The Synergetic Play Therapy Institute's "Lessons From the Playroom" Podcasts are a series of recorded podcasts designed to help therapists understand the little lessons that kids teach us that make a big difference in the play therapy process. Our podcast host, Lisa Dion, LPC, RPT-S, is an innovative and inspiring teacher and pioneer in play therapy. She founder and President of the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute and the creator of Synergetic Play Therapy, a cutting-edge model of play therapy that bridges the gap between neuroscience and psychology. Lisa teaches and supervises all over the world, helping transform the lives of...
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Sep 29, 2026 · 48:22
Originally aired July 29, 2025 In this powerful follow-up episode, Lisa reunites with psychologist, author, and digital play therapy pioneer Dr. Jessica Stone to explore the…
Sep 22, 2026 · 44:13
Originally aired July 15, 2025 In this powerful and deeply human episode, Lisa is joined by two internationally recognized leaders in the field of complex trauma and…
Sep 15, 2026 · 42:26
Originally aired June 1, 2025 She's back—and the energy in the room just elevated. In one of the most moving and illuminating episodes to date, Lisa Dion reunites with…
Sep 8, 2026 · 44:00
Originally aired June 17, 2025 🎙️ She's back! In her fourth appearance, Lisa welcomes the deeply loved and returning guest Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker—bilingual therapist, teacher,…
Sep 1, 2026 · 27:27
Originally aired May 20, 2025 Lisa is back with the final episode of the Little Lessons Series, wrapping up this heartfelt Q&A journey by answering your powerful questions…
Aug 25, 2026 · 46:36
Originally aired June 3, 2025 In this heartfelt and most inspiring episode, Lisa sits down with Catherine and Alicia Denham—the visionary clinical duo behind Mama Owls Minis,…
Aug 18, 2026 · 23:01
Originally aired May 6, 2025 Lisa is back with another episode of the Little Lessons Series, answering your insightful questions about navigating the complexities of the…
Aug 11, 2026 · 46:10
Originally aired April 8, 2025 "Every part of us, even the ones we've been taught to reject, holds the potential for growth and healing." – Mili Shoemaker Aggression in the…
Aug 4, 2026 · 53:38
Originally aired March 25, 2025 "Every child has the capacity to heal and grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are—with respect, curiosity, and an understanding of…
Jul 28, 2026 · 38:40
Originally aired March 11, 2025 "Every child has the capacity to heal and grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are—with respect, curiosity, and an understanding of…
Jul 21, 2026 · 47:40
Originally aired February 25, 2025 "We all walk around in our little cultural bubble, and sometimes, without realizing it, that bubble shapes how we show up in the playroom." –…
Jul 14, 2026 · 49:55
Original air date: Feb 11, 2025 In this episode, Lisa is joined by Mili Shoemaker, a Synergetic Play Therapy supervisor trainer, long-time consultant, and dear friend. Together,…
Jul 7, 2026 · 47:35
Original air date: Jan 28, 2025 In this episode, Lisa reconnects with Natascha Lawrence, a Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor, EMDR Practitioner, and founder of the FASD…
Jun 30, 2026 · 44:07
Original air date: Dec 31, 2024 In this episode, Lisa is joined by Georgie Wissen Vincent. She is a play therapist, co-founder of the Play Strong Institute, and co-author of The…
Jun 23, 2026 · 22:57
Original air date: Dec 03, 2024 We're diving into another special Q&A episode of Lessons from the Playroom! Lisa is answering three thought-provoking questions from our…
Jun 16, 2026 · 44:44
Original air date: Dec 17, 2024 In this episode, Lisa welcomes back the inspiring Dr. Stacy Jagger, affectionately known as "Dr. Sassy," to dive into a topic that has shockingly…
Jun 9, 2026 · 43:59
Original air date: Nov 11, 2024 In this heartfelt episode, Lisa steps into the spotlight as she's interviewed by long-time colleague and Certified SPT Supervisor, Polly Douglass.…
Jun 2, 2026 · 25:41
