Synergetic Play Therapy Institute

Hawaii APT Conference (Virtual): Revolutionizing Play & Therapeutic Practice with Children
2022-03-04 - 2022-03-05 | Online
This two-day virtual training will be delivered by Lisa Dion creator of Synergetic Play Therapy© and founder and President of the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute.
Revolutionizing Play & Therapeutic Practice is designed to help practitioners understand therapeutic play from a neuro-biological perspective. With the help of neuroscience, interpersonal neurobiology, and a Synergetic Play Therapy framework, practitioners will learn how to effectively work with therapeutic play in a way that supports nervous system regulation, reorganization of the child’s lower centers of the brain and promote healing for the child. Through video, discussion, and experiential exercises participants will learn practical techniques that can be used right away in the playroom. Topics such as boundaries, co-regulation, nervous system activation, emotional flooding and use of aggressive toys and play will be explored.
This training will also guide participants towards a deeper understanding of what it means to become a child’s external regulator during trauma play while practicing how to care for their own nervous system thereby decreasing compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma. The result is the transformation of trauma play into ways of connecting, healing, and mutual trust.
This event will take place on March 4th and 5th, 2022 from 9am-4:30pm HST.
For more information or to register CLICK HERE.

Crofton House Virtual Presentation (Closed)- To Rescue or Not: What to do when my child is struggling
2022-03-02 | Online
This is a private event for Crofton House.
When children face hardship, adults in their lives can sometimes fall into the role of fixer or rescuer. It is often the case that we have had similar experiences and knowing that our kids are struggling makes us feel uncomfortable and want to make it better. After all, isn’t it our job to protect our kids? I think we can all agree that we want our kids to be happy, but when we protect our kids from hardship and discomfort we can actually be doing more harm than good.
Please join us for a virtual discussion with Lisa Dion where we will explore important questions and learn coping techniques that will help us sit with discomfort and foster resilience in our children. Some topics to be discussed will include: How to help our kids learn how to tolerate uncomfortable feelings, why it is important for kids to not be happy all the time, what resilience is and how it is cultivated, and why it is hard for us when our kids are uncomfortable.
This event will be held on March 2nd, 2022 from 6:00-8:00pm PST.
If you would like your school or organization to receive training, please contact the Institute at info@synergeticplaytherapy.com

UK Virtual Webinar: Navigating Goodbyes and Endings
2022-02-22 | Online
Whether the child’s termination of therapy was expected or unexpected, goodbyes and endings can elicit challenging emotions in both the clinician and the child. From preparing for the final session to dealing with the unexpected goodbye, Lisa will offer ways to support the many types of endings that occur in play therapy.
UK (London): February 22nd, 2022 @ 6pm-7pm
For more information or to sign up click here!

Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® January 2022: Class 2- Exploring the Nervous System in the Playroom
2022-02-18 | Online
Exploring the Nervous System in the Playroom (Class 2) is part of the Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ course, January 24th-June 17th.
Class 2 Objectives:

Explain the link between nervous system states and the symptoms that show up in the playroom
Describe the importance of regulation in the playroom
Demonstrate how the therapist can become the external regulator so that the child can begin to learn how to regulate
Explain what regulation is and isn’t according to Synergetic Play Therapy

For more information about this Level 1/Introductory level course or to be part of the next one, click here>>>
Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ is a six-month online course that includes three, one-hour LIVE webinars with Lisa Dion, six 2.5-hour recorded videos, and monthly one-hour group consultations with a Synergetic Play Therapy™ Supervisor/Consultant. Consultation is a mandatory part of the course to help you integrate what you are learning.
Special topics such as tracking the play, attachment, facilitating sand, art, trauma, and aggressive play are covered from the perspective of nervous system regulation, attunement, mindfulness, and authenticity. Participants will also learn how to track their client’s changes for caregivers, teachers, agencies, and themselves. And, we’ve added a bonus recorded webinar just for you and to support you during these times – SPT in Teletherapy.

