Pondering Play and Therapy Podcast
Julie and Philippa 72 episodes Nov 6, 2026
In a world where play can be seen as frivolous or unnecessary, Julie and Philippa explore its importance in everyday lives. They discuss play and therapy both separately and as interconnected concepts, arguing that play can itself be the therapy we need. Drawing on extensive professional and personal experience, they share, ponder, and discuss their insights to invite others to embrace playfulness.
Episodes
Navigating Complex Therapies: Inside the Forensic Psychology Journey; With Matthew Wesson.
The episode features returning guest Matt Wesson discussing pragmatic EMDR practice in HMP Liverpool, a largely male remand prison where instability, noise, short stays, and missed appointments require flexible, evidence-led, short-term trauma-focused work. He challenges common assumptions about lengthy stabilization and the primacy of therapeutic relationship, emphasising building quick alliance
The Playful Path to Connection: Unpacking Filial Therapy and Family Dynamics. With Helen Gedge
Julie interviews play therapist Helen Gedge about her background growing up in Brazil, how play remains central in her adult life, and her path from primary teaching to play therapy and a PhD. Helen describes research conducted in 2018–19 at a Brazilian shelter home in Curitiba designed to keep mothers and children together after family violence, using filial therapy to teach mothers core therapeu
Mistakes and Missteps: The Hidden Lessons in Therapy. A conversation with Julie and Philippa.
Philippa Kelly and Julie McCann continue their discussion on “mistakes” in therapeutic work, exploring how errors feel, whether to acknowledge them, and how clients, families, and colleagues perceive them. They consider conflicts between professionals (e.g., schools and CAMHS) and how systemic shortages create “mistakes” beyond any one person, raising the challenge of advocating without giving fam
Understanding Bodies in Motion: Occupational Therapy for Neurodivergent Kids. With Georgie Leeson.
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, host interviews Georgie, a children’s occupational therapist from Little Peaks OT, about her move from NHS roles into independent practice to address a gap in sensory processing support. Georgie explains OT as helping children overcome barriers to everyday “occupations” (e.g., dressing, handwriting, cutlery, sitting in lessons) through play-led, child
Unlocking Empathy: Play as a Catalyst in Therapy and Social Work. With Pete Ayling
Julie interviews play therapist and social work lecturer Pete Ayling about how playfulness supports understanding, empathy, and perspective-taking for children and adults. Pete describes his roles teaching social work students, supervising play therapists, and quality-assuring UK play therapy training, and reflects on play in his life through relationships, arts, nature, and identity exploration.
Pathways to Recovery: Lee Smith on Reforming Children's Mental Health
Philippa interviews Lee Smith, a mental health nurse with 30 years’ experience in Tier 4 inpatient children’s services, whose NHS roles included ward management, clinical specialist and consultant posts. Lee describes entering nursing via an interest in psychology, working in forensic CAMHS, and helping rehabilitate highly detained young people through structured leave and relationship-based work.
Beyond the Behavior: Understanding Trauma with Compassion. Dr Lisa Cherry
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, host Philippa interviews Dr. Lisa Cherry—author, speaker, researcher, and consultant—about trauma, adversity, attachment, and compassionate responses to behavior. Cherry shares how her childhood experiences of trauma, being in care, emotional neglect, school exclusion, and homelessness shaped her commitment to social justice and a career spanning resi
From Blunders to Breakthroughs: Pondering Professional Missteps, with Julie and Philippa
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, the hosts discuss how “mistakes” in therapeutic work never fully go away and are better understood as learning opportunities. They reflect on recent examples of making unhelpful assumptions in play therapy sessions and meetings with parents, including using materials that were too dysregulating and shortcutting families’ stories due to time pressure a
From Aggression to Expression: A Play Therapist's Journey. A conversation with Jeanne McLaughlin
Host Julie interviews Glasgow-based play therapist and With Kids trainer Jeanne McLaughlin about children’s play involving death, dying, and violent themes, based on McLaughlin’s workshop “How to Die Well in the Playroom.” McLaughlin shares her career path into play therapy, With Kids’ work in schools and its MSc training with Queen Margaret University, and why she avoids the term “aggressive play
Unlocking the Sandbox: Therapy Through Play. A conversation with Margot Sunderland.
