Explore every episode of the podcast Play Therapy Community
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 126: Supporting Neurodivergent Clients Through Play, EMDR, and Advocacy with Dr. Robert Jason Grant | 09 sept. 2026 | 00:21:46 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode of the Play Therapy Community Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Robert Jason Grant, creator of AutPlay Therapy, for a conversation recorded at the AutPlay Therapy Clinic in Springfield, Missouri. Together, we explore what it means to truly provide neurodivergent-affirming care and how play therapy, EMDR, advocacy, and relationship-centered practice can work together to support autistic, ADHD, and other neurodivergent children, teens, and families. Robert shares insights from his clinical work, training experiences, and lived perspective as a neurodivergent clinician. We discuss moving beyond compliance-based approaches, supporting authentic self-expression, empowering self-advocacy, and creating therapeutic spaces where neurodivergent clients can thrive rather than simply adapt. Whether you're a play therapist, EMDR therapist, school counselor, or mental health professional, this conversation offers practical ideas and thoughtful reflections for building a more affirming and responsive practice. Learn More About Dr. Robert Jason Grant • RobertjasongrantThe Play and Family Therapy Center • AutplaytherapyHome - AutPlay Therapy Upcoming Training • EMDR Playground Immersion Ce-go 2027 EMDR Playground Immersion Connect with Jackie Flynn • JackieflynnconsultingJackie Flynn Consulting | EMDR Training, Consultation & Play Therapy • Playtherapycommunityplaytherapycommunity.com | |||
| 125: AI, EMDR, and Attachment Informed Playing With Time with guests Mark Brayne and Rotem Brayer | 24 juin 2026 | 00:22:41 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode, we explore what it means to "play with time" in EMDR therapy through an attachment-informed, nervous-system-informed lens. Mark Brayne shares a playful and powerful metaphor from the 1980s movie Back to the Future. He invites us to imagine EMDR as a kind of therapeutic DeLorean. We are not going back in time to erase the past. We are going back to help the nervous system update what still feels unfinished, unsafe, or stuck. Together, Mark and Rotem Brayer explore how EMDR can help clients revisit earlier experiences with more support, more choice, and more present-day resources. This conversation brings together creativity, clinical depth, and deep respect for the nervous system. We talk about how time shows up in trauma work. The past can feel present. The future can feel blocked. The body may respond as if something old is happening right now. EMDR gives us a way to help the brain and body reconnect with the truth that the danger is over, the client has grown, and new possibilities are available. This episode also highlights the importance of playfulness in deep clinical work. Metaphor, imagery, curiosity, and imagination can help clients access healing in ways that feel less rigid and more alive. In this episode, we explore How the DeLorean metaphor helps explain EMDR Why trauma can make the past feel present How EMDR can support healing across time What it means to influence the future by updating the past How attachment-informed care shapes the EMDR process Why nervous system safety matters in trauma treatment How playful metaphor can deepen clinical understanding This conversation is especially helpful for EMDR therapists who want to think more creatively about time, memory, attachment, and healing. We also share about an upcoming training near Denver, Colorado, where we will continue exploring EMDR, attachment-informed practice, and creative clinical work.
Join us near Denver for this powerful training experience.
Add registration link: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/4182HB7JQSB2D/checkout/4OG5JUGA4FLWA2KSGHF6GQX4 Add training date here: August 27, 2026 at 8:30 AM and August 29, 2026 5:00 PM Add location details here: 6200 S Syracuse Way Greenwood Village, CO 80111
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| 124: The Wisdom of Momma Cheetah: Safety, Trust, Instinct, and the Return to Self With Dr. Tanya Defferary | 29 mai 2026 | 00:22:19 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode, I sit down with Tanya Defferary to explore The Wisdom of Momma Cheetah and what the natural world can teach us about safety, trust, instinct, attachment, and the return to self. As Tanya shared stories from Nyosi Wildlife Reserve, I found myself thinking deeply about EMDR therapy and the Adaptive Information Processing model. Trauma can disconnect us from our natural ability to orient toward safety, connection, curiosity, and presence. Healing often begins when the nervous system experiences enough safety to reconnect with the wisdom that was there all along. There is something profound about watching animals in their natural environment. The way a mother cheetah protects, pauses, assesses, rests, and teaches her young to move through the world without losing their instincts. Nothing in nature shames survival responses. And yet survival is not meant to become a permanent identity. I had the opportunity to travel to South Africa for Marshall Lyles's EMDR and expressive arts training at Nyosi Wildlife Reserve, and the experience left a deep imprint on me. Being immersed in the South African bush expanded the way I think about healing, embodiment, attachment, rhythm, and the nervous system itself. There is something about nature that reminds the body of what regulation feels like without needing words first. We also talk about the growing vision behind Global Therapy Connect and the immersive retreat experiences being created for therapists inside the wild landscapes of South Africa. Upcoming retreats bring together voices including Lisa Dion, Tanya Defferary, Marshall Lyles, and others for experiential learning centered around trauma, expressive therapies, nervous system healing, and connection. This conversation is ultimately about remembering. Remembering that healing is not always about becoming someone new. Sometimes it is about returning to what trauma interrupted. The body often knows the way home long before the mind can explain it. If you want to learn more from Dr. Defferary and the retreat style training in South Africa, visit Global Therapy Connect | |||
