Sept. 24, 2025
On the "When Not Yet Becomes Right Now" podcast, we dive deep into the pivotal moments of transformation - the times when hesitation fades and the journey of healing begins. Host Jen Ginty, a childhood abuse survivor herself, created this podcast as a space to explore the countless journeys people take, from healing and parenting to self-discovery, to show listeners that they are not alone.
In this powerful episode, Jen speaks with licensed professional counselor Stacy Schaffer, whose own life story is a testament to the podcast's central theme. Stacy’s journey from her own childhood trauma to becoming a therapist is a profound example of how personal struggles can shape a passion for helping others - a recurring theme we've seen with inspiring guests like betrayal recovery specialist Vanessa Cardenas and trauma-informed specialist Michelle Holling-Brooks. Stacy shares insights on the impact of betrayal, the importance of therapy for children, and her innovative work with Synergetic Play Therapy.
Stacy's "Right Now" Moment: From Pain to Purpose
Every journey of change is ignited by a spark. For Stacy, her desire to help others was shaped by her own early life trauma. In the episode, she candidly discusses her origin story, explaining how these foundational experiences created a deep-seated empathy and drive to support children facing their own adversities. This mirrors the catalyst for so many healing journeys, including Jen's own, which began when a personal crisis forced her to confront her past and say "right now" to her own healing.
A significant part of Stacy's story involves the lasting impact of betrayal from caregivers. This conversation echoes themes explored in other episodes, such as the discussion on micro-betrayals and generational trauma, highlighting how these wounds can profoundly affect our ability to trust and form relationships. Stacy’s perspective underscores why addressing these core injuries through therapy is not a luxury, but a necessity for healing.
Innovative Healing: The Power of Feeling Seen
For children processing trauma, feeling seen and understood is paramount. Stacy introduces an innovative approach called Synergetic Play Therapy, which centers on the therapist's authenticity to create a safe and connected space for children. This method emphasizes that for healing to occur, a child needs to feel truly seen and accepted by the therapist.
A Message for Parents: Healing is a Family Journey
One of the most crucial takeaways from this conversation is Stacy's emphasis on the role of parents in a child's mental health journey. She stresses that parents should seek support for their own mental health, as their well-being directly impacts their children [33:56]. This empowers parents to become active partners in the healing process.
To further this goal, Stacy has written a book designed to bridge the gap between therapy sessions and home life. Her book provides parents with tools and understanding, reinforcing the lessons learned in therapy. This mission to equip parents and children with better coping skills is something Jen is also passionate about, as seen in her creation of the My Moody Monster®, a therapeutic doll designed to help children manage their big feelings. Both Stacy's book and Jen's doll serve as vital resources that bring therapeutic concepts into the everyday lives of families.
This conversation with Stacy Schaffer is an inspiring and essential listen for anyone interested in the resilience of the human spirit, the paths to healing from childhood trauma, and the importance of supporting the mental health of our children.
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Key Takeaways from the Episode:
• Stacy's early trauma shaped her desire to help others.
• Betrayal from caregivers can have lasting impacts.
• Therapy is essential for healing from childhood trauma.
• Synergetic Play Therapy focuses on therapist authenticity.
• Children need to feel seen and understood in therapy.
• Parents should seek support for their own mental health.
• Stacy's book aims to bridge the gap between therapy and parenting.
• Mental health support is a necessity, not a luxury.
Episode Highlights:
• [06:46] Stacy's Origin Story and Trauma
• [15:06] The Importance of Therapy for Children
• [19:42] Understanding Synergetic Play Therapy
• [33:56] Advice for Parents and Stacy's Book
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