Episódios
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In this heartfelt episode, Lisa Dion, founder of Synergetic Play Therapy, steps into the spotlight as she's interviewed by long-time colleague and Certified SPT Supervisor, Polly Douglass. Together, they explore Lisa’s deeply personal experience of transitioning into the “empty nester” phase of life when her daughter left for college.
This episode isn’t just for parents—whether you're facing a significant life change, are a therapist supporting others through transitions, or are simply curious about navigating life’s changes, this conversation offers deep insights on how to move through them with intention and grace.
In this episode, you'll discover:
How the principles of Synergetic Play Therapy support navigating major life transitions Lisa’s personal reflections on the "empty nester" experience and conscious endings Navigating parallel processes during life transitions with others The importance of finding new routines during times of change The emotional waves that come with transitions and how to stay connected to yourselfJoin Lisa and Polly for an intimate, thoughtful conversation that will resonate with anyone moving through the unknowns of change—whether you’re an empty nester or simply navigating life’s evolving 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.
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Original Air Date: May 2, 2019
"The majority of relationship, any relationship, is rupture. Repair is the remedy." - Lisa Dion
In relationships—whether with clients or ourselves—rupture and repair are essential. Mis-attunement isn’t something we can avoid, nor should we. It’s actually a key ingredient in the recipe for building trust. Each moment of rupture and repair forms the bedrock of connection, opening the doors to genuine healing and growth.
Rupture, repair, repeat—this rhythm isn’t just something we experience; it’s something we practice.
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.
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Lisa is back with another episode of the Little Lessons Series, where she answers your insightful questions about the complexities of working in the playroom. In this episode, Lisa dives deep into the theme of authenticity and how it plays a critical role in the therapist-client dynamic.
Tune in as Lisa responds to 3 thought-provoking listener questions, exploring how to stay genuine and present when navigating imaginative play, emotional congruence, and handling personal questions from clients.
In this episode, you'll hear:
Carolyn’s question: “When doing imagination play and a client assigns you a role, how do you play that role? I'm often asked to be a child and the client is the adult. I find I respond as the "child" in ways that either surprise my client or I'm given the exact lines and actions to portray. My version of the authentic child when I'm improvising without lines isn't always what the client expects, nor is it always the ideal example because I usually play what I would have felt/said/done as a child and wait for guidance from my client. Hmmm?”
Lisa breaks down how to stay in the moment and respond from a place of genuineness and presence while allowing the child to lead.
An anonymous listener asks: Please elaborate on the statement you (Lisa) made: "I have never seen a child damaged because the therapist was real. However, I have seen children who never deeply connected to their therapist and didn't go as deep as they could have gone because their therapist was too scared to share and express their authentic experience congruently."
Lisa discusses how emotional congruence builds trust and safety, and why being authentic helps children connect more deeply in therapy.
Patricia’s question: “How do you handle personal questions from a child in session?”
Lisa explains how to navigate personal inquiries while staying attuned to the therapeutic goals and the child’s unique needs.
Join Lisa for a rich, reflective conversation that offers practical insights for therapists looking to deepen their authenticity and connection in the playroom.
*We love hearing from you! Have a question or scenario for Lisa to discuss? Send your questions to [email protected] or submit an audio clip. Your questions inspire meaningful growth and learning for all of us.
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.
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Original air date: April 24, 2017
Setting boundaries in the playroom can be a complex process! When to set them? How to set them? Why to set them? Is it important to set them? In this archived episode, Lisa Dion dives deep into these crucial questions, offering new insights on setting boundaries with children in ways you might not have considered before.
Join Lisa as she explores:
The fundamental reasons for setting boundaries and how they benefit the therapeutic process. How to set boundaries with children effectively and in a manner you may not have tried before. The timing of establishing boundaries in the playroom (hint: it may not be when you think). Strategies for setting boundaries in ways that do not disrupt play or induce shame. Practical advice and real-life examples to refine your boundary-setting skills. How to handle ruptures in the therapeutic relationship when boundaries are set, including strategies for repair and reconnection.Revisit this crucial topic to gain valuable insights into supporting your clients' therapeutic journeys, navigating boundaries, and fostering a sense of safety in your play therapy sessions.