| 123: Safe Enough: When Safety Doesn't Feel Safe with Jackie Flynn | 11 mai 2026 | 00:31:00 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode of the EMDR Playground Podcast, Jackie explores the concept of "safe enough" and why, for many trauma survivors, safety itself can feel unfamiliar, vulnerable, or even threatening. Drawing from Polyvagal Theory and the work of Stephen Porges, Jackie reflects on how the nervous system learns survival through adaptation and protection, and how healing often begins not with perfect safety, but with experiences that feel safe enough for connection, curiosity, and regulation to emerge. In this conversation, Jackie shares her "Safe Enough" cards and the ways animals can teach us about nervous system states, instinct, survival, protection, and co-regulation. Through stories, reflections, and clinical insight, she explores how the natural world mirrors the wisdom of the human nervous system and why accessing safety is such an essential part of trauma healing. This episode invites therapists, parents, and helpers to rethink what safety means, especially for those whose nervous systems learned early that closeness, stillness, or vulnerability were not always safe experiences. Topics explored in this episode include: • Why safety may not initially feel safe for trauma survivors • The concept of "safe enough" in trauma healing • Polyvagal Theory and nervous system states • What animals can teach us about survival and regulation • Protective responses as adaptive nervous system strategies • Using creative and relational approaches to support felt safety • The role of co-regulation in EMDR and trauma therapy Resources Mentioned: "Safe Enough" Cards by Jackie - https://www.innovativechildtherapy.com/p/the-safe-enough-card-deck-966137 Polyvagal Theory by Stephen Porges | |||
| 122: Exploring AI in EMDR with Jocelyn Fitzgerald | 16 avr. 2026 | 00:10:27 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode, I sit down with Jocelyn Fitzgerald, art therapist and EMDR consultant, to explore her thoughts on the use of AI art in clinical work. Because art therapy is such a central part of her work, she brings a thoughtful and important perspective to how AI-generated imagery intersects with EMDR. We talk about the pros and cons of using AI art, and what it means to integrate these tools without losing the human connection at the heart of therapy. This is a grounded conversation about possibility, caution, and staying anchored in what matters most as our field continues to evolve. You can Find us at jackieflynnconsulting.com | |||
| 121: Co-Regulation, EMDR, and a Mama Turtle Story with Lisa Dion | 30 mars 2026 | 00:45:13 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode of the EMDR Playground podcast, we explore co-regulation through a powerful story shared by Lisa Dion, founder of Synergetic Play Therapy. Lisa shares a moving experience of grief and unexpected connection, describing a moment with a mama turtle laying her eggs. In that space, something shifts. Not because the pain disappears, but because she is no longer alone inside it. This conversation highlights an essential truth for EMDR therapists. What shapes an experience is not only what happened, but whether there was enough support, attunement, and connection in the midst of it. Co-regulation plays a central role in how overwhelming experiences are carried and integrated. It is not separate from EMDR therapy. It lives within the relationship, the pacing, and the therapist's ability to stay present when clients move toward something difficult. In this episode, we explore:
You can Find us at jackieflynnconsulting.com | |||
| 120: "Before Trauma Processing" Safety, Stabilization, and Protective Parts in EMDR | 13 mars 2026 | 00:34:09 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode, Jackie talks with Claudia Ocampo about how she brings Internal Family Systems thinking into her EMDR practice. Claudia shares how a parts lens can help therapists respond with more compassion and clarity when suicidal ideation is present. Rather than seeing suicidality as the whole person, she invites us to consider the part of the client carrying overwhelming pain and desperation. Through a clinical story, Claudia offers a practical example of how this way of thinking can shape the work in session. The conversation points back to an essential EMDR principle. Safety and stabilization come before trauma processing. This episode offers a thoughtful look at how protective parts, careful pacing, and attuned presence can help lay the foundation for deeper healing work. In this episode, we discuss • how Claudia integrates IFS ideas into her EMDR practice • understanding suicidal ideation through a parts lens • a clinical story that shows practical application • the importance of safety and stabilization in EMDR • how protective parts can support the work before trauma processing To Learn More, Visit: www.evegreenjourneycounseling.com Remember, Safety and stabilization come before trauma processing. Protective parts and resources help create that foundation. | |||
| 119: Why Every Suggestion Matters in EMDR Therapy "Recommending IS Clinical" | 27 févr. 2026 | 00:18:27 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode, we explore something we do every week in practice but rarely examine closely. Recommendations.