San Diego Retreat- Anchoring in the Storm: Using Community and Connection to Reflect, Connect and Build
2022-02-17 - 2022-02-20 | Humphreys Half Moon Inn on Shelter Island, 2303 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, California 92106
Using the metaphor of anchoring in the storm, we invite you into the safe harbor of community to heal, repair, and rebuild connections to others as well as to your Self. Many of us have been in survival mode and may be feeling that we lost touch with ourselves as we have worked to protect and offer shelter to our families, our clients, and our communities. During our time together, we will guide you using creative arts, movement, journaling, group activities and group discussion to reflect, rediscover and rebuild the parts of you that got lost and/or damaged in the storm. You will leave with a greater awareness of what you have been through, where you are now, and what you need moving forward. You will also leave knowing that you are not a boat alone in the sea, but a part of a mighty fleet that has your back. We specifically chose the harbor as our setting to anchor in this symbolism right when you step in the doors. Join us for a unique learning opportunity as you get to first hand embody and apply the learnings directly to your own life and personal experiences.
For more information or to register, Click Here!

Synergetic Play Therapy Certification Program 4.5-Day Online Retreat (Mountain Standard Time)
2022-01-31 - 2022-02-04 | Online
This 4.5-Day Retreat is part of the 10-Month Synergetic Play Therapy Certification Program. The Certification Program is open to those who have completed either the Six-Day Synergetic Play Therapy Intensive, the Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy course, or the Synergetic Play Therapy Supplemental to a 2-Day Training. If you have completed one of these and are interested in moving towards certification, please see the details below or get more information here.
Online: January 31 – *February 4, 2022, 9am – 4:30pm Mountain Standard Time (MST) – *Note, the last day ends at 12pm.
Are you a Masters-level (or equivalent) therapist or clinician ready to take your Synergetic Play Therapy skills to the next level? With 87 hours of content, the Certification program propels you on a journey of inquiry about how healing truly occurs in the playroom. You will learn about nervous system activation re-patterning and how integration occurs in the mind-body. You will study in-depth the projective process and the mind, perceptions and memory, interpersonal neurobiology, and will have a transformative understanding of attachment theory. But this isn’t the best part of this training. The best part is what happens to YOU! This program is designed to not only help you learn how to facilitate your child client’s healing, but also teach you about yourself, what drives you to be who you are, and awaken your own authenticity … absolutely PRICELESS!!!!
The course begins with three and a half days together in community (this year we’ll be offering the first retreat online). Halfway through the course, we will reconvene for an additional four and a half days. During the program (with the exception of December and January), the course will be conducted twice a month via live webinar. The Certification process includes 4 one-hour consultation sessions (pre-Certification consultation upon completion of your introductory course) and 9 one-hour consultation sessions (combination of group and individual) during the course with an SPT Consultant for a total of 13 consultation hours. These sessions are designed to help you integrate and deepen your learning.
Please note: Completion of The Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy course, the Six-Day Synergetic Play Therapy Intensive, or Synergetic Play Therapy Supplemental course to a 2-day training is required for acceptance into the Certification Program.

The 37th Annual San Diego International Conference on Child and Family Maltreatment
2022-01-26
Lisa will be presenting TWO workshops at the 37th Annual International Conference on Child and Family Maltreatment (In-Person OR On-Demand).
1.) Becoming an External Regulator for Trauma Integration
Research in neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology sheds light on the need for the therapist to act as the external regulator supporting the client to move towards the intensity they are experiencing allowing for integration. This workshop explores this need during trauma integration for two primary reasons: 1) Clients need to borrow the therapist’s regulatory capacity as they work through their traumatic thoughts, feelings and sensations in therapy and 2) The therapist’s ability to regulate themselves during the intensity increases the capacity for presence and attunement with the client, while simultaneously supporting the health and longevity of their own nervous system.
Without the ability of the therapist to become the external regulator for the intensity that arises during trauma integration, both the client and the therapist are at risk for emotional flooding and high levels of dysregulation in their nervous systems. Over time, this can significantly impact a therapist’s longevity in the field, as well as the ability to stay attuned and present to a client in sessions.
San Diego (Live or Virtual): January 26th, 2022 @ 8-9:15am PST

2.) Understanding and Integrating Trauma Play
Child therapists are on the front line every day helping children integrate the traumas in their lives. Often their sessions are filled with swords fights, battles, babies dying, handcuffs, the therapist dying, explosions, or other highly intense play. During these sessions, therapists are set up to watch or be a part of play that often takes them right to the edge of their own window of tolerance and capacity to hold the intensity.
Although aggression and death are a common part of trauma play, many therapists don’t have a clear understanding of what to do and how to facilitate the intensity when it enters the playroom during play. The result can lead to inadvertently promoting aggression and increasing low brain disorganization. It can also lead to the therapist feeling beat up, exhausted and hyper-aroused themselves, which can over time significantly impact their longevity in the field, as well as their ability to stay attuned and present to a child in the play room. This workshop is designed to help play therapists understand trauma play from a neuro-biological perspective and using a Synergetic Play Therapy lens, discover ways to support integration.
San Diego (Live or Virtual): January 26th, 2022 @ 1-2:15pm PST

For more information or to register for the conference, click HERE.

Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® January 2022
2022-01-24 | Online
This six-month online course includes three, one-hour LIVE webinars with Lisa Dion, six 2.5-hour recorded videos, and monthly one-hour group consultations with a Synergetic Play Therapy® Supervisor/Consultant. Consultation is a mandatory part of the course to help you integrate what you are learning
Special topics such as tracking the play, attachment, facilitating sand, art, trauma, and aggressive play are covered from the perspective of nervous system regulation, attunement, mindfulness, and authenticity. Participants will also learn how to track their client’s changes for caregivers, teachers, agencies, and themselves. And, we’ve added a bonus recorded webinar just for you and to support you during these times – SPT in Teletherapy.
Curious what this class is all about? Get more details here.
This course takes place from January 24th, 2022- June 17th, 2022

UK: Essential Therapy Training Workshop- Working with Aggression and Intensity in the Playroom
2022-01-22 | Online
Aggression is a part of play therapy and knowing how to make it therapeutic is often a challenge. Using neuroscience, come learn how to help your child clients work through their aggression and intense play leading to healing and transformation.
This workshop is designed to help play therapists understand aggression and death play from a neuro-biological perspective and a Synergetic Play Therapy lens. With the help of neuroscience and theoretical bases in Experiential and Relational/Humanistic theories, therapists will learn how to effectively work with this type of play in a way that supports nervous system regulation, reorganization of the child’s lower centers of the brain and decreases compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma.

This workshop will take therapists to new possibilities as they explore a science based process for working with children at the deepest, most profound levels while staying safe and sane. They will learn how to make aggressive play therapeutic while understanding what it takes to maximize growth and integration for their clients and themselves.
Register here: https://essentialtherapytraining.com/product/working-with-aggression-and-intensity-in-the-playroom-lisa-dion/
This is a virtual event.
GMT (London): January 22nd, 2021 @ 4:00pm-11:00pm
MST (Denver): January 22nd, 2021 @ 9:00am-4:00pm

Synergetic Play Therapy Certification Program 4.5-Day In-Person Retreat (Melbourne, Australia)
2022-01-17 - 2022-01-21 | To Be Determined
This 4.5-Day Retreat is part of the 10-Month Synergetic Play Therapy Certification Program. The Certification Program is open to those who have completed either the Six-Day Synergetic Play Therapy Intensive, the Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy course, or the Synergetic Play Therapy Supplemental to a 2-Day Training. If you have completed one of these and are interested in moving towards certification, please see the details below or get more information here.
Melbourne, Australia: January 17 – *January 21, 2022, 9am – 4:30pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT) -*Note, the last day ends at 12pm.
Are you a Masters-level (or equivalent) therapist or clinician ready to take your Synergetic Play Therapy skills to the next level? With 87 hours of content, the Certification program propels you on a journey of inquiry about how healing truly occurs in the playroom. You will learn about nervous system activation re-patterning and how integration occurs in the mind-body. You will study in-depth the projective process and the mind, perceptions and memory, interpersonal neurobiology, and will have a transformative understanding of attachment theory. But this isn’t the best part of this training. The best part is what happens to YOU! This program is designed to not only help you learn how to facilitate your child client’s healing, but also teach you about yourself, what drives you to be who you are, and awaken your own authenticity … absolutely PRICELESS!!!!
The course begins with three and a half days together in community (this year we’ll be offering the first retreat online). Halfway through the course, we will reconvene for an additional four and a half days. During the program (with the exception of December and January), the course will be conducted twice a month via live webinar. The Certification process includes 4 one-hour consultation sessions (pre-Certification consultation upon completion of your introductory course) and 9 one-hour consultation sessions (combination of group and individual) during the course with an SPT Consultant for a total of 13 consultation hours. These sessions are designed to help you integrate and deepen your learning.
Please note: Completion of The Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy course, the Six-Day Synergetic Play Therapy Intensive, or Synergetic Play Therapy Supplemental course to a 2-day training is required for acceptance into the Certification Program.