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.
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Lisa welcomes back the remarkable Marie José Dhaese, a trailblazer in the field of play therapy and the original creator of expressive play therapies. Building on their previous conversation about Holistic Expressive Play Therapy, Lisa and Marie José dive even deeper into the profound journey of healing, attachment, and reconnecting to one's true nature. With over 50 years of experience as a registered clinical counselor, art therapist, and play therapy supervisor, Marie José shares her deep wisdom and heartfelt reflections on what it takes to create a therapeutic environment where children can reconnect to themselves and thrive.
In this episode, you will explore:
The metaphor of the "white dot": Discover how this symbol represents our core essence or true nature, and why nurturing this inner light is central to healing. Attachment and true nature: Understand how early attachment experiences shape a child’s development, and how caregivers and therapists can reflect the child’s true self back to them. The role of trauma in disconnection: Learn how attachment disruptions and trauma sever a child’s connection to their true self, and how therapy can help repair these ruptures. The therapist’s own journey: Hear how Marie José emphasizes the importance of therapists being on an ongoing journey of self-discovery and healing, and how this inner work allows them to hold space for others. Creating an environment for transformation: Explore the significance of designing therapeutic spaces that invite safety, creativity, and how nature and expressive therapies play a vital role in transformation. The importance of closure in therapy: Discover why creating a clear beginning, middle, and end in therapy sessions is essential for healing, and how a lack of closure can impact therapeutic outcomes. Navigating the complexities of healing: Gain insight into the delicate balance therapists must maintain between structure and spontaneity, allowing children to explore, express, and reconnect with their true selves at their own pace. Tending to your own "dot": Lisa and Marie José discuss the ethical imperative for therapists to engage in self-care, self-reflection, and self-compassion to remain present and attuned to their clients’ needs.Join Lisa and Marie José for a thought-provoking and heartfelt conversation that will inspire therapists to reflect on their own journey, deepen their connection to their clients, and create spaces where true healing can unfold. This episode is filled with wisdom for those seeking to support children on their path to self-discovery and resilience.
As mentioned in the podcast, explore Marie José’s play sanctuary for children here: 💛 https://youtu.be/Lb20F3jF2nA?si=HSKWeTLQcrwlDtQnPodcast 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.
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Original air date: May 24, 2022
In this special episode of Lessons from the Playroom, Lisa Dion welcomes the amazing Dr. Bonnie Goldstein, a faculty member at Pat Ogden’s Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute. Dr. Goldstein has uniquely applied Sensorimotor Psychotherapy to children, making her a pioneer in this field.
Hear the delightful story of how Bonnie and Lisa met at the Australian Childhood Foundation's trauma conference in Melbourne in 2019, instantly connecting over dinner and sparking a meaningful professional relationship.
Join Bonnie and Lisa as they discuss how to integrate the body into therapy practice to empower child clients, covering:
Utilizing your own sense of self in client work through embedded relational mindfulness techniques. Understanding how the body influences the mind and combining mindfulness and body awareness to shift a client's narrative. Incorporating collaborative curiosity in therapeutic work with children. Techniques for helping clients reconnect with their bodies after trauma, including the "choo-choo train" activity. Reading the client's story through the aliveness of the body. Attuning to your own body to better attune to your client's body, recognizing the therapist's body as the most important "toy" in the room.You'll also hear numerous client stories illustrating how to incorporate sensorimotor work into your practice and get introduced to Bonnie's unique co-therapist who assists in her sessions.
About Dr. Bonnie Goldstein: Dr. Goldstein is dedicated to fostering and healing relationships through attachment theory, somatic and mindful awareness, and group psychotherapy. She is the founder/director of the Lifespan Psychological Center and a faculty member at the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute. With several publications to her name, she is currently co-authoring a book on Sensorimotor Psychotherapy with Children with Pat Ogden, soon to be published by Norton Publishing.
