Working with dads in the playroom isn’t always the same as working with moms. It takes understanding the psychology of men, learning how to communicate in a way that is meaningful, and proving that you are a partner who doesn’t know “better”, you just know “different.”
1:05 Lisa provides an overview of the Lessons from the Playroom series
2:20 Lisa introduces guest speaker, Dave Garrison,  a High-Performance Therapist and Personal Change Coach with over twenty years of experience.
3:37 Dave discusses his kids and work experience
4:00 What’s the first thing that comes up in play therapy for dads?
4:33 Self-doubt in dads
5:30 Shame in men and the fear of judgment
6:15 What can therapists do to support dads who are anxious?
7:05 The importance of acknowledging strength, courage, and sacrifice in dads
7:55 The idea of appreciation and respect
9:00 How do we explain the play therapy process to dads?
9:45 The trends between moms and dads
10:40 The importance of goal-oriented language when connecting with dads
12:40 The social stigma of a child needing help
13:45 Dads want the best for their kids
14:00 The connection between male therapists and dads
14:30 “I just know different”
15:30 Pitfalls for therapists to avoid
17:15 Empowering the dad and making yourself his partner in a common goal
19:30 How can we give dads permission to heal?
20:20 Don’t let dads off the hook!
21:50 The importance of the involvement of dads
24:00 Setting expectations for dads
25:37 Speaking in metaphors dads understand
27:46 Taking the time to outline goals and be mindful
28:22 How can we normalize questions?
29:05 Having dads on your team is a mighty force