UK Virtual Webinar: Regression in Play Therapy
2021-12-14 | Online
Regression is a common part of the therapeutic experience as children return to earlier ages of development for growth and healing. In this 1-hour webinar, Lisa will describe the many ways regression presents itself in the playroom, its purpose and offer ways for the therapist to attune to the child. Discussion on how to support the child’s caregivers when the child regresses will also be covered.
UK (London): December 14th, 2021 @ 6pm-7pm
For more information or to sign up click here!

Virginia: Boundaries in Play Therapy
2021-11-19 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Online
This is a private event hosted by the Crossroads Family Counseling Center.
This 2 hour workshop will support play therapists as they learn about setting boundaries from a neurobiological and Synergetic Play Therapy perspective. Learning how to set boundaries with the child’s brain and nervous system activation in mind, while promoting integration will be a core focus. Topics such as how to set boundaries without shaming the child, working with emotional flooding and navigating the child’s and the therapist’s window of tolerance will also be explored.
If you would like your school or organization to receive training, please contact the Institute at info@synergeticplaytherapy.com

EST (Fairfax): November 19th @ 12pm-2pm

Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® June 2021: Class 6- Aggression, Art and Sand in Synergetic Play Therapy
2021-11-19 | Online
Aggression, Art and Sand in Synergetic Play Therapy (Class 6) is part of the Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ course, June 21st – November 19th.
Class 6 Objectives:

Explain how to use regulation as a way to help integrate aggressive energy in the playroom
Describe how to facilitate the use sand from a Synergetic Play Therapy perspective in the playroom
Explain how to facilitate the use of art from a Synergetic Play Therapy perspective in the playroom
Explain the concept of flooding in the playroom for both you and the child and list ways to create a neuroception of safety.

For more information about this Level 1/Introductory level course or to be part of the next one, click here>>>
Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ is a six-month online course that includes three, one-hour LIVE webinars with Lisa Dion, six 2.5-hour recorded videos, and monthly one-hour group consultations with a Synergetic Play Therapy™ Supervisor/Consultant. Consultation is a mandatory part of the course to help you integrate what you are learning.
Special topics such as tracking the play, attachment, facilitating sand, art, trauma, and aggressive play are covered from the perspective of nervous system regulation, attunement, mindfulness, and authenticity. Participants will also learn how to track their client’s changes for caregivers, teachers, agencies, and themselves. And, we’ve added a bonus recorded webinar just for you and to support you during these times – SPT in Teletherapy.

Indonesian Mental Health Virtual Conference: Regulating Through Anxiety and Depression
2021-11-13 | Online
Regulating through Anxiety and Depression
With the increase of anxiety and depression since COVID, understanding what is happening in the brain and nervous system giving rise to these symptoms, along with how to regulate through these intense states of dysregulation is paramount for our client’s healing and growth. Drawing from neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology, participants will explore what is happening underneath these symptoms, while gaining an understanding of what it means to become their client’s external regulator to help integrate and ultimately re-pattern their client’s nervous system (and their own).

WIB: November 13th, 2021 @ 8:00am-10:00am
MST/MDT: November 12th, 2021 @ 6:00pm-8:00pm

Register Here: https://www.mentalhealth-conference.cae-indonesia.com/english/

FREE 1-Hr Webinar: Embracing Rejection
2021-11-09 | Webinar Jam
Rejection can be one of the toughest things to experience – it gets right down to our core selves and brings up all of our “Am I ok?” feelings.
And this is what we’re going to talk about next! … and more specifically, how to embrace it! – like we are best-est of friends!
November 9th, 2021 at 6:00pm Mountain Time (Denver)
Here’s some of what we’ll cover in our time together:

Why rejection can feel so scary
Why you’ll never be able to avoid it
Why it is absolutely necessary (and is one of our best friends on the journey)
Practical steps to embrace rejection and use it for our growth and fulfillment

Register here: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/18/ow7xxf0
*Invite a friend, colleague, or whoever you think this will support.
And if you can’t make it, complete the registration anyway and you’ll receive the 7-day playback.

