- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
-
You've landed in the right place! Whether you've had Synergetic Play Therapy® training and are searching for ongoing support in its application OR you're new to Synergetic Play Therapy® and would like to receive consultation through an SPT lens, we've got you covered! This is for you if you:- Have previously enrolled or are currently enrolled in an SPT course and want ongoing support to continue to learn and grow in your application of Synergetic Play Therapy®;
- Have taken any of our 1-hr, 2-hr, 3-hr courses and would like consultation from an SPT lens;
- Have ever attended an event or 2-day training with Lisa Dion and would like consultation to continue to integrate what you learned into your practice;
- Or have never taken a course through the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute® and would just love consultation support from an SPT lens!
The Synergetic Play Therapy™ Supplemental Course is open to those who have already completed a two-day training with Lisa Dion. It is an online course that supplements the information not received during the two-day training you've previously completed. It involves the review of key points as well as new information aimed at providing you with the missing pieces of the SPT puzzle. Synergetic Play Therapy™ Supplemental Course Prerequisites:- Completion or enrollment in a Master's Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families
- A basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills
- Attendance and completion of a recent Lisa Dion two-day training
- SPT Tenets
- Assessing Emotional Age in Play Therapy
- Tracking Progress in Play Therapy
- Understanding Integration in Play Therapy
- Types of Reflection in Play Therapy
- Working with Parents in the Playroom
- Attachment in Play Therapy
- Sand and Art in the Playroom
- And Much More!
- The Nervous System in Play Therapy
- The Four Threats of the Brain in Play Therapy
- The Set-Up/The Offering in Play Therapy
- Becoming an External Regulator in Play Therapy
"Although I have been utilizing mindfulness for years in the therapy room, this training opened my eyes to the opportunities and benefits that I was overlooking. I am able to more intentionally track the content AND processes occurring in session, leading to more richness and depth in the work." -Dr. Alana Roth
Neuroscience is revealing that mindfulness is a key component for integration, so what is it, what is it not and how to incorporate it into the playroom are important questions to consider as a play therapist. If you are curious about understanding mindfulness and developing a more mindful approach to your work, join Lisa Dion in an interactive workshop on becoming a mindful play therapist.
In this course, you will explore some of the neuroscience behind mindfulness as you learn how to cultivate it within yourself and within your child clients. You will also learn the importance of bringing mindfulness into the playroom as a way to avoid compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, and burnout. This course is applicable to all play therapy theories.
https://youtu.be/jwCo52TKE2I This course helps play therapists to:- Connect mindfulness and trauma integration
- Reduce compassion fatigue
- Help children cultivate mindfulness
- Understand the neuroscience behind cultivating mindfulness
Research in neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology sheds light on the need for the play therapist to act as the external regulator supporting the child to move towards the intensity they are experiencing allowing for integration. This 3 hour video course explores this need during trauma integration for two primary reasons: 1) The child need to borrow the play therapist’s regulatory capacity as they work through their traumatic thoughts, feelings and sensations in play therapy and 2) The play therapist’s ability to regulate themselves during the intensity increases the capacity for presence and attunement with the child, while simultaneously supporting the health and longevity of their own nervous system. Without the ability of the play therapist to become the external regulator for the intensity that arises during trauma integration, both the child and the play therapist are at risk for emotional flooding and high levels of dysregulation in their nervous systems. Over time, this can significantly impact a play therapist’s longevity in the field, as well as the ability to stay attuned and present to a child in sessions. This course is a recording of a 3 hour live webinar with Trusted Provider Network. See course details below.
With their changing brains and hormones, finding ways to integrate play with pre-teens and teens can at times just feel “Awkward”. Learn how to navigate therapy with our clients who are no longer children, but also not quite yet adults. From twelve-year-olds to seniors in high school, adolescence is a time filled with change. This can make the notion of bringing play therapy to this population a challenge. Do we play? Do we talk? Do I ask questions? What do I do?" As such, many therapists find themselves at a loss with this age group, feeling just as confused as they do! In this workshop, play therapists will delve into the mysteries of the teenage mind as we bust myths and glean insight into how to best offer therapeutic support. Using neuroscience, Developmental, Synergetic, and Systemic theories, participants will explore how to navigate this "awkward" and sometimes "overwhelming" developmental stage using an eclectic framework of non-directive and directive play therapy approaches. Understanding how to assess the teen's emotional age, an area often missed when working with this population, will also be covered as a way to understand how to incorporate play into the therapy process. The information presented is designed to open minds and hearts as participants uncover the wisdom of the changing brain and the wisdom of the teenage years. Through lecture, demonstration, and discussion, this workshop will deconstruct this mysterious stage and support play therapists in discovering how they can help mature and remodel the teenage brain, while supporting movement towards the discovery of the authentic self- the cornerstone of the development of a teenager's identity. To get a sense for the course, check out this short video below:See course details below.
