46: The Power of Play: Healing Generations One Child at a Time with Candace Rutkowski

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Candace Rutkowski, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor based in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. With over 12 years in the field and a deep-rooted passion for working with children, Candace shares how she found her calling in helping the youngest among us—babies through age 12—and their caregivers.

Candace takes us inside the world of infant and child play therapy, where neuroscience, polyvagal theory, and attachment work converge to create meaningful, lifelong change. Discover how First Play® Infant Play Therapy, a model developed by Dr. Janet Courtney, supports bonding and attunement between caregiver and infant—starting as early as 2 weeks old.

Topics we explore:

• Why early intervention and attachment are key to long-term emotional wellness
• What it really means to “play” with an infant—and why no toys are necessary
• How family systems and intergenerational patterns shape a child’s development
• The role of the therapist as a guide for caregivers in learning nurturing touch and attunement
• Why Candace believes giving children a better start is the most impactful work of all

Whether you're a therapist, a parent, or someone curious about the power of early childhood healing, this conversation will open your eyes to the subtle and powerful ways connection can change lives.

Candace Rutkowski is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor™. She believes healing happens within the context of healthy relationships both within and outside of families, and that the caregiver-child relationship is one of the most important building blocks of life. She specializes in working with children ages birth through 12-years-old, their caregivers, and their families.

1. Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing. 

Resources:

CherieLindberg.com

ElevatedLifeAcademy.com

Guest Links:

Website: https://www.holdingspacetherapyllc.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100061828167228#