Shows
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: The Power of Attunement in Play Therapy: Deepening Connection with Clients & CaregiversWhy is attunement the heart of the therapeutic relationship? In this episode, Lisa Dion explores why simply following a script or checklist in play therapy isn’t enough—true transformation happens when we deeply attune to our clients (and ourselves). 🔹 Discover what attunement is—and what it’s not 🔹 Uncover the biggest barriers to attunement in the playroom 🔹 Learn how to create an experience where clients feel emotionally and energetically met 🔹 Gain insights on explaining the felt-sense of attunement to parents and caregivers Lisa also shares a powerful moment from a play therapy training, il...2025-04-2229 min
Lessons from the Playroom189. Navigating ADHD Through Play Therapy: Dual Perspectives for Therapists and Caregivers“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.” – Lisa Dion In this episode, Lisa sits down with Tony Vallance from the Building Better Brains Clinic for a conversation about supporting children with ADHD through play therapy. ADHD is often misunderstood, but with the right tools and understanding, play therapists can help children tap into their strengths while navigating the challenges they face. This conversation also explores ADHD from a dual perspective—not only through the experience...2025-03-2553 min
Lessons from the Playroom186. Attachment to Self: The Cornerstone of Healing with Mili Shoemaker“So much of our healing lies in our ability to come home to ourselves.” – Lisa Dion In this episode, Lisa is joined by Mili Shoemaker, a Synergetic Play Therapy supervisor trainer, long-time consultant, and dear friend. Together, they dive into one of the most foundational concepts in Synergetic Play Therapy: attachment to self. Join Lisa and Mili as they explore: How attachment to self differs from traditional attachment theories. Why moments of mindful awareness are key to healing and integration. The connection between attachment styles, perception, and self-regulation. Practical ways therapists can foster attachment to sel...2025-02-1149 min
Lessons from the Playroom184. Vision, Momentum, & Mastering the Business of Therapy with Lisa and Jen Taylor"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...2025-01-1447 min
Lessons from the Playroom181. Little Lessons Series: Messes, Transitions, and Bathroom Breaks - Listener Q&A with LisaWe’re diving into another special Q&A episode of Lessons from the Playroom! Lisa is answering three thought-provoking questions from our listeners, offering insights into some of the tricky moments that arise in the playroom. Tune in as Lisa explores messes, transitions, and those unexpected trips to the bathroom, unpacking what they might signify for the therapeutic process and how to respond with intention. This week’s questions include: Jasmine asks: "What do you do when a child makes huge messes [in the playroom]?" Lisa explores the art of setting boun...2024-12-0322 min
Lessons from the Playroom180. Navigating Life’s Transitions: An Empty Nester’s Journey with Lisa DionIn 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 episo...2024-11-1143 min
Lessons from the Playroom179. Little Lessons Series: Authenticity in the Playroom – Q&A with LisaLisa 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...2024-10-2828 min
Lessons from the PlayroomFrom the Archives: Navigating Boundaries in the Playroom with Lisa DionOriginal 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...2024-10-2227 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Bringing the Body into Therapy: Sensorimotor Psychotherapy with Dr. Bonnie GoldsteinOriginal 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 em...2024-10-0845 min
Lessons from the Playroom177. Little Lessons Series: Navigating the Teenage Terrain - Q&A with LisaLisa 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...2024-10-0125 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Co-Regulation in Play Therapy: Supporting Parents and Caregivers with Lisa DionOriginal 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 acknowl...2024-09-2425 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Peeking Through the Play: The Emotional Significance of Peek-a-Boo and Hide-and-Seek in Play TherapyOriginal 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...2024-09-1017 min
Lessons from the Playroom174. Little Lessons Series: Listener Q&A with LisaWe'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. 2024-08-2028 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastA Journey of Innovation and Resilience with Lisa DionSend us a textIn this enthralling episode, Maria Laquerre-Diego and Liliana Baylon delve into a captivating conversation with the esteemed Lisa Dion, LPC, RPT-S. Join us for a compelling episode with Lisa Dion as she shares her journey of revolutionizing play therapy. Lisa discusses the challenges of introducing innovative approaches to a resistant field, offering fresh insights into the regulation of the nervous system. She candidly explores the resistance to change, the task of proving herself, and the fears of advocating new methods. Learn about the perceptions and discomfort that arise when challenging norms and the...2024-08-0834 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Understanding Early Memory: How the Body Remembers Before the MindWhether 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...2024-07-3020 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Unveiling the Healing Power of StoryPlay: A Conversation with Dr. Joyce MillsOriginal Air Date: January 31, 2023 Prepare for an enriching dialogue as Lisa Dion welcomes esteemed guest Dr. Joyce C. Mills to explore the transformative practice of StoryPlay®. Rooted in Ericksonian principles and resiliency-based approaches, StoryPlay® harnesses the innate inner resources, skills, and strengths of individuals to foster profound healing, growth, and change. Dr. Joyce Mills is a renowned storyteller, trauma specialist, and the visionary behind StoryPlay®, recognized for her exceptional contributions to the field of Play Therapy Training and Child Psychology. Join Lisa and Joyce as they delve into the heart of StoryPlay®, offering playful and prof...2024-06-1851 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Embracing What Is: A Journey of Surrender with Lisa DionOriginal Air Date: November 23, 2021 Join Lisa Dion on a soul-searching expedition as she delves into the profound question: why is it so challenging to relinquish control and accept the reality of "what is" in our lives? In this poignant episode of Lessons from the Playroom, Lisa provides invaluable insights and practical guidance for navigating the complexities of surrender, acknowledging that the journey is often fraught with discomfort and pain. Discover: The underlying reasons behind the struggle to surrender to life's circumstances. Strategies for maintaining a sense of self while navigating the process of letting...2024-05-0724 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Why the Body Never