Arkansas: IAST SUMMIT 2021- Turning your Sandtray into a Regulation Tool
2021-11-07 | Online
The sand tray is a common fixture in therapy, but thinking outside the “sandbox” allows therapists to use sand in a nontraditional way, fostering regulation. In this workshop, participants will explore the link between sand and the activation of the autonomic nervous system and discover how to turn their trays into a regulation tool that can deepen both the client’s experience and their own healing.
Register Here: https://sandtraysummit.com/
CT (Jonesboro): November 7th, 2021 @ 10:30am-12:30pm

South Dakota State University Workshop: Working with Aggression and Intensity in the Playroom
2021-10-28 09:00 - 16:00 UTC | Online
Although aggression and death are a common part of the play therapy process, many therapists don’t have a clear understanding of what to do and how to facilitate the intensity when it enters the playroom during play. The result can lead to inadvertently promoting aggression and increasing low brain disorganization. It can also lead to the therapist feeling beat up, exhausted and hyper-aroused themselves, which can over time significantly impact their longevity in the field, as well as their ability to stay attuned and present to a child in the playroom.
This workshop is designed to help play therapists understand aggression and death play from a neurobiological perspective and a Synergetic Play Therapy lens. With the help of neuroscience and theoretical bases in Experiential and Relational/Humanistic theories, therapists will learn how to effectively work with this type of play in a way that supports nervous system regulation, reorganization of the child’s lower centers of the brain and decreases compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma.
This workshop will take therapists to new possibilities as they explore a science based process for working with children at the deepest, most profound levels while staying safe and sane. They will learn how to make aggressive play therapeutic while understanding what it takes to maximize growth and integration for their clients and themselves.
If you would like your school or organization to receive training, please contact the Institute at info@synergeticplaytherapy.com

Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® June 2021: Class 5- Understanding Attachment & The Self-Object
2021-10-22 | Online
Understanding Attachment & The Self-Object (Class 5) is part of the Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ course, June 21st – November 19th.
Class 5 Objectives:

Discuss Synergetic Play Therapy’s definition and perspective on attachment
Explain and demonstrate how to use the self-object as a way to support the client attaching to self
Describe the link between a child’s attachment styles and their nervous system states

For more information about this Level 1/Introductory level course or to be part of the next one, click here>>>
Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ is a six-month online course that includes three, one-hour LIVE webinars with Lisa Dion, six 2.5-hour recorded videos, and monthly one-hour group consultations with a Synergetic Play Therapy™ Supervisor/Consultant. Consultation is a mandatory part of the course to help you integrate what you are learning.
Special topics such as tracking the play, attachment, facilitating sand, art, trauma, and aggressive play are covered from the perspective of nervous system regulation, attunement, mindfulness, and authenticity. Participants will also learn how to track their client’s changes for caregivers, teachers, agencies, and themselves. And, we’ve added a bonus recorded webinar just for you and to support you during these times – SPT in Teletherapy.

Working with Countertransference in Play Therapy
2021-10-19 18:00 - 19:00 (Europe/London) | Online
In this 1 hour discussion, Lisa will explore the natural process of transference and countertransference in the play therapy process and the importance of learning how to work with it, instead of avoiding it. She will discuss what to do when it arises, allowing the therapist to stay more present and connected to both themselves and the child.
Sign up here: https://pipsolutions.co.uk/products/lisa-dion-1-hour-live-webinars

If you would like your school or organization to receive training, please contact the Institute at info@synergeticplaytherapy.com

APT Annual Conference Workshop: Working with Aggression and Intensity in the Playroom
2021-10-17 08:30 - 11:30 (America/Chicago) | Little Rock Marriott, 3 Statehouse Plaza, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
Aggression is a part of play therapy and knowing how to make it therapeutic is often a challenge. Using neuroscience, come learn how to help your child clients work through their aggression and intense play leading to healing and transformation.
This workshop is designed to help play therapists understand aggression and death play from a neuro-biological perspective and a Synergetic Play Therapy lens. With the help of neuroscience and theoretical bases in Experiential and Relational/Humanistic theories, therapists will learn how to effectively work with this type of play in a way that supports nervous system regulation, reorganization of the child’s lower centers of the brain and decreases compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma.

This workshop will take therapists to new possibilities as they explore a science based process for working with children at the deepest, most profound levels while staying safe and sane. They will learn how to make aggressive play therapeutic while understanding what it takes to maximize growth and integration for their clients and themselves.