Original air date: Oct 01, 2024 Lisa is back to answer more of your burning questions! And this time, we're diving deep into the world of teens, one of the most complex and…
May 26, 2026 · 52:19
Original air date: May 14, 2024 Lisa is joined by three remarkable professionals, Jacque Maben, Cara Smith, and Amy Pennington, to uncover the boundless potential of play therapy…
May 19, 2026 · 49:19
Original air date: September 3, 2024 Lisa welcomes Tammi Van Hollander, LCSW, RPT-S, to explore a transformative approach to bibliotherapy. Moving beyond the traditional view of…
May 12, 2026 · 28:35
Original air date: August 20, 2024 In this episode, Lisa responds directly to your questions! And today, we have three fantastic questions from our listeners that Lisa will be…
May 5, 2026 · 48:26
Original air date: June 24, 2024 In this episode Lisa welcomes Jennifer Shivey, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, and Approved Clinical…
Apr 28, 2026 · 47:51
"Your fear will always be the ceiling of your innovation." – Lisa Dion In this special post New Year's episode, Lisa is joined by Jen Taylor, therapist, educator, and mastermind…
Apr 21, 2026 · 28:08
Lisa is back with another episode of the Little Lessons Series, where she answers your insightful questions about the complexities of working in the playroom. In this episode,…
Apr 14, 2026 · 44:57
In this special episode, Lisa reconnects with a long-time colleague, Nilüfer Devecigil, who joins her from Turkey. Nilüfer completed her master's degree in psychology in the US…
Apr 7, 2026 · 1:03:20
Lisa welcomes back the remarkable Marie José Dhaese, a trailblazer in the field of play therapy and the original creator of expressive play therapies. Building on their previous…
Mar 31, 2026 · 50:28
In this insightful episode, Lisa welcomes back the incredible Liliana Baylon, a bilingual English and Spanish multicultural therapist and cultural ambassador for the Synergetic…
Mar 24, 2026 · 49:45
In this special episode, Lisa is joined by two extraordinary guests, Isabella Cassina and Claudio Mochi, pioneers using play therapy in international crisis intervention. As…
Mar 17, 2026 · 50:10
In this especially important episode, we shine a spotlight on the harrowing issue of child sex trafficking and explore how we can support the young survivors of this modern-day…
Mar 10, 2026 · 48:46
In this episode, Lisa is joined by special guest Brian Keating, a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist and Certified Group Psychotherapist. Brian specializes in tele-play therapy…
Feb 24, 2026 · 48:59
In this episode, Lisa sits down with Dave Hompes, renowned author, nutritionist, and functional medicine practitioner, to explore the fascinating connection between the mind and…
Feb 17, 2026 · 25:04
Emotional flooding is inevitable; it's part of relationship. It's not about shame, but connection—providing a platform upon which real repair can flourish . – Lisa Dion In this…
Feb 10, 2026 · 24:42
"The more we try to avoid conflict, the more it shows up in our life." – Lisa Dion Why does conflict feel so uncomfortable—and why do we work so hard to avoid it? In this episode…
Feb 3, 2026 · 58:31
Re-airing in honor of the International Week of Play Therapy . In this special episode Lisa is joined by Amit Chintan Ramlall and his father, Dr. Kumar Ramlall, for a powerful…
Jan 27, 2026 · 52:55
PANS and PANDAS are among the most misunderstood—and frequently requested—topics in the therapy world. In this episode, Lisa is joined by Dr. Montserrat Casado for a thoughtful,…
Jan 20, 2026 · 23:10
"It is a sparkling thing when I encounter realness of another person… When this happens, I leap to meet it." – Carl Rogers Carl Rogers is one of the most influential—and often…
Jan 13, 2026 · 48:58
What does play therapy look like beyond childhood? In this episode, Lisa is joined by Tara McDonald and Karen O'Neill of PIP Solutions UK to explore how play therapy can support…
Jan 5, 2026 · 25:45
"The dysregulation in our body is information about the congruency of our decisions." – Lisa Dion How do you know if a decision is truly aligned with who you are? In this…
