In this episode of our summer school series, I delve into a powerful passage from Garry Landreth's "The Art of the Relationship." I explore the concept of children's unique personalities and how they affect their therapeutic journey. Using Landreth's vivid analogies of children being like popcorn, molasses, mushrooms, or orchids, I discuss the importance of accepting and respecting each child's individual pace and style in therapy. I emphasize the core principle of child-centered play therapy: unconditional acceptance of children as they are. I explain why it's crucial for therapists to be patient with both quick-blooming "mushroom" children and slow-developing "orchid" children. I also address the common challenge of managing expectations from parents and other adults who may not understand our non-directive approach. Finally, I share a touching anecdote about a play therapist in Iran setting up her playroom, highlighting the global impact of child-centered play therapy. I encourage listeners to remember the significance of every moment spent with a child in the playroom and the lifelong impact it can have. Episode Reference: Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Sign up for my exclusive newsletter at playtherapynow.com. Stay ahead with the latest CCPT CEU courses, personalized coaching opportunities and other opportunities you need to thrive in your CCPT practice! Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected] Brenna's CCPT Hub: https://www.playtherapynow.com CCPT Collective (online community exclusively for CCPTs): https://www.ccptcollective.com Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapypodcast.com APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com Twitter: @thekidcounselor https://twitter.com/thekidcounselor Facebook: https://facebook.com/playtherapypodcast Common References: Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley. VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press. Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group. Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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