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

Dr. Brenna Hicks

Child-Centered Play Therapy

Play Therapy

Therapeutic Process

Case Conceptualization

Child Development

Self-Esteem

Sexual Curiosity

Parent Consultation

Emotional Regulation

Private Practice

Therapy Outcomes

Child Behavior

Parent Engagement

Client Documentation

Parent Consultations

Family Dynamics

Emotional Vocabulary

Helen Benedict

Therapeutic Relationship

Sexualized Play Themes

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

238 ratings

Publishes	Twice weekly	Episodes	381	Founded	4 years ago
Number of Listeners		Categories	CoursesEducation

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Guests Host Reviews Charts Talking Points

Latest Episodes

381 | When Kids Ask Questions in the Playroom: How CCPT Therapists Should Respond

In this episode, I answer a listener question about working with an inquisitive 11-year-old who frequently asks questions during sessions. Many child-centered play therapists struggle with how to respond when children ask for information, especially ... more

12 Mar 2026 • 11 min

380 | From Playing Alone to Playing Together: Understanding the Shift in CCPT

In this episode, I talk through the differences between independent play and collaborative play in child-centered play therapy sessions, and why understanding the distinction is so important. Early in the therapy process, children often play independ... more

10 Mar 2026 • 10 min

YouTube

379 | When Children Leave the Playroom and Parents Email Too Much: Two Questions Answered

In this episode, I answer two listener questions that highlight common challenges child-centered play therapists face in session and in communication with parents. First, I respond to a question about a child who unexpectedly leaves the playroom and ... more

5 Mar 2026 • 18 min

378 | Stop Rescuing Children in the Playroom

In this episode, I address something I see far too often in child-centered play therapy: therapists struggling to let children struggle. If it is painful for you to watch a child wrestle with frustration, anger, failure, or confusion in the playroom,... more

3 Mar 2026 • 14 min

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People also subscribe to these shows.

Play Therapy Parenting PodcastDr. Brenna Hicks

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Recent Guests

Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby

Licensed marriage and family therapist, psychologist, and board-certified coach specializing in growth and family dynamics, particularly during transitions like divorce.

Growing Self Counseling

Episode: 283 | Supporting Parents Through Divorce: A Conversation with Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby

Dr. Brandy Schumann

Creator of the BoA (Bobo), a pivotal toy in play therapy.

Episode: Special Interview: Dr. Brandy Schumann, Creator of the 2nd Most Important Toy in the Playroom... the "BoA" (AKA "Bobo")

Dr. Jodi Mullen

Faculty member at SUNY College at Oswego with over 30 years of experience in counseling, specializing in child-centered play therapy.

State University of New York College at Oswego

Episode: Special Interview Episode: Dr. Jodi Mullen - Talking Child-Centered Play Therapy and Child Trauma (part 1 of 2)

Host

Dr. Brenna Hicks

Host of the Play Therapy Podcast with a focus on Child-Centered Play Therapy, providing insights on therapeutic practices and child psychological development.

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 238 ratings

Great show
I love this podcast and as a counsellor I find the material relatable and informative. Dr. Hicks is a great speaker and keeps the episodes interesting. I would love to see longer episodes deep diving specific topics as I’m often left wanting more!
Apple Podcasts
5
Blundrigan
Canadaa month ago
Changed my life and my practice
Brenna has changed my therapy practice working with kids. I had studied nondirective CCPT over 20 years ago, but this podcast reignited my passion and provided the practical support I needed to move forward and be fully CCPT with my clients. I had been frustrated with other therapeutic approaches that were not working with my clients, but since I’ve been CCPT compliant, with Brenna’s help and the help of this community, I have seen children grow and change unlike I have ever seen before.
Apple Podcasts
5
Sarah JB 81
United Statesa year ago
Men for CCPT
I’ve been working with children and young adults for 8 years and I’m just now learning about CCPT. This podcast has revived my love for giving therapy to children.
Apple Podcasts
5
jet614
United Statesa year ago
Rare, expert resource - I can’t believe it’s free!
This TRULY is a master class in the CCTP approach! If the Child-Centered approach is a good fit for you and children you work with, or even something you are just curious to learn more about, this podcast is so educational and interesting and well worth the time for clinicians at all levels. As a die-hard CCPT devotee, this free education is like a dream - and it’s not always easy to find CCPT supervision, mentorship, or community. Thank you, Dr. Hicks!
Apple Podcasts
5
jenna XO
United Statesa year ago
Ive learned so much from listening to your podcast. I am not aRegistered play therapist, but I work with kids in the achool system and this has been a lifesaver.
Audible
5
Ms Campbell
United States2 years ago

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Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

The informative style and clear organization of the episodes are frequently noted as engaging and encouraging for therapists at various experience levels.