Are you looking to elevate your play therapy supervision practice, gain confidence, and ensure you're fully equipped to support your supervisees? Join us for this transformative experience where you’ll gain practical tools and in-depth knowledge to feel more prepared and confident in your role as a supervisor. It’s about giving you the structure you need to navigate the often complex world of supervision. This course will delve into critical topics that will transform your supervision practice, including:- Principles & Theoretical Frameworks: Ground your supervision in solid theoretical foundations to ensure ethical, effective guidance.
- Clarifying Roles & Relationships: Understand the distinctions between supervision and consultation—what have you agreed upon, and how can you maintain clarity in these roles?
- Gatekeeping & Power Dynamics: Explore the importance of gatekeeping in supervision and how to handle power dynamics with awareness and grace.
- Navigating Ethical Dilemmas: Learn to recognize and manage ethical dilemmas, set clear boundaries, and know your limitations—where do you turn when you need guidance?
- Tailoring Supervision to Specific Standards: Each practice setting, whether private practice or agency work, has different standards and guidelines. We’ll discuss the important questions to ask and considerations to keep in mind regardless of location or regulatory environment.
- Addressing Language Barriers: Discuss ethical considerations when your supervisee speaks a different language or when English isn't their first language.
- Empowering vs. Instructing: Learn how to support growth and empowerment in your supervisees by encouraging curiosity and reflective practice, rather than simply telling them what to do.
In today's diverse and globalized world, effective mental health supervision requires more than theoretical expertise; it demands a profound understanding of ethical considerations and cultural dynamics. Join us for a dynamic course designed to equip mental health and play therapy supervisors with the essential knowledge to navigate the complexities of working across cultures ethically and effectively. This course will delve into critical cultural and ethical topics that will transform your supervision practice, including:- Fostering an Inclusive & Respectful Supervisory environment: Gain understanding and develop cultural competence and sensitivity so that your supervisees feel seen and supported.
- Exploring Ethical Dilemmas in Cross-Cultural Supervision: Discuss and identify solutions to common dilemmas from a cultural and ethical lens.
- Effectively Support Supervisees: Learn how to be culturally aware and inclusive of your supervisees from diverse backgrounds, promoting their professional development and well-being.
want ongoing support to continue to learn and grow in the application of Synergetic Play Therapy® or you would like to receive consultation from an SPT lens, we've got you covered! ... This 6 month Consultation Group is for you, if:- You feel alone in your practice of SPT and want to be a part of a SPT community
- You sometimes feel “stuck” with your clients
- You want feedback regarding your skills so that you can take them to the next level
- You want support in learning and integrating various applications of SPT to your clinical work
- You want to keep learning and growing as a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist
- You want to hear other cases and learn from others
want ongoing support to continue to learn and grow in the application of Synergetic Play Therapy® or you would like to receive consultation from an SPT lens, we've got you covered! ... **Groups must consistent of 4 individuals. This 6 month Consultation Group is for you, if:- You feel alone in your practice of SPT and want to be a part of a SPT community
- You sometimes feel “stuck” with your clients
- You want feedback regarding your skills so that you can take them to the next level
- You want support in learning and integrating various applications of SPT to your clinical work
- You want to keep learning and growing as a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist
- You want to hear other cases and learn from others
Do you want ongoing support to continue to learn and grow in the application of Synergetic Play Therapy® or you would like to receive consultation from an SPT lens, we've got you covered! ... This 6 month Consultation Group is for you, if:- You feel alone in your practice of SPT and want to be a part of a SPT community
- You sometimes feel “stuck” with your clients
- You want feedback regarding your skills so that you can take them to the next level
- You want support in learning and integrating various applications of SPT to your clinical work
- You want to keep learning and growing as a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist
- You want to hear other cases and learn from others
Whether you're looking for how to engage the resistant child, turn Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) into opportunities for growth and resilience, use yoga to increase your ability to connect to yourself and your clients, or create a neuroception of safety in the playroom, we have you covered. Explore these topics and so many others in our one-hour courses below. Then choose 4 courses to create a bundle for only $119 and save (valued at $140 USD!) You can buy as many bundles as you would like (each as a new order)! See below for course descriptions. To view course details and objectives, click to the right of the title.
