Robert Jason Grant EdD

01/20/2026

There is no such thing as toxic empathy. People say this who want to be cruel to other people and not called out for their cruelty.

Also, they don’t even know what empathy means.

01/07/2026

Jen Taylor and I are doing something a little different with our featured AutPlay home study courses this year and we think you will like it! Each quarter there will be a different free training and then two additional trainings related to the free training that will be 20% off for the whole quarter!

We are getting things started with the free training Play Therapy Theories: A Basic Overview. To dive deeper, Play Therapy Theories are So Playful and The History of Play Therapy will be 20% off until March 31st using code GRANT20.

I hope you enjoy diving into my favorite modality – Play Therapy!

This 1.5 hour recorded course from Dr. Robert Jason Grant identifies the 10 seminal and historically significant play therapy theories identified by the Association for Play Therapy (APT).

01/05/2026

It is time! Start planning, reserve your hotel room, register! You don't want to miss this play therapy retreat with myself, Jessica Stone, Ph.D., RPT-S, and Clair Mellenthin Lcsw. Regulation, Relationship, and Representation in Play Therapy (In Person Palisade, Colorado).
July 30, July 31, and August 1, 2026

Join us for the third annual immersive play therapy retreat in beautiful Palisade, Colorado, where we’ll explore the powerful triad of Regulation, Relationship, and Representation in therapeutic work with children and families. Led by three experienced clinicians with specialties in neurodivergence, attachment, and digital play, this 2.5-day experience invites you to deepen your practice through an integrative, developmentally grounded lens.

This year’s retreat offers a dynamic blend of theory, hands-on tools, and experiential learning. Together, we’ll examine how play therapy supports nervous system regulation, fosters safe and secure relational dynamics, and opens space for the creative representation of self—especially for children with diverse neurobiological profiles and lived experiences.

July 30, July 31, and August 1, 2026

12/28/2025

Day One of AutPlay®, EMDR, and Trauma-Informed Integration: Supporting Neurodivergent Children Across Settings was so good and fun, it just felt right! Thanks to my training partner Jackie Flynn and our wonderful group of participants! I started the day with a beach sunrise and ended it feeling accomplished. Ready for Day Two!

12/25/2025

12/17/2025

https://www.npr.org/2025/09/13/nx-s1-5506114/why-parents-need-talk-teens-ai-how-to-start-conversation

Many teens are using artificial intelligence chatbots like ChatGPT for everything from homework to relationship advice. Experts say parents must lead the way in helping them understand the technology.

12/10/2025

Our featured AutPlay home study course for the month of December is Using Child and Play Therapy to Address Sensory Processing Challenges. It is 50% off for the month of December!!! All information and registration here:
https://courses.jentaylorplaytherapy.com/courses/using-play-therapy-to-address-sensory-processing-challenges?fbclid=IwY2xjawOmjhhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeCaPUWWiU-EgYY6GsalSbr7qN0SsIb_du5GvOoc7v5hhTaamTbVQr2DuDPtE_aem_Z1zMgAgJdovnUIXAK3_qjw

This 8 hour course from Dr. Robert Jason Grant explores play therapy interventions to address sensory processing differences through neurodiversity affirming lens. The benefits of non-directive and structured play therapy will be covered.

12/08/2025

Three weeks until this awesome training opportunity! Can't wait! AutPlay®, EMDR, and Trauma-Informed Integration: Supporting Neurodivergent Children Across Settings

All information and registration here:

December 27, 28, & 29, 2025

12/03/2025

When screen battles feel never-ending
You’re not imagining it — transitions are harder for a child’s brain than we often realise. Especially for neurodivergent young people, coming away from a screen isn’t a behaviour choice. It’s a nervous system shift.

When the dopamine drop hits
Screens create focus, comfort and predictable reward — so stopping suddenly can feel like falling off a cliff. Understanding the brain chemistry behind the struggle helps us respond with support, not frustration.

When it’s not defiance at all
So many meltdowns are simply a child overwhelmed by the jump from one state to another. Their brain isn’t misbehaving — it’s protecting them from overload.

When we can make transitions kinder
A few small changes — connection first, visual cues, sensory bridges, predictable rituals — can transform the experience for everyone at home or in the classroom.

When calm replaces conflict
The goal isn’t to remove screens. It’s to remove the stress around the transition. When we honour the brain, the battles ease.

When you want deeper support
If screens, meltdowns or dysregulation are daily challenges, my behaviour and emotional regulation toolkits walk you through scripts, routines and practical brain-based strategies. Link in comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.

11/19/2025

Wondering how to identify APT continuing education trainings?