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PODCAST

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in Child-Centered Play Therapy

Dr. Brenna Hicks

Your source for centered and focused Play Therapy coaching. A "Master-Class" in Play Therapy. Breaking down the barriers to high-quality Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) education. No paywalls, no ads, no fluff... all content — just expert, accessible training for every play therapist, free of charge.

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All Episodes

13:51

Adherence, Power, and Certification: A Global CCPT...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/31

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer three questions from Mai in Bahrain, a mental health counselor in training. Mai asks about integrating brief interventions within the child-centered play therapy (CCPT) framework, handling power struggles in the playroom, and pursuing play therapy certification as an international practitioner. I explain why maintaining strict adherence to the non-directive nature of CCPT is crucial and suggest involving parents through psychoeducation rather

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30:09

From Frustration to Confidence: Why Theoretical...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/30

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I dive into the importance of theoretical adherence in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). As we wrap up 2024 and look forward to 2025, I reflect on the foundational role adherence plays in ensuring effective therapy. I discuss why sticking to one theoretical model—not just CCPT but any model—is essential for achieving consistent results, preserving the therapeutic relationship, and maintaining ethical practice. When we deviate or adopt an eclectic

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11:35

Why Hiding Toys Matters: Reflecting Permanence and...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/20

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Rob in Arizona about a child who hides toys and asks if they will be safe while he’s gone. Rob has been using reflective responses and recognizing the child’s investment in these toys, but he’s curious about how to continue supporting this theme of safety and permanence. I discuss how hiding toys often symbolizes a child’s need for control, trust, and security, especially in the context of relationship permanence. I offer

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16:11

Separation Anxiety and Resistance: Trusting the CCPT...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/19

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address two questions from Alison in Arkansas related to separation anxiety and resistance in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Alison shares concerns about a 2-year-old client who exhibits extreme separation anxiety and a 5-year-old client resisting play therapy sessions. I offer guidance on why CCPT is essential for the 2-year-old and how to build trust and rapport patiently, even if it takes time. For the 5-year-old, I explain why playing games is

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13:25

Why Kids Use "Potty Talk" in Session — And How to...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/18

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Monica in California about how to handle “potty talk” in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Monica shares that her 5-year-old client often says words like “butt” and giggles during sessions, and she wonders how to respond within the CCPT framework. I explore the different reasons children use potty talk, including age-appropriate behavior, boundary testing, relational testing, and seeking shock value. I also highlight how the

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13:06

A Tidal Wave of Change: How CCPT is Transforming...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/17

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I share a collection of inspiring emails from therapists, parents, and listeners who have fallen in love with child-centered play therapy (CCPT). These stories highlight the powerful transformations happening in children, families, and the play therapy community worldwide. From parents finding hope and connection with their children, to therapists passionately advocating for CCPT in their practice, these emails demonstrate how CCPT is creating meaningful

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27:11

Children Deserve Therapy: The Case for Child-Centered...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/13

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Yehudis in New York about the growing belief that child therapy should be a “last resort” and that the focus should be on working with parents instead. I discuss why this perspective is misleading and share several compelling reasons why child-centered play therapy (CCPT) is essential for children, even when their external circumstances remain unchanged. I explain how CCPT gives children power and control, making them the agents

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12:32

Short on Time, Big on Impact: CCPT for Kids with...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/12

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Ailene in North Carolina, a clinical counseling student working with a partially deaf child who speaks Spanish. Ailene is concerned about having only eight sessions to help the child, who experiences anxiety and frustration due to communication barriers. I discuss how children with physical or developmental differences often struggle with self-worth and confidence, and how child-centered play therapy (CCPT) is well-suited to

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14:01

It’s Not About the Toys: The Power of the Therapeutic...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/11

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer two thoughtful questions from Mikayla, a graduate student and new play therapist in Illinois. Mikayla asks whether child-centered play therapy (CCPT) will still work if she doesn’t have a fully stocked playroom and whether the approach can be effective even when she feels she’s still learning. I reassure her that while having a variety of toys is helpful, children will use whatever materials are available to express themselves and work through

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12:30

The Power of "Yet": A Simple Word That Changes...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/10

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I share a simple but powerful "Pro Tip": the importance of adding the word “yet” when returning responsibility to children in the playroom. When children struggle to accomplish something and feel frustrated or defeated, our well-meaning phrases like, “You can do it!” can sometimes come across as dismissive. By adding the word “yet,” as in, “You haven’t figured it out yet,” we acknowledge the child’s struggle while also instilling hope and confidence that

