“Every child has the capacity to heal and grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are—with respect, curiosity, and an understanding of their unique needs.” – Natascha Lawrence

In this episode, Lisa reconnects with Natascha Lawrence, a Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor, EMDR Practitioner, and founder of the FASD Institute, for an essential conversation about supporting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) through play therapy. This is Part 2 of their dialogue, revisiting a topic that rarely gets the attention it deserves in the field of play therapy.

Together, Lisa and Natascha dive into:

• What play therapists need to know about FASD: A holistic understanding of FASD as a whole-body diagnosis and its implications for therapeutic practice.
• Creating neurodivergent-friendly play spaces: Practical steps to make playrooms sensory-safe and accessible for children with FASD and other neurodiverse conditions.
• The FASD iceberg analogy: Understanding the layers beneath the surface and how they influence behavior, communication, and regulation.
• Challenging the stigma: Reframing the narrative for children with FASD and their families, starting with compassion and respect.
• Supporting caregivers: Why empowering parents and destigmatizing FASD is vital for meaningful therapeutic outcomes.

With Natascha’s blend of professional expertise and personal insights as a parent of a child with FASD, this conversation provides invaluable tools and perspectives for therapists and caregivers alike.

Join Lisa and Natascha for this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, and discover how to make your play therapy practice more inclusive, effective, and empowering for children with FASD. 🌟

Podcast Resources:

• Learn more about Natascha’s work and the FASD Institute: www.fasdinstitute.com
• Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
• Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website
• FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey
• Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity

* If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

Original Air Date: May 11, 2021

Separation anxiety is a common challenge in the therapy room—whether it’s the child hesitant to leave their caregiver or the parent struggling to step away. In this episode, Lisa unpacks the nuances of separation anxiety and provides actionable tools for therapists to navigate this tender dynamic.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• What separation anxiety is, its potential causes, and how to differentiate between normal developmental behavior and when additional support is needed;
• Creative and playful rituals that foster co-regulation between the child and parent/caregiver;
• Strategies to help children cultivate an internal sense of safety;
• Effective interventions for managing separation anxiety in the playroom, including how to support children in expanding their window of tolerance for transitions and separations.

🎧 Tune in for practical insights, playful tools, and a deeper understanding of how to support children and their families through the challenges of separation anxiety in therapy.

Podcast Resources:

• Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
• Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website
• FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey
• Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity

* If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.

"Your fear will always be the ceiling of your innovation." – Lisa Dion

In this special post New Year’s episode, Lisa is joined by Jen Taylor, therapist, educator, and mastermind behind Jen Taylor Productions. Together, they kick off the first month of 2025 with an inspiring conversation about goal-setting, vision, and how therapists can master the business side of their practice to create greater impact.

Lisa and Jen dive into:

• The psychology of setting congruent goals that align with your values and what inspires you the most.
• Why “fantasy goals” often fail and how to replace them with actionable, meaningful ones.
• The critical difference between resolutions and sustainable visions for growth.
• How to manage fear and navigate challenges as a therapist and entrepreneur.
• A behind-the-scenes look at Lisa’s Business of Therapy course, which blends strategic planning with emotional and psychological insights to help therapists succeed.

This episode will leave you inspired and ready to tackle this coming year with a clear vision and renewed energy. Whether you’re looking to build your private practice, expand your offerings, or simply align your goals with what inspires you, this conversation offers practical tools and heartfelt wisdom.

Resources Mentioned:

The Business of Therapy Course: https://learn.synergeticplaytherapy.com/business-of-therapy/

Podcast Resources:

• Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
• Synergetic Play Therapy Learning Website
• FREE Resources to support you on your play therapy journey
• Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach to Integrating Intensity

* If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcast, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and invite your friends/fellow colleagues to join us.