• Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Refresher 2025

    COME BACK TO REVIEW, REFRESH, & KEEP LEARNING KEY INTRODUCTORY CONCEPTS OF SYNERGETIC PLAY THERAPY - FOR FREE!

    JANUARY 2025 - JUNE 2025

    As a previous student of any Level 1 Introductory program (Online/In-person Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy, Synergetic Play Therapy Supplemental, Synergetic Play Therapy Intensive), you are invited to come back for this FREE Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy Refresher course. Each month, you will get access to short videos that highlight important and key introductory concepts of Synergetic Play Therapy. These videos will be followed up by a monthly LIVE one-hour webinar with Judy Norman, Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Teacher, Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor, and Co-instructor, along with Lisa, for the Synergetic Play Therapy Certification program, for an opportunity to come back into community. That’s six new opportunities to review, connect, and deepen your learning of the basic principles of Synergetic Play Therapy! Plus, you’ll get access to handouts and additional resources/short videos to keep the learning going. During the webinars, Judy will add in new understandings, as well as help you review, deepen, and continue to apply the basic principles and key concepts of Synergetic Play Therapy into your clinical practice or daily life. Plus, Lisa is constantly learning herself and updating the Synergetic Play Therapy teachings, so this course will also give you the opportunity to hear new nuances and insights as they have been added to the Level 1 program. This course is only open to those who have already completed a Level 1 SPT Introductory program. Please contact info@synergeticplaytherapy.com if you have questions.

    For more details, see below.

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  • 2025-2026 Synergetic Play Therapy® Certification Online Program (Level 2)

    2025-2026 Synergetic Play Therapy® Certification Program

    Early Bird Pricing Application Deadline is April 1, 2025 Final Application Deadline is June 16, 2025

    You've already seen the powerful impact of Synergetic Play Therapy through the Level 1 Introductory program—now, imagine what’s possible when you take your skills even further. Click the link below to take the first step toward transformation ....

    Click here FIRST to experience how this program can transform your work and your SELF!

    .... Now that you have begun to feel what this program has to offer you, we hope you will choose to join us on this 10-month journey! This program is designed to help you embody the therapeutic skills that will unlock profound transformation for both you and your clients. Imagine feeling more attuned, confident, and capable in every session—able to guide your clients through breakthroughs that go beyond the surface. As one participant put it, “I already got my money’s worth in just the first day!” Are you ready to embody the next level of healing and authenticity? Start your journey now to discover how this program can transform your practice.

    *Keep scrolling to learn about program dates, cost, learning objectives, scholarship opportunities, CE credit hours, and more!

    If you are ready to submit your application, click "Add to Cart" below to pay the $150 application fee. Once payment is confirmed, you will be sent a link to complete the online application!

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  • January 2025 Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® (Level 1)

    Use Early Bird Coupon Code “Intro2025” for $50 USD off until January 7th, 2025!

    Final Registration deadline is January 19th, 2025, 12pm Mountain Time (Denver)

    Ready to learn a solid play therapy theory that combines the power of play with interpersonal neurobiology? Click the link below to take the first step...

    Click here FIRST to learn how this program will create a deeper impact for your clients!

    ...Now that you have begun to learn what this program has to offer both you and your clients, we hope you will choose to join us for the 6-month Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy program! This program is designed for both beginning and advanced practitioners and will take you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to effectively work with caregivers and what it means to create a neuroception of safety allowing both the child and the caregiver to have a deeper integration, and (....if this wasn't enough), you'll come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity.

    Check out what past students had to say about their experiences in the program!

    "SPT is the missing piece in play therapy. I gained an understanding of who I am in the playroom - a humanness that wasn't there before." -Frances Donohue

    Join the growing number of mental health professionals, those in related roles (Child Life Specialists, School Counselors, Occupational Therapists, Coaches, etc.) and parents/caregivers who are learning Synergetic Play Therapy!

    *For full program details including cost, dates, learning objectives, and more, keep scrolling!

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  • January 2025 Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® (Payment Plan)

    Use Early Bird Coupon Code “Intro2025” for $50 USD off until January 7th, 2025!

    Final Registration deadline is January 19th, 2025, 12pm Mountain Time (Denver)

    Ready to learn a solid play therapy theory that combines the power of play with interpersonal neurobiology? Click the link below to take the first step...

    Click here FIRST to learn how this program will create a deeper impact for your clients!

    ...Now that you have begun to learn what this program has to offer both you and your clients, we hope you will choose to join us for the 6-month Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy program! This program is designed for both beginning and advanced practitioners and will take you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to effectively work with caregivers and what it means to create a neuroception of safety allowing both the child and the caregiver to have a deeper integration, and (....if this wasn't enough), you'll come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity.