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| 118: Should Parents Be in EMDR Sessions With Kids and Teens? | 13 févr. 2026 | 00:26:36 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode of EMDR Playground, host Jackie Flynn discusses the integration of EMDR therapy with children and the role of parents in the therapeutic process. She emphasizes the importance of understanding each child's unique needs and the necessity of creating a safe environment through play. The conversation covers various phases of EMDR therapy, the significance of consent and confidentiality, and cultural considerations in involving parents in sessions. Jackie also shares resources available for clinicians looking to enhance their practice with EMDR.
#EMDR #PlayTherapy #JackieFlynnConsulting
You can Find us at jackieflynnconsulting.com emdrplayground.com facebook.com/groups/emdrwithkidscommunity facebook.com/groups/1130971706932394 instagram.com/playtherapycommunity tiktok.com/@jackieflynnconsulting youtube.com/@EMDRPlayground | |||
| 117: Moving through the 8 phases of EMDR therapy With Jackie Flynn | 02 févr. 2026 | 00:42:38 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode, Jackie Flynn breaks down the 8 phases of EMDR therapy, explaining what clients and clinicians can expect at each stage of the process. From history-taking and preparation to reprocessing, integration, and closure, Jackie offers a clear, compassionate overview of how EMDR supports trauma healing. Whether you're new to EMDR, considering it for yourself, or a therapist looking to deepen your understanding of the model, this episode provides practical insight into why the structure of EMDR matters—and how it helps create lasting change.
#EMDR #PlayTherapy #JackieFlynnConsulting
You can Find us at jackieflynnconsulting.com emdrplayground.com facebook.com/groups/emdrwithkidscommunity facebook.com/groups/1130971706932394 instagram.com/playtherapycommunity tiktok.com/@jackieflynnconsulting youtube.com/@EMDRPlayground | |||
| 116: Deepening The Work: Integrating Symbols, Sandtray, and Play in EMDR with Theresa Fraser | 19 janv. 2026 | 00:22:00 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. Join us in this insightful episode of the EMDR Playground podcast, where host Jackie Flynn engages in a heartfelt conversation with the esteemed Theresa Fraser. Discover how EMDR integrates with play therapy, Sadtray, and the natural world to foster transformation. Theresa shares her wisdom on creating safe therapeutic spaces and the importance of community among therapists. Whether you're new to EMDR or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers valuable insights into the neurobiological foundations of healing. Don't miss out on this enriching discussion!
#EMDR #PlayTherapy #TheresaFraser
You can Find us at jackieflynnconsulting.com | |||
| 115: The Power of EMDR and Sand Tray in Generational Healing with Waldo Winborn | 06 janv. 2026 | 00:27:22 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. Join Jackie Flynn and Waldo Winborn as we delve into the integration of EMDR therapy with Sand Tray therapy, focusing on trauma and generational healing. Discover the importance of working with parents to address attachment issues and how cultural narratives shape behaviors. This episode highlights the therapeutic process and the power of being present and authentic in therapy.
https://sandtraytraining.com/homepage/about/waldo-winborn-lpcc-rpt/
You can Find us at jackieflynnconsulting.com | |||
| 113: Using Sound in EMDR Therapy: Waves, Beats, and Brain Healing With Haruna Nail | 05 janv. 2026 | 00:21:13 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. Haruna Nail, MA, LMHC is a licensed mental health counselor in Melbourne, Florida. She provides trauma-informed therapy for primarily adolescents and adults, and on case-by-case basis with children and seniors, with expertise in neurodiversity, anxiety, grief, life transitions, identity exploration and LGBTQ+ affirming care. Haruna integrates play, relational, and holistic approaches to support nervous system regulation and mind/body/spirit healing. She is active in the local counseling community through the Space Coast Mental Health Counselors Association and is committed to bringing creative, accessible interventions into clinical practice. Haruna additionally helps fellow clinicians step into their purpose by deepening their integrative clinical skills, expanding their intuitive wisdom, cultivating neurodiversity-informed care, and embodying a grounded, nervous-system–aligned clinical presence.
