The Force Within the Family

This October, I’ll be stepping onto the stage at the 2025 SITH Conference to share on one of my favorite topics: "The Force Within the Family – Navigating Challenging Family Dynamics Through Play Therapy & Creative Approaches."

Yes, we’ll dive into systemic dynamics, attachment repair, and creative play interventions, but we’ll also take a few detours through the Marvel universe, joining the unlikely (yet fiercely loyal) crew from Guardians of the Galaxy. Because let’s be honest - many of the families we work with could give Star-Lord’s team a run for their money when it comes to clashing personalities, hidden strengths, and “how did we end up in this together?” energy.

Rocket Raccoon – The Armor-Wearer

Rocket is quick-witted, heavily armed (emotionally and otherwise), and suspicious of just about everyone. We’ve all met the Rocket in the therapy room - the child who strikes first with sarcasm, the caregiver who lists all the ways therapy “won’t work” before we’ve even begun.

In our session, we’ll explore creative, low-pressure entry points like:

• Projective play that lets clients “test” trust without direct vulnerability.

• Symbol-based art activities where families can design “protective gear” together - sparking conversation about what’s worth defending.

Because behind Rocket’s barbs lies deep loyalty and longing for connection, and that’s worth digging for.

Groot – The Presence Keeper

With a vocabulary of three words (“I am Groot”), Groot models something we sometimes forget: you don’t need a lot of language to communicate safety.

We’ll discuss strategies for creating simple, powerful connection cues in families, like:

• A one-word grounding prompt (“Together,” “Pause”) to use in heated moments.

• A shared nonverbal signal (hands over heart, a small fist-bump) as a “we’re okay” message.

Because sometimes, a family’s healing isn’t in the talking; it’s in the being.

Star-Lord – The Reluctant Leader

Star-Lord often finds himself leading the group… usually while protesting that he’s not ready for it. Many parents step into therapy feeling the same way - uncertain, overwhelmed, and convinced someone else would do a better job.

Through role-play and narrative play therapy, we’ll explore how to:

• Help “reluctant leaders” identify strengths they already use in other contexts.

• Frame parenting challenges as adventures they can navigate (with backup).

After all, even Star-Lord becomes more confident when he realizes his crew has his back.

Gamora & Nebula – Healing Old Wounds

Sisters. Rivals. Survivors of the same trauma. In family therapy, we often encounter sibling or caregiver relationships with decades-old hurts simmering under the surface.

Using therapeutic storytelling and sand tray interventions, we’ll look at ways to:

• Create space for acknowledgment without forcing forgiveness.

• Explore parallel play activities to rebuild trust at a safe distance.

Gamora and Nebula’s journey reminds us that reconciliation can be slow, but even guarded relationships can move toward repair.

Why the Guardians Matter in Play Therapy

Pop culture metaphors aren’t just fun - they stick. Families remember them. Therapists can adapt them. And sometimes, a child will open up faster when they realize you know who Rocket and Groot are.

At the 2025 SITH Conference, we’ll blend:

• Evidence-based family therapy frameworks

• Play and creative arts interventions

• Pop culture parallels that make the work accessible, memorable, and yes — even enjoyable

The Guardians aren’t perfect - in fact, they’re gloriously imperfect. But they remind us of something essential in our therapy work:

Every member of a system has a role, a voice, and a potential for change — even if that change starts in chaos.

So, grab your metaphorical cassette player, tune up the Milano, and join me in October as we explore the Force Within the Family — with a little help from our galaxy-saving friends.

---

Meet Jennifer Shivey, a passionate and dedicated play therapist, former group practice owner, LGBTQ+ advocate for youth, and international speaker and consultant. Jennifer Shivey holds a MA in Community Counseling, is a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, an Approved Clinical Supervisor and an Approved Provider with the Association for Play Therapy. Her journey into the world of play therapy began with a deep understanding of the power of play in facilitating communication and healing among young individuals. Ms. Shivey is a sought-after international speaker and consultant. She shares her expertise with mental health professionals, educators, caregivers and communities. Ms. Shivey’s presentations focus on the importance of play therapy, inclusive practices, and creating supportive environments for LGBTQ+ youth around the world.