Introduction to Therapeutic Play – Training Overview

This training is appropriate for professionals who are interested in becoming a play therapist or who would like to increase their existing skill set to incorporate play therapy skills and activities into their existing work. It is recommended for those beginning their play therapy training process (0-35 prior APT approved training hours completed.) This training is not sufficient for registration as a Play Therapist in the United States. However, those who complete the training will be well prepared to begin conducting play therapy sessions under supervision and will be equipped for additional, more advanced training opportunities.

The presentation method of the Level One training is a combination of lecture and PowerPoint, group activities, role plays, video examples, and experiential or hands on activities. The emphasis will be on experiential activities and real world practical applications including experience in a fully equipped play room. Guest speakers with specialized knowledge and experience will be utilized whenever available. All training materials and supplies will be provided.

Although each day has a specific set of topics to provide structure, the program is cumulative and each day will draw on the previous days’ activities and experiences. Therefore, full attendance and participation is required for successful program completion. Conversations and information regarding ethics and ethical applications will be integrated throughout the curriculum. The topics and schedule of presentation of particular topics may vary.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon successful completion of this program participants will:

• Understand the history of play therapy and its current application.
• Understand the benefits and requirements for obtaining an RPT credential.
• Understand the role of the play therapist.
• Understand the continuum of directiveness and the consciousness in play therapy as described by the Dimensions Model.
• Identify various models or theories of play therapy and begin to describe their own theoretical orientation.
• Be able to track and reflect through a role played therapy session.
• Identify the brain structures involved in play.
• Have an awareness of the importance of child development and neurological development in application to play and play therapy.
• Have exposure to and practice at least five distinct play modalities.
• Be prepared to set up a basic playroom or mobile play therapy kit.
• Be prepared to plan and implement a basic play therapy assessment and treatment plan.
• Understand the use of metaphor, symbols, themes and the underlying narrative in play therapy.
• Identify unique ethical concerns related to play therapy.
• Identify immediate applications for their current practice and ideas for future implementation of new ideas and skills learned throughout the week.
• Complete an exercise to identify their own developmental trajectory as a play therapist and plan for further learning and skill building.

This training course is recommended for individuals who are beginning their play therapy training process. (0-35 prior APT approved training hours completed). This training is not sufficient for registration as a Play Therapist in the United States. However, those who complete the training will be well prepared to begin conducting play therapy sessions under supervision and will be equipped for additional, more advanced training opportunities.