Dec 30, 2025 · 22:24
Original Air Date : June 12, 2019 "When it comes to giftedness, one of the most important things to focus on is how these children manage their internal worlds." – Lisa Dion…
Dec 23, 2025 · 29:23
Original Air Date : May 29, 2019 "Every family has both peace and war, dysregulation and regulation, support and challenge." – Lisa Dion Parents often wish for a home without…
Dec 16, 2025 · 42:53
Original Air Date: January 02, 2024 Get ready to embrace the playful—and profound—world of villains in therapy! In this episode, Lisa Dion is joined by the amazing Maria Laquerre…
Dec 9, 2025 · 45:33
Original Air Date: November 28, 2023 In this groundbreaking episode, Lisa Dion is joined by Ludmila (Mila) Golovine , CEO and President of MasterWord Services, to explore a topic…
Dec 2, 2025 · 33:30
Original Air Date: April 17, 2019 "Twins are master co-regulators but also susceptible to losing themselves. The key is to help them find the 'I' in 'we.'" – Lisa Dion Twins may…
Nov 25, 2025 · 23:32
Original Air Date: June 28, 2019 "It isn't about being a parent or not. It's about showing up in the playroom and being real." – Lisa Dion Being both a parent and a play…
Nov 18, 2025 · 25:08
Original Air Date: November 7, 2023 Join Lisa Dion as she dives into a topic we all experience—therapists, parents, children— negative self-talk . Despite the countless…
Nov 11, 2025 · 47:32
Original Air Date: October 24, 2023 In this captivating episode, Lisa Dion is joined by three incredible colleagues—Michelle Wayman, Mili Shoemaker, and Lisa Walton—from…
Nov 4, 2025 · 23:59
The brain is a high-maintenance organ—and it thrives on challenge! In this episode, Lisa Dion explores how play therapists can stay energized, inspired, and fulfilled by giving…
Oct 28, 2025 · 47:05
Original Air Date: October 10, 2023 In this powerful episode, Lisa Dion is joined by the incredible Heather Fairlee Denbrough—Certified Synergetic Play Therapist/Supervisor,…
Oct 21, 2025 · 21:29
Original Air Date: September 19, 2019 "Broken toys may be a metaphor for how children see themselves." – Lisa Dion In this episode, Lisa tackles the "little" questions that often…
Oct 14, 2025 · 23:58
Often, when we think about boundaries, we imagine a list of rules and restrictions like: you can't do this , you can do this , and if you don't do this, this is going to happen .…
Oct 7, 2025 · 49:17
Original Air Date: July 30, 2023 In this deeply insightful episode, Lisa Dion is joined by Dr. Dee Ray, an expert in the field of multicultural play therapy, to discuss an…
Sep 30, 2025 · 20:19
"Perfectionism is the strategy the child is using to manage their anxiety and fear." – Lisa Dion That child who needs everything just right ? Who gets upset when the block tower…
Sep 23, 2025 · 49:02
In this groundbreaking episode, Lisa is joined by Gabriel (Gabe) Lomas, an expert in the field of play therapy, to address a topic rarely discussed in the world of therapy:…
Sep 16, 2025 · 39:56
Original Air Date: July 5, 2022 We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Carmen Jimenez-Pride—a fellow SPTer, therapist, healer, and a beautiful example of what it means to…
Sep 9, 2025 · 46:45
This is both a milestone and a farewell. After years of heartfelt conversations, transformative insights, and connections across the globe, Lessons from the Playroom reaches its…
Sep 2, 2025 · 46:37
Original Air Date: June 22, 2023 We are so excited about this hot topic and our incredible guest—Stacy Jagger! Stacy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT),…
Aug 26, 2025 · 47:32
In this episode, Lisa welcomes back Ana Gomez, internationally recognized expert in EMDR Therapy, complex trauma, and dissociation, for her third appearance on the podcast. Ana…
Aug 19, 2025 · 21:11
Original Air Date: May 3, 2020 The word compassion means 'to suffer with' or merge with. This is different than empathy." – Lisa Dion As play therapists, we hold so much. And…
Aug 12, 2025 · 41:33
What happens when therapists bring their own attachment histories into the playroom—consciously or not? In this deeply validating and insightful conversation, Lisa welcomes back…