New Consultation Group Cohort starting January 21st, 2026 https://haruna-nail.mykajabi.com/offers/v59X27wP/checkout 1:1 consultations available upon request-can contact via email haruna.nail001@gmail.com You can Find us at | |||
| 114: The Duality of Dissociation: An EMDR Therapist's Perspective with Marshall Lyles | 22 déc. 2025 | 00:30:26 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. Join Jackie Flynn and Marshall Lyles as they delve into the transformative power of dissociation in therapy. Discover how EMDR and creative modalities like poetry and sand tray can turn dissociation from a struggle into a resource. This insightful conversation explores the nuances of therapeutic practices and the importance of honoring each client's unique journey. Don't miss this enlightening episode! #EMDR #Therapy #dissociation
https://marshall-lyles-s-school.teachable.com/l/pdp/dissociation https://www.marshalllyles.com/
You can Find us at jackieflynnconsulting.com | |||
| 112: High Conflict Family Systems: Protecting Children's Well-being with Dr. Kristin Wallace | 25 nov. 2025 | 00:42:18 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. Dr. Kristin K. Wallace is a licensed mental health professional in Florida with over 20 years of experience in the field and more than 15 years working directly with families. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with a minor in Abnormal Psychology from Florida State University, graduating cum laude, and went on to complete a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Central Florida. Driven by a deep curiosity about the emotional lives of therapists themselves, she pursued a Ph.D. in General Psychology, completing a dissertation on how marriage therapists experience the impact of their work on their own marriages. Throughout her extensive education and early career, Dr. Wallace gained wide-ranging experience—from crisis stabilization and residential treatment to school-based services and private practice—developing a clinical lens that is both empathic and evidence-based. Her career reflects a balance of research, teaching, and practice. Dr. Wallace has contributed to studies through the University of Miami and the University of Central Florida, including the development of virtual-reality interventions for adolescent girls, and she currently collaborates with the Life Aid Research Institute to support mental health optimization among service members. In her private practice, Complete Family Consultants, she specializes in trauma, high-conflict divorce, and family dynamics, serving as a Social Investigator and Certified Family Mediator. She also teaches at the University of Central Florida and California Southern University, mentoring the next generation of clinicians. Dr. Wallace is the creator and developer of an online coparenting course, called ExProof Parenting, designed to take stressed coparents from powerlessness to hopeful empowerment. A collaborative professional in Brevard County, Dr. Wallace's approach emphasizes child-centered, solution-focused strategies in divorcing families. Outside of her professional life, she is a wife, mother of six, and car enthusiast who enjoys sports, kava nights with friends, and board games with her family. You can Find us at | |||
| 111: Exploring the Depth of Sandtray Therapy with Dr. Roz Heiko | 14 nov. 2025 | 00:30:13 | |
Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work.
You can Find us at | |||
| 110: I Am the Shell | 08 juil. 2025 | 00:26:20 | |
Episode 110: I Am the Shell In this episode, I share a personal moment from the Violet Solomon Oaklander Foundation (VSOF) conference...an experience that stayed with me long after I came home. During a Sandtray demonstration with Dr. Peter Mortola, I was invited to choose a figure that stood out in the tray. I thought it would be the woman reading a book. But it wasn't. It was the shell. Through the Oaklander Model's projective process, I stepped into the voice of that weathered shell and something inside me shifted. What came out surprised me. Moved me. Reminded me of who I am beneath the roles and rhythms of daily life. In this episode, I reflect on • What it felt like to be part of this international community rooted in Violet's legacy This story isn't polished. It wasn't scripted or recorded in the moment. It's something I've been holding, returning to, and slowly integrating over time. Like so much of this work, it's lived. If you've ever felt the quiet recognition of seeing yourself in something small and symbolic, or if you're curious about the deeper layers of play therapy and Gestalt, this episode is for you. Thank you for being here. I'm so glad to share this with you. Additional Resources:
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| 109: The Power of a Loving Glance in Reconnection After a Long Break | 08 oct. 2024 | 00:12:23 | |
Podcast Episode: The Power of First Connection After a Long Break Welcome back to the Play Therapy Community Podcast. Today, we're focusing on an essential topic that child therapists can use in their own lives and when working with parents and families: the importance of those first moments when reconnecting with a child after a long break. Whether it's been a day, a week, or longer, the way we reconnect carries deep, lasting messages for children. I want to share three key points that child therapists can apply to their work with families, emphasizing the importance of greeting children with love and warmth to help shape how they see themselves and the world. 1. Facial Expressions Communicate Deep Messages 2. Pause and Regulate Before Connecting 3. Connection Shapes How Children See Themselves and the World
Final Reflection: As child therapists, we have the unique opportunity to support parents in recognizing the powerful impact of these first connections. Encourage families to take a moment to pause, regulate, and connect with love. These small, intentional acts have a lasting impact on how children see themselves and the world.
Additional Resources:
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| 108. Therapeutic Play: Tranforming Lives Across the Ages | 01 oct. 2024 | 00:30:42 | |
Welcome Back! Hi, it's Jackie Flynn here! I'm so excited to dive into the world of play therapy with you today. In this episode, I'll be sharing how play therapy has been a huge part of my life and practice, helping people of all ages heal in ways that words alone can't. What We'll Cover:
How has play shown up in your life? Has it helped you feel more connected, joyful, or supported through tough times? Take a moment to reflect! Let's Continue the Conversation:To learn more or to keep the conversation going, visit my website at jackieflynnconsulting.com, and join our Play Therapy Community® Facebook group. We dive deeper into these topics and share resources and support with one another. Additional Resources:
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| 107. AutPlay® Therapy for Autistic Children and Adolescents | 02 mai 2023 | 00:14:31 | |
Here's my conversation with Dr. Robert Jason Grant as he shares about AutPlay Therapy. Robert Jason Grant is a licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Association for Play Therapy and is the creator of AutPlay Therapy.