Private Event: Becoming a Child’s External Regulator- A Synergetic Approach to Education for Teachers and Educators
2021-10-11 - 2021-10-12 | Online
This is a private event hosted by the BC Centre for Ability Association and will be from 6:00pm-8:00pm PDT each night.

As neuroscience continues to reveal the importance of developing greater and greater capacities for emotional regulation, it is essential that teachers and educators understand the biology behind regulation and how to develop it within the children in their classrooms. Participants will understand exactly what regulation is and is not, the biological mechanisms in the brain and nervous system allowing for regulation, and what it takes to become a child’s and the classroom’s external regulator to develop a child’s regulatory capacity.

Based on interpersonal neurobiology and Synergetic Play Therapy principles, this workshop takes participants into a deeper understanding of the children they work with, as well as themselves as they discover a fresh perspective on behavior, moods, and emotions.

Objectives:
1. Participants will be able to identify how the brain processes information, activates the different states of the nervous system and the impact this has on children’s moods and behaviors
2. Participants will understand what it means and what it takes to become a child’s external regulator.
3. Participants will learn how the environment contributes to a child’s ability to self-regulate
4. Participants will gain insight into how to develop or repattern a child’s regulatory capacity

If you would like your school or organization to receive training, please contact the Institute at info@synergeticplaytherapy.com

Core Wellness Webinar with Liana Lowenstein: Tips and Techniques to Address Anger and Dysregulation
2021-10-06 12:30 - 15:45 (America/New_York) | Online
Research in neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology sheds light on the need for therapists and parents to act as the child’s external regulator during states of dysregulation. When activated, children need to borrow the therapist’s and the parent’s regulatory capacity as they work through their challenging thoughts, feelings and sensations. Without the ability of the therapist or the parent to become the external regulator for the intensity that arises for the child, both the child and the adult are at risk for emotional flooding and high levels of dysregulation in their own nervous systems. Over time, this can significantly impact a therapist’s and parent’s ability to stay attuned and present to the child. In this discussion, from a Synergetic Play Therapy lens, Lisa will discuss what it means and what it takes to become a child’s external regulator.
Lisa will be presenting this webinar as part of a three-part series moderated by Liana Lowenstein which includes a mix of theory and innovative child and play therapy techniques to address challenging clinical issues.
Sign up for the workshop here: https://corewellceu.com/event/live-tips-anger1/?shop=1057
Or for the entire series: https://corewellceu.com/livebundles/tips-live/?shop=1057

CBCTAPT Workshop: Too Stressed To Play
2021-10-02 09:00 - 16:30 UTC | Online
Therapists live each day on the front line in their work putting in countless hours helping children heal, but let’s be honest- there are days when being fully present in the play room or online is not an easy task. Yes there are many moments in the play therapy process that are fun, but the truth is that helping children integrate their pains and working with their parents can be hard work and taxing to therapists’ nervous systems. As play therapists, we spend a lot of time learning about how to heal the children we work with, but what about us? What happens when we are too stressed to play?
This interactive workshop will help guide therapists back to themselves. With the help of neuroscience, therapists will learn how to identify their own states of dys-regulation beyond the common warning signs that many therapists are already familiar with. Therapists will not only learn what is happening in their own brains and nervous systems and how to regulate their bodies, but will also be able to apply the information directly to their child clients resulting in a deeper healing process.
Link to register: https://forms.gle/WE9tuC5JCb2rUWjLA

Australian Play Therapy Association: Partnering with Parents in Play Therapy
2021-09-30 - 2021-10-01 | Online
In this two-day online 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.

APTA members link: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing?eid=794262&
Non APTA members link: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing?eid=796651&

The dates of the training are September 30th and October 1st, 2021
(US: September 29th, 30th)
The time of the training is from 9:00am-12:15pm
(US: 5:00pm-8:15pm MST)

Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy Certificate Program - The Embody Lab
2021-09-24 | Online
We’re thrilled to be supporting The Embody Lab in their Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy Certificate Program starting this month!