Margot Sunderland joins Philippa in this weeks episode of Pondering Play and Theraplay.The conversation explores how “burying” in sandplay can mean different things, from hiding feelings to gaining control, and emphasizes therapist curiosity about what symbols mean for each child. It contrasts direct responses (“Does this feel like something in your life?”) with indirect, metaphor-based approaches
EP77 Therapeutic Journeys: Q&A with Listener Becky Webb
Philippa and Julie close the UK summer term with a Q&A episode featuring listener and play therapist Becky Webb, who shares her career path and asks about working therapeutically during family transitions and around bereavement. They discuss moving beyond blanket rules about waiting for stability or set time periods, focusing instead on assessment, goals, and providing supportive, relational t
EP76 Gardens & Guidance: Finding Joy in Play Therapy; with Simon Kerr-Edwards
Julie hosts Simon Kerr-Edwards on Pondering Play and Therapy to discuss clinical supervision for therapists and school staff, plus Simon’s parent consultations. Simon, a Buckinghamshire-based practitioner, describes training first as a drama therapist, later completing a play therapy master’s at Roehampton after meeting Anne Cattanach, and moving from local authority and CAMHS work into independen
EP75 Behind the Lines: EMDR Therapy in Action; A Conversation with Matt Wesson
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Philippa interviews Matt Wesson, former president of EMDR Association UK, EMDR Europe senior accredited trainer/consultant, and BABCP-accredited CBT therapist with 30 years’ mental health experience across the military, NHS, industry, and private practice. Matt explains EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) as an eight-phase psychothera
EP74 From Photocopiers to Pandemics - Managing Interruptions
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EP73 Beyond Borders: Healing Through Play and Therapy with Steph Hunter
Host Philippa interviews social worker, therapist, author, and international presenter Steph Hunter about her current work and career, largely supporting children in care and trauma-informed services. Steph describes preparing a Canada keynote, “Humanising Services,” through the international Children and Youth Care (CYC) Network, and discusses clinical supervision and training for children’s home
EP72 Beyond Words: The Role of Metaphor in Healing Trauma; A conversation with Tim Woodhouse
Julie interviews Tim Woodhouse of Tiptoes Child Therapy Services in northwest England, a multidisciplinary practice founded in 2010, named after Janusz Korczak’s quote about “standing on tiptoes” to reach children’s feelings. They discuss working with children affected by complex developmental trauma (including sexual harm, neglect, physical and emotional abuse, and broader ACE-related factors) an
EP71 Empowering Futures: Playful Sustainability Education; An interview with Louise Robertson
Philippa hosts an episode of Pondering Play and Therapy with guest Louise Robertson, founder of The Sustainables Academy (nominated for the Earthshot Prize in 2025) and a lecturer at Aberdeen University, formerly a teacher and head teacher. Louise explains how the colourful “Sustainables” characters provide a playful hook to help children, educators, parents, and communities understand complex sus
EP70 Play Interruptions Explored: From Parenting to the Therapy Room, and the Moments in Between.
Philippa and Julie explore how interruptions shape children’s play and emotional wellbeing, from everyday endings like mealtimes, bedtimes and school bells to more harmful breaks when adults are distracted, unwell, or inconsistent. They discuss how predictable routines can help children tolerate frustration, while unexpected or repeated disruptions can affect a child’s sense of value and trust, es
EP69 Understanding Attachment: Tools for Families and Therapists; A Conversation with Viv Norris
Julie welcomes Viv Norris, founder and CEO of the Family Place on the Welsh borders, supporting adoptive and other families across Wales and parts of England, and co-founder of Theraplay UK. Viv traces her path from intense residential therapeutic work with adolescents, through music therapy training and clinical psychology, into 20 years in the NHS and later fostering and adoption services. She e
EP68 Post-COVID Childhood Anxiety, Insights for Parents and Therapist; A Conversation with Mandy Jones-Fischer
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, host Philippa welcomes back Chicago-based child therapist Mandy Jones to discuss how COVID continues to affect children and families five to six years on. Mandy shares what she’s seeing in her practice with mostly under-8s, especially “COVID babies” now entering or finishing kindergarten: higher baseline anxiety, difficulty with transitions, separatio
EP67 Sarah Naish on Fostering, Therapeutic Parenting and More.