Aug 5, 2025 · 24:24
This episode originally aired in June 2023 when Synergetic Play Therapy turned 15 this year 🎉 (and was also Lisa's birthday week! 🥳), which made it the perfect moment to pause…
Jul 29, 2025 · 48:22
In this powerful follow-up episode, Lisa reunites with psychologist, author, and digital play therapy pioneer Dr. Jessica Stone to explore the ever-evolving intersection of…
Jul 22, 2025 · 28:47
In this latest episode, Lisa tackles three little, yet powerful questions that every play therapist faces at some point in their practice. These insightful answers will expand…
Jul 15, 2025 · 44:13
In this powerful and deeply human episode, Lisa is joined by two internationally recognized leaders in the field of complex trauma and dissociation—Ana Gómez and Jill Hosey—for a…
Jul 8, 2025 · 48:24
One of the most highly requested topics in play therapy is finally here—understanding sexualized play in the playroom. In this deeply insightful episode, Lisa Dion is joined by…
Jul 1, 2025 · 42:26
She's back—and the energy in the room just elevated. In one of the most moving and illuminating episodes to date, Lisa Dion reunites with internationally renowned occupational…
Jun 24, 2025 · 27:36
What makes working with parents and caregivers feel smooth—or challenging—in play therapy? In this insightful episode, Lisa Dion explores three distinct types of relationships…
Jun 17, 2025 · 44:00
🎙️ She's back! In her fourth appearance, Lisa welcomes the deeply loved and returning guest Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker—bilingual therapist, teacher, and Certified Synergetic Play…
Jun 10, 2025 · 37:33
What makes play therapy supervision truly effective? In this first-ever Lessons from the Playroom episode on supervision, Lisa Dion is joined by Polly Douglass, Kim Buller, and…
Jun 3, 2025 · 46:36
In this heartfelt and most inspiring episode, Lisa sits down with Catherine and Alicia Denham—the visionary clinical duo behind Mama Owls Minis, Licensed Clinical Social Workers…
May 27, 2025 · 44:55
How does ableism show up in the playroom, and what can we do to create a more inclusive therapeutic space? In this powerful episode, Marshall Lyles (LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S, EMDRIA…
May 20, 2025 · 27:27
Lisa is back with the final episode of the Little Lessons Series, wrapping up this heartfelt Q&A journey by answering your powerful questions including how to navigate moments…
May 13, 2025 · 42:01
Have you explored the power of mandalas in play therapy? In this episode, Lisa Dion sits down with Tracy Turner-Bumberry (LPC, RPT-S™) to uncover the transformative magic of…
May 6, 2025 · 23:01
Lisa is back with another episode of the Little Lessons Series, answering your insightful questions about navigating the complexities of the playroom. Today's episode focuses on…
Apr 29, 2025 · 48:45
How do our perspectives shape who we are and how we connect with others—both in the playroom and in life? In this thought-provoking episode, Lisa Dion sits down with Dr. Rachel…
Apr 22, 2025 · 29:34
Why is attunement the heart of the therapeutic relationship? In this episode, Lisa Dion explores why simply following a script or checklist in play therapy isn't enough—true…
Apr 15, 2025 · 44:34
In this insightful episode, Lisa Dion is joined by the incredible Robyn Gobbel, MSW, to talk about a topic that has never been covered before on this podcast but is crucial for…
Apr 8, 2025 · 46:10
"Every part of us, even the ones we've been taught to reject, holds the potential for growth and healing." – Mili Shoemaker Aggression in the playroom is a familiar topic—but…
Apr 1, 2025 · 40:24
Original Air Date: July 4, 2023 In this groundbreaking episode, Lisa is joined by the brilliant Annie Monaco to tackle a topic that's rarely discussed but essential to our work…
Mar 25, 2025 · 53:38
"Every child has the capacity to heal and grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are—with respect, curiosity, and an understanding of their unique needs." – Lisa Dion…
Mar 18, 2025 · 30:38
