S3E10 – Handling Power Struggles and Big Feelings the Child-Centered Way

Oct 28, 2025

In this episode, I answer a listener question from Lisa about how play therapy helps when parents aren’t in the room — and how to handle power struggles and aggression at home in a child-centered way. I explain why it’s actually beneficial for children to be alone with the therapist, how they naturally bring their struggles into the playroom, and why parents’ presence can sometimes prevent the real work from happening.

I also share practical guidance for managing intense emotions and aggression at home — including when to set limits, how to handle big outbursts, and what to do when your child’s behavior escalates. These principles help parents respond calmly, model regulation, and give their children the space to develop self-control and emotional balance.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected]
My Book: Device Detox: A Parent’s Guide To Reducing Usage, Preventing Tantrums, And Raising Happier Kids – https://a.co/d/bThnKH9
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Common References:
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.

Common Play Therapy 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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