Philippa welcomes Sarah Naish, bestselling author of The A–Z of Therapeutic Parenting, adopter of five siblings, foster carer, agency founder and keynote speaker. Sarah explains how the book grew from real-life notes and emails into a practical guide that helps carers understand fear-based, trauma-driven behaviour and respond with firm, fair boundaries, nurture, curiosity and linked logical conseq
EP66 Pondering Play and Mess with Ellen Dempsey
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Julie speaks with newly qualified play therapist Ellen Dempsey about her Roehampton University dissertation, “Oh, What a Mess,” exploring messy play and therapeutic presence. Ellen shares how her own preference for tidiness created tension, shame, and distraction in the playroom when children used sensory materials, and how supervision and an embodied
EP65 Exploring Family Ties, Childhood, Therapy and Sibling Bonds: With Philippa and Julie
Siblings, Roles, and Therapy: Connection, Conflict, and the “Pie” of AttentionPhilippa and Julie explore sibling relationships through personal experiences and clinical work, discussing how children take on roles (e.g., “good child,” eldest organiser, protector) and how grief and major life events can reshape sibling bonds. They reflect on how siblings can remember the same childhood events very d
EP64 Bridging Childhood Trauma and Therapeutic Practices; A conversation with Sarah Dillon.
Philippa Kelly speaks with Sarah Dillon, consultant psychotherapist and head of therapeutic services for True Fostering and Safer Fostering, about how her own childhood in and out of foster care shapes her child-centered, trauma-informed work. Sarah explains why children react strongly to birth family contact, how sibling conflict can stem from trauma bonds, unmet needs, shame, and difficulty hold
EP 63 Inside Sheffield Children's Hospital; Play, Therapy and Healing; A conversation with Joanna Blundell Jones
Julie welcomes clinical psychologist and Theraplay practitioner Joanna Blundell Jones, who works at Sheffield Children’s Hospital in paediatric oncology/haematology and supports patients across their cancer experiences, often especially during and after treatment, with flexibility around timing and session numbers. Joanna shares how play shows up in her own life (gospel choir, board games), how du
EP62 When Adults Push Back - Therapy Resistances;
Philippa and Julie continue their conversation on resistance, focusing on the adults around a child—parents, carers, and professionals—and how “putting the brakes on” can be protective, necessary, or linked to safeguarding concerns like hidden compliance. They explore how mandated therapy, ongoing assessments, shame, fear of judgment, and the realities of trauma-informed parenting can fuel pushbac
EP61 Magic, Mindfulness and Mimes. Transformative play with Marneta Viegas
Philippa interviews Marneta Viegas, founder of Relax Kids, which began 25 years ago as the UK’s first company offering children’s relaxation and mental health tools. Marneta shares her performing arts background, years as a children’s entertainer and mime performer, and how she noticed children increasingly struggled to sit still, listen, and concentrate. A breakthrough came when she introduced vi
EP60 Understanding Resistance - A Deep Dive into Child and Therapist Dynamics
Philippa and Julie introduce the first episode in a two-part series on resistance, focusing here on children and young people in therapy (with a follow-up episode planned on resistance from parents, carers, and other professionals). Drawing on their different approaches—TheraPlay (more adult-led) and child-centred play therapy (more child-led)—they explore what resistance can look like: refusing o
EP59 Exploring Therapeutic Life Story Work with Katie Wrench
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Philippa talks with Katie Wrench, a social worker, psychotherapist, head of service at BUSS, and an author. Katie discusses therapeutic life story work, explaining its importance for children who have experienced disruption, particularly those in foster care or adoption. She emphasises the need to help children develop a coherent narrative of their jo
EP58 Exploring the Journey to becoming a Clinical Psychologist. A conversation with Oliver
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' host Philippa welcomes Oliver, a trainee clinical psychologist. They discuss the extensive and multifaceted training path for clinical psychologists in the UK, which includes clinical placements, research, and academic work. Oliver explains the importance of evidence-based practice, the variety of therapeutic approaches like CBT, DBT, and
EP57 Healing Journeys; In Conversation with Kim Golding
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, host Philippa interviews Kim Golding, CBE, a clinical psychologist, author, and expert in dyadic developmental psychotherapy (DDP) with over 30 years of experience. Kim shares her unconventional journey into psychology, her long tenure in the NHS, and her work with children affected by early relational trauma. The discussion covers the evolution of at
EP56 Towards a Play-Based Future - Eugene Minogue's Journey with Play England
The State of Play in England: A Deep Dive with Eugene Minogue, Executive Director of Play EnglandWelcome to this week's episode of Pondering Play and Therapy with Philippa and special guest Eugene Minogue, the executive director of Play England. In this episode, Eugene delves into the history, challenges, and current state of play in England. The conversation discusses Eugene's volunteer
