Play Therapy 1: the Therapeutic Power of Play

The learner will gain an understanding of the underlying foundation of play therapy, the intake and assessment process, how to set up a playroom and the rationale for toys in the playroom. We will explore how to establish rapport with the child and parents, the approaches to play therapy, directive versus non-directive, as well as attachment in play therapy and family play therapy. This introductory course is for mental health therapists, psychologists, clinical social workers, family therapists, school counsellors, and child care workers working with children and youth between 3-17 years old. The teaching modalities include didactic material, video demonstrations, live demonstrations, case studies, and experiential role-plays. This course is not a part of the Certificate in Expressive Play Therapy.