Tune in for an inspiring episode filled with practical insights and heartwarming stories that highlight the transformative power of sensorimotor psychotherapy in play 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.
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Lisa is back to answer more of your burning questions! And this time, we’re diving deep into the world of teens, one of the most complex and rewarding populations to work with in the playroom.
In this episode, Lisa addresses 3 thought-provoking questions submitted by listeners, shedding light on adolescents' nuanced and sometimes perplexing behaviors.
Karen asks: "What do you do when a teen doesn’t want to engage or say anything?"
Lisa explores multiple angles to approach this challenge and offers insights into how to keep the relational connection alive, even when words are few.
Sorina wonders: "How do you handle it when tweens repeatedly ask when the session can be done or if they can be done with therapy (parent wants them in therapy)?"
Lisa explores how to respond to these moments and how to create a space that aligns with a teen's unique needs and interests, even when those interests clash with their parents’.
Mary asks: "What do you say when a 17-year-old autistic teen is showing you their video game. You don’t understand something and you ask them a question. Their response is, 'That is the dumbest question anyone could ever ask'?"
Lisa shares how to handle these tricky situations and turn them into opportunities for deeper understanding and connection, using key concepts from Synergetic Play Therapy.
Join us for a rich discussion filled with insights, strategies, and reminders on how to connect with and support teens in a meaningful way.
*We appreciate your questions and encourage you to keep them coming! If you have a question or a scenario you’d like Lisa to discuss, email us at [email protected], or better yet, send an audio clip of your question. Your questions help us all grow and learn together in this beautiful journey of play 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.
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Original air date: February 28, 2023
We're resharing this episode in which Lisa revisits a frequently asked question: how to support parents and caregivers in regulating themselves and ultimately co-regulating with their child when the child is dysregulated. Offering co-regulatory moments to parents can repattern their nervous systems, empowering them to become their child’s external regulator.
Join Lisa as she covers:
Recognizing and addressing dysregulation in parents/caregivers during the therapy process. Utilizing the Synergetic Play Therapy concept of “The Set Up” or “Offering” to gain a deeper understanding of the parent. Emphasizing the importance of acknowledging our own felt sense and activation before acting as an external regulator for parents. Teaching parents/caregivers to become external regulators and developing regulatory templates for their relationship with their child. Identifying key factors when helping parents/caregivers create new regulation templates. Shifting parents/caregivers' perceptions of their child’s behavior to foster spaciousness and connection.Consider this important question with Lisa: Are we willing to do what we can to create new templates for parents and caregivers, and based on our therapeutic approach, how might we do that? This episode is essential for therapists seeking to enhance their work with families by fostering co-regulation and deeper connections.
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.
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In this insightful episode, Lisa welcomes back the incredible Liliana Baylon, a bilingual English and Spanish multicultural therapist and cultural ambassador for the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute. Building on their previous conversation about the experiences of immigrants and refugees, Lisa and Liliana delve into the evolving language and understanding around newcomers, which includes migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
Liliana, who has over a decade of clinical experience primarily treating LatinX community members, shares her expertise on the complexities newcomers face beyond migration trauma, such as post-migration trauma, acculturation stress, and assimilation challenges. They discuss the misconceptions and biases that therapists might hold, the multi-faceted traumas newcomers endure, and the importance of creating a culturally aware and curious therapeutic environment.
In this episode, you will learn about:
The shift from using terms like "migrants" to "newcomers" and the significance behind this change. The global nature of issues faced by newcomers and common misconceptions. The extensive range of traumas experienced by newcomers, including generational, cultural, racial, and educational traumas. The impact of racism and bias on newcomers and how therapists can address these in their practice. The concept of acculturation stress and its effects on mental health. How to support newcomers by fostering curiosity and understanding their unique identities and experiences. Practical tips for intake processes that honor the experiences and identities of newcomers. The importance of relationship-building and staying curious as a part of the healing process. Liliana's powerful TedEx talk about her personal experiences with assimilation and cultural identity.Join Lisa and Liliana for a heartfelt and educational conversation that will deepen your understanding and enhance your therapeutic practice with newcomers. Don’t miss out on Liliana’s wisdom and practical advice for creating a supportive and culturally aware therapeutic environment.