To learn more, visit: www.autplaytherapy.com
www.playtherapycommunity.com | |||
| 106. EMDR Resources in Child Therapy with Christine Mark-Griffin, LCSW | 11 avr. 2023 | 00:10:31 | |
Christine Mark-Griffin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My conversation with Christine was super exciting, I hope you find it exciting as well. Don't forget to visit Christine's website and show her some love! https://www.sparkallwellness.com/ | |||
| 105. "I would literally fall to the ground because of it, but I had to get up." : from adversity to helping children with epilepsy through Play Therapy | 24 mars 2023 | 00:25:06 | |
Join me in conversation with Ryan Uner. I met him at the 2nd Annual Neuroscience of Play Therapy Summit. His story is pretty inspirational. He is a grad student at University of Central Florida | |||
| 104. Play Therapists Sharing: Kentucky APT Community Outreach | 14 mars 2023 | 00:22:15 | |
At the time of this recording I at a hotel in LaGrange Kentucky with the board members of Kentucky Association for Play Therapy. I am so inspired by their passion for Play, dedication to helping others, and pure kindness for humanity. If you'd like to learn more about them visit http://kyapt.org/ If you'd like to learn more about Play Therapy visit https://www.a4pt.org/? | |||
| 103. Dissociation in Kids | 01 mars 2023 | 00:31:13 | |
This episode is with Annie Monaco, Ann Beckley-Forest, Fran Waters and Mark Nickerson! They are providing a training "Recognizing & Treating Youth with Dissociation" – 6 CEUs per day for March 10 - 12, 2023. For the Early Bird Discount, regiser by Sunday, March 5, 2023.
Register at emdradvancedtrainings.co https://emdradvancedtrainings.com/product/recognizing-treating-youth-with-dissociation/ playfulemdr.com playtherapycommunity.com
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| 102. Understanding Ableism & Disablism | 20 janv. 2023 | 00:33:17 | |
Today I'm joined by Marshall Lyles, I am so excited to share this conversation with you today. | |||
| 101. Practical Applications of the NeedsConnection Parenting Model | 03 janv. 2023 | 00:26:13 | |
Today I'm having a conversation with Doctor Becky to discuss the NeedsConnection Parenting Model. I'm so excited to share this experience with you. Ready to take your EMDR practice to the next level? Join the EMDR Learning Community https://emdr-learning.com/share/TzabloXTllAx8cpw?utm_source=manual | |||
| 100. EMDR Explained with Rotem Brayer | 13 déc. 2022 | 00:24:20 | |
Rotem Brayer talks with me in person about EMDR Training, Rotem is responsible for creating the EMDR Learning community. If you've received EMDR training, you probably already know who Rotem is, if not make sure to listen closely this episode because he is so amazing.
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| 99. ADHD Realities From a Personal and Clinical Perspective with Leslie Doctor | 26 nov. 2022 | 00:26:37 | |
Leslie Doctor joins me in St. Louis Missouri at the Association for Play Therapy Conference to talk about ADHD. She is so fun. And, so very AUTHENTIC!
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| 98. EMDR with young children with Anne, Annie, & Jackie | 26 oct. 2022 | 00:23:04 | |
Today I am so excited to share my conversation with Anne Beckely Forest and Annie Monaco on the Podcast. Interested in networking with other Therapists in the Play Therapy Community? Here's our facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/playtherapycommunity | |||
| 96. Brainspotting: Irma Shares a Powerful Story of Healing & Hope | 20 oct. 2022 | 00:22:16 | |
Irma is with us today to share her experience with brainspotting. I met Irma at Dr. Karen Fried's Oaklander Model's training.
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| 95. A Heartfelt Story of the Power of PLAY | 11 oct. 2022 | 00:16:00 | |
Melissa LaVigne shares a personal story of an accident her daughter experienced stumbling down the stairs, and how Play Therapy helped her process that trauma and heal from the incident. Interested in socializing with other Therapists in the Play Therapy Community? Here's our facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/playtherapycommunity
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| 94. Every Memory Deserves Respect | 20 sept. 2022 | 00:49:20 | |
Today I'm so excited to share my conversation with Debbie Korn, Michael Baldwin, and Rotam Brayer with you. If you'd like to learn more about Michael and Debbie's book, you can go to https://www.everymemorydeservesrespect.com/, and there's a free preview for you to read on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Every-Memory-Deserves-Respect-Therapy/dp/1523511427
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| 93. ALLMEE, a therapeutic doll to help children identify and express their inner world. | 06 sept. 2022 | 00:12:06 | |
Ronda and Jacob join me to discuss their unique handcrafted play therapy doll designed for children who have a difficult time expressing their feelings. If you'd like to learn more about the ALLMEE doll, you should browse Ronda and Jacob's website for more information: https://playtherapytrainingresources.com/all-mee-therapeutic-doll/
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| 92. 3 Lessons in Play Therapy for My Birthday | 30 août 2022 | 00:15:11 | |
In this week's episode I wanted to talk to everyone directly. I recently enjoyed another birthday, and felt I should share some of the lessons I've learned overtime as a Play Therapist.