EP55 The Essence of Play - Nurturing Development in Children
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' Philippa and Julie explore the concept of 'just playing' in therapeutic contexts. They discuss the fine line between play and therapy, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on how play can serve different roles for children. They reflect on the pressure therapists face to meet goals within limited sessions and emphasise the imp
EP54 The Heart of Justice - Child First Approach. A conversation with Ruth Hayles
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' Philippa interviews Ruth Hayles, service lead for Contextual Safeguarding and Youth Justice, about her 18-year career working across children's services. Ruth shares insights on her journey, highlighting the importance of early intervention, youth justice, and building trusting relationships with children and families. She explains co
EP53 Behind the Quiet Child - Play Therapy for Young Carers; An Interview with Frankie
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' host Julie interviews Frankie, a recent graduate with a master's degree in play therapy from Roehampton University. They discuss Frankie's research on play therapy for young carers—children under 18 who provide emotional or physical care for a family member. The conversation explores the challenges young carers face, such as the
The Therapeutic Treasure Box: Insights from Dr. Karen Treisman
Understanding Trauma in Children: Insights from Dr. Karen Treisman | Pondering Play and TherapyWelcome to this week's episode of Pondering Play and Therapy with Philippa, featuring Dr. Karen Treisman, a clinical psychologist, author, and MBE award recipient. Dive deep into the world of trauma as Dr. Treisman elaborates on different types of trauma—cultural, intergenerational, and more—while h
EP51 - Stories of self-doubt and Imposter Syndrome; Julie interviews Philippa
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' Julie interviews Philippa Kelly about her career journey in play therapy with children and families. Kelly reflects on her year-long co-hosting experience, her struggles with self-doubt, and how she overcame significant challenges. Key highlights include her path from a troubled school life to becoming a social worker, completing a family
EP50 One year and 50 Episodes - Lessons Learned
In the milestone 50th episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' Philippa and Julie reflect on their podcast journey over the past year. They discuss how the podcast has influenced their professional practices, thoughts about play and therapy, and personal growth. They also recount interviews with various experts, including insights on unstructured play, the role of play in emotional regul
EP 49 Exploring the Role of Play in Northern Ireland: A conversation with Alan Herron
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Julie hosts Alan Herron, CEO of Play Board Northern Ireland. They discuss the organisation’s 40-year history, founded during the troubles of the mid-1980s in Northern Ireland, to offer children safe play opportunities amidst political unrest. Alan shares insights on the significance of play in breaking down societal barriers and fostering community co
EP 48 The Power of the Theatre: A Conversation with Sara Amanda
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Philippa interviews Sarah Amanda, a relationship manager for the Arts Council England and a playwright, director, and dramaturg. They discuss the role of a dramaturg in shaping and supporting scripts, as well as the diverse responsibilities of a relationship manager in connecting artists and organisations across various art forms. Sarah shares her exp
EP47 Exploring Professional Love in Therapy and Teaching: A conversation with Julie
In this week's episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, host Philippa interviews her co-host Julie about her diverse career path. Julie shares her early aspirations of becoming a car mechanic or ballerina, but ultimately became a primary school teacher. She narrates her transition to play therapy, influenced by her experiences with children in the classroom and a particular puppet, Rita, who he
EP46 Parenting the Child in Front of You; A Conversation with Dr Vanessa La pointe
Parenting Insights with Dr. Vanessa LapontJoin Philippa in this illuminating episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy' as she sits down with Dr Vanessa Lapointe, a seasoned psychology expert turned global parenting advocate. With over 20 years of experience, Dr Lapointe shares her invaluable insights on parenting from a developmental perspective. They delve into the importance of focusing
EP45 School Anxiety: A Conversation with Claire
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy' with Philippa, guest Claire discusses the growing issue of school anxiety among children. The conversation explores the potential reasons for increased anxiety, including heightened academic pressures, the complexities of modern social interactions, and the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent children. Claire highlights the importance
EP44 Finding your Inner Child with Play - A conversation with Greg
