108. Therapeutic Play: Tranforming Lives Across the Ages

Welcome Back!

Hi, it’s Jackie Flynn here! I’m so excited to dive into the world of play therapy with you today. In this episode, I’ll be sharing how play therapy has been a huge part of my life and practice, helping people of all ages heal in ways that words alone can’t.

What We’ll Cover:

• The Power of Play:
  Play isn’t just for kids—we all need it, even our pets! Play helps build deeper connections, manage stress, and create safety, which is essential for healing. Whether it’s couples therapy, family therapy, or EMDR, I use play to guide the process.

• Flexibility of Play Therapy:
  Play therapy is flexible—it works online, at home, in schools, and even in nature. It meets people where they are, making it such a powerful tool for transformation.

• The Science of Play Therapy:
  We’ll explore how play creates new neural pathways and increases autonomic flexibility, concepts from Dr. Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory. I’ll explain how behaviors are adaptations of the nervous system, and how play helps us heal—not just through words, but through movement, metaphor, and changing the narrative.
  I absolutely love using sandtray therapy for this!

• Recommended Reading:
  If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend The Therapeutic Powers of Play by Charles E. Schaefer and Athena A. Drewes—a must-have for any play therapist.

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Reflection:

How has play shown up in your life? Has it helped you feel more connected, joyful, or supported through tough times? Take a moment to reflect!

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Let’s Continue the Conversation:

To learn more or to keep the conversation going, visit my website at jackieflynnconsulting.com, and join our Play Therapy Community® Facebook group. We dive deeper into these topics and share resources and support with one another.

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Additional Resources:

• Play Therapy Community® Facebook Group: Join Here
• Neuroscience of Play Therapy Course: Learn More
• EMDR Consultation with Jackie Flynn: Schedule Here
• Business Coaching with Jackie Flynn: Schedule Here
• Self-Paced Trainings & Symposium Library: Explore Here
• Live EMDR with Kids Training: Details Here
• EMDR with Kids Flip Chart: Purchase on Amazon
• Book Jackie for Training/Speaking Events: Email: [e-mail]
• Polyvagal Theory: Watch on YouTube
• Synergetic Play Therapy: Learn More
• Oaklander Model: Explore Here
• Marshall's Workshop: Discover More
• Adlerian Play Therapy: Visit Here
• EMDRIA (EMDR International Association): Find Out More