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| 91. Poke a Hole in Your Bucket with Nicole Looney | 23 août 2022 | 00:13:31 | |
Join me in conversation with Nicole Looney. I recently met Nicole at an EMDR Advanced training with Dr. Dobo. We hit if off right away. She's so passionate about what she does. Her work ethic, skill level, experience, insight, and pure BRILLIANCE is incredible. In this episode, she shares her bucket metaphor with us. I love the way she describes how we can help our clients manage their stress levels. This is just one of the many, many things she does well. To learn more from her, visit: https://www.starcounselingserv.com/meet-nicole-looney
Join us in our facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/playtherapycommunity Join our EMDR Learning Community at https://emdr-learning.com/share/TzabloXTllAx8cpw?utm_source=manual Join the Beyond Healing Community at https://beyondhealingcommunity.com/share/fHxpN42T3SaHAAh9?utm_source=manual | |||
| 90. A Chat with Bridger and Caleb about the Polyvagal Theory and PLAY Therapy | 16 août 2022 | 00:50:17 | |
Join me in conversation about with Bridger Falkenstien and Caleb Boston as we chat about the Polyvagal Theory. I met these guy through the Notice That podcast at Beyond Healing. I first met Bridger, then quickly met Caleb (his "twin flame"). They are super passionate about anything and everything related to the Polyvagal Theory. They have such great energy together and are SUPER KNOWLEDGEABLE with it comes to the nervous system and about a gazillion other things.
To learn more, visit: https://theevidencebasedtherapist.com https://connectbeyondhealing.com/our-team/486-2/
Join us in our facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/playtherapycommunity Join our EMDR Learning Community at https://emdr-learning.com/share/TzabloXTllAx8cpw?utm_source=manual Join the Beyond Healing Community at https://beyondhealingcommunity.com/share/fHxpN42T3SaHAAh9?utm_source=manual
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| 89. Grow Your Competence and Confidence in Play Therapy with Ann Beckley-Forest | 09 août 2022 | 00:15:26 | |
Join me in conversation with Ann Beckley-Forest as we discuss what it's like to be a beginner in the world of Play Therapy. The path from being a beginner in the field to the felt sense of competence and confidence can be rather challenging for some. There's so much to learn! Play Therapy is a robust approach to child therapy and it's at the core of Ann's work. Ann is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice in the Buffalo area, and has focused on interventions with children and adolescents throughout her career. She is an author, registered play therapy supervisor and approved provider of play therapy education, as well as an EMDR trainer and consultant. Her specialties include intervention with very young children, as well as problems of attachment and work with adolescent and adult survivors of trauma.
To Learn more from Ann, check out her trainings at https://www.annbeckleyforest.com/current-trainings
More resources can be found at: Play Therapy Community www.playtherapycommunity.com Join us in our facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/playtherapycommunity Join our EMDR Learning Community at https://emdr-learning.com/share/TzabloXTllAx8cpw?utm_source=manual Join the Beyond Healing Community at https://beyondhealingcommunity.com/share/fHxpN42T3SaHAAh9?utm_source=manual Schedule with Jackie https://playtherapycommunity.as.me/schedule.php | |||
| 88. Supporting Parents in Play Therapy with Dr. Becki Welsh | 28 juil. 2022 | 00:46:19 | |
Join me in conversation with Dr. Becki Welsh. Becki is a dear friend of mine that I met through one of my 8 Phases of EMDR with Children and Adolescents trainings. We've been connected ever since. Her knowledge and skillset when it comes to helping children and families is immeasurable. In this episode of the podcast, she shares with us all about her 316 Parenting model. It's fascinating! One of the best, if not THE BEST, parent supports that I've ever learned about!