Lies: Attuning to Body Language in Play TherapyOriginal Air Date: July 29, 2020 Discover the profound language of the body in therapy! In this episode, Lisa delves into the power of attuning to both our own and the child's body language, crucial for fostering co-regulation in therapeutic settings. Gain valuable techniques for staying within your window of tolerance to guide children through their discomfort. Join Lisa to explore the unerring wisdom of the body and learn to deepen your ability to listen and respond effectively to your clients. "The body never lies. The body is always revealing the truth relative t...2024-03-2622 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Empowering Parents/Caregivers as Co-Regulators for their Children Original Air Date: September 28, 2021 Embark on a transformative journey with Lisa Dion in this compelling episode as she navigates the fundamental question at the core of play therapy practice: "How do I empower parents/caregivers to become a co-regulator or external regulator for their child?" Guided by the mantra of treating parents/caregivers the way we wish them to treat their children, Lisa delves into the intricacies of supporting parents who may lack a regulation template, struggle with the art of regulation, or find their own internal disorganization echoing in their child's disarray. In this...2024-02-1319 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Navigating Goodbyes & Endings for Children & Caregivers in Play TherapyOriginal Air Date: July 6, 2021 Goodbyes can stir up complex emotions for our clients, their families, and even us as therapists. In this week's episode, join Lisa Dion as she delves into the art of saying goodbye in the therapeutic context. Discover valuable insights on recognizing the right moment for a child to transition and gain practical strategies to offer essential support to both the child and their parents or caregivers, especially in those challenging moments when saying goodbye feels particularly tough. Lisa shares her wisdom on this essential aspect of therapeutic work, ensuring that goodbyes...2024-01-2326 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Paris Goodyear-Brown: How To Hold “Hard Stories” In Play TherapyOriginal Air Date: April 12, 2022 Lisa Dion met her next guest at her very first APT conference. She was doing a presentation on supervision. As Lisa sat in her course, she remembers thinking, “Who is this woman?! Wow!” She was so captivated by her and her teaching. And today, Lisa is delighted to be joined by Paris Goodyear-Brown, the creator of the TraumaPlay™ model, the founder and Clinical Director of Nurture House, and the Executive Director of the TraumaPlay™ Institute. She is an internationally renowned speaker, a prolific author, and a master clinician. Join them as they...2024-01-0940 min
Lessons from the Playroom160. Mandalas in Play Therapy: A Transformative Journey with Tracy Turner-BumberryJoin Lisa Dion and Tracy Turner-Bumberry in this episode to explore the fascinating world of mandalas and their application in our work with children (... a super cool and likely unexplored tool in your clinical practice). In today's conversation, Tracy will unravel the mystery behind mandalas and share her insights into their powerful use in therapy. Tracy is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor. She brings a wealth of expertise to our discussion as a Certified AutPlay Trainer and Therapist, a Certified Animal Assisted Play Therapist, and a Certified DBT Therapist. Tracy is also a n...2023-12-1942 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Regulating the Collective Nervous Systems of FamiliesOriginal Air Date: September 13, 2022 If you’ve ever studied with Lisa Dion, you know she loves talking about the nervous system. And in this episode, she’s going to talk about the collective nervous systems within families and how to help support the regulation of the family system. If you’re just as excited about this topic as Lisa, you’ll definitely want to take notes for this one … Here’s what you’ll hear … How nervous system expressions occur within the context of families; How all behavior (even what we term as dysfunctional...2023-11-2124 min
Lessons from the Playroom157. Why Therapists Attract the Clients They DoIn this engaging episode, Lisa Dion brings together three guests that are near-and-dear to her heart: Michelle Wayman, Mili Shoemaker, and Lisa Walton. All three are either Certified Synergetic Play Therapists or Certified Synergetic Play Providers and are joining her from diverse corners of the world - Argentina, Australia and the United States. Together, they embark on a profound exploration of the intricate connections between the therapist and their clients, with a particular emphasis on the intriguing question of why therapists seem to attract the clients they do. Have you ever found yourself wondering why certain clients...2023-10-2447 min
Lessons from the Playroom156. Heather Fairlee Denbrough: Navigating Childhood Suicidality: Insights, Strategies, and HopeIn this episode, Lisa Dion is joined by the fantabulous and oh-so-knowledgeable Heather Fairlee Denbrough, a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist/Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. Together, they tackle one of the most requested and also one of the most scariest topics for therapists … providing support to children dealing with suicidal ideation and attempts. This episode is a valuable resource for any caregiver or professional working with children. Join Lisa and Heather as they shed light on this important and often misunderstood topic, providing insights, strategies, and hope for supporting children who may be...2023-10-1047 min
Lessons from the Playroom150. Marshall Lyles: Ableism and Disablism in the PlayroomThe beautiful Marshall Lyles is again joining Lisa Dion for another Lessons from the Playroom episode, but this time to talk about understanding Ableism and Disablism in the Playroom. Marshall Lyles, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, has 20 years of practice in family play therapy. Drawing on lessons learned from working with attachment trauma in a variety of settings, Marshall regularly teaches on sandtray therapy and family work around the globe. In our opinion, Marshall is one of the leading voices in helping us understand ableism and disablism. You can connect with him at www.marshalllyles.com....2023-07-1844 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Are Toys Necessary in Play Therapy?Original Air Date: Jan 20, 2021 As a play therapist have you ever experienced this or felt stressed thinking ... *"OMG, I don't have enough toys in the playroom" ... *" I don't have the right kind of toys"... *"I need a certain kind of toy because I work with children who have these issues"... *"I live in a part of the world that doesn't have access to toys"... *Or, "I'm a play therapist, I'm supposed to have toys" In this episode, Lisa asks the question - Are toys really n...2023-06-2724 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Behind the Microphone - An Interview with Lisa DionThis episode aired on Oct 5, 2020. To her thousands of listeners around the world, Lisa expresses in gratitude, "Thank you for providing me with a sense of home." It's time to turn the tables! For several years, Lisa has shared play therapy knowledge and insights, interviewed special guests and helped create discussion and new learning for clinicians all over the world. But who is this person behind the microphone? In this episode, Lisa is the one in the hot seat as she is interviewed by Katherine Eastlake, Certified Synergetic Play Therapist and Supervisor. Katherine t...2023-06-1326 min
