Play-Based Therapy Fun

In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie Sherman chats with Bradi O’Rourke, owner of Braxy Speech Therapy, all about the magic of play-based, child-led therapy.Bradi breaks down how ditching rigid, drill-heavy sessions and leaning into connection, creativity, and a little bit of mess can lead to more meaningful communication. She shares how meeting kids where they are, following their lead, and making therapy feel natural (and actually fun!) can create real progress that carries over beyond the session.If you’re ready to loosen up your sessions and make therapy feel more engaging for both you and your students, this episode is for you.Bullet Points to Discuss:-What play-based, child-led therapy actually looks like beyond just “playing games”-Why connection over compliance leads to more meaningful communication-How to naturally target speech and language goals within play-The mindset shift from therapist-led sessions to following the child’s lead-How to handle parents who expect more structured, drill-based therapy-Why functional goals matter—and how to rethink them in real-life contexts-How involving parents during sessions can boost carryover at homeHere’s what we learned:If it’s not functional in play, it’s probably not a functional goal.Kids learn best when they feel safe, engaged, and in control of their environment.You don’t need a perfect plan—your skills as an SLP will show up naturally in play.Connection and engagement will always beat rigid structure and drills.Educating parents is key—once they understand the “why,” they’re more likely to trust the process.Progress doesn’t always look structured—but it is happening.Learn more about Bradi O’Rourke:Instagram: @braxy_speech_therapyWebsite: www.braxyspeechtherapy.comProduct downloads on my website: www.braxyspeechtherapy.com/category/all-productsEmail Addressbradi@braxyspeechtherapy.comLearn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signup📘✨ Grab your copy of The Secondary SLP Roadmap here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/stf-bookSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets