Original Air Date: June 21, 2022

In this heartfelt episode, Lisa, dives into the tender and often challenging topic of the “shoulds” and “should nots” that we carry as clinicians. These inner judgments—those persistent whispers of self-criticism—show up in the playroom, in our work with parents and caregivers, and even in our personal lives.

Joined by two Certified Synergetic Play Therapists, Helen Ritchie and Kristina Dixon, Lisa leads a deeply personal and empowering conversation to help therapists explore and transform these inner dialogues.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• Why “shoulds” and unmet expectations trigger a threat response in the brain;
• Common “shoulds” clinicians face (… and an invitation to reflect on your own);
• How to navigate the “shoulds” and “should nots” in therapy sessions, with parents/caregivers, and in your personal life;
• Practical insights for newer therapists grappling with self-doubt and the “Am I ok?” question;
• Personal stories, including Lisa’s own experiences with these challenges, showing how even seasoned therapists aren’t immune to the “shoulds.”

🎧 Tune in to reconnect with a deeper trust in yourself as a play therapist and celebrate the incredible work you do every day. Big hugs and much love on this journey! 💕

Podcast Resources:

• Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
• Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website
• FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey
• Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity

* If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

"So much of play therapy is about clearing away the conditions that limit children from discovering who they are." - Georgie Wissen Vincent

In this episode, Lisa is joined by Georgie Wissen Vincent. She is a play therapist, co-founder of the Play Strong Institute, and co-author of The Way of Play: Using Little Moments of Big Connection to Raise Calm and Confident Kids with Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, renowned psychotherapist, speaker, and author specializing in parenting and child development (...you likely know her from her co-parenting books with Dr. Dan Siegel). Together, they dive into the magic of play—not only as a therapeutic tool but as a way to strengthen relationships and foster meaningful connections.

Together, Lisa and Georgie explore:

• Why play is more than just an activity—it’s a language.
• The importance of involving parents in the therapeutic process and how to make it meaningful.
• A sneak peek into The Way of Play’s “Play Strong Strategies” that blend neuroscience with practical tools for connection.
• How this book fills a gap in resources for parents and therapists alike, offering an approachable way to communicate the magic of play.
• Georgie’s reflections on customizing play therapy to meet the unique needs of every child and family.
• Tips for therapists to reconnect with their own playfulness.

Grab a notebook, and tune in for a conversation that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to bring new energy into your play therapy practice!

Podcast Resources:

• The Way of Play Book: www.playstronginstitute.com
• Synergetic Play Therapy Institute: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/
• Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website: https://learn.synergeticplaytherapy.com/
• FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/free-resources/
• Aggression in Play Therapy: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/books/

Original Air Date: June 19, 2017

In this insightful podcast, delve into the transformative power of gratitude with guidance from Lisa Dion. While it's effortless to appreciate the positives in our lives, what about the challenges? Discover how cultivating gratitude can expand your window of tolerance and foster a compassionate heart.

Explore the profound notion that clients enter our playrooms with purpose, serving as valuable teachers on our journey. Join us as we uncover the wisdom and blessings hidden within life's trials, embracing gratitude as a pathway to growth and understanding.

Podcast Resources:

• Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
• Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website
• FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey
• Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity

* If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.