To learn more, visit: https://www.316counselingcenter.org/about-1 http://www.playtherapycommunity.com https://playtherapycommunity.com/training/
Join us in our facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/playtherapycommunity Join our EMDR Learning Community at https://emdr-learning.com/share/TzabloXTllAx8cpw?utm_source=manual Join the Beyond Healing Community at https://beyondhealingcommunity.com/share/fHxpN42T3SaHAAh9?utm_source=manual | |||
| 86. What is case conceptualization and WHY is it important? | 13 juin 2022 | 00:46:17 | |
Join me in conversation with Bridger from Beyond Healing. He teaches us about the importance of case conceptualization and how it can really support the work we do to support our clients. Bridger has such a community mindset in every way. He operates from a Polyvagal Informed perspective and it shows on his emphasis on SAFETY AND CONNECTION. Beyond Healing has a training coming up in Gainsville Florida that I plan on attending. I'm so super excited. Here are some links to learn more: Our website is connectbeyondhealing.com The registration for the training in July that you will be attending is available here: https://www.learnbeyondhealing.org/browse/beyond-healing-institute/bhi-courses/courses/72122---72322-somatic-integration-and-processing-i-trn-202---sec-002 NOTE FROM BRIDGER after our recording: "Please note that there are payment plans associated with every training and project we sell! No barriers ever!" Oh my goodness, I love their generosity. They are such giving humans! The link for people to come to the Beyond Healing Community is available here: https://beyondhealingcommunity.com/share/-GMIjSIZGnCGUSFB?utm_source=manual www.playtherapycommunity.com https://emdartnscience.com | |||
| 85. A Moving Experience that Will Last a Lifetime | 03 juin 2022 | 00:39:51 | |
Join me in conversation with Joye Newman, a co-author of the In-Sync Child book. She's a delightful, brilliant human that teaches us how to help children through movement. She describes the importance of movement for precious SAFETY and CONNECTION. Learn more: https://in-sync-child.com | |||
| 84. Resources for Caregivers & Families of Traumatized Children | 01 juin 2022 | 00:36:08 | |
Join me in conversation with Robyn Gobbel as she shares with us ways to support our clients when it comes to trauma. She has lots of resources for us as clinicians and for the parents and families that we work with. I love her energy, skill, and passion when it comes to helping traumatized children and their families. To learn more about Robyn and to find her resources, visit: https://robyngobbel.com/about/#toggle-id-2
This episode is sponsored by the World Association for Sand Therapy Professionals. Visit: | |||
| 82. 3 Tips for Child Therapists to Manage Stress | 06 déc. 2021 | 00:29:20 | |
Join me in conversation with Jen Taylor, Lisa Dion and Clair Mellenthin as we discusss their Anchoring in the Storm event in California to help manage stress and navigate the autonomic nervous system. | |||
| 81. Integrating Art Into Your Child Therapy Practice | 31 août 2021 | 00:41:50 | |
In this episode, Jocelyn Fitzgerald, a Board-Certified Art Therapist, shares with us simple and practical ways to integrate Art Therapy techniques into our work with kids! I found out about her on ETSY through a search. I was (and still am!!) in awe of her beautiful, artsy therapy tools. I ordered the window of tolerance. Be sure to check out her website https://www.jocelynfitzgerald.com and her book "Colorful Place: a Mindful Story and Art for Kids: on Amazon. Hop in our Play Therapy Community Facebook group to share some of your ideas on how to bring Art into your child therapy space! Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzm_jOqzM_L6oTMRe5FOa1A Online Play Therapy Demo Videos with Jackie Flynn https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OVmQY94GEU&t=466s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlCKzB31z0Y&t=3089s Play Therapy Members Community www.playtherapycommunity.com Jackie Flynn's Consultation and Training www.jackieflynnconsulting.com Jackie Flynn's Private Practice www.counselinginbrevard.com Play Therapy Community Trainings https://playtherapycommunity.teachable.com Play Therapy Community Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/playtherapycommunity/?multi_permalinks=4288188067877393 EMDR with Kids Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/emdrtherapywithkids 2nd Annual Innovative Child Therapy Symposium https://playtherapycommunity.teachable.com/courses/enrolled/1256300 EMDR Consultation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lKvN5Fzywk Scheduling with Jackie https://playtherapycommunity.as.me/schedule.php?notembedded=1 | |||
| 80. Helping Children Heal from Trauma through the Integration of EMDR & Play Therapy | 16 nov. 2020 | 00:40:05 | |
This episode was sparked by the release of the book EMDR with Children in the Play Therapy Room by Ann Beckley-Forest and Annie Monaco. They are responsible for educating child therapists all over the world on how to deliver EMDR therapy to children and teens through the integration of Play Therapy. In this episode, prepare to be inspired by a conversation with Ann and Annie, as well as Lisa Dion, the creator of Synergetic Play Therapy. Their passion for helping children heal from trauma through Play Therapy and EMDR is unbelievably beautiful. Visit more information on their work and training information, be sure to visit www.synergeticplaytherapy.com and https://www.anniemonaco.com/trainings/emdr-trainings | |||
| 79: Healing Trauma with Expressive & Play Therapies with Marshall Lyles | 13 oct. 2020 | 00:37:23 | |