Please use this product to begin your monthly payment plan for 6 Make-Up Individual Consultation sessions with Polly Douglass in order to meet this aspect of Synergetic Play Therapy Certification requirements. Each Make-Up Individual Consultation session costs $125 USD, for a total of $750 USD. To begin your payment plan, please make your first payment by no later than September 10, 2023. Your payment will be automatically withdrawn on the same day each month. For example, should you make your first payment on September 5th, your second payment will be due on October 5th, and so on. Failure to make all six monthly installments timely will result in interruption to your scheduled Make-Up Individual Consultation sessions and will result in incomplete program requirements. You will not be eligible for the title of Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider without fully meeting all program requirements. Should you have any questions, please contact info@synergeticplaytherapy.com.
"This was very helpful in allowing to learn ways to integrate neuroscience and transitions to help promote regulation for the child!" - Fernando Gonzalez III "This class was so informative with great concrete tools. Awesome class!" -Lauri Levitt Transitions are everywhere, in the expected and the unexpected. As a play therapist, it's important to be prepared to help our clients with transitions - such as divorce, death, a move, new sibling, or sensory challenges - that often bring them to our playroom. In this course, Lisa Dion and Susan Stutzman explore how to navigate transitions and change in the play therapy setting. Participants will walk away having gained an understanding of current neurobiological research that supports an understanding of how transitions can trigger a threat response in the brain causing activation of the autonomic nervous system. From a neurobiological lens, the therapist will gain knowledge of how to best navigate the challenges of transitions that bring clients to play therapy and learn ways to navigate change and transition that happens during the therapeutic play process itself. Clinical applications for working through transitioning within professional working relationships will be touched on. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGUlmjyn2Js This course is for you, if you want to:- Help children through divorce
- Process death & loss
- Help a child transition to a new school
- Help children learn emotional balance and regulation
- Help kids with sensory challenges
JOIN US FOR OUR SIGNATURE PROGRAM AND GROW AS A PROFESSIONAL!
Registration deadline is January 22nd, 2024, 12pm Mountain Time, Denver
CLICK HERE FOR MORE PROGRAM DETAILS!!
Have you been searching for ways to create a deeper impact for your clients? Or perhaps you are:- Looking for game-changing concepts, ideas, and techniques to repattern a child's nervous system and become a more effective external regulator in the playroom?
- Wanting to experience aggressive play, sand, and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness and authenticity?
- Feeling burned out and want to find ways to come back to yourself or feel "green" again, like a new therapist full of curiosity and liveliness?
- Curious how to create a neuroception of safety for both the child and the caregiver to experience deeper integration?
- Wanting to learn a solid play therapy theory that combines the powers of play with interpersonal neurobiology?
- Or just wanting to feel a little more like YOU in the play therapy process?
You will learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity.
You'll learn all this while also learning how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey!
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
*For program details and objectives, see below.
"The Intro to SPT class is the best class I have ever taken. There is no better training for counselors! I have a deeper understanding of the process and how to help children in the playroom. It has given me a whole new perspective and changed my life both personally and professionally. Being authentic allows you to be free. There are just no words to describe it!" -Nancy Asher Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® is a 22-hour course that takes you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to repattern a child's nervous system, and what it means to become an external regulator in the playroom. You will also learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity. You'll learn all this while also how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey! Curious what this class is all about? Get the details here. And, check out what past students have to say Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Prerequisite Training:- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
The Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy launches you on a personal journey towards discovering what showing up in the playroom truly means. It explores what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. It invites you to be you! Curious what this class is truly about? Get all the details here. To learn what others have to say, check out our testimonials. Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy Prerequisite Training:- Participants should have completed or be enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families is required
- A basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills is required
Please use this payment plan to begin your custom installment plan of $179/month for 8 months toward your balance of $1,432 USD for the 2023-2024 Synergetic Play Therapy Certification program. Please contact the Institute with any questions, info@synergeticplaytherapy.com.
