Play Therapy Podcast: A Master-Class in Child-Centered Play Therapy – Details, episodes & analysis

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 playroom provides a unique space where children can express themselves freely without judgment or consequence.

I offer practical advice on how to stay neutral, reflect the content, and enlarge the child's experience when appropriate. By responding calmly and without judgment, we can help children process what they need to work through while maintaining the trust and safety of the therapeutic relationship. This approach allows us to remain truly child-centered, supporting the child's emotional growth and expression.

Play Therapy Podcast Livestream! Jan. 3rd @ 2pm EST Register here (100 attendee limit): https://playtherapypodcast.com/livestream

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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 change.   I reflect on how children's mental health needs are greater than ever and how CCPT is becoming a tidal wave of support, healing, and growth. As we head into the new year, I hope these stories encourage and remind you of the incredible impact CCPT has, one therapeutic hour at a time. Together, we're changing the world, one child at a time.

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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 of change within their families, and how they benefit from the four universal outcomes of CCPT: self-regulation, emotional vocabulary, self-esteem, and worldview.

I also talk about the importance of advocating for CCPT and why many therapists who favor working with parents may simply lack the training or understanding of how powerful and transformative child-centered therapy can be. This episode is a rallying call for play therapists to confidently communicate the value of their work and continue advocating for children's right to healing, growth, and therapeutic support.

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

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 still valid play and not avoidance, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the CCPT model without trying to control or direct the process.

I also highlight how the urge to intervene or "do something" can signal a deviation from the CCPT approach. Staying true to the model by trusting the child and the process ensures the best outcomes. This episode serves as a reminder to stay patient, maintain adherence to CCPT principles, and let the child work through their challenges in their own time.

Play Therapy Podcast Livestream! Jan. 3rd @ 2pm EST Register here (100 attendee limit): https://playtherapypodcast.com/livestream

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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 strategies for acknowledging changes in the child's play, reflecting their need for safety, and enlarging the deeper meaning behind these actions. Whether it's about control, anxiety, or testing the durability of the therapeutic relationship, staying consistent and enlarging the meaning can help the child process these complex feelings. This episode is a reminder of the impact CCPT has in helping children feel secure and understood.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Play Therapy Podcast Livestream! Jan. 3rd, 2025 @ 2pm EST Register here (100 attendee limit): https://playtherapypodcast.com/livestream

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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 than introducing interventions during sessions. I also outline strategies for navigating power struggles, emphasizing the importance of understanding the child's intent—whether it's a need for control, learned helplessness, or collaboration—and responding accordingly. Lastly, I provide insights on certification options for international practitioners, including how they can pursue training through my programs while navigating their country's unique regulations. This episode is packed with practical advice for therapists around the globe!

Play Therapy Podcast Livestream!  Jan. 3rd, 2025 @ 2pm EST
Register here (100 attendee limit): https://playtherapypodcast.com/livestream

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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 approach, we risk losing the evidence-based validation that gives therapy its impact and clarity.

I also share how adhering fully to CCPT eliminates frustration for therapists, simplifies the process, and strengthens outcomes for children. Whether you're new to CCPT or have been practicing for years, this episode serves as both encouragement and a challenge to commit fully to the model, trusting its principles and framework for the sake of your clients and your professional growth.

Play Therapy Podcast Livestream!  Jan. 3rd, 2025 @ 2pm EST
Register here (100 attendee limit): https://playtherapypodcast.com/livestream

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to Anna from Virginia, a new child-centered play therapist, who seeks advice on a variety of scenarios with her young client. Anna's questions revolve around how to handle moments when a child makes assumptions about her thoughts, seeks permission excessively, and expresses negative self-talk in the playroom. I provide practical guidance on maintaining neutrality, reflecting content accurately, and helping children navigate their emotions without intervention.

Through examples, I highlight the importance of adhering to CCPT principles, including how to address a child's anxiety-driven behaviors and negative self-perception in a way that fosters self-regulation and emotional growth. This episode offers actionable insights for therapists navigating similar challenges while staying fully child-centered.

Play Therapy Podcast Livestream!  Jan. 3rd, 2025 @ 2pm EST
Register here https://playtherapypodcast.com/livestream

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I answer a question from Bracha in New York about working with children who might be on the autism spectrum. Bracha asks how to discuss concerns with parents without directly diagnosing, whether CCPT is appropriate for a four-year-old presenting at an 18-month-old developmental level, and how to adapt language for neurodivergent children. I share strategies for gently introducing parents to the idea of evaluations without pushing for labels, emphasizing advocacy and helping parents feel empowered with information.

I also explain why child-centered play therapy (CCPT) remains effective for neurodivergent children and offer tips for maintaining limits and choices with younger developmental presentations. This episode provides practical advice for handling sensitive conversations with parents while staying true to CCPT principles.

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

In this special "live" episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I reflect on the concept of impact and how we, as child-centered play therapists, can think beyond our immediate work to make a broader difference. While the therapeutic relationship with each child is profoundly impactful, I challenge listeners to consider how their influence can extend to their communities, the field of play therapy, and even globally. I share personal stories and practical strategies for setting big goals, breaking them into manageable steps, and maintaining motivation to achieve meaningful impact.

As we step into 2025, I encourage you to see yourself as a person of impact and to align your professional and personal goals with the positive changes you want to see in the world. From creating programs for underserved populations to transforming educational systems with CCPT principles, your potential to make a difference is limitless—if you take the first step and stay consistent.

Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice!

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: brenna@thekidcounselor.com
Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com
CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com
Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com
APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor
Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast

Common References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.