“Beyond simple labels, such as Latina or Immigrant, our individual and collective identities encompass a range of experiences, aptitudes, and viewpoints that add to a complex and nuanced understanding of our shared humanity” - Liliana Baylon
Find Liliana’s powerful TedEx talk about her personal experiences of assimilation and cultural identity on her website at lilianabaylon.com.
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.
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Original air date: January 24, 2019
Child's play is serious business, and games like Peek-a-Boo and Hide-and-Seek are no exception. In this episode, Lisa Dion explores how these seemingly simple games serve as powerful platforms for children to process their emotions. Inspired by her insight, "Games are platforms to help kids process their emotions. Sometimes peek-a-boo and hide-and-go-seek are just about wanting to be seen," we dive deep into the emotional underpinnings of these play activities.
Lisa discusses:
The emotional significance of Peek-a-Boo and Hide-and-Seek in a child's development. How these games reveal a child's desire to be seen and found. Practical applications for integrating these games into play therapy to support emotional processing.Join us as we uncover the deeper meanings behind these common childhood games and learn how to use them effectively in therapeutic settings to help children express and navigate their emotions.
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.
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In this special episode, Lisa welcomes Tammi Van Hollander, LCSW, RPT-S™, to explore a transformative approach to bibliotherapy. Moving beyond the traditional view of books as cognitive tools, Tammi introduces us to using bibliotherapy as a means for co-regulation, attachment, and creating a sense of safety within the therapeutic space.
Tammi, who was initially trained in client-centered play therapy, shares her journey of discovering the profound impact that books can have when used as co-regulators. Through her experiences and insights, she reveals how stories can extend beyond mere words, becoming powerful tools that facilitate deeper connections between children and their caregivers.
Key Takeaways:
Tammi's Journey with Bibliotherapy: How she discovered the power of books as a co-regulation tool. A Paradigm Shift: Using bibliotherapy from a “bottom-up” approach to support attachment, safety, and emotional regulation in children. Integrating Books into Play Therapy: Practical strategies for making books an extension of a child’s play, fostering a more client-centered therapeutic experience. Engaging Kids Who Aren’t Interested in Reading: Innovative ways to use books beyond just reading the words. Types of Bibliotherapy: Differentiating between developmental, therapeutic, and play-based bibliotherapy. Enhancing Parent-Child Relationships: How books can strengthen the bond between parents and children, addressing attachment and repair in relationships. Attunement and Trusting the Process: The importance of being present and attuned to the child, allowing books and other tools in the therapy space to facilitate healing naturally.*Check out Tammi’s new book on Amazon, PESI website, or Tammi’s website: The Bibliotherapy Toolbox: 100+ Creative and Playful Story-Based Interventions to Help Kids Create Safety, Overcome Challenges, and Build Resiliency.
*Tammi Van Hollander, LCSW, RPT-S™, is a leading expert in attachment, sandtray play therapy, and sensory integration with over 25 years of experience. She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania and advanced training from the Family and Play Therapy Center in Philadelphia. Tammi is the author of Casey’s Greatness Wings and The Bibliotherapy Toolkit, and she delivered a TEDx Talk, "Stories in the Sand: Healing Trauma, Anxiety, and Grief," in 2023. Connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.
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.
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Original air date: December 6, 2022
Have you ever wondered what intergenerational trauma looks like in a play therapy session? Or how you can support both the child and the parent in integrating this trauma? In this episode, Lisa Dion is joined by Dr. Arielle Schwartz, renowned author of "The Complex PTSD Workbook" and "The Post-Traumatic Growth Guidebook," to discuss this profound topic.
