• March 2025 In-Person Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® Program (Payment Plan)

    LEARN A SOLID PLAY THERAPY THEORY THAT COMBINES THE POWER OF PLAY WITH INTERPERSONAL NEUROBIOLOGY!

    Registration Deadline is March 14th, 2025 | Space is Limited! Reserve Your Spot Today!

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE PROGRAM DETAILS

    You asked and we answered! For those of you who have wanted to enroll in our signature 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). 
    Learn all of this and so much more! This program is a 3-day, 18 hour in-person training that explores the foundational skills of SPT 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. But it doesn't stop there! This program also includes 6 months of group consultation and additional video lessons to keep your learning going!

    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! 

    Program Prerequisites:
    • Must have completed or be actively enrolled in a graduate level counseling/mental health program (or equivalent within your country).
    • Must have previously worked or currently be working with children.

    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 SPT!

    *For program details and objectives, see below.

  • Learn a solid play therapy theory that combines the power of play with interpersonal neurobiology in Chicago, Illinois!

    Registration Deadline is March 14th, 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! Discover how to take your clients to deeper levels of healing!

    "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

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

    The 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!

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

  • 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 earn at least 18 hours of CE credits specific to Synergetic Play Therapy. Excess hours may not be rolled over into the next 3 year cycle. If CE credits are not submitted, students will no longer be able to use the title Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider until renewal occurs. This program meets the FULL requirement of renewing your Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or 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 Chicago, Illinois, USA.
    • 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.
  • We live in a technological age: there is no pacifying Pac-Man, no axing Apple. But screen time doesn't always mean zoning out. In moderation, Mickey Mouse and Mario can be our allies, helping children better connect to the world around them. This webinar explores the therapeutic value of screen time and how to use it as part of a play therapy process.  Learn how to recognize when a child is using it to avoid and when a child's use of technology is the perfect entry into the therapeutic alliance.
  • We live in a technological age: there is no pacifying Pac-Man, no axing Apple. But screen time doesn’t always mean zoning out. In moderation, Mickey Mouse and Mario can be our allies, helping children better connect to the world around them. This webinar explores the therapeutic value of screen time and how to use it as part of a play therapy process. Learn how to recognize when a child is using it to avoid and when a child’s use of technology is the perfect entry into the therapeutic alliance.
  • "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 Live - Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ is a 18-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! This payment link is for the 6 mandatory group consultations part of this course. Consultation is a mandatory part of the course to help you integrate what you learned …If you’d like, you can meet the Consultants here. Cost: $50.00 per session. 6 sessions.      *For class details and objectives, see below.
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  • "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 Live - Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ is a 18-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! This payment link is for the 6 mandatory group consultations part of this course. Consultation is a mandatory part of the course to help you integrate what you learned …If you’d like, you can meet the Consultants here. Cost: $300.00 USD - ($50.00 per session)     *For class details and objectives, see below.
  • In this episode of Lessons From The Playroom, we will talk about the concept of emotional age and its profound impact on therapeutic interactions with children. Through insightful discussion and practical examples, participants will explore the distinction between chronological and emotional age, gaining valuable tools to assess and attune to a child's emotional state. Participants will learn strategies to recognize emotional regression in children and themselves, fostering deeper levels of empathy and understanding. By understanding and working with emotional age, therapists can better support children through their healing journey, creating a nurturing environment for growth and development.   Course details below.
  • In this episode of Lessons From The Playroom Podcast, we delve into the intricate world of children's lying behavior in this thought-provoking. Participants explored the underlying motives and protective patterns driving lying behavior, challenging traditional views on honesty. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, learn to create a neuroception of safety that fosters trust and authenticity. Gain insights into recognizing lying patterns and responding therapeutically to promote honesty and connection. This Lessons From The Playroom episode offers valuable tools and techniques for caregivers and professionals seeking to navigate lying behavior with empathy and understanding, ultimately fostering meaningful relationships with children.    Course details below.
  • LEARN A SOLID PLAY THERAPY THEORY THAT COMBINES THE POWER OF PLAY WITH INTERPERSONAL NEUROBIOLOGY!

    Registration deadline is June 17th, 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 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). 
    Learn all of this and so much more! Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy is a comprehensive 32-hour program that explores the foundational skills of SPT. This six-month online 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.

    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

    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!

    *For program details and objectives, see below.

  • 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 June 17th, 2024, 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 earn at least 18 hours of CE credits specific to Synergetic Play Therapy. Excess hours may not be rolled over into the next 3 year cycle. If CE credits are not submitted, students will no longer be able to use the title Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider until renewal occurs. This course meets the full requirement of renewing your Certified Synergetic Play Therapist or Certified Synergetic Play Provider credential. 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 has undergone some amazing changes in 2023 with new/updated content and teachings. Learn more about the changes here! 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 Renewal 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 program details and objectives, see below.
  • 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.
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