Lessons from the Playroom145. Rachel Altvater: Perspective: How We Come to See Ourselves, Others & the WorldIn this next Lessons from the Playroom episode, we’re going in a totally different direction. Lisa Dion has a very special guest to talk about perspective - a topic we often don’t talk about enough (... or in some cases, at all!) and the significance of it in our work as therapists and as beings walking through the world. Lisa’s special guest is the lovely Dr. Rachel Altvater (Psy.D., RPT-S™). Rachel is an award-winning, pioneering expert, leader, researcher, international trainer, author, and supervisor in the field of play therapy. Her book, “Perspective: Contemplating the Complexities...2023-05-0948 min
Lessons from the Playroom144. A Discussion on Reflective and Relational Play Therapy SupervisionJoin Lisa Dion for a really important and special conversation about a topic that has never been discussed in this entire podcast series … It's about supervision. And not just any type of supervision, but reflective-relational kinds of supervision. Some of you may likely be engaged in your own supervision and some of you may be supervisors ... you're encouraged to listen to this conversation in whatever way you feel is most meaningful for you. To have this conversation, Lisa has three very important people in her life - Polly Douglass, Kim Buller, and Khris Rolfe are thr...2023-04-2537 min
Lessons from the Playroom143. Ann Beckley-Forest: Working with Adoption & Attachment Trauma/WoundingLisa Dion’s next guest has made quite the name for herself in the world of EMDR Therapy (although this is not a conversation about EMDR Therapy, if you work with the population that we’re talking about today, you might want to consider some EMDR training 😉). Join Ann Beckley-Forest and Lisa in an inspiring conversation … one that is also quite near and dear to Ann’s heart … that will help you conceptualize how to work with children and families when adoption, foster care, or some kind of placement experience is part of the child’s life story. Ann is a Lice...2023-04-1847 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Lauren Porter: Yoga & Play TherapyOriginal Air Date: January 18, 2022 Lisa Dion’s next special guest is a Certified SPT therapist, coach, mom and yoga instructor. Lisa has known her for years – all the way back to when Lauren worked in Cape Town, South Africa. Listen as Lauren Porter and Lisa talk about how to make Yoga a practice that can support you as a therapist and redefine and unpack yoga in a way that maybe you haven’t considered… …And how getting to know yourself more and experiencing a widening of your window of tolerance for your emotional states can hel...2023-02-2136 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: When a Child Doesn't Speak in the PlayroomOriginal Air Date: November 13, 2017 A child’s refusal to speak inside the playroom can leave even the most seasoned therapist flustered. But connecting with clients involves much more than words. Silence can be golden when you know what it means and how to harness it. Join Lisa and find out how supporting a child in their healing process doesn't have to require words. "It's the child really feeling that you're with them that heals them most. Sometimes, that just doesn't require words." - Lisa Dion Podcast Resources: Freeman Attachment Cycle Synergetic Play Ther...2022-11-1522 min
Lessons from the Playroom132. Play Therapy as a Spiritual Practice (Jackie Flynn interviews Lisa Dion)In this episode the tables are turned and the lovely Jackie Flynn, host of the Play Therapy Community Podcast/Facebook group and the Neuroscience of Play Therapy Summits, interviews Lisa about how play therapy and being a play therapist has become a spiritual practice for her over the years. Join Lisa and Jackie as they talk about: What spiritual practice means and how doing our own “work” as a therapist can become a spiritual practice; How the playroom is a giant "meditation cushion" for therapists to grow within themselves as human beings; How to hold a larger...2022-11-0849 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: How to Recognize Empowerment in the PlayroomOriginal Air Date: March 27, 2017 Therapists are so good at identifying and working with the problem, but are we as trained to also recognize empowerment? In this podcast, Lisa addresses why it can be challenging to recognize when a child is moving into empowerment, and she shares multiple strategies to help you identify when your child clients are overcoming their challenges. "Part of play therapy is widening the child's perspective but also widening our own" - Lisa Dion Podcast Resources: Freeman Attachment Cycle Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE R...2022-11-0123 min
Lessons from the PlayroomSpecial: Janet Courtney: Infant Mental Health and Play TherapyOriginal Air Date: September 23, 2020 "It's about the therapist's ability to attune in order to facilitate a process of attunement and playful touch between caregiver and infant." - Janet Courtney Traditional play therapy targets children ages 3 and older, but what about the children who aren't yet three? How do we help these children? Join Lisa as she talks about infant mental health with special guest, Dr. Janet Courtney- founder of FirstPlay Therapy. Together they explore the biggest myth related to infants, the significance of implicit memory and most importantly, how clinicians can support healing a...2022-08-0932 min
Lessons from the Playroom120. Bonnie Goldstein: Sensorimotor Psychotherapy with ChildrenAnother amazing guest is joining Lisa Dion for this Lessons from the Playroom episode - Dr. Bonnie Goldstein. As a faculty member at Pat Ogden’s Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute, she’s taken Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and applied it to children* …. Fun story - Bonnie and Lisa had a random (but not random 😉) meeting in Melbourne, Australia in 2019 at the Australian Childhood Foundation's world-renowned trauma conference. They both found themselves at the same dinner one night, and by the end, the two were cuddled up, holding hands and laughing - it was an immediate “Hi! I like you”- connection ✨2022-05-2446 min