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy', host Philippa interviews Greg, an author and child advocate from 'Can I Go and Play Now?'. Greg talks about his journey from working in a scrap store to becoming a passionate advocate for play and autonomy in children. He shares his experiences and methods for helping teachers and adults connect with their inner child and incorpo
EP43 What is Play Therapy? - Julie and Philippa in Conversation
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' Philippa and Julie delve into the essence of play therapy. They discuss the common misconception that play therapy is solely about teaching children how to play. The conversation shifts to the nuances of what play therapy entails, from addressing developmental delays in play to providing a safe space for children to explore relationships a
EP42 Empathy and Attachment: A conversation with Dr Sharon Giblin
In this week's episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy', host Philippa welcomes Dr. Sharon Giblin, a consultant clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with children and families. Philippa and Sharon discuss the attachment cycle, the concepts of shame and guilt, and the therapeutic approach known as PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy). Sharon
EP41 Balancing Education Practices - Structure Learning Vs Free Play
In this week's episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy' with Philippa, the guest is Charlotte Booth, the owner of Leek Play Hub and former senior lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University. Charlotte recounts her extensive career in education, from teaching early years groups to becoming a senior lecturer, and her recent transition back to working directly with young children. Th
EP 39 Exploring play and Symbolism in Therapy
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Philippa and Julie dive into the concepts of play and symbolism in therapeutic settings. They discuss how play therapists like Julie use symbolism in sessions with children to explore emotions and experiences. The conversation covers the differences between primary and secondary relationships in play therapy, the use of objects to facilitate play, and
EP38 Play Therapy and Animal-assistance- Insights from Jasmine Williams
Play Therapy and Animal-Assistance with Jasmine WilliamsIn this episode, Philippa is joined by Jasmine Williams, a play therapist, teen counsellor, and animal-assisted therapist based in Queensland, Australia. Jasmine shares her journey from teaching into play therapy, explains the four stages of therapeutic play, and highlights the importance of creating safe, supportive environments for childre
EP37 Building Underdeveloped Sensory Systems an interview with Sarah Lloyd
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, our host welcomes Sarah Lloyd, a consultant occupational therapist and play therapist, who introduces her innovative BUSS model, focusing on Building Underdeveloped Sensory Systems (BUSS). Sarah shares her journey from traditional therapy to integrating sensory motor systems with therapeutic relationships, particularly for children with disrupted earl
EP36 Play and Creative Arts; an Interview with Peppy Hills
In this week's episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy', Philippa is joined by Peppy Hills, a multifaceted professional with extensive titles including play therapist, creative practitioner, and clinical supervisor. Peppy shares her journey from childhood movements and imaginative play to her contemporary roles, offering insight into the importance of creative arts, community connect
EP35 Pondering Review - The Honour of the Last Seven Months
Join hosts Julie and Philippa as they reflect on the last seven months of 'Pondering Play and Therapy' podcast. They discuss their experiences, highlight notable guests, and ponder the future direction of the show. Topics include the significance of play throughout different stages of life, the impact of COVID-19 on free play, and international perspectives on incorporating play into var
EP34 Play and Play Therapy in Bangladesh; An interview with Mostak Imran
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Julie from South London welcomes Mostak from Dhaka, Bangladesh. They discuss their shared qualification in play therapy and explore how their training paths intersected at Roehampton University. Mostak shares his experiences working as the only BAPT-certified play therapist in Bangladesh, delving into the cultural perceptions of therapy and the challe
EP33 Play and NVR; an Interview with Penny Willis
In this week's episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Philippa welcomes Penny from NVR Northampton to delve into the concept of Nonviolent Resistance (NVR) as a parenting approach. They discuss the origins of NVR, its application to different family dynamics, and how it provides caregivers with strategies to stand against harmful behaviours in a caring and collective manner. The episode explo
EP32 Play and Neurodiversity with Simon
Join Julie as she interviews Simon Airey and they delve into the intersection of neurodiversity and play. In this episode, Simon shares his personal experiences as an autistic adult, discussing how everyday activities like sorting and organising can be forms of play. They also explore the concept of play in early childhood education, emphasising the importance of child-led and neuro-affirming prac
Ep31 Play and Criminal Justice an Interview with Joe Franks.
