Tips for therapists to reconnect with their own playfulness. Grab a notebook, and tune in for a conversation that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to bring new energy into your play therapy practice! Podcast Resources:  The Way of Play Book: www.playstronginstitute.com Synergetic Play Therapy Institute: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/ Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website: https://learn.synergeticplaytherapy.com/ FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/free-resources/  Aggression in Play Therapy: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/books/  

Original Air Date: June 19, 2017 In this insightful podcast, delve into the transformative power of gratitude with guidance from Lisa Dion. While it's effortless to appreciate the positives in our lives, what about the challenges? Discover how cultivating gratitude can expand your window of tolerance and foster a compassionate heart. Explore the profound notion that clients enter our playrooms with purpose, serving as valuable teachers on our journey. Join us as we uncover the wisdom and blessings hidden within life's trials, embracing gratitude as a pathway to growth and understanding. Podcast Resources:  Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey  Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity * If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

Stacy Jagger, affectionately known as "Dr. Sassy," is the founder and clinical director of Music City Family Therapy and creator of the Mountain Method. In a lively discussion, she emphasizes the importance of viewing the entire family as the client in therapy. Dr. Stacy breaks down her holistic approach, including engaging reluctant family members and nurturing creativity in sessions. The conversation highlights how reconnecting parents with their inner child can vastly improve family dynamics, fostering deeper connections and joyful healing.