Hello and welcome,

thank you for visiting my website!

I’m Jackie Flynn, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself and share a bit about my work and passions with you.

About Jackie Flynn, EdS, LMHC-S, RPT-S™

Jackie Flynn is a passionate advocate for healing through play, EMDR, and the natural world. As the owner of Counseling in Brevard in Cocoa Beach, Florida, Jackie works with individuals of all ages, using play therapy, expressive therapies, and EMDR to foster deep and lasting transformation. Her practice is built on compassion, connection, and the healing power of creativity and nature, offering clients a safe space to process emotions, regulate their nervous systems, and move toward resilience.

With a rich background as a former middle school teacher, professional school counselor, and school-based clinician, Jackie holds an Education Specialist degree and brings decades of experience to her work. Whether helping children heal from trauma, supporting adults in managing anxiety, or guiding families through emotional challenges, Jackie’s approach integrates evidence-based techniques with the unique needs of each client.

Jackie is also deeply committed to supporting clinicians in their professional growth. As the founder of EMDR and Play Therapy Integration Support and creator of ReWilding EMDR™, she teaches therapists how to infuse play and nature into the 8 phases of EMDR therapy. Her work as an EMDRIA-approved trainer, consultant, and Association for Play Therapy-approved provider is widely recognized for its innovation and accessibility. Through her trainings, supervision, and consultation, she equips therapists with tools to create more powerful healing experiences for their clients.

As an author and leader in the field, Jackie has written several children’s books and the widely acclaimed EMDR with Kids Flip Chart: A Play-Based Tool for Trauma Processing, Nervous System Regulation, and the Transformation of Adaptive Behaviors. Her upcoming book, Play is the Therapy: A Clinician’s Companion for Surpassing the Limitation of Words, reflects her belief that play and nervous system regulation are vital for healing—especially when words fall short.

Jackie’s passion for play, nature, and the therapeutic process shines through in everything she does, from hosting the Play Therapy Community™ podcast to leading the EMDR with Kids™ Community. Grounded in the healing power of safe, human connection, her work empowers both clients and therapists to thrive.

Whether you’re seeking support as a client or guidance as a clinician, Jackie brings warmth, expertise, and creativity to every interaction, helping individuals and families heal and grow through play and EMDR.

  • As a Certified EMDR therapist, an EMDRIA Approved Consultant, an Approved Provider for the Association for Play Therapy, and an EMDRIA Approved Trainer, I wear many hats in the realm of therapy and education. My journey has been fueled by a deep desire to reduce global suffering and enhance the lives of individuals, especially children and families. I strive to deliver top-notch experiential trainings, consultations, and develop clinical resources that specifically cater to child therapists.

  • I’ve earned certification from Integrated Listening Systems (ILS) to provide the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a non-invasive application of the Polyvagal Theory, suitable for individuals of all ages. While my work is widely recognized for its impact on children, teens, and families, I also assist individuals across all age groups. My proficiency in telehealth allows me to extend the healing touch of Play and EMDR therapies to clinicians worldwide.

  • Beyond my Play Therapy trainings, EMDR advanced training, and consultation efforts, I host the Play Therapy Community podcast and the annual Innovative Child Therapy Symposium. These platforms have allowed me to connect with thousands of professionals globally, sharing knowledge and fostering a supportive community. I also organize the annual Neuroscience of Play Therapy Summit at the beach and co-host the Playful EMDR Summit.

  • In addition to these endeavors, I maintain a private practice in Central Florida, where I integrate play therapy into my work with children and families. As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor™, I am deeply committed to helping other clinicians grow in their practice.

    I am proud to be an APT Approved Provider (20-628) and an EMDR International Association EC Provider (#19012-29). My expertise in neuroscience-informed therapy, particularly the integration of play and nature into EMDR therapy, has been a cornerstone of my work. I am the author of several impactful books, including "In My Body I Feel: A Story about the Felt Sense of Emotions" and "Being Human: A Polyvagal Informed Story about the States of the Nervous System."

  • My trainings and consultations are known for their engaging and practical approach. I focus on making complex neuroscientific concepts accessible and usable in therapy. I am passionate about the healing power of play and nature and believe in the immense potential of community and collaboration.

    Years ago, in 2016, I started the PLAY THERAPY COMMUNITY podcast. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and learning from some of the most knowledgeable, skilled, and generous people on the planet. The "community" aspect of PLAY THERAPY COMMUNITY has been a source of immense joy and inspiration for me.

  • Fast forward to now, in 2024, and I am still in awe of all the amazing people I’ve met in our PLAY THERAPY COMMUNITY. Hosting the annual INNOVATIVE CHILD THERAPY SYMPOSIUM and co-hosting the NEUROSCIENCE OF PLAY THERAPY SUMMIT AT THE BEACH, as well as the PLAYFUL EMDR Summit, have been highlights of my career.

    I also host the PLAY THERAPY LEARNING COMMUNITY, a membership platform where we focus on growing our resources and skills and reaping the benefits of being with like-minded individuals. This community is a unique space where pulling together can really make a difference.

  • Additionally, my passion for teaching has taken me around the globe, conducting workshops and training sessions for clinicians worldwide. It's an honor to share my expertise and help therapists integrate innovative approaches into their practices.

    If you are interested in learning more about my books, workshops, or if you would like me to train your staff or present a keynote at your event, please feel free to contact us.

    Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. I look forward to supporting you in your professional growth and contributing to the field of EMDR, Play Therapy, and neuroscience-informed practices.