Listeners appreciate the expert insights and practical strategies shared by the host, finding the content relatable and informative.

Overall, there seems to be a strong appreciation for the accessibility of expert content, making it a go-to resource without the barriers of cost.

Many feedback suggests a transformative impact on their therapy practices, particularly emphasizing the resurgence of passion for working with children.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts	#19	United States/Education/Courses
Apple Podcasts	#27	United Kingdom/Education/Courses
Apple Podcasts	#43	Canada/Education/Courses
Apple Podcasts	#53	Australia/Education/Courses
Apple Podcasts	#8	Ireland/Education/Courses
Apple Podcasts	#23	Finland/Education/Courses

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

376 | Q&A Lightning Round #9: Six Questions from Four Listeners Answered

Q: Are there times when play therapy is not recommended for children?

Children who have suffered extreme trauma may initially struggle with therapy. It's crucial to develop a therapeutic relationship and environment so they can work through their pain at their pace, but play therapy is often beneficial for traumatized children.

376 | Q&A Lightning Round #9: Six Questions from Four Listeners Answered

Q: I'm a school-based clinician and confidentiality around who attends therapy is not able to be achieved because clients often tell their friends or classmates. I've noticed over the last five sessions, they've become increasingly competitive with each other. Should I just let it play out and reflect the emotions or provide insights by enlarging? Should I set boundaries about making things or bringing things home?

It's important to reinforce the confidentiality and individual time in therapy. Encourage the children to express their feelings and desires while reminding them that what they create is unique to their session.

376 | Q&A Lightning Round #9: Six Questions from Four Listeners Answered

Q: I have a specific client who asks for the dollhouse to be set up before she comes into the room. Is that a request that you would comply with?

It's essential to maintain the integrity of the playroom. The dollhouse should not be set up according to the previous child's play, nor should the therapist concede to the specific setup request to avoid leading the play.

376 | Q&A Lightning Round #9: Six Questions from Four Listeners Answered

Q: The practice I work for has partnered with a foster care community and provides therapy services in addition to our traditional offices at their location. I see clients in the foster care community once a week and I have a theme that has emerged with two specific clients that are sisters, and all parties suspect that they have an extensive history of sexual abuse, along with significant physical abuse and neglect. The theme that seems to be emerging has to do with the lights. I see them every other week, but they both enter the playroom and immediately want the lights off. What could be the significance of the lights being off?

It could be tied to power and control dynamics, fears related to the dark due to past trauma, or even comfort in darkness as part of play. It's important to accommodate their needs while ensuring the environment remains safe.

374 | What to Do When Children Want to Save What They Built - A CCPT Q&A

Q: What should I do when a child wants to protect or hide what they built?

Hicks suggests addressing the dynamics of mobile therapy and setting clear expectations for the children regarding their creations. It's important to communicate that the toys might not be in the same place during the next session and handle the disappointment with care.

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast

What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

Focused primarily on the methodologies and practices of Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), this podcast engages therapists through expert discussions, strategies, and insights aimed at enhancing their practice. Topics range from the importance of parental engagement and therapeutic trust to exploring the dynamics of play therapy techniques and addressing common challenges in child therapy sessions. Unique in its commitment to delivering high-quality, ad-free educational content, it positions itself as an invaluable resource for therapists looking to deepen their understanding and application of CCPT in their work with children.

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Which podcasts are similar to this podcast?

These podcasts share a similar audience with this podcast:

1. Play Therapy Parenting Podcast
2. Therapist Uncensored Podcast
3. Therapy in a Nutshell
4. Lessons from the Playroom
5. The Oprah Podcast

How many episodes of this podcast are there?

this podcast launched 4 years ago and published 381 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on this podcast?

Recent guests on this podcast include:

1. Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby
2. Dr. Brandy Schumann
3. Dr. Jodi Mullen

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