    Check out what past students had to say about their experiences in the course!

    "SPT is the missing piece in play therapy. I gained an understanding of who I am in the playroom - a humanness that wasn't there before." -Frances Donohue

    Join the growing number of mental health professionals, those in related roles (Child Life Specialists, School Counselors, Occupational Therapists, Coaches, etc.) and parents/caregivers who are learning Synergetic Play Therapy!

    *For full program details including cost, dates, learning objectives, and more, keep scrolling!

    Sign Up Now Details

  • January 2025 Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® (SPT Credential Renewal/Recertification)

    Join us for an opportunity to go back to the basics AND meet full Recertification requirements for your Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider credential!

    Registration deadline is January 19th, 2025, 12pm Mountain Time (Denver)

    Renewal of the Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider credential is required every 3 years. In order to renew, students must demonstrate that they have remained engaged in the study of foundational Synergetic Play Therapy teachings through identified courses/programs. This program meets the full requirement of renewing the Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider credential. Students who do not complete recertification requirements can no longer use the title of Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider until renewal occurs.  During the Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy Recertification program, you will have the opportunity to go back to the foundational understandings and tenets of Synergetic Play Therapy. Likely the first time you took your Level 1 Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy program (whether it was this course or an intensive), you spent the majority of your time trying to orient towards a new way of being in the playroom while grabbing ahold of some of the details of the Synergetic Play Therapy philosophy. This is why it is so important to go back to the basics every few years (and the information gets updated too!) and now you have the opportunity to do so and fill in the missing details in your understanding and to also confirm what you have fully integrated! 

    Plus this Intro program underwent some amazing changes in 2023 with new/updated content and teachings!

    Click here to learn more about the program changes!

    “I appreciated doing this course again for my re-certification. The review was invaluable! It’s unbelievable how much one forgets over time. As well as there was a lot of new/updated material that has been added over the last three years. It has confirmed for me how SPT is so 'alive' and growing all the time! I am grateful for the professional and personal growth and honored to be a part of this play therapy community.” - Mary Yan

    Recertification Program Requirements: 

    • Attend and take notes at all 3 live webinars (see dates below)
    • Complete each video module and take notes on the provided handouts, indicating the date you watched each module
    • Complete an Integration Assignment to help you reflect on your learning.
    • Upload all of your course notes and Integration Assignment to a shared Google Drive folder, provided by the Institute.
      *For full program details including cost, dates, and learning objectives, see below.
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  • 2025-2026 SPT Certification Program Retreats (Certified SPTers Only)

    Registration closes July 30, 2025, for the 3.5 Day Learning Retreat!

    Did you know that as an esteemed alumnus of the Synergetic Play Therapy Certification program, you have the opportunity to return to the online learning retreats and join new cohorts of the Certification program - eager, possibly terrified, and ready to be inspired? (Remember that?)
    Why Come Back?
    As part of the ongoing commitment to keep the teaching of Synergetic Play Therapy ever-evolving, we continue to update the Certification program content. By returning to the online learning retreats, you will:
    • Be reminded of the power of the SPT Tenets
    • Receive some of the most up-to-date and current understanding of interpersonal neurobiology and SPT theory
    • Practice your Synergetic Play Therapy skills with play, sand, and art
    • Have the opportunity to do your own personal work toward growth and transformation
    • "Come home" to yourself and find even more ways to be fearlessly authentic
    • Inspire the new cohort of aspiring Certified SPTers and share your own genius
    • AND, meet FULL SPT Credential/Recertification requirements!
    If you are ready to get back into community, refresh your SPT learning, and feel the excitement of the new SPTers on their own Certification journey, we would like to invite you back to join us for the 2025-2026 Synergetic Play Therapy Certification program online learning retreats! "I am always excited to repeat the retreats as an alumni for three reasons. First, there is always new information to be had. Second, each time I hear the information that Lisa imparts, I hear it in a different way. Lastly, it is so wonderful to be in such a supportive environment with like-minded people. I can’t get enough!" - Johanna Simmons, Certified Synergetic Play Therapist and Supervisor
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  • September 2025 In-Person Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Program (SPT Credential Renewal/Recertification) – Brisbane, Australia

    Space is Very Limited! Sign Up TODAY to Reserve Your Spot!