Together, they delve into:
Understanding intergenerational trauma and its manifestations in play therapy sessions. Cultivating trans-generational resilience and generational empathy to model for clients and their parents/caregivers. Managing your own intergenerational trauma when it arises during sessions. The importance of self-care in trauma work, including Dr. Schwartz's own daily embodiment practice.Join this enlightening conversation and expand your perspective beyond the client's immediate experiences to consider generational patterns and unresolved traumas within the family system. Discover how these dynamics shape the parent/caregiver-child relationship and learn effective strategies to support healing across generations.
About Dr. Arielle Schwartz: Arielle Schwartz, PhD, CCTP-II, E-RYT, is a licensed clinical psychologist, certified complex trauma professional, and Kripalu yoga teacher with a private practice in Boulder, Colorado. As an internationally sought-after teacher and leading voice in healing PTSD and complex trauma, she is the author of six books, including "The Complex PTSD Workbook" and "Therapeutic Yoga for Trauma." Dr. Schwartz offers an integrative, mind-body approach to therapy through her Center for Resilience Informed Therapy. Learn more about her work at www.drarielleschwartz.com.
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.
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We're shaking things up and doing something we haven’t done in a while. In this episode, Lisa is responding directly to your questions! And today, we have three fantastic questions from our listeners that Lisa will be answering.
Jennifer asks: "What do you do if a child wants to bring food or their own toys into the session?"
Lisa gives insights and shares different ways to respond. She delves into the therapeutic function of foods and emphasizes the importance of including the child's toys in sessions, in line with Synergetic Play Therapy’s philosophy.
Sarah asks: "What do you do when a child lies or exaggerates their stories?"
Lisa helps us understand why it’s not about the specific details of the story and highlights what’s more important when working with a child who lies or exaggerates.
Jennifer asks: "How do you handle it if a child wants to show their caregiver something they created in the playroom?"
Lisa discusses the larger question we need to consider first and then offers various ways to respond to different ways that this can play out.
We have three amazing questions that came from YOU! Keep your questions coming and join us for an engaging and insightful episode that deepens your understanding of the little lessons children teach us in the playroom.
If you would like to be part of the conversation (...because yes, we’re going to keep doing these episodes), send your questions to Lisa at [email protected]. Or even better, send us an audio of your question to share. 🙂
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.
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Original air date: November 10, 2019
In this episode, we explore the vital role of play therapists in addressing Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) in the playroom, inspired by Lisa Dion's words: "It's not that children with SPD don't want to regulate; it's that they can't."
SPD can present various challenges in the play therapy setting, often making it difficult for children to self-regulate. We will discuss how play therapists can recognize the signs of SPD, adapt their techniques to meet the needs of these children and implement effective strategies to help them develop self-regulation skills. Join us as we provide insights and practical advice for therapists dedicated to supporting children with SPD.
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.
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In this special episode, Lisa reconnects with a long-time colleague, Nilüfer Devecigil, who joins her from Turkey. Nilüfer completed her master’s degree in psychology in the US and worked closely with Byron and Carol Norton, the pioneers of Experiential Play Therapy. She’s also the lead teacher for Experiential Play Therapy in Turkey. With extensive experience in attachment parenting and trauma healing, Nilüfer currently practices as a play therapist for young children and an attachment parenting therapist for pregnant women and new mothers.
Listeners, you might not know that Experiential Play Therapy is one of the foundational models that influenced Synergetic Play Therapy. This conversation feels like we’re going back to our roots a bit.