"The neuroscience behind this training will blow your mind!" - Keri Sawyer "I used to struggle with explaining how play therapy "works" to fathers who were more "left brain" (e.g., Lawyers, accountants, Google employees, etc). But that's not an issue for me anymore. Lisa taught me how to work with resistant fathers so they can confidently "buy" into the play therapy process!" - Susan StutzmanIn this thought-provoking yet practical workshop, participants will explore what it really takes to partner with parents. They will have the opportunity to understand how to have a successful intake session setting the stage for a higher level of investment and commitment, how to communicate to parents so that they understand what play therapy is and how it works, how to translate what is happening in the playroom so that parents understand how the goals are being worked on, what to do with resistant parents and what to do when parents just want to drop their child off to be "fixed".
Through new skills, insights and a framework rooted in relationship theory, therapists are guaranteed to leave feeling inspired to work with parents.
This course helps play therapists strengthen their work with parents so they can:
- Get More Clients
- Understand the Parent's Brain
- Be More Authentic with Parents
- Have Successful Parent Intakes
- Level-Up Their Parent Coaching Skills
Please see course details below. For a list of all available products, please go here.
"The Intro to SPT class is the best class I have ever taken. There is no better training for counselors! I have a deeper understanding of the process and how to help children in the playroom. It has given me a whole new perspective and changed my life both personally and professionally. Being authentic allows you to be free. There are just no words to describe it!" -Nancy Asher Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® is a 22-hour course that takes you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to repattern a child's nervous system, and what it means to become an external regulator in the playroom. You will also learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity. You'll learn all this while also how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey! Curious what this class is all about? Get the details here. And, check out what past students have to say Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Prerequisite Training:- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
Renewal of the Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor™ credential is required every 6 years. In order to renew, students must complete the CE requirements for being a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist™ plus the following CE Supervision requirements. Excess hours may not be rolled over into the next 6 year cycle. If CE credits are not submitted, student will no longer be able to use the title Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor™ until renewal occurs. CE renewal forms are due to the Institute by May 31st OF your renewal year. Please do not submit them on a year that you are not due to renew. Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor™ CE Training Hour Options: Must complete the Becoming an SPT Supervisor 1.5 hour live class and a 1.5 hour recorded video (total of 3 hours) that begins the supervision course to refresh the tenets and goals for SPT supervision. *Offered at a discounted cost. Also offered is a one hour recording of Lisa teaching: Running a Group Supervision that provides information on how to apply SPT Supervision Theory to groups. Group dynamics and group challenges will be explored. You will also receive access to six recorded session videos that provide techniques and skills focused on helping navigate the supervisory relationship and challenges that arise in the playroom. All of the videos include valuable teaching guidance and commentary by Lisa. Then choose one of the following options:- Participate in 8 months of group consultation with Lisa.
- Participate in Khris Rolfe’s SPT Consultant Clinical group (Intro Consultants only) or participate in the Cert Consultant group (Certification Consultants only).
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.
Want ongoing support to continue to learn and grow in the application of Synergetic Play Therapy® or you would like to receive consultation from an SPT lens, we've got you covered! ... This 4 month Consultation Group is for you, if:- You feel alone in your practice of SPT and want to be a part of a SPT community
- You sometimes feel “stuck” with your clients
- You want feedback regarding your skills so that you can take them to the next level
- You want support in learning and integrating various applications of SPT to your clinical work
- You want to keep learning and growing as a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist
- You want to hear other cases and learn from others
12 Months: $229.16 AUD [aelia_currency_selector_widget title="Select your currency based on the retreat location you would like to attend and wait for the page to refresh before adding to cart." widget_type="dropdown"] For example: If you reside in the US but want to attend the retreats in Canada you will choose the Canadian Currency, wait for the page to refresh, and then select your plan to add to your cart.
The Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy launches you on a personal journey towards discovering what showing up in the playroom truly means. It explores what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. It invites you to be you! *For class details and objectives, please see below.
