198. Wounded Healers in the Playroom: How Attachment Histories Shape Our Work

What happens when therapists bring their own attachment histories into the playroom—consciously or not? In this deeply validating and insightful conversation, Lisa welcomes back Dr. Clair Mellenthin—renowned play therapist, author, and professor—to unpack her groundbreaking dissertation research and explore how a therapist’s personal story shapes their clinical work, especially within family-based play therapy.

Together, they explore:

• Why many play therapists are drawn to the work as “wounded healers”
• Research that debunks the myth of needing to be fully healed to help others
• How personal attachment wounds show up in the playroom—and why doing our own work matters
• The power of mentorship and community in creating earned security and ongoing healing
• How support systems help therapists feel seen, grounded, and more confident with families
• Common struggles therapists face when working with parents, especially with limited training
• Practical steps for building confidence through integration, connection, and focused learning
• Moving stories that show the healing ripple from therapist to family

Whether you’re a student, seasoned therapist, or supervisor, this episode offers normalization, challenge, and inspiration—helping you reflect on your therapeutic presence, embrace your vulnerabilities, and cultivate authentic connection in the healing space.