Episode Highlights:
Lisa and Nilüfer’s Journey: Discover how Lisa and Nilüfer met over 20 years ago, learning Experiential Play Therapy together. Foundations of Experiential Play Therapy: Understand the philosophy and humanistic approach championed by Byron and Carol Norton. Parent Involvement: Learn how parents are integrally involved in the therapeutic process, making it very relational. Unique Aspects of Experiential Play Therapy: Explore what sets this modality apart, including the five stages of the therapeutic process and the use of themes and metaphors in play. Active Participation in Play: Lisa shares her appreciation for the unique aspect of experiencing play alongside the child, fully engaging in the roles assigned by the child. Healing Through Play: Hear how parents heal alongside their children through this model of play therapy. Framework and Personal Focus: Discover how Nilüfer integrates her focus on attachment and relational work within the framework of Experiential Play Therapy. Double Awareness in Play Therapy: Learn about the concept of dual or “double awareness” and its significance for both child clients and therapists. Therapist’s Own Work: Hear why it’s so important for us as therapists to do our own therapeutic work.Experience Experiential Play Therapy through numerous examples and stories of how it works with child clients and their parents. Join us for an enlightening conversation that takes us back to the roots of Synergetic Play Therapy and gives a beautiful overview of this impactful therapeutic approach.
If you would like to connect with Nilüfer Devecigil, follow her on her Instagram page here.
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.
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Whether we consciously remember our early years or not, the body holds onto those experiences in profound ways. In this episode, Lisa Dion delves into the intricacies of early memory, exploring how understanding different types of memory can shed light on the experiences of children under the age of two or three.
Join Lisa as she discusses:
The science behind early memory and its various forms. Why even if the mind doesn't remember, the body does. How this understanding impacts play therapy and supports healing. Practical approaches to recognizing and working with early memories in therapeutic settings.This episode is essential for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of early childhood development and the lasting impact of early experiences. Tune in to learn how the body holds onto memories and how this knowledge can enhance your therapeutic practice.
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.
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Original Air Date: August 16, 2022
Join Lisa as she welcomes Cary Hamilton, an extraordinary expert in play therapy and neurodiversity, for an insightful conversation aimed at transforming how you support parents and caregivers of children with neurodiverse or sensory processing challenges.
Cary Hamilton, the Director of Play Therapy at Antioch University in Seattle, owner of Olympia Therapy, and President of the Washington Association for Play Therapy, brings over a decade of experience as an author and international presenter on these topics. Additionally, Cary offers practical guidance through her educational platform, Playful Wisdom, designed to help parents rediscover the joy of parenting.
In this episode, discover how to guide parents and caregivers from feelings of overwhelm and confusion to a state of curiosity and deep connection with their child. Cary and Lisa share their lived experiences while covering:
Supporting parents/caregivers in trusting their intuition about their child's needs and empowering them in the healing process. Engaging parents/caregivers when they feel shut down, hopeless, or scared, including an amazing question from Cary that fosters complete support and acceptance. Addressing systemic family challenges such as differences in understanding between partners, sibling perceptions, and marital stress. Trusting the child's innate ability to regulate their own dysregulation.Gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and sensory processing challenges, and take away invaluable insights from this heartfelt and honest conversation.
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.
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Original Air Date: May 10, 2022
In this episode, Lisa welcomes a guest who holds a special place in her heart and professional journey—Felicia Carrol, a leading expert in Gestalt Play Therapy. As a Certified Gestalt Therapist, Lisa draws on one of the foundational theories of Synergetic Play Therapy, making this conversation particularly meaningful.
Felicia Carrol, LMFT, RPT-S, is the founder and director of the West Coast Institute for Gestalt Therapy with Children and Adolescents. An international educator, Felicia has conducted training across numerous countries and has contributed extensively to the play therapy field through her publications. As a direct student and close friend of the late Violet Oaklander, Felicia brings a wealth of knowledge and personal anecdotes.
Join Lisa and Felicia in a grounding and heartfelt discussion where you will:
Discover the history and development of Gestalt Play Therapy, highlighting Violet Oaklander's significant contributions. Gain insight into the principles of Gestalt Play Therapy, including its paradigm and the 4 Pillars established by Violet Oaklander. Explore often overlooked yet powerful concepts such as "being for" your client, the "self-nurturing" technique, and the importance of a dialogic relationship. Learn about common misconceptions in Gestalt Play Therapy and the broader play therapy field, particularly regarding directive versus non-directive modalities. Hear personal and professional stories about Violet Oaklander, celebrating her legacy and the profound impact she had on play therapy.This episode is dedicated to Violet Oaklander, who passed away on September 21, 2021, at the age of 94. A pioneering child and adolescent therapist, Violet is renowned for integrating Gestalt Therapy with play therapy, and her groundbreaking book, "Windows to Our Children," revolutionized the field.