"The Intro to SPT class is the best class I have ever taken. There is no better training for counselors! I have a deeper understanding of the process and how to help children in the playroom. It has given me a whole new perspective and changed my life both personally and professionally. Being authentic allows you to be free. There are just no words to describe it!" -Nancy Asher The Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ is a 22-hour course that takes you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to repattern a child's nervous system, and what it means to become an external regulator in the playroom. You will also learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity. You'll learn all this while also how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey! Curious what this class is all about? Get the details here. And, check out what past students have to say Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ Prerequisite Training:- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
"The Intro to SPT class is the best class I have ever taken. There is no better training for counselors! I have a deeper understanding of the process and how to help children in the playroom. It has given me a whole new perspective and changed my life both personally and professionally. Being authentic allows you to be free. There are just no words to describe it!" -Nancy Asher The Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® is a 22-hour course that takes you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to repattern a child's nervous system, and what it means to become an external regulator in the playroom. You will also learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity. You'll learn all this while also how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey! Curious what this class is all about? Get the details here. And, check out what past students have to say Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Prerequisite Training:- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
"The Intro to SPT class is the best class I have ever taken. There is no better training for counselors! I have a deeper understanding of the process and how to help children in the playroom. It has given me a whole new perspective and changed my life both personally and professionally. Being authentic allows you to be free. There are just no words to describe it!" -Nancy Asher Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® is a 22-hour course that takes you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to repattern a child's nervous system, and what it means to become an external regulator in the playroom. You will also learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity. You'll learn all this while also how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey! Curious what this class is all about? Get the details here. And, check out what past students have to say Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Prerequisite Training:- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
"The Intro to SPT class is the best class I have ever taken. There is no better training for counselors! I have a deeper understanding of the process and how to help children in the playroom. It has given me a whole new perspective and changed my life both personally and professionally. Being authentic allows you to be free. There are just no words to describe it!" -Nancy Asher Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® is a 22-hour course that takes you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to repattern a child's nervous system, and what it means to become an external regulator in the playroom. You will also learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity. You'll learn all this while also how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey! Curious what this class is all about? Get the details here. And, check out what past students have to say Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Prerequisite Training:- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
"The Intro to SPT class is the best class I have ever taken. There is no better training for counselors! I have a deeper understanding of the process and how to help children in the playroom. It has given me a whole new perspective and changed my life both personally and professionally. Being authentic allows you to be free. There are just no words to describe it!" -Nancy AsherRegistration closes June 13th at 2pm, Mountain Time, Denver, USA.
Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® is a 22-hour course that takes you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to repattern a child's nervous system, and what it means to become an external regulator in the playroom. You will also learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity. You'll learn all this while also how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey! Curious what this class is all about? Get the details here. And, check out what past students have to say Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Prerequisite Training: (if seeking Association for Play Therapy credit, you must meet all of these prerequisites)- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
Registration closes June 13th at 2pm, Mountain Time, Denver, USA.
Enroll by January 6th, 2023, to get the Early Bird Discount
(use coupon code: Intro2023 at checkout)
"The Intro to SPT class is the best class I have ever taken. There is no better training for counselors! I have a deeper understanding of the process and how to help children in the playroom. It has given me a whole new perspective and changed my life both personally and professionally. Being authentic allows you to be free. There are just no words to describe it!" -Nancy Asher Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® is a 19-hour course that takes you on a journey to explore the neuroscience behind what is happening in the play therapy process, how to repattern a child's nervous system, and what it means to become an external regulator in the playroom. You will also learn 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 will come to understand the magic of aggressive play, sand and art from the perspectives of nervous system regulation, attunement, attachment, mindfulness, and authenticity. You'll learn all this while also how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. Come discover what showing up in the playroom truly means and explore what is happening in the play therapy process, how change occurs, and ultimately what it takes to help children heal at profound levels. And the best part is, you get to be you on the journey! Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Prerequisite Training:- Completed or enrolled in a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) program in counseling, social work, or education
- Previous experience working with children and families (required)
- Basic understanding of play therapy and play therapy skills (required)
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
*For class details and objectives, see below.
Registration is Open for the October 2025 Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy Program!
Are you ready to learn a transformative play therapy approach that combines the power of play with the latest in interpersonal neurobiology?Discover the Program:
The level 1 Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy program is designed for both beginning and experienced practitioners, offering the tools to deepen your understanding of play therapy and apply cutting-edge neuroscience in your practice. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll explore:Regulation:
- Become an external regulator to support repatterning a child's nervous system for integration and healing.
- Learn how to teach a child interoceptive (body) awareness (the key ingredient for self-regulation and co-regulation).
- Understand how nervous system activation connects to mental health symptoms.