In this episode, Marshall Lyles shares his passion for helping his clients heal from trauma through Expressive Arts. When I reached out to Marshall to invite him on the podcast, I requested a conversation focusing on his use of poetry with his clients. In this episode, you'll notice that we cover much more than poetry. Marshall is highly trained and well versed in so many healing traumas and approaches that it was difficult to limit our conversation. I'm excited for you to experience our conversation about how he used expressive arts to heal trauma. He is an EMDRIA approved consultant and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, among many other credentials that speak to his capacity to treat trauma. Be sure to visit www.marshalllyles.com www.therapistsworkshop.com to learn more about him and to see his beautiful expressive arts studio. | |||
| 78: The Profound Healing Power of Virtual Sand Tray Therapy with Jessica Stone Ph.D | 29 sept. 2020 | 00:27:48 | |
In this episode of Play Therapy Community podcast, Dr. Jessica Stone shares all about the healing power of Virtual Sandtray Therapy. She is the brilliant creator of the Virtual Sandtray App used by an increasing number of clinicians around the globe. Development of the Virtual Sandtray app intentionally included the main tenets of Sandtray Therapy to preserve its profound therapeutic healing power. You can find more about Dr. Stone, the Virtual Sandtray Therapy application, and her professional trainings at: www.jessicastonephd.com www.sandtrayplay.com https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Play-Therapy-Jessica-Stone/dp/0367001926/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/virtual-sandtray/id916460128 https://www.facebook.com/VirtualSandtray https://www.facebook.com/digitalplaytherapy/ | |||
| 77: Nurturing Parent Engagement in Play Therapy with Clair Mellethin | 22 sept. 2020 | 00:31:23 | |
In this episode, Clair Mellenthin guides us through the important pieces of parent consultation. She highlights the importance of meeting parents with compassion and connection through support. Through this approach, client's tend to meet their treatment goals in a more thorough, faster way. Clair offers support and coaching to parents and clinicians. You can find more of what she has to offer at these links to her website, https://clairmellenthin.com/online-courses-for-professional/#professional and https://clairmellenthin.com/online-learning-for-parents/ | |||
| 76: Parent Play Therapy Consultation | 15 sept. 2020 | 00:26:21 | |
In this Parent Play Therapy Consultation episode, you will learn about: ...what to cover in an initial phone call with parents/caregivers of potential child clients. ...how to describe the process and benefits of Play Therapy to parents/caregivers. ...how to structure your parent consultation to best fit your therapeutic approach. ...how to nurture a trusting, secure relationship with parents and caregivers. ...how to communicate with parents/caregivers throughout the process without breaching your child clients' limited confidentiality. ...how to communicate with parents/caregivers, and other helpers, within ethical and legal parameters when providing consultation. ...where to find effective parenting strategies and quality resources to share with parents/caregivers. | |||
| 75: EMDR Therapy with Children | 09 sept. 2020 | 00:45:10 | |
In this Episode, Jackie Flynn, EMDRIA approved consultant and a registered play therapist talks about EMDR therapy with kids. EMDR Therapy has 8 phases: 1. History Talking, 2. Preparation, 3. Assessment, 4. Desensitization, 5. Reprocessing, 6. Body Scan, 7. Closure, 8. Reevaluation.
Since children are not miniature adults, it's important to work with children in developmentally appropriate ways. Play Therapy techniques can be integrated into all 8 of the phases to support children's developing brains. Be sure to check out www.jackieflynnconsulting.com if you are an EMDR trained therapist in search of advanced training to teach you how to adapt your work to fit the needs of your child and teen clients. | |||
| 74: Sandtray Therapy | 01 sept. 2020 | 00:38:19 | |
In this episode, Jamie shares with us some basic information about Sandtray Therapy. She discusses the importance of formalized training and warns against offering sandtray therapy to your clients if you have not received adequate training. Sandtray is a powerful tool that can open up and heal some painful issues that require specialized training to ensure client emotional safety. Jamie Lynn Langley, LCSW, RPT-S has been a practicing child, family and play therapist in Tennessee for almost 30 years. For most of that time she worked in community mental health before going into private practice in late 2016. Jamie is also an adjunct professor for two universities in Tennessee (Middle TN State University and Lipscomb University). She co-founded and serves as the President of the Tennessee branch of the Association for Play Therapy and is a charter member of the Children & Nature Network founded by RIchard Louv. Jamie specializes in working with children and their families who have undergone trauma, loss, divorce, disruption and other adverse conditions and brings in nature as part of healing practice whenever possible. A former Cub Scout leader for 15 years, she especially enjoys her personal and family time in nature, especially at the beach and the breathtaking Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. Jamie Lynn Langley, LCSW, RPT-S Licensed Clinical Social Worker Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor President, TN Association for Play Therapy Adjunct Faculty, MTSU Dept. of Social Work and Lipscomb University Dept. of Psychology, Counseling and Family Science Board Member, World Assoc of Sand Therapy Professionals | |||