Tune in to reconnect with the roots of play therapy and honor the legacy of Violet Oaklander. Thank you, Felicia, for sharing your wisdom and experiences.
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.
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In this special episode, Lisa is joined by two extraordinary guests, Isabella Cassina and Claudio Mochi, pioneers using play therapy in international crisis intervention. As co-founders of the INA International Academy for Play Therapy Studies and Psychosocial Projects in Switzerland, Isabella and Claudio have dedicated their careers to supporting children and families in some of the most challenging environments around the world.
Isabella, Director of Project Management, and Claudio, Director of the Academy, bring decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge to the table. They have worked in over 30 cities across 15 countries, addressing the needs of those affected by natural disasters, conflicts, and high-risk situations. Together, they developed the "Coping with the Present while Building for the Future" (CPBF) model, which they have shared globally.
In this episode, you'll discover:
How Isabella and Claudio began their journey in crisis and humanitarian work. The unique challenges and rewards of using play therapy to support children and their families affected by international crises. The philosophy behind "Recovering the Lost Play Time"—a program designed to restore play opportunities for children during migration and other crises. Insights into their model, CPBF, and its impact on mental health professionals worldwide. How to create play sanctuaries and foster a culture of play in international crisis contexts. The MAP (My Awareness Process) as a guiding reference point, emphasizing a comprehensive awareness process rather than just therapeutic techniques. The importance of co-constructing with populations in crisis to ensure program sustainability after providers leave, highlighting the need for community collaboration and cultural sensitivity regarding language, customs, and traditions.Claudio and Isabella also share personal stories from the field, highlighting the emotional impact of their work and the resilience of the children and communities they serve. Learn about their strategies for self-care and the significance of creating safe play environments amidst chaos.
This is an inspiring conversation filled with practical insights and heartfelt stories, showcasing the transformative power of play therapy in crisis situations. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from two of the leading experts in the field.
For more information about their work and the International Academy of Play Therapy, visit Crisis Play Therapy.
Tune in to explore how play therapy can be a beacon of hope in the darkest times and how you can be a part of this vital work.
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.
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Original Air Date: December 20, 2022
Prepare for an enlightening conversation as Lisa Dion welcomes a distinguished guest, Dr. Cathy Malchiodi, Founder & Director of the Trauma-Informed Practices and Expressive Arts Therapy Institute. Dr. Malchiodi is a renowned figure in the field of Expressive Arts Therapy, with a wealth of experience and expertise garnered from her extensive presentations and acclaimed books, including the timeless favorite "Understanding Children’s Drawings."
In this episode, delve into the transformative realm of Expressive Arts Therapy and discover the significance of "rhythmic synchronization" and "action-oriented" interventions in supporting clients on their journey of sensory integration and trauma healing. Dr. Malchiodi introduces a groundbreaking approach to conceptualizing the client's "Window of Tolerance," emphasizing the expansion of their capacity for trauma integration and playfulness.
Join us for a grounding conversation that transcends specific techniques, as we explore ways to empower clients in reclaiming and expanding their capacity for authentic self-expression. Dr. Malchiodi eloquently articulates the transformative potential of Expressive Arts Therapy, stating, "Trauma reduces our capacity for expression through movement, sound, enactment, image making, and play. Our job is to help people reclaim that capacity—to manifest a full range of restorative expression and reparative playfulness."
Discover the profound impact of Expressive Arts Therapy in fostering healing and restoring vitality. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights from Dr. Cathy Malchiodi's vast knowledge and experience in trauma-informed practices and expressive arts 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.
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