126: Supporting Neurodivergent Clients Through Play, EMDR, and Advocacy with Dr. Robert Jason Grant

Welcome to EMDR Playground, the podcast for therapists who want to integrate EMDR and play with confidence, clarity, and creativity. Hosted by Jackie Flynn, Registered Play Therapist, EMDRIA Trainer, and author of the EMDR with Kids Flipchart, this show explores how fidelity to the EMDR model, a deep understanding of the nervous system, and the language of play can transform therapy for children, teens, and adults. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert conversations, and insights you can use right away to help your clients heal more deeply. Whether you're EMDR-trained or just beginning to explore this powerful approach, EMDR Playground is your space to grow, connect, and bring more depth and effectiveness to your work. In this episode of the Play Therapy Community Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Robert Jason Grant, creator of AutPlay Therapy, for a conversation recorded at the AutPlay Therapy Clinic in Springfield, Missouri. Together, we explore what it means to truly provide neurodivergent-affirming care and how play therapy, EMDR, advocacy, and relationship-centered practice can work together to support autistic, ADHD, and other neurodivergent children, teens, and families. Robert shares insights from his clinical work, training experiences, and lived perspective as a neurodivergent clinician. We discuss moving beyond compliance-based approaches, supporting authentic self-expression, empowering self-advocacy, and creating therapeutic spaces where neurodivergent clients can thrive rather than simply adapt. Whether you're a play therapist, EMDR therapist, school counselor, or mental health professional, this conversation offers practical ideas and thoughtful reflections for building a more affirming and responsive practice. Learn More About Dr. Robert Jason Grant • RobertjasongrantThe Play and Family Therapy Center • AutplaytherapyHome - AutPlay Therapy Upcoming Training • EMDR Playground Immersion Ce-go 2027 EMDR Playground Immersion Connect with Jackie Flynn • JackieflynnconsultingJackie Flynn Consulting | EMDR Training, Consultation & Play Therapy • Playtherapycommunityplaytherapycommunity.com