In this episode of the Spero Anchor of Hope Podcast, host Tunezia Badger sits down with Spero play therapy expert and therapist Becca Chavez and parent Rachael Foltz to talk all things play therapy—what it is, how it looks in practice, and how parents can support their children along the way.

Together, they share practical, real-life tips parents can use at home to strengthen connection, encourage emotional expression, and reinforce the progress children make in play therapy. Rachael offers firsthand insight as a parent whose child participates in play therapy at Spero, sharing an honest and hopeful perspective on the impact it has had on her family.

Whether your child is currently in play therapy or you’re curious about how play supports emotional growth, this episode is filled with encouragement, guidance, and actionable takeaways for parents navigating their child’s mental health journey.

Welcome to the Spero Anchor of Hope Podcast! In this heartwarming episode, "Play Therapy in the Sand Tray," host Tunezia Badger sits down with Amanda Winchell, Play Therapy Coordinator at Spero Family Services’ Counseling and Wellness Center.

Together, they explore how play is a child’s natural language and how sand tray therapy helps children express feelings, solve problems, and heal. Listen in as they give a hands-on demo and share inspiring stories from Amanda's work, showing how play can unlock hope and healing for both kids and adults.

In this episode of the Anchor of Hope Podcast, host Tunezia Badger dives into the transformative framework known as CARE (Children And Residential Experiences) and how it's being implemented at Spero Family Services. Special guests Rich Hereshiak from Cornell University and Valerie Bundy from Spero share what CARE is, why it matters, and the positive changes it's bringing to individuals, families, and communities.

Together, they explore Spero’s journey to becoming a CARE organization, the impact it’s having on clients and staff, and what the future holds. Tune in to hear real stories of hope, growth, and community-driven support—plus, inspiring closing thoughts from both guests.