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13:09

Transitioning from Directive to Non-Directive: From...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/05

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer two questions from Alyssa in California, a therapist in training, about working with children in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). First, Alyssa asks about transitioning a six-year-old client with separation anxiety from sessions where her mom is present to sessions where it’s just the child and therapist. I share strategies for setting clear expectations, offering empowering choices, and helping the child feel comfortable while maintaining the

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26:38

Navigating End-of-Session Challenges: Taking Toys and...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/04

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Jess in Florida about how to handle a child who refuses to leave the playroom after being asked to return a toy. Jess shares her experience with a seven-year-old client who initially resisted putting back a Lego treasure chest and then curled up on the floor, refusing to leave. I discuss how to set limits effectively within the child-centered play therapy (CCPT) model, emphasizing the importance of reflecting feelings,

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13:37

Session Savvy Finale: Preserving the Classical CCPT...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/03

In this Session Savvy "wrap-up" episode, I end the series by emphasizing the importance of preserving the classical child-centered play therapy (CCPT) model. Reflecting on Louise Guerney’s powerful foreword from the book Child-Centered Play Therapy by VanFleet, I discuss the dangers of modifying CCPT to make clinical “improvements” and why staying adherent to the original principles is vital for the model’s integrity and effectiveness. I also share insights from my recent trip to Australia, where I

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12:33

Session Savvy: Neutral Language in the Child-Centered...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/12/01

In this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss the potential impact of using the word "silly" in the playroom and why it’s essential to choose language carefully in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Words like "silly," while often used with positive intent, can carry unintended connotations based on the child’s prior experiences. I explain how such words might be interpreted as negative, depending on the child’s history with adults using that term in critical or dismissive

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13:00

Trusting CCPT with Anxious Kids: Why CCPT Works for...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/11/30

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Mary Clare in Illinois, who is working with a 10-year-old client and feeling unsure if child-centered play therapy (CCPT) is the right approach for him. I address her concerns about the child’s resistance, performative play, social challenges, and low self-esteem. I explain how these behaviors align perfectly with what CCPT is designed to address, particularly for children struggling with anxiety and emotional avoidance. I also

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15:46

Incorporating Sand Trays in the Child-Centered Play...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/11/29

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Laura in Washington about incorporating sand trays in a child-centered play therapy (CCPT) playroom. Laura is hesitant due to her dislike of sand and the practical challenges of working in a shared space. I share tips on choosing sand types, such as kinetic sand or Jurassic Sand, to minimize mess and make cleanup easier. I also cover essential miniatures to include in a sand tray, emphasizing the need to represent the three

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10:13

Session Savvy: Avoiding a Common Choice-Giving...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/11/20

In this Session Savvy episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I discuss the critical importance of phrasing choices correctly in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). While we often focus on including the word "choose" in our choice-giving, the phrasing itself is just as essential. I explain why questions like "Do you want to choose?" or "Would you like to choose?" are problematic, as they invite a "no" response and undermine the structure and empowerment that proper choice-giving offers. I share clear

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11:41

How to Overcome Parental Doubts as a Non-Parent...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/11/15

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a thoughtful question from Malley in Texas, who wonders how not having children might influence her work as a play therapist, especially in building trust with parents. Malley expresses concerns about parents questioning her ability to help their children simply because she isn’t a parent herself. I share personal anecdotes from my early career and offer insights into how to confidently navigate these situations. I explain that parents care less

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09:41

The Calm Before the Storm: Understanding Shifts in...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/11/14

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Jyotsna in India about a child who enters the playroom calm and reserved but then suddenly shifts to destructive, aggressive play mid-session. I discuss how this kind of transition often represents the “calm before the storm” — the child’s internal preparation for the emotional release needed. I explain that this shift is a positive indication that the child is beginning to dive into their therapeutic work, allowing them to

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14:36

Why Children Ask ‘How Much Time Is Left?’ and...

Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in... ·

2024/11/13

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer two questions from Chris in the Virgin Islands. First, Chris asks about how to respond when children frequently ask how much time is left in their session. I explain how this can indicate various needs, such as a desire for control, anxiety, or simply curiosity, and share strategies for reflecting their question and, if necessary, providing a neutral, factual answer to help them feel secure. Chris’s second question focuses on recognizing when a

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368 results

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