Now enrolling: Intro to Synergetic Play Therapy - Register today!

Flyout Menu

About the Foundation

Therapists helping therapists

The Synergetic Play Therapy Foundation originated out of the desire to meet the growing need for clinicians to gain affordable access to play therapy trainings as well as an interest in substantiating the clinical efficacy and scope of the Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT) model.

Donate

About the Foundation

Therapists helping therapists

The Synergetic Play Therapy Foundation originated out of the desire to meet the growing need for clinicians to gain affordable access to play therapy trainings as well as an interest in substantiating the clinical efficacy and scope of the Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT) model.

Donate

The Foundation believes...

… that by supporting clinician’s access to play therapy trainings, the healing potential of play therapy can continue to be catalyzed and strengthened as more clinicians worldwide become better equipped to serve children and families in need of immediate mental health support.

Additionally, the Foundation values documenting the impact of Synergetic Play Therapy through targeted research efforts as a way to highlight the model’s clinical relevance and effectiveness.

Foundation Scholarships

The SPTF provides scholarships to clinicians seeking post-graduate training in Synergetic Play Therapy or another play therapy model of their choosing.

Scholarships are funded through donations from webinars, donors, and supporters of Play Therapy. Applications for 2026 open November 1, 2025, and close February 28, 2026.

Donate
Learn More

Research

Research is also an important part of the Foundation’s mission and long-term goal to document the efficacy and scope of Synergetic Play Therapy. Learn more about SPTF’s current research projects here.

Donate

Board Members

We are a dedicated group of clinicians, parents and educators who value both the science and heart of the play therapy process. As clinicians serving children and families across different sectors, we have seen the incredible power of play to transform lives and offer healing during some of the most challenging moments of children’s lives.

We believe wholeheartedly in the play therapy process and its ability to generate significant and effective long-term change.

Lisa Dion, LPC, RPT-S

President
International teacher, creator of Synergetic Play Therapy, founder and President of the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute, co-founder of the Synergetic Education Institute, creator of the Business of Therapy and host of the Lessons from the Playroom podcast. She is the author of Aggression in Play Therapy: A Neurobiological Approach for Integrating Intensity and is the 2015 recipient of the Association for Play Therapy’s Professional Education and Training Award of Excellence.
Janelle Langeteig, MA - Treasurer​

Janelle Langeteig, MA

Treasurer
Janelle Langeteig was the Program Director at the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute for 10 years. She also had a private practice where she worked with children using the Synergetic Play Therapy model.  Janelle currently spends most of her time in mom mode with her two young children. Janelle received her Masters in Transpersonal Counseling with a focus in Wilderness Therapy from Naropa University. She holds a certificate in Synergetic Play Therapy and a BA in Psychology from the University of St. Thomas.
Liliana Baylon, LMFT-S, RPT-S

Liliana Baylon, LMFT-S, RPT-S

Secretary
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in CO, TX, NM, & IA. Liliana Baylon is a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural therapist specializing in treating families, couples, and children who have experienced trauma, abuse, and multicultural issues. Before establishing her private practice, she worked for non-profit organizations and private practice agencies. As a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist and Supervisor, Liliana utilizes SPT in her practice daily. Liliana is an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, EMDR Certified, ICEEFT Certified EFT Therapist and Supervisor. She has served in leadership in several associations, including the EMDRIA Board of Directors, Synergetic Play Therapy Institute – Non-Profit (SPTI), Colorado Play Therapy Association (CAPT), and Denver Community for Emotionally Focused Therapists (DCEFT). Liliana brings a unique cultural lens into her therapy sessions, supervision, and leadership roles.

Val Bruno, LPC RPT-S

Scholarship Committee Chair
Val is a licensed professional counselor with over 14 years of experience specializing in child development, attachment trauma, and neurodivergent-affirming care. A military veteran, she is passionate about supporting both civilian and military families. Val holds advanced credentials including Certified Autism Specialist, ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist, and Certified AutPlay® Therapist. She is a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, expert witness in child development and trauma, and former board member of the Colorado Association for Play Therapy. In addition to her clinical work, Val provides supervision, training, and consultation to clinicians and community professionals across systems.

Kylie O'Brien

Board Member
Kylie, Program Director at the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute, oversees programs, courses, and communications while fostering authentic connections within the SPT community. Based in Chicago, she brings expertise in student success, project management, and professional development. Kylie is also the Operations Director at Synergetic Education Institute, dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space for all.

Get In Touch With Us