Lessons from the Playroom119. Felicia Carrol: A Conversation with One of the Pioneers & Experts of Gestalt Play TherapyThis next Lessons from the Playroom topic is near and dear to Lisa's heart as she is a Certified Gestalt Therapist and Gestalt is one of the root theories of Synergetic Play Therapy. And not only is the topic important to Lisa, but so is her guest. She is one of the Gestalt Play Therapy experts on the planet. Yes, we’re talking about Felicia Carrol. Felicia Carrol is a LMFT, RPT-S, and founder/director of the West Coast Institute for Gestalt Therapy with Children and Adolescents - she is an international educator and the list of count...2022-05-1041 min
Lessons from the Playroom117. Paris Goodyear-Brown: How to Hold “Hard Stories” in Play TherapyLisa Dion met her next guest at her very first APT conference. She was doing a presentation on supervision. As Lisa sat in her course, she remembers thinking, “Who is this woman?! Wow!” She was so captivated by her and her teaching. And today, Lisa is delighted to be joined by Paris Goodyear-Brown, the creator of the TraumaPlay™ model, the founder and Clinical Director of Nurture House, and the Executive Director of the TraumaPlay™ Institute. She is an internationally renowned speaker, a prolific author, and a master clinician. Join them as they talk about how holding ha...2022-04-1240 min
Lessons from the Playroom116. Liliana Baylon: Expand Your Cultural Lens When Working with Immigrants & RefugeesJoin Lisa Dion for a most beautiful and eye-opening (and, unfortunately, so relevant to what’s happening in the world right now) conversation with someone very dear to her about understanding the experience of immigrants and refugees. Liliana Baylon is a bilingual (English-Spanish), bicultural therapist and Synergetic Play Therapist/Supervisor. And today she talks with Lisa about understanding the experience of immigrant and refugee families, and some really important things to be aware of that will widen your cultural lens and shape how you work with your clients. Liliana will share insights from her own jour...2022-03-2944 min
Lessons from the Playroom115. Judy Norman: Transforming Education: Empowering Educators & StudentsDrumroll please ….. Lisa Dion and her next guest have a super exciting announcement to make (hint: if you’re a teacher, educator, school counselor or work in any way with schools, you’re going to love this 😍) Join Lisa and Judy Norman, Certified SPT therapist/supervisor and SPT co-teacher as they share the launch of the Synergetic Education™ Institute (https://synergeticeducation.com/). 🎉🙌 ...It's been years in the making as they've both seen the profound impact of bringing Synergetic Play Therapy® tenets into schools to support educators, school-based mental health professionals, and educational leaders. In fact, it's been s...2022-03-1434 min
Lessons from the Playroom111. Lauren Porter: Yoga and Play TherapyLisa Dion’s next special guest is a Certified SPT therapist, coach, mom and Yoga instructor. She’s known her for years - all the way back to when Lauren worked in Cape Town, South Africa. Listen as Lauren Porter and Lisa talk about how to make Yoga a practice that can support you as a therapist and redefine and unpack yoga in a way that maybe you haven’t considered… ...And how getting to know yourself more and experiencing a widening of your window of tolerance for your emotional states can help your practice as a thera...2022-01-1836 min
Lessons from the Playroom87. Are Toys Necessary in Play Therapy?"With the understanding that a toy can be anything at all, we transcend cultural barriers and socioeconomic status to focus on the relationship and use whatever is in the environment. We also honor that the greatest toy in the playroom is really you, the therapist!" -Lisa Dion ARE TOYS NECESSARY IN PLAY THERAPY ... In this latest Lessons from the Playroom, we ask the question, are toys really necessary in play therapy? .... Join Lisa in this podcast episode dedicated to therapists around the world who may have limited access to toys. In this episode of Lessons...2021-01-2824 min
Lessons from the Playroom85. Understanding Left-Brain / Right-Brain Decision Making "The dysregulation in our body is information about the congruency of our decisions." - Lisa Dion As you enter into 2021, explore how to manifest decisions that are congruent and in alignment with your authentic self. Join Lisa in this unique Lessons from the Playroom podcast that's not just about play therapy ... She'll help you explore how to plan, reflect and make decisions that integrate the left- and right-brain, how to know if you are making a congruent decision, and why there's no such thing as a "bad" decision. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Webs...2021-01-0525 min
Lessons from the Playroom80. An Interview with Lisa - Behind the MicrophoneTo her thousands of listeners around the world, Lisa expresses in gratitude, "Thank you for providing me with a sense of home." ~ It's time to turn the tables! For 80 episodes, Lisa has shared play therapy knowledge and insights, interviewed special guests and helped create discussion and new learning for clinicians all over the world. But who is this person behind the microphone? In this episode, Lisa is the one in the hot seat as she is interviewed by Katherine Eastlake, Certified Synergetic Play Therapist. Katherine takes Lisa all the way back to her very first...2020-10-0526 min
Lessons from the Playroom78. Conflict In and Out of the Playroom "The more we try to avoid conflict, the more it shows up in our life." - Lisa Dion Why is conflict so hard to deal with when it arises and something we want to avoid? Listen as Lisa shares what to do when conflict shows up, why it's actually a necessary part of growth, and how to cultivate a relationship within ourselves when it comes up in relationships both in and out of the playroom. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play ther...2020-09-0825 min
Lessons from the Playroom77. Working with Emotional Age in Play Therapy"When a child comes into play therapy, we are not working with their chronological age, but their emotional age." - Lisa Dion When our clients come to session it is easy to get caught up in thinking that they are their age, when in fact, they are not their age. At least not their chronological age. This episode is dedicated to helping you begin to understand the difference between emotional age and chronological age, a few clues to help you spot emotional age and regression, and how to work with these younger states in both your clients an...2020-08-1327 min
Lessons from the Playroom76. Attuning to Body Language in Play Therapy"The body never lies. The body is always revealing the truth relative to the individual's perception in any given moment." - Lisa Dion Learning how to attune to body language, our own and the child's is an essential component for co-regulation in play therapy. Staying in our own window of tolerance to helping the child move towards their own discomfort depends on it. Tune in as we learn how the body never lies and how we can become more adept at listening to its wisdom. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Lea...2020-07-2922 min