Register here: https://learn.theembodylab.com/a/2147490580/nczFhCiQ

Bringing together world renowned Somatic Trauma Therapy teachers into one program, this certificate provides a holistic framework for understanding and working with trauma from a body-centered perspective. Learn practical tools to access the innate wisdom that guides the healing process for yourself and your work with others.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
Key principles of somatic trauma healing approaches for both individuals and the collective
Up to date evidence-informed approaches to treating and healing trauma.
Practical mind-body therapy tools to resource and prepare for trauma processing
The role of Polyvagal Theory as an essential foundation in trauma reprocessing.
The dynamics of post-traumatic hyper-arousal or hypo-arousal states
Gain a road map to facilitate resilience.
Identify self and collective-care practices for boundaries, energy and protection against vicarious trauma

The program starts September 24th and goes through December 17th – Live & Online AND you’ll have lifetime access to the On-Demand recordings at no extra cost.

Don’t miss your chance to study with world renowned Somatic Trauma Therapy teachers in one program!

REGISTRATIONS CLOSING SOON, SECURE YOUR SPOT TODAY: https://learn.theembodylab.com/a/2147490580/nczFhCiQ

Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy® June 2021: Class 4- Working with Caregivers
2021-09-24 | Online
Working with Caregivers (Class 4) is part of the Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ course, June 21st – November 19th.
Class 4 Objectives:

Discuss the implications for caregivers being in their own grief process when they bring their children to play therapy.
Describe how to have a successful play therapy intake.
Discuss the importance of setting goals and speaking in terms of what is important to the caregiver.

For more information about this Level 1/Introductory level course or to be part of the next one, click here>>>
Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy™ is a six-month online course that includes three, one-hour LIVE webinars with Lisa Dion, six 2.5-hour recorded videos, and monthly one-hour group consultations with a Synergetic Play Therapy™ Supervisor/Consultant. Consultation is a mandatory part of the course to help you integrate what you are learning.
Special topics such as tracking the play, attachment, facilitating sand, art, trauma, and aggressive play are covered from the perspective of nervous system regulation, attunement, mindfulness, and authenticity. Participants will also learn how to track their client’s changes for caregivers, teachers, agencies, and themselves. And, we’ve added a bonus recorded webinar just for you and to support you during these times – SPT in Teletherapy.

Becoming A Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor Training
2021-09-14 | Online
This training is for Certified Synergetic Play Therapists who meet the pre-requisites to becoming a Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor*. These courses count towards Registered Play Therapy Supervisor requirements. In this training, students will learn how to apply the Synergetic Play Therapy philosophy and tenets to the supervisory relationship. Through video observation, didactic learning, group discussion, and self study, students will learn how to step into the role of supervisor- one of the most important and influential roles in a play therapist’s journey.
Get all the details here and to apply >>>
Becoming a Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor Objectives:
Becoming a Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor- General Theory ( 4 Non-Contact Credits)

Learn the Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor Tenets
Discuss the SPT Skills Sets and the need to start with the basic skill sets
Explain “The Set Up” in the Supervisory relationship

Application of Synergetic Play Therapy Principles through a Supervisory Lens (4 Non-Contact Credits)

Write your strengths and areas of growth as a supervisor through self video observation and self analysis
Analyze the Tenets of Synergetic Play Therapy Supervision through written analysis

How to Supervise an SPT Supervisee (6 Non Contact Credits)

Apply the use of video in the supervision process
Critique various therapists’ struggles in the play therapy process presented through video observation and ways to support their growth
Discuss the importance of identifying one key skill the supervisee can be working on and the importance of communicating in the supervisee’s goals and values.

Clinical Issues in SPT Supervision Course – Groups (6 Non Contact Credits)

Analyze various clinical issues that arise and ways to support the supervisees’ growth and learning
Discuss the importance of making sure supervisees are working on basic play therapy skills first
Learn various ways to understand where the supervisee is at in their therapeutic development and the importance of working with them where they are at in their stage of development

This is an 8 month training and starts with the first class on September 17th, 2020
*Certified Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor and Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor are protected titles held by those who have taken this training

The Business of Play Therapy™
2021-09-13 17:00 - 18:30 (America/Denver) | Online
The Business of Play Therapy™ is custom designed for Play Therapists like you, who are deeply committed to being a leader – a leader in your business, your life, and most importantly, in the world. Whether you’re brand new to business or established and ready to grow, the Business of Play Therapy will help take you and your ideas to the next level. It’s designed to help you build your business, challenge your fears, listen to your intuition, and go after your mission.