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' host Philippa welcomes Joseph Franks, a veteran in the field of mental health nursing since 2004. Joseph discusses his varied career, which spans working in mental health services, teaching at the University of West London, and his pivotal role as the mental health lead at Reading Prison. His experiences highlight the vulnerabilities faced
Ep30 Play and Child against parent aggression; an interview with Matt.
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, host Philippa welcomes Matt, a senior practitioner at CAPA First Response. Matt shares his expertise on child-to-parent aggression, detailing different forms of violence and aggression, and the importance of addressing these behaviours early. Matt emphasises the need for understanding and strengthening the parent-child relationship through effective c
Ep29 Play and Residential Care; an interview with Angela Griffiths
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' host Philippa interviews Angela Griffith, a registered social worker and independent social care consultant with over 30 years of experience in children's social care. Angela discusses her journey in the sector, beginning in 1991, and the changes she has observed over the years. Angela highlights the importance of strong management in
Ep28 Play and the nervous system; an interview with Charlotte Jenkins
In this episode of Pondering and Play Therapy, host Philippa Kelly interviews Charlotte Jenkins, founder of Beacon Family Services and co-founder of the app Looming and Us. Charlotte discusses her journey from a frustrated social worker to establishing innovative, play-based therapeutic solutions for families. She emphasises the importance of connection, nervous system regulation, and understandin
Ep27 Play and Online games; an interview with Jessica McLauglin
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' the host converses with Jessica McLaughlin, a senior creative director with 20 years of experience in creating digital content for children. Jessica shares her accidental journey into children's media, her work at Find Your Fun Studios, and her new venture, Play Wise Labs. She discusses the intricacies of designing educational games,
Ep26 The child's right to play; an interview with Marguerite Hunter Blair OBE DL
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, Philippa interviews Marguerite Hunter Blair, OBE, the Chief Executive of Play Scotland. Marguerite discusses her extensive career in advocating for children's play in Scotland and Northern Ireland, including her leadership in establishing the Scottish Play Commission, Scotland's Play Strategy, and the statutory duty for play in the Planning
Ep25 Play and Sand Tray; An interview with Marshall Lyles
Podcast Episode Description:This week on the podcast, I'm joined by Marshall Lyles, an expert in using sand tray therapy to support children, adults, and families. Marshall shares his insightful experience on how this powerful therapy helps individuals explore their early experiences and better understand their present situations. We ponder the importance of approaching sand tray therapy with
EP24 Play and Schools
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' Philippa and Julie dive into the critical role of play within school environments. They discuss the decline in playtime availability over the years across primary, secondary, and nursery schools. They explore how therapists can collaborate with schools to support children's learning and well-being through play. The conversation highli
Ep23 Play and Attachment; an interview with Colby Pearce
Podcast Description: This week, I had the privilege of interviewing Colby Pearce, who shares his wealth of experience working with care-experienced families. Colby dives deep into the importance of attachment, emphasising that connection and consistency are the most crucial aspects. He also discusses the programs he's developed to support professionals in providing care that fosters resilienc
EP22 Play and Poverty
In this episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, hosts Julie and Philippa explore how poverty affects children's ability to engage in play. They discuss the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the definition of poverty, and the statistics concerning child poverty in the UK. They highlight the various barriers that impoverished families face, such as limited access to resources
Ep21 Play, Mental Health and CBT; An interview with Claire
Welcome to this week's episode of Pondering Play and Therapy. Claire, a clinical service lead for CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), joins the podcast to discuss childhood mental health, CBT, and the different services that can be accessed through CAMHS. Claire also discusses the different types of services and interventions that are offered, including inpatient, clinic, and
Ep20 Play and Traditions
In this week’s episode, hosts Philippa and Julie ponder the playful traditions that shape who we are—past and present. From cherished family games like cribbage and Rummy to the joyful, sometimes complex dance of blending new traditions in modern families, they explore how play weaves connection, identity, and belonging across generations. Through personal stories, thoughtful metaphors, and reflec
Ep19 Play in an American Private Practice; an interview with Mandy Jones
Podcast Episode Description:In this insightful episode, we sit down with Mandy Jones, a skilled therapist, based in Chicago, who shares her expertise on the transformative power of play in therapy. Mandy discusses her unique approach, combining sand tray work and Theraplay, to help children and adults process and understand their trauma. She explains how these therapeutic techniques foster emotion
Ep18 Play and the impact of disadvantaged communities
In this episode of 'Pondering Play and Therapy,' hosts Julie and Philippa discuss the significant reduction of play spaces for children and teenagers within communities affected by poverty and deprivation. Reflecting on changes over the past 10-15 years, they explore how budget cuts and austerity measures have led to the loss of essential community resources like parks, youth clubs, and
Ep17 Play and Cheerleading; an Interview with Tilly and Sarah
Welcome to Pondering Play and Therapy, the podcast where we ponder the worlds of play, passion, and personal growth. In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of talking to Tilly and her mum, Sarah, to explore Tilly’s inspiring journey as an international cheerleading athlete. At just 14 years old, Tilly became the youngest member of an international cheerleading team, and today, she’s sharing the
Ep16 Play and can it be learnt?