Lessons from the Playroom74. Nora Alwah: Social Justice in Play Therapy"To overcome systems of oppression that want institutional racism to be invisible, we need to name it! ... And make it explicit!" - Nora Alwah What is social justice? What is oppression? What is intersectionality? Join Lisa Dion and as she invites Nora Alwah, social justice educator and therapist, to explore these questions and offer guidance to therapists on how they can support children and families in ways that create connection, attunement and empowerment. Nora Alwah is a queer cis-woman of color, and an immigrant from Denmark and Comoros. Nora is passionate about fiercely challenging systemic oppre...2020-06-0328 min
Lessons from the Playroom73. Supporting Children through Anxiety and the Unknown"All symptoms and behaviors a child displays while anxious are attempts at regulation." - Lisa Dion When life and situations become unpredictable, children have to orient to the unfamiliar just like adults do. The difference is that their brains are a little further behind in their capacity to regulate through it often leading to high levels of anxiety and other symptoms. Tune is as we explore how to support children through their anxiety and find a sense of security when the unknown arises. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FRE...2020-05-2825 min
Lessons from the Playroom72. Facilitating the Parent Check-in in Play Therapy"To the degree you link what's happening in the playroom to the goal, you increase the probability of parent involvement and buy-in." - Lisa Dion Talking with parents is an important part of the play therapy process, but what do we say? How do we help them understand what their child is working on? How do we communicate in a way that keep them engaged? Tune in as we explore how to check in with our clients' most important people. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to supp...2020-05-1323 min
Lessons from the Playroom71. Understanding Vicarious Trauma and Compassion Fatigue in Play Therapy"The word compassion means 'to suffer with' or merge with. This is different than empathy." - Lisa Dion Vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue are far more common experiences for play therapists than we realize, especially during times of crisis. And how are they further impacted when play therapists are going through the same crisis, such as the COVID19 pandemic? Tune in to this very important conversation that is essential for all play therapists to hear. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play the...2020-05-0321 min
Lessons from the Playroom70. Understanding the Four Threats to the Brain in a Crisis"It's normal that you're going through waves of dysregulation right now. All 4 threats to the brain are being activated.- Lisa Dion During a crisis, such as the current pandemic, waves of dysregulation can often feel like a daily experience and even the norm. Why? Because our brains are not just perceiving one threat, but four! Tune in as we revisit the 4 threats to the brain and learn the impact they may be having on our nervous system, as well as the key to regulating and coming back to yourself in the midst of all the intensity...2020-04-1924 min
Lessons from the Playroom69. Online Play Therapy and Therapist Fatigue"At the end of the day, teletherapy is about relationship. It's about the experience of connection." - Lisa Dion Working with children and families virtually can surprisingly cause fatigue for the play therapist. From a difference in non-verbal cues to the way we sit to the lighting in the room, from hydration to whether or not we’re wearing shoes, all sorts of things play a role. Tune in to learn how to make online play therapy synergize with your nervous system. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Res...2020-04-0326 min
Lessons from the Playroom68. The Vagus Nerve - Why it's a Key to Regulation"The vagus nerve has a crucial part in our overall health and well being." - Lisa Dion The vagus nerve is one of the most important nerves in your body. Not only is it vital to regulation, but it plays a role in immunity and helps the body recover faster from damage. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to stimulate this nerve and help keep it (and your body) working as optimally as possible. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy j...2020-03-1928 min
Lessons from the Playroom66. Lying in Play Therapy"Whatever the lie a child tells, it's all part of a protective pattern. And protective patterns are never right or wrong." - Lisa Dion While lying often gets a bad rap, everybody lies (yep, even you!). In fact, it has less to do with manipulation and more to do with protection of self. In other words, lying has a purpose. As therapists, it's up to us to recognize the feelings underneath the fib. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey Ag...2020-02-1922 min
Lessons from the Playroom64. Supporting Adoptive and Foster Parents in Play Therapy"One of the best ways to support foster and adoptive parents is to let them grieve." - Lisa Dion Working with adoptive and foster parents is a rewarding experience, but the lack of education that runs rampant poses a challenge. As therapists, one of the most important things we can do is fill in the gaps while allowing them the space to grieve. 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 In...2020-01-2420 min
Lessons from the Playroom63. Presence in the Playroom"Presence isn't just about showing up; it's about participating with the fullness of you." - Lisa Dion Much to Barbie's chagrin, you're the most important toy in the playroom. Still, showing up for a session isn't enough: you must be fully present too. But in order to become present with the child, you must first learn how to be present with yourself. 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...2020-01-1024 min
Lessons from the Playroom62. Spirituality in the Playroom"How can you embrace your own spirituality, what is meaningful to you, to help a child heal?" - Lisa Dion Spirituality in the playroom not only means working with clients and families who may hold different belief systems, but it also means finding your own. For some, this is a higher power; for others, play therapy is their spiritual path. 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 en...2019-12-2320 min
Lessons from the Playroom61. Kelly Miller: Nutrition in the Playroom"Diet is just another partner in crime contributing to the symptoms that show up in the playroom." - Lisa Dion The connection between gut and brain is becoming more widely studied and gaining in increased importance. For children who struggle, this brings up the possibility that what they're eating is feeding underlying dysfunction. Diet might not be the sole answer, but it could play a vital role in finding a solution. Join Lisa Dion, LPC, RPT-S, and Kelly Miller, LCSW, RPT-S, as they explore this intriguing topic. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy I...2019-12-1034 min