Over 7- weeks, you’ll learn how to clarify your dream and the building blocks to help launch it in the world. Lisa will offer you the education you may have never received in graduate school and teach you the business-side of being a Play Therapist. She’ll introduce you to everything from how to create a congruent vision, to how to overcome fears that might be getting in the way, to creating an entrepreneurial mindset, plus so much more.
Perhaps like yourself, Lisa did not have business training in graduate school. She has had learn on her own, seek out mentors and training in order to build her businesses. In this course, Lisa will teach you the key ingredients she’s discovered along the way and guide you through how to go from not just a good idea, but how to launch it into the world. If you have a dream inside, Lisa wants to help you manifest it.
This course is perfect for you if you’re starting out in private practice, have a dream to offer a product or service, wanting to build a larger business, or are already running a (mostly) successful business, but want to take your business to the next level.
When: September 13th, 2021 – November 8th, 2021
Live Webinar Dates: (they will all be recorded if you miss any)

September 13th, 2021 – 5:00pm – 6:30pm (Mountain Time, Denver)
October 4th, 2021 – 5:00pm – 6:30pm (Mountain Time, Denver)
October 25th, 2021 – 5:00pm – 6:30pm (Mountain Time, Denver)
November 8th, 2021 – 5:00pm – 6:30pm (Mountain Time, Denver)

Private Training for Teton Behavior Therapy: A Synergetic Approach to Revolutionizing Play & Therapeutic Practice with Children
2021-09-13 08:30 - 15:30 UTC | Online
A Synergetic Approach to Revolutionizing Play & Therapeutic Practice with Children
This two day workshop is designed to help play therapists understand aggressive play from a neuro-biological perspective. With the help of neuroscience, interpersonal neurobiology, and a Synergetic Play Therapy framework rooted in Child-Centered, Gestalt and Experiential Play Therapy theories, therapists will learn how to effectively work with aggressive play in a way that supports nervous system regulation, reorganization of the child’s lower centers of the brain and promote healing for the child. Through role play, discussion, and experiential exercises participants will learn practical techniques that can be used right away in the playroom. Topics such as boundaries, co-regulation, nervous system activation, emotional flooding and use of aggressive toys and play will be explored.
This workshop will also guide participants towards a deeper understanding of what it means to become a child’s external regulator during aggressive play while practicing how to care for their own nervous system thereby decreasing compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma. The result is the transformation of aggression into ways of connecting, healing and mutual trust.
This is a private training for Teton Behavior Therapy on 9/13 and 9/15.
If you would like your school or organization to receive training, please contact the Institute at info@synergeticplaytherapy.com

Synergetic Play Therapy Certification Program 3.5-Day Online Retreat (North America)
2021-08-30 - 2021-09-02 | Online
This 3.5-Day Retreat is part of the 10-Month Synergetic Play Therapy Certification Program. The Certification Program is open to those who have completed either the Six-Day Synergetic Play Therapy Intensive, the Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy course, or the Synergetic Play Therapy Supplemental to a 2-Day Training. If you have completed one of these and are interested in moving towards certification, please see the details below or get more information here.
North America: August 30 – *September 2, 2021, 9am – 4:30pm Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) -*Note, the last day ends at 12pm.
Are you a Masters-level (or equivalent) therapist or clinician ready to take your Synergetic Play Therapy skills to the next level? With 87 hours of content, the Certification program propels you on a journey of inquiry about how healing truly occurs in the playroom. You will learn about nervous system activation re-patterning and how integration occurs in the mind-body. You will study in-depth the projective process and the mind, perceptions and memory, interpersonal neurobiology, and will have a transformative understanding of attachment theory. But this isn’t the best part of this training. The best part is what happens to YOU! This program is designed to not only help you learn how to facilitate your child client’s healing, but also teach you about yourself, what drives you to be who you are, and awaken your own authenticity … absolutely PRICELESS!!!!
The course begins with three and a half days together in community (this year we’ll be offering the first retreat online). Halfway through the course, we will reconvene for an additional four and a half days. During the program (with the exception of December and January), the course will be conducted twice a month via live webinar. The Certification process includes 4 one-hour consultation sessions (pre-Certification consultation upon completion of your introductory course) and 9 one-hour consultation sessions (combination of group and individual) during the course with an SPT Consultant for a total of 13 consultation hours. These sessions are designed to help you integrate and deepen your learning.
Please note: Completion of The Online Introduction to Synergetic Play Therapy course, the Six-Day Synergetic Play Therapy Intensive, or Synergetic Play Therapy Supplemental course to a 2-day training is required for acceptance into the Certification Program.