Original Air Date: July 19, 2022 In this playful and insightful episode, Lisa is joined by Certified Synergetic Play Therapists Andrea Davidson, Johanna Simmons, and Rachel…
Mar 11, 2025 · 38:40
"Every child has the capacity to heal and grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are—with respect, curiosity, and an understanding of their unique needs." – Hannah…
Mar 4, 2025 · 47:40
Original Air Date: April 18, 2023 In this heartfelt episode, Lisa welcomes Ann Beckley-Forest for a deep dive into working with children and families navigating adoption, foster…
Feb 25, 2025 · 47:40
"We all walk around in our little cultural bubble, and sometimes, without realizing it, that bubble shapes how we show up in the playroom." – Dr. Carmen Cubillo In this…
Feb 18, 2025 · 48:25
Original Air Date: October 11, 2022 In this exciting episode, Lisa is joined by the extraordinary Terry Kottman, founder of Adlerian Play Therapy, to explore the heart and soul…
Feb 11, 2025 · 49:55
" So much of our healing lies in our ability to come home to ourselves ." – Lisa Dion In this episode, Lisa is joined by Mili Shoemaker, a Synergetic Play Therapy supervisor…
Feb 4, 2025 · 48:38
Original Air Date: March 14, 2023 In this episode, Lisa is joined by the trailblazing Dr. Risë VanFleet for an inspiring conversation about Filial Therapy—a transformative model…
Jan 28, 2025 · 47:35
"Every child has the capacity to heal and grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are—with respect, curiosity, and an understanding of their unique needs." – Natascha…
Jan 21, 2025 · 28:29
Original Air Date: May 11, 2021 Separation anxiety is a common challenge in the therapy room—whether it's the child hesitant to leave their caregiver or the parent struggling to…
Jan 14, 2025 · 47:51
"Your fear will always be the ceiling of your innovation." – Lisa Dion In this special post New Year's episode, Lisa is joined by Jen Taylor, therapist, educator, and mastermind…
Jan 7, 2025 · 30:53
Original Air Date: June 21, 2022 In this heartfelt episode, Lisa, dives into the tender and often challenging topic of the "shoulds" and "should nots" that we carry as…
Dec 31, 2024 · 44:07
" So much of play therapy is about clearing away the conditions that limit children from discovering who they are ." - Georgie Wissen Vincent In this episode, Lisa is joined by…
Dec 24, 2024 · 16:05
Original Air Date: June 19, 2017 In this insightful podcast, delve into the transformative power of gratitude with guidance from Lisa Dion. While it's effortless to appreciate…
Dec 17, 2024 · 44:44
"Working with families isn't about fixing individuals; it's about finding the rhythm where everyone can grow together." – Dr. Stacy Jagger In this episode, Lisa welcomes back the…
Dec 10, 2024 · 41:08
Original air date: September 27, 2022 Do you know what bibliotherapy is or how to incorporate it into your client sessions? We're resharing this episode in which Lisa Dion is…
Dec 3, 2024 · 22:57
We're diving into another special Q&A episode of Lessons from the Playroom! Lisa is answering three thought-provoking questions from our listeners, offering insights into some of…
Nov 26, 2024 · 39:36
Original air date: February 13, 2023 In this special episode, Lisa welcomes Dr. Robert Jason Grant, creator of AutPlay Therapy, to explore his integrative approach to family play…
Nov 19, 2024 · 28:50
Original Air Date: June 12, 2021 In this episode, Lisa dives into the sensitive topic of death and dying as it appears in the playroom, offering guidance and practical insights…
Nov 11, 2024 · 43:59
In this heartfelt episode, Lisa Dion, founder of Synergetic Play Therapy, steps into the spotlight as she's interviewed by long-time colleague and Certified SPT Supervisor, Polly…
Nov 4, 2024 · 20:41
Original Air Date: May 2, 2019 "The majority of relationship, any relationship, is rupture. Repair is the remedy." - Lisa Dion In relationships—whether with clients or…
Oct 28, 2024 · 28:08
Lisa is back with another episode of the Little Lessons Series, where she answers your insightful questions about the complexities of working in the playroom. In this episode,…
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