Lessons from the Playroom60. Perfection in the Playroom"Perfectionism is the strategy the child is using to manage their anxiety and fear." - Lisa Dion Perfectionism in the playroom shows up in a variety of ways. But beneath the need to be perfect sits a child's uncertainty about themselves. The key to regulating this fear and anxiety is showing the child how to come back to who they truly are. 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...2019-11-2220 min
Lessons from the Playroom59. Sensory Processing Disorder in Play Therapy"It's not that children with SPD don't want to regulate; it's that they can't." - Lisa Dion Sensory Processing Disorder is a misunderstood challenge that can show up in the playroom in a variety of ways. Often, recognizing the issue is the first step in helping the client. The second, of course, is showing these children how to regulate. 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 th...2019-11-1026 min
Lessons from the Playroom58. Hygiene Issues in Play Therapy"A child's failure to notice a lack of hygiene is often a sign that they're disconnected from their bodies." - Lisa Dion Little kids aren't known for hygiene and inside the playroom is no different. However, a noticeable lack of hygiene may be the sign of something bigger. A child regressing in emotional age or reliving past trauma may engage in unsanitary behavior. When this happens, it's important that we leave shame at the door. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play t...2019-10-0421 min
Lessons from the Playroom57. Little Lessons in Play Therapy"Broken toys may be a metaphor for how children see themselves." - Lisa Dion Little kids come with little issues, issues that might grow big if we are unsure how to handle them. In this podcast, Lisa discusses the commonly asked "little questions." Tune in as she explores what to do with broken toys, having food in the playroom, lying in the playroom, and what to do when a child tries to take a toy home. * Please note that we no longer offer the course "Growing Up In Play Therapy." This content is now part...2019-09-1921 min
Lessons from the Playroom56. How to Stay Inspired as a Play Therapist"We all have deep within us the desire to pursue something that inspires us. We have a natural desire to evolve and grow" - Lisa Dion The brain is a high maintenance organ, one that wants a challenge! In order to stay passionate in our careers as play therapists, we must give the brain the growth it craves. But we must give ourselves permission too – the permission to be ourselves and pursue what inspires us. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play the...2019-08-2323 min
Lessons from the Playroom55. Grief and Loss in Play Therapy"Grief elicits different emotions. It's important to provide space for a child's experiences while looking at how we handle loss ourselves." - Lisa Dion When grief or loss occurs, we are culturally predisposed to expect sadness. But in and out of the playroom, children may feel a myriad of emotions ranging from heartache to happiness to suppression. How can we meet children where they are and give them the freedom to experience their loss in their own way? Tune in to explore this challenging topic. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy L...2019-08-0825 min
Lessons from the Playroom53. Medical Trauma in Play Therapy"One of the best ways to reduce medical trauma is by making the unknown known. Children need information and lots of it." - Lisa Dion Medical trauma is prevalent in the majority of children who have undergone medical procedures or experienced chronic and acute conditions. This shows up in the playroom in a variety of ways, including those that can lead the therapist to jump to conclusions. Listen in to explore how to not only help children who have experienced this type of trauma but how to minimize future trauma as well. Podcast Resources: S...2019-07-1725 min
Lessons from the Playroom52. Two Roles, One Room: When You're a Parent and a Play Therapist"It's isn't about being a parent or not. It's about showing up in the playroom and being real." - Lisa Dion Being a parent and a play therapist has both benefits and drawbacks. While parenthood can offer added insight, having kids doesn't translate into having all the answers inside the playroom. Why? Because like children, no two parents are exactly alike. 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 yo...2019-06-2823 min
Lessons from the Playroom51. Working With Gifted Children in Play Therapy"When it comes to giftedness, one of the most important things to focus on is how these children manage their internal worlds." - Lisa Dion Gifted children are unquestionably bright, but the gifted child isn't the same as the intelligent child. Often the difference lies not only in intellectual needs but also the ability to regulate. Giftedness typically comes packaged with self-imposed standards that are impossibly hard to meet, leaving the child bored, angry, or anxious. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your p...2019-06-1222 min
Lessons from the Playroom50. Sibling Rivalry: The Inevitable Childhood Conflict"Every family has both peace and war, dysregulation and regulation, support and challenge." - Lisa Dion Parents often want their children to get along, a family environment void of argument. But the sibling dynamic is one in which disagreement is unavoidable. This isn't always a bad thing - conflict leads to empowerment and growth. 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...2019-05-2929 min
Lessons from the Playroom49. Working With Parents in the Playroom"When mom and dad are in the room the power to heal can become greater. Then the relationship between the child and parent becomes your client." - Lisa Dion Parents in the playroom can give even the most seasoned play therapists pause, leaving them feeling insecure and watched. But moms and dads are part of the healing package. Relying on the power of parents only enhances the power of play. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey Aggression in Play Th...2019-05-1625 min
Lessons from the Playroom48. Rupture and Repair in Play Therapy"The majority of relationship, any relationship is rupture. Repair is the remedy." - Lisa Dion Rupture, repair, repeat - it's a recipe for relationship. Whether that relationship is with your client or with yourself, mis-attunement is an unavoidable but necessary occurrence. It provides the foundation of trust, opening the doors to true healing. 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 fi...2019-05-0221 min
Lessons from the Playroom47. Double Duty: Working With Twins in Play Therapy"Twins are master co-regulators but also susceptible to losing themselves. The key is to help them find the 'I' in 'we.'" - Lisa Dion Twins may be nature's 2-for-1 deal, but being a twin (or having twins) comes with unique challenges not always experienced by singletons. From separation anxiety to individuality, join Lisa Dion (who is a fraternal twin) and Susan Stutzman (a mother of identical twins) as they discuss these marvelous multiples. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy j...2019-04-1733 min