    Renewal of the Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider credential is required every 3 years. In order to renew, students must complete an approved program focused on principle SPT concepts and submit a CE Verification Form to the Institute as confirmation. This program meets FULL SPT Credential Renewal/Recertification requirements for the Certified Synergetic Play Therapist/Certified Synergetic Play Provider credential! During the 3-Day In-Person Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy program, you will have the opportunity to go back to the foundational understandings and tenets of Synergetic Play Therapy. Likely, the first time you took a Level 1 Introductory course/program, you spent the majority of your time trying to orient towards a new way of being in the playroom while grabbing ahold of some of the details of the Synergetic Play Therapy philosophy. This is why it is so important to go back to the basics every few years, to review and stay up to date on the most current information. Now you have the opportunity to do so and fill in the missing details in your understanding IN PERSON! Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy Recertification Program Requirements: 
    • Attend and participate fully in 3 days of in-person training in Brisbane, Australia
    • Complete additional online video lessons
    • Complete an Integration Assignment to help you reflect on and demonstrate your learning
    *For program details and objectives, see below
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  • September 2025 In-Person Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Program (Level 1) – Brisbane, Australia

    Learn a solid play therapy theory that combines the power of play with interpersonal neurobiology in Brisbane, Australia!

    Registration Deadline is August 29, 2025 | Space is Limited! Reserve Your Spot Today!

    Use Early Bird Coupon Code “Brisbane2025” for $50 USD off until May 6th, 2025!

    Click here to experience how you can transform you and your child clients from the inside out!

    You asked and we answered! For those of you who have wanted to enroll in our signature Level 1 Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy program, but are seeking an in-person experience, this program is for you! Have you been searching for ways to create a deeper impact for your clients? Or perhaps you are wanting to improve or learn more about...
    • Becoming an external regulator to support children with integration and repatterning the activation of their nervous system.
    • Supporting healing at deeper levels through right brain to right brain attuned communication
    • Teaching children interoceptive (body) awareness (...the key ingredient for self-regulation and co-regulation) 
    • Creating a neuroception of safety for a child when emotional flooding happens
    • Setting boundaries with the brain in mind to not minimize, shame or shut down the child's play, but keep them engaged in their therapy process
    • Building collaborative relationships with caregivers to support their child's therapeutic process
    • Developing goals, tracking a child's therapeutic process, and translating what's happening during the child's therapy session to their caregiver(s) and others in the world
    • Helping children develop a secure attachment to themselves (...a foundation of resilience)
    • Applying SPT concepts from a cultural lens for a more inclusive and culturally sensitive clinical orientation where a client's unique experiences and needs are honored
    • How to feel a little more like YOU in the therapy process (...because we know inauthenticity is the fastest way to burnout and compassion fatigue)
    • And so much more!

    "SPT is the missing piece in play therapy. I gained an understanding of who I am in the playroom - a humanness that wasn't there before." -Frances Donohue

    Join the growing number of mental health professionals, those in related roles (Child Life Specialists, School Counselors, Occupational Therapists, Coaches, etc.), and parents/caregivers who are learning SPT!

    Check out what past students had to say about their experiences here.

    Keep scrolling to learn about program dates, cost, learning objectives, scholarship opportunities, CE credit hours, and more.
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  • September 2025 In-Person Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Program (Brisbane, Australia) (Payment Plan)

    Learn a solid play therapy theory that combines the power of play with interpersonal neurobiology in Brisbane, Australia!

    Registration Deadline is August 29, 2025 | Space is Limited! Reserve Your Spot Today!

    Use Early Bird Coupon Code “Brisbane2025” for $50 USD off until May 6th, 2025!

    Click here to experience how you can transform you and your child clients from the inside out!

    You asked and we answered! For those of you who have wanted to enroll in our signature Level 1 Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy program, but are seeking an in-person experience, this program is for you! Have you been searching for ways to create a deeper impact for your clients? Or perhaps you are wanting to improve or learn more about...
    • Becoming an external regulator to support children with integration and repatterning the activation of their nervous system.
    • Supporting healing at deeper levels through right brain to right brain attuned communication
    • Teaching children interoceptive (body) awareness (...the key ingredient for self-regulation and co-regulation) 
    • Creating a neuroception of safety for a child when emotional flooding happens
    • Setting boundaries with the brain in mind to not minimize, shame or shut down the child's play, but keep them engaged in their therapy process
    • Building collaborative relationships with caregivers to support their child's therapeutic process
    • Developing goals, tracking a child's therapeutic process, and translating what's happening during the child's therapy session to their caregiver(s) and others in the world
    • Helping children develop a secure attachment to themselves (...a foundation of resilience)
    • Applying SPT concepts from a cultural lens for a more inclusive and culturally sensitive clinical orientation where a client's unique experiences and needs are honored
    • How to feel a little more like YOU in the therapy process (...because we know inauthenticity is the fastest way to burnout and compassion fatigue)
    • And so much more!

    "SPT is the missing piece in play therapy. I gained an understanding of who I am in the playroom - a humanness that wasn't there before." -Frances Donohue

    Join the growing number of mental health professionals, those in related roles (Child Life Specialists, School Counselors, Occupational Therapists, Coaches, etc.), and parents/caregivers who are learning SPT!