Podcast Description:This week, we are pondering the fascinating world of play—specifically, can play be learned? Over the past few weeks and months of recording, we've been reflecting on how play happens with children, babies and adults. We’ll start by looking at the early stages of life—how even before birth, the unborn child begins to interact with the world around them. From there, we&apos
Ep15 Play, The Importance of representation and EMDR; An interview with Dr Chanae Mayers
It was an honour to interview Dr Mayers and hear about her journey to becoming a clinical psychologist. She talked about her experience of play and the importance of having toys, books and figures in psychology to support her aspirations. She gave a beautiful insight into her childhood growing up in the west midlands, in a big family and how she and her siblings continue the traditions of play.Dr
Ep14 Play and Everyday Things
Podcast Episode Description:In this week’s episode, Philippa and Julie ponder the role that everyday things can play in fostering connection and playfulness within families. They explore how simple, daily moments can create meaningful rituals, promote connection, and offer a playful approach to life. Sharing personal stories from their own families, they discuss how incorporating playfulness into
Ep13 Play and Little City; An interview with Vicki Fletcher
In today's episode, Philippa interviews Vicki, the founder of Little City, which is a mobile role-play centre for little people. She shares her love of Sylvanian families and how she wanted to move away from corporate life and spend more time with her children and family.Vicki shares the excitement that little people get from role-playing real-life experiences, and how this develops connectio
Ep12 Play and Child on Parent Violence
Welcome to this week’s episode of Pondering Play and Therapy, where Julie and Philippa think about an important and often difficult topic—child-to-parent violence. In today’s episode, we explore the complex relationship between a child’s anger, rage, and violence, and how these behaviors can fit into the broader context of their development. While it’s normal for children to experience intense emo
Ep11 Play and Fostering and Interview with Venny
Philippa's guest for this episode is Venny, who shares her experience as a foster carer and how important play is when fostering. She also has stepchildren, birth children, and a huge amount of, grandchildren, at least two football teams worth of grandchildren, along with, her husband, Brian, and they've been foster carers for 13 years. She shares how she has noticed the huge role play h
Ep10 Play, Rupture and Repair - Part 2
In this week’s episode, part two of our Rupture and Repair series, we ponder how play and playfulness can be a key role in the process of repair. We explore why rupture and repair are essential, not just for child development, but also for building strong relationships. The ability to repair is something that starts with adults modeling the process, as children need to experience and understand it
Ep9 Play and Video Interaction Guidance; an interview with Hilary Kennedy
This week our guest is Hilary Kennedy. She is a leading developer of video interaction guidance called VIG in the UK, an educational psychologist and an honorary research associate at the University College of London. She has co-edited 2 books. Video Interaction Guidance (VIG) is an intervention which builds positive relationships through filming and feedback sessions. It is a strengths-based, br
Ep8 Play, Rupture and Repair - Part 1
This week, we are exploring how play relates to the concepts of rupture and repair within relationships, particularly focusing on the bond between an adult and a child. When we refer to rupture, we mean a moment of disconnection in the relationship, which can manifest differently depending on the child's age, whether they are a baby or a toddler.We will also discuss the distinction between g
Ep7 Play and Parental Guilt
This week, we will ponder the feelings of guilt experienced by parents, caregivers, grandparents, and adults. A listener's question about the lack of joy some parents feel when it comes to playing with their children, whether they do not have the time to play, or whether they feel unable to engage in play at all prompted this topic. This guilt can be quite significant.In a previous episode, w