Lessons from the Playroom45. Dueling Parents - Managing High Conflict Divorce in Play Therapy"Play therapy is about the child. It's not about navigating the conflict between feuding parents." - Lisa Dion Divorce is often painted as a traumatizing experience, but what it looks like through the perspective of a child varies greatly. Working with high-conflict divorce requires recognizing this deviation. It also requires a neutrality and a focus on what matters most: healing the child. 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...2019-03-2023 min
Lessons from the Playroom44. Emotional Flooding in the Playroom: When the Therapist Finds Themselves Outside their Window of Tolerance"Emotional flooding is inevitable; it's part of relationship. It's not about shame, but connection, providing a platform upon which real repair can flourish." - Lisa Dion Emotional flooding is part of therapy: it occurs in all play therapy paradigms. Looking at it not through a lens of shame but with a focus on connection turns it from an enemy into an ally. In fact, emotional flooding - because of its realness and rawness - can lead to greater levels of healing and authenticity. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website F...2019-03-0625 min
Lessons from the Playroom43. Why Isn't This Child Playing? When a Child Won't Play in Play Therapy"If you have a child who is not playing, honor that child and meet them where they are." - Lisa Dion A playroom without play can cause confusion. But there are many reasons a child may leave the toy box shut. Sometimes, it's a reflection of anxiety or tied to a younger emotional age. Other times, this issue isn't one at all: discovering the play requires setting aside our preconceived notions about what play entails. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play t...2019-02-2017 min
Lessons from the Playroom42. Natascha Lawrence: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders in the Playroom"If the things that are not challenging for them are promoted and highlighted, that gets to be their story, not the disability." - Lisa Dion Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is often misunderstood, with diagnoses that vary by country. In this podcast, Lisa is joined by special guest Natascha Lawrence as they work to break down the confusion surrounding FASD while exploring the ways to most effectively support these amazing and misunderstood children. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey Aggression in...2019-02-0722 min
Lessons from the Playroom41. Peeking Through the Play: Hide-and-Go-Seek and Peek-a-Boo in Play Therapy"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. " - Lisa Dion Child's play is serious business and Peek-a-Boo and Hide-and-Go-Seek are no exceptions. But these games, like so many, act as a platform for the emotions a child is processing at any given time. At their heart, they may be most about wanting to be seen and wanting to be found. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey Ag...2019-01-2418 min
Lessons from the Playroom40. The Elements of Art in Play Therapy"Art isn't about interpreting a drawing. It's about being with and attuning to the child in the process of creation." - Lisa Dion Art in the playroom can be a challenge, especially for therapists who believe they are artistically limited. But art provides a necessary and informative outlet for children. It's not the final product that's important; it's the process that counts. Being present and attuned keeps the therapist from painting themselves into a corner of insecurity and self-doubt. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support y...2019-01-0920 min
Lessons from the Playroom39. Movies in the Playroom"Children will bring in whatever they need to bring in. There is no type of play that is better or worse." - Lisa Dion Recreating a movie can sometimes take the place of imaginative play. When this happens in the playroom, it provides clues to the underlying problem and challenges. The key is learning to flip the "script" towards integration. 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 en...2018-11-3022 min
Lessons from the Playroom38. People Pleasing in the Playroom"Don't be fooled by the smile. Underneath there may be a lot of pain waiting to come out." - Lisa Dion People-pleasing in the playroom happens, and not just with children; therapists get caught in people-pleasing too! This ever-so-familiar coping strategy is often covering up challenges a child or therapist may not yet be able to face. Recognizing why this happens and what to do when it happens is the first step to creating a session filled with integration instead of placation. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE R...2018-11-0220 min
Lessons from the Playroom37. Early Termination in Play Therapy"Trust that both you and the child will be okay." - Lisa Dion Early termination happens for a handful of reasons. Sometimes, we can't change this. But shifting our perspective helps us look at terminations through another view, trusting ourselves and the child in the process. 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, su...2018-09-2725 min
Lessons from the Playroom36. Using Bop Bags in the Playroom"The bop bags, like every other toy, will become what the child needs to be." - Lisa Dion Bop bags in the playroom are a controversial toy. But do they promote aggression and anger? Or can they be used to promote integration, self-awareness, and regulation? The answer: it depends on how you use them. 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...2018-09-1224 min
Lessons from the Playroom35. Judith Norman: 9 Elements to an Effective Teacher's Conference"No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care." - Lisa Dion Teachers and play therapists make a powerful pair, but this starts with an initial conference. How can clinicians assure this meeting goes well, putting themselves in a position where they're viewed as an ally rather than a threat? Success involves nine elements and lots of validation. 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 ...2018-08-2729 min
Lessons from the Playroom34. Going Below the Surface - Why Getting Underneath is the Key to Healing"Play is just the boat... we must figure out what's going on in the ocean." - Lisa Dion Play therapists often focus on protocol, technique, and, of course, toys. But what's below all this? Engaging the right-brain and allowing yourself to feel are keys to helping your clients. 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 Ap...2018-08-0820 min
Lessons from the Playroom33. Getting it Wrong in the Playroom - Why Mistakes are Must-Dos for Great Play Therapists"Challenges and discomforts are necessities of growth." - Lisa Dion All of us have moments when we doubt ourselves. Moments when we shake our heads in frustration. Moments when we have no idea what we're doing. But challenges in the playroom are a necessity - they allow us to master new techniques and broaden our skills. Getting it wrong? It might just be right. 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 In...2018-07-2522 min