    Check out what past students had to say about their experiences here.

    Keep scrolling to learn about program dates, cost, learning objectives, scholarship opportunities, CE credit hours, and more.
    Sign Up Now Details

  • Becoming a Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor Program 2025 (Level 3)

    Application Deadline is January 22, 2025!

    Becoming a Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor isn’t just about offering guidance—it’s about embodying the core tenets of Synergetic Play Therapy and creating an environment where growth and transformation can happen for both you and your supervisees. In this program, you will:
    • Learn to establish strong, trusting supervisory relationships using SPT principles, understanding how to assess supervisees at different stages of their development and guide their growth.
    • Explore complex ethical dilemmas, including how to manage dual relationships, maintain authenticity, and apply legal and ethical considerations in the supervision process.
    • Master cultural awareness and humility by applying SPT tenets through a cultural opportunity lens, supporting therapists in navigating diversity in their clinical work.
    • Enhance your supervisory skills by using reflective practice to empower supervisees to explore their therapeutic work and personal development, while also reflecting on your own patterns as a supervisor.
    This newly revamped program is designed to ensure you’re equipped to provide a supervision experience that promotes both personal and professional growth in your supervisees. With 34.5 hours of training through live webinars, recorded lessons, and hands-on consultation, you’ll finish this program feeling empowered in your role as a supervisor. ***Before submitting your application, please review the APPLICATION CHECKLIST to ensure you have all of the necessary documents and meet all program requirements!

    APPLY NOW to Become a Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor!

    For full program details including program prerequisites, program cost, live webinar dates, and CE Credit Hour information, keep scrolling!
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  • At the Intersection of Trauma, Language, and Culture

    This dynamic, two-hour video course delves into the intricate interplay between trauma, neurocognitive processes, and communication patterns, shedding light on the challenges therapists face when working with survivors of trauma, especially those from culturally diverse backgrounds or with language barriers. Did you know that trauma's profound impact on neurocognitive functioning can significantly influence communication dynamics within therapeutic settings? This, coupled with cultural and linguistic disparities, can pose an added challenge when trying to establish rapport and foster healing with clients, particularly among Limited English Proficient or Deaf/Hard of Hearing individuals! Join Mila Golovine, President & CEO of Masterword. and Lisa Dion, Founder & President of the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute as they navigate the intersections of cultural competency, trauma-informed therapy, and effective communication strategies. You will also get insights into enhancing the therapeutic alliance, fostering better client engagement, and ultimately improving therapeutic outcomes! Key highlights include:
    • Understanding how trauma affects neurocognitive processes and communication patterns.
    • Exploring cultural competence in therapy and its significance in trauma recovery.
    • Identifying challenges and strategies for effective communication with clients from diverse backgrounds.
    • Best practices for working with Limited English Proficient or Deaf/Hard of Hearing clients.
    • Practical techniques to promote therapeutic alliance and engagement.
    • Ethical considerations and sensitivity when utilizing interpreters in therapy sessions.
    Don't miss this chance to learn actionable insights and tools to navigating the complexities of trauma, culture, and language and to more effectively meet your clients at this complex intersection!
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  • Playing Perfectly: A Play Therapist’s Guide for Working with OCD

    We know that supporting a child struggling with obsessive compulsions can be incredibly challenging. Often, the desire to move the child out of their rigidity and rituals can overshadow the deeper issues and stressors driving the behaviors.   We also know that Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a complex disorder as the reasons behind the behaviors vary widely from managing anxiety to past traumas to focused energy inside of a child driving them towards their genius and that which is most meaningful.   Due to the complexity, we can often mis-label, mis-understand, and mis-guide these children in how to work with and understand their rituals and need for perfectionism. We also can inadvertently intensify the inner struggle that is often experienced by these children as they attempt to stop, control, and even deny the urges in their bodies.    And that is why we created this course, so you know what to do when OCD shows up in your play therapy sessions! Drawing from Synergetic Play Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology, this course explores non-directive and directive play based interventions to help support play therapists on a path to understand the perfection in these children's perfection, while teaching the child how to do the same. Play therapists will take a deeper look at the regulatory function of the child’s behaviors that manage the internal conflicts and anxieties these children often carry.  Through discussion topics and experiential exercises, play therapists will learn how to separate the underlying drivers from the wisdom of the rituals themselves. With this knowledge, play therapists will learn how to use themselves and many forms of play to help these children access an understanding of the greatest perfection that exists, the child just as they are. “I loved Lisa's knowledge and approach - very open minded but also structured. Her personal stories of working with clients were very impactful and made it easy to attach the theories to real scenarios.” - Student testimonial See the full course description below.
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