The Brain & Neuroscience:
- Learn how to create a neuroception of safety during emotional flooding.
- Set boundaries that support brain integration while keeping children engaged in therapy.
- Use reflections and responses that target multiple areas of the brain for deeper healing.
Collaborative Relationships:
- Build effective partnerships with caregivers to support the therapeutic process.
- Help caregivers recognize that all behaviors make sense, even challenging ones.
- Set goals, track a child's therapeutic progress, and translate the child's play to their caregivers and others.
Authenticity & Congruence:
- Use therapist authenticity to promote profound client change and prevent burnout.
- Explore aggressive play, sand, and art through the lenses of regulation, mindfulness, and attachment.
- Cultivate cultural sensitivity to honor the unique experiences and needs of each client.
Join the growing number of mental health professionals and those in related roles (child life specialists, school counselors, occupational therapists, etc.) who are learning Synergetic Play Therapy!
“I’m learning Synergetic Play Therapy with Lisa Dion after over 20 years of providing play therapy and 10+ years of providing play therapy training and supervision. I'm here today to tell you that what she is teaching is a game changer. Every one of us needs to understand in an embodied way what it means to combine neurobiology and relationship as the foundation of all the work we are doing with clients, but also with colleagues, friends, family members and SELF. Much of what I’m learning, I've known and done intuitively for years but it is SO liberating to connect the dots and have an understanding through the neurobiological lens of WHY we need to utilize and trust what we feel in our own bodies when in connection with another person.”“It’s been over 2 years since I took the Synergetic Play Therapy [program]. One of the best choices I’ve ever made. The magnitude of deeply attuning with our clients...and ourselves...is immeasurable!”“I personally took a lot out of this [program], not all of it was new, but what was new was extremely useful and impactful. What wasn’t new was an excellent reminder to go back to my roots of attachment and emotional work when working with children just like I have worked with youth and adults over the years but in a slightly different context. My entire team has felt the positive impact of this training on our work and we are very happy that we all did it at the same time. We will be able to continue to practice it together and that is very exciting.”“This experience has been validating to my entire human experience, and offered a clear framework to better connect with myself, client, and world! I know this was only the tip of the iceberg into integrating these powerful concepts, and I'm so hooked, I've already signed up for certification to continue my journey!”“This [program] was a perfect combination of understanding the current science/research, gaining clinical understanding and learning new practical skills in order to find the perfect balance of how to work with clients and their families.”“This [program] really was more of an experience. I connected with myself on a deeper level and feel it is going to help me immensely in my work. Lisa explained the content in a simple way that I was able to understand, including multiple learning tools to solidify concepts. It was phenomenal!”Upcoming Registration Deadlines:
- October 2025 Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy Program
- Early Bird Registration Deadline: September 12, 2025 - Apply Coupon Code "October2025Intro" at checkout for $50 USD off the first month!
- Final Registration Deadline: October 13, 2025, 12pm Mountain Time (Denver)
- January 2026 Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy Program
- Registration Opens: October 13, 2025
Early Bird Payment Plan: 18 Months: $243 USD **Save! Get $500 (US Dollars) or $670 (Australian Dollars) off the full cost of the course when you pay in full AND by the early bird deadline for a massive discount!!* Early bird deadline depends on which course you are currently in or have taken in the past. Payment must be made 30 days from your early bird deadline.
9 Months: $406 USD | $507 CAD | $554 AUD 12 Months: $305 USD | $381 CAD | $416 AUD 15 Months: $244 USD | $305 CAD | $333 AUD [aelia_currency_selector_widget title="Select your currency based on the retreat location you would like to attend and wait for the page to refresh before adding to cart." widget_type="dropdown"] For example: If you reside in the US but want to attend the retreats in Canada you will choose the Canadian Currency, wait for the page to refresh, and then select your plan to add to your cart.
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!
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.
9 Months: $423 USD | $524 CAD | $571 AUD 12 Months: $317 USD | $393 CAD | $428 AUD 15 Months: $254 USD | $315 CAD | $343 AUD [aelia_currency_selector_widget title="Select your currency based on the retreat location you would like to attend and wait for the page to refresh before adding to cart." widget_type="dropdown"] For example: If you reside in the US but want to attend the retreats in Canada you will choose the Canadian Currency, wait for the page to refresh, and then select your plan to add to your cart.