Lessons from the Playroom32. Does Teletherapy Work in Play Therapy?"Regulating the client is the biggest challenge of teletherapy." - Lisa Dion Teletherapy allows us to reach clients regardless of distance. In play therapy, it requires modification and parental support. But the connection can be powerful and purposeful. 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 yo...2018-06-2924 min
Lessons from the Playroom31. Selective Mutism in the Playroom"Working with mutism means working with the anxiety underneath the symptom." - Lisa Dion From the child who only talks to certain people to the child who doesn't talk at all, selective mutism has many faces. The playroom is a common place where it surfaces. But a silent child speaks without words, telling us to look below the surface at the nervous system underneath. 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 Inte...2018-06-1325 min
Lessons from the Playroom30. Mirror Mirror on the Wall: The Client is You After All"The fear of going towards something in the playroom is a reflection of a wound in us that hasn't healed." - Lisa Dion As play therapists, we're often taught to check ourselves at the door. But, when the child's challenges reflect our own, this is difficult for even the most seasoned clinician. What happens when we embrace the mirror and tap into our humanness? You just might experience some of the most powerful sessions when you see yourself in your client's struggle. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE R...2018-05-3123 min
Lessons from the Playroom29. Helping Children and Parents When Tragedy Strikes"We can't promise to keep kids safe from tragedy, but we can promise to have a plan." - Lisa Dion Tragedy is an inevitability of life, no matter how much we wish it wasn't. No one is immune, including kids. But heartbreak can bring about a myriad of emotions, inside and outside of the playroom. We can't always keep kids safe, but we can reduce their fear of the unknown. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey Aggression in Play Th...2018-05-1624 min
Lessons from the Playroom28. Intakes with the Brain in Mind"The intake session isn't about data collection; it's about creating a relationship." - Lisa Dion The intake session is a vital part of play therapy. But it's not all about educating parents about the process and their involvement, it's also about the nervous system - yours and mom and dad's. 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 re...2018-04-3021 min
Lessons from the Playroom25. Emotional Flooding in the Playroom"Emotional flooding is a normal response; it's the shame applied to it that does the damage." - Lisa Dion Emotional flooding is often thought of as a bad thing, but this isn't necessarily true. There is knowledge in the nervous system and wisdom in the body's reaction. 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 Po...2018-03-1922 min
Lessons from the Playroom24. Technology and Children - Is Pokemon Friend or Foe?A child uses technology to fulfill a need. We must meet that need before turning off the TV. You can't take away someone's boat without giving them another one." -Lisa Dion Children scream for ice cream and screen time too. But is technology as harmful as many assume or is it a necessity? Does using it mean a child is zoning out or could it mean they're engaging? In this podcast, we discuss why screen time isn't a clear cut issue: inside the shades of gray is a child meeting his or her needs. Podcast...2018-03-0726 min
Lessons from the Playroom23. Turning your Sand Tray into a Regulation Device"Sand doesn't just help regulate the child; it helps regulate the therapist too." - Lisa Dion There are so many ways to use sand in a play therapy session, but have you ever considered turning your sand tray into a regulation device? The key to this is the right tools. So, shift towards the sifter and explore the many ways sand helps tell us all about the state of the nervous system. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey Aggression in...2018-02-1917 min
Lessons from the Playroom21. Calmness in the Playroom - Ally or Adversary?"Maybe the goal is not to calm. Maybe the goal is to connect." Lisa Dion Often, it's our natural inclination to ask children to calm down. This happens inside playrooms, classrooms, and on top of jungle gyms. But is this the best solution? Or should we focus less on the idea of calmness and more on the idea of connection? 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 en...2018-01-0817 min
Lessons from the Playroom19. Rejection As a Gift"Rejection is one of the most challenging experiences we can have as humans. But behind rejection lies acceptance and growth." - Lisa Dion Rejection is something we look upon negatively, both in the playroom and in our personal lives. But, here's a secret: behind rejection is always, always acceptance. This is one of the many reasons rejection is a boost rather than a barrier. 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 In...2017-11-2726 min
Lessons from the Playroom18. When a Child Doesn't Speak in the Playroom"It's the child really feeling that you're with them that heals them most. Sometimes, that just doesn't require words." - Lisa Dion A child’s refusal to speak inside the playroom can leave even the most seasoned therapist flustered. But connecting with clients involves much more than words. Silence can be golden when you know what it means and how to harness it. 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 ...2017-11-1322 min
Lessons from the Playroom12. When a Child Says They're Done in the Session"In play therapy, children need to know that they're in charge" - Lisa Dion A child wanting to end a session early can rattle even the most seasoned therapist. So how do you handle the situation? In this podcast, Lisa Dion discusses how to recognize flooding, return a child to their window of tolerance, and why ending a session doesn't need to end the relationship. 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 In...2017-08-1324 min
Lessons from the Playroom4. What Our Playroom Says About Us"Our playrooms should be rooms that allow children to explore a range of emotion." - Lisa Dion Did you know that your playroom is a reflection of you? What you put in it and how you set it up is information to the child about where you are willing to go emotionally and what is happening in your own nervous system! Join Lisa as she discusses what your playroom says about you and explores some of the most essential toys to have in it and ideas about how to set it up. Podcast Resources: S...2017-04-1024 min
Lessons from the Playroom3. How to Recognize Empowerment in the Playroom"Part of play therapy is widening the child's perspective but also widening our own" - Lisa Dion Therapists are so good at identifying and working with the problem, but are we as trained to also recognize empowerment? In this podcast, Lisa addresses why it can be challenging to recognize when a child is moving into empowerment, and she shares multiple strategies to help you identify when your child clients are overcoming their challenges. Podcast Resources: Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey Ag...2017-03-2723 min