Agenda & Learning Objectives

1. Introduction to Play Therapy – How to Use It

• Overview: Understanding Play Therapy’s role in emotional expression and child development.
• Techniques and Approaches:
  • Non-Directive vs. Directive: Child-led vs. therapist-guided play.
  • Soft vs. Hard Mediums: Impact of materials (e.g., toys vs. writing tools) on therapy.
  • Assessment and Benefits: Using play for diagnostic insights and emotional healing.

1. Hands-On Learning: Play Therapy Techniques

• Non-Directive Techniques:
  • Sand Tray, Watercolors, Play Dough, Drawings, House-Tree-Person, Finger Painting.
• Directive Techniques:
  • I Spy, Movement & Music, Drama, Puppets, Maps, What Do You Want to Be?, Animal Play, Doll House, Dance, Board Games, Emotions – Feeling Faces.
• Interactive Practice: Participants will engage with these techniques through group activities.

III. Play Therapy for Specific Disorders

• Techniques for:
  • Anger & OCD
  • Anxiety
  • ADHD
  • Depression & Self-Esteem
  • Trauma & PTSD
  • Abuse
  • Fears

1. Play Therapy with Families, Groups, and Couples

• How to apply Play Therapy in family, group, and couples settings for enhanced communication and healing.

1. Areas of Caution

• Mediums: Choosing appropriate materials.
• Sexualized/Acting Out Behaviors: Addressing inappropriate behaviors.
• Abuse-Related Play: Understanding repetitive themes in abused children.

1. Conclusion

• Q&A and Reflection: Discuss experiences, insights, and integration into practice.

Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the Purpose and Goals of Play Therapy
   • Grasp how Play Therapy helps children express emotions, process trauma, and develop coping skills.
2. Learn and Implement Play Therapy Techniques
   • Acquire practical, easy-to-use techniques tailored to specific issues such as anxiety, anger, ADHD, and trauma.
3. Use Play Therapy as a Diagnostic Tool
   • Learn how to interpret children’s play to assess their emotional and psychological state.
4. Match Techniques to Presenting Problems
   • Understand which Play Therapy techniques are most effective for different children and issues (e.g., self-esteem, depression, fears).
5. Address Areas of Caution
   • Identify important considerations when selecting materials, including potential risks with certain types of play and behaviors.
6. Apply Play Therapy in Various Settings
   • Learn how to use Play Therapy techniques effectively in individual, group, and family therapy contexts.