391 | When a Child Doesn't Want to Stop: Navigating Termination in CCPT

About this episode

This episode discusses navigating the termination process in child-centered play therapy, focusing on readiness and relational dynamics.

In this episode, I answer a question about preparing a child and family for termination in child-centered play therapy—especially when the child appears clinically ready, but the parent is still seeing concerns outside the playroom. I walk through how to assess readiness using the four termination criteria, including both clinical and environmental factors, and explain why it can feel unclear when progress is happening in most settings but not at home. In those cases, I emphasize that the issue may not be the child's readiness, but rather a relational dynamic within that specific environment. I also discuss how to navigate the emotional and relational complexities of termination, particularly with children who have attachment needs and view the playroom as a primary source of safety. I explain why termination must be a gradual, intentional process—with clear communication, countdowns, and consistent language that preserves the child's sense of security. Finally, I introduce the idea of transitioning to CPRT when appropriate, allowing both the child and parent to continue their work in a way that strengthens the relationship. This episode is a reminder that termination is not an…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Brenna Hicks

Topics covered

• termination in child-centered play therapy
• assessing readiness
• emotional complexities
• relational dynamics
• transitioning to CPRT

Keywords

• child-centered play therapy
• termination
• readiness
• emotional complexities
• attachment needs
• CPRT

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