Advancing the Therapeutic Powers of Play

Upcoming Events

    • 5 Apr 2024
    • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Virtual
    Register

    Playful Trauma-Informed Supervision: Expressive Approaches in Play Therapy Supervision

    Supervision is a cornerstone of professional development and the acquisition of clinical skills for play therapists. Using a trauma-informed lens, the workshop will explore play, art, and sand as expressive approaches for play therapy supervision.

    Learning Objectives: After successful completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:

    1. Identify the core components of trauma-informed play therapy supervision
    2. Describe the use of play, art, and sand approaches to integrate into play therapy supervision from a trauma-informed lens
    3. Link specific play, art, and sand interventions with core components of trauma informed supervision for play therapists

    3 APT Live Webinar CE | Intermediate| Play Therapy Special Topics

    This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar."

    About our presenter: Sueann Kenney-Noziska, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S™, specializes in using play therapy in clinical practice with abused & traumatized children and adolescents. She has developed trauma informed interventions, is a contributing author to several publications, and has testified as an expert witness in the areas of child abuse and trauma on the state and national levels.

    NEAPT Members $50; Guests $60 | Limited to 50 participants

    VIRTUAL: This will be a virtual meeting. Participants will be awarded LIVE WEBINAR CE upon successful completion of a post test. Participants must be visible throughout the presentation. This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar."

    NEAPT is approved by the Association for Play Therapy to offer continuing education specific to Play Therapy. APT Approved Provider 02-123. NEAPT maintains responsibility for the program. Registrants understand and agree that any photograph (screen shot), video or audio recording of themselves may be used to further promote NEAPT.

    Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than January 19, 2024. Cancellations are subject to a $15 processing fee. Substitutions (someone else attending) or transfer of registration to another training date may be requested. No refunds or partial refunds after January 19, 2024.

    By registering for this training, you are giving NEAPT permission to add your email to our email list and you are giving permission for NEAPT to use any photographs or screenshots that are taken during the event containing your likeness for promotional purposes.

    • 26 Apr 2024
    • 9:00 AM
    • 27 Apr 2024
    • 5:00 PM
    • Hilton Mystic, 20 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic, CT 06355
    Register

    NO ONSITE REGISTRATION AVAILABLE.

    NEAPT 2024 Annual Conference

    April 26-27, 2024 | Hilton Mystic

    Friday, April 26th | 9:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. - Choose One Session

    Session 1: Family Play Therapy by Jill Forsberg, MA, LMFT, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor

    Family Therapists often ask “what do I do with kids in the room?” This course will explore incorporating the philosophies, core elements and interventions of Family Therapy and Play Therapy. Students will learn how play in Family Therapy helps enhance communication, see systems in action and provides a fun atmosphere for creating change.

    Intermediate| Play Therapy History, Play Therapy Skills and Methods

    Participants will be able to…

      1. Describe the history of and connections between Family Therapy and Play Therapy.
      2. Describe how Play can help in assessing family structure, boundaries, hierarchies, roles and communication.
      3. Demonstrate specific play based Interventions that align with Structural Family Therapy and Experiential/Humanistic Family Therapy.

      Jill Forsberg is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor living and working in Seattle, WA. Jill graduated Antioch University Seattle in 2005 and hit the ground running working at various Community Mental Health Agencies. Jill left Agency life in 2015 and currently has an in home private practice where she sees children, teens and families. Jill also supervises Associate Level clinicians and clinicians working toward their Registered Play Therapist credential. In 2018 Jill returned to Antioch University Seattle, this time as fulltime Teaching Faculty in the Couple and Family Therapy Program. Jill loves living and working in the Pacific Northwest. She and her two yellow labs Stuart Little and Charlotte (Charlie) Web frequent beaches, trails, dog parks and more.

      Session 2:  Helping Parents Support Their Transgender & Gender Expansive Children Using Play Therapy by Mary Beth Murray, LCSW, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor™ 

      Play therapists often face the important task of supporting parents and caregivers who have transgender, gender expansive and gender creative children.  This workshop will provide participants with tools to recognize barriers to parent acceptance of play therapy clients, clinical strategies to engage parents of play therapy clients in a positive change process, and family play therapy strategies to support parent affirmation and attachment with their transgender children using humanistic, attachment, identity development, family systems and systems theories.  Play therapists will also identify the challenges they face in working with parents of transgender children and use play therapy strategies to replenish themselves, in community. 

      Intermediate| Play Therapy Special Topics

      Participants will be able to...

      1. List three barriers to parent acceptance of transgender, gender expensive and gender creative play therapy clients.
      2. Name three play therapy strategies to engage parents in a positive change process to support their transgender, gender expensive and gender creative child.
      3. Use two family play therapy strategies to support parent affirmation and attachment with their transgender children.
      4. Name three ways play therapists can get community support for working with parents of transgender, gender expensive and gender creative play therapy clients.

      Mary Beth Murray, LCSW, RPT-S™ is a queer-identified child and family therapist, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor and play therapy trainer.  She owns New Moon Therapy and has worked with children and families for 25 years with a focus on growth and recovery when there is stress, trauma or adversity.  She specializes in helping child therapists understand their and their clients identities for inclusive, effective practice.   

          Friday, April 26th | 2:00 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. - Choose One Session

          Session 3: Building Positive Relationships in Play Therapy Setting Utilizing The Nurtured Heart Approach by Dorothy Derapelian, LCMHC 

          The Nurtured Heart Approach® (NHA®) is a best practice approach which transforms the relationship between adults and children who have intense and challenging behaviors. We know that children who have sustained trauma can be aggressive, defensive, and sometimes unapproachable. These are some of the behaviors that bring parents to seek the aid of play therapists. NHA® utilizes this intensity to help children see the greatness they have within themselves. It does so by presenting irrefutable evidence in real time when things are going right. When children start feeling noticed and appreciated for the right choices they make, their aggression, defenses come down and they are more approachable. This workshop will guide the participant through the 3 Stands® of the approach. The 3 Stands work soundly together to help the adult notice aloud and with real time evidence without simultaneously giving the negative behaviors the child is used to receiving. Schools that have embraced NHA® have few behavioral problems, fewer referrals for special education services, bullying reductions, just to name a few.

          A brief introduction will be given on NHA® with statistics regarding its effectiveness. From there, many case examples will be provided so that a play therapist can use this method almost instantly with clients in the play therapy setting.

          Foundational | Play Therapy Skills and Methods

          Participants will be able to…

            1. Identify The 3 Stands™ of The Nurtured Heart Approach®.
            2. Describe how to utilize The Nurtured Heart Approach® in a play therapy setting.
            3. Critique the impact of The Nurtured Heart Approach® in the play therapy setting.

            Dorothy Derapelian, LCMHC has had a mental health practice in Meredith NH since 1986. She specializes in play therapy with a focus on foster/adopted children. She also teaches a college course on attachment and conducts adoption home studies. She is part of the trauma informed therapists working with the state Attorney General’s office. She is the creator of Core Attachment Therapy© and an advanced trainer for the Nurtured Heart Approach.

            Session 4: Supporting Transgender & Gender Expansive Youth Through Play Therapy by April Megginson, PhD, LMHC, Registered Play Therapist™ 

            With an increase in legislation aimed to limit their rights (ACLU, 2024), transgender and gender expansive youth are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and depression (Trevor Project, 2023). In this workshop participants will learn about the unique mental health needs of this population. Tips for designing a gender inclusive play therapy practice will be shared. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to engage in a number of play therapy techniques to utilize with this population and their families. This workshop is informed by the presenter’s work and training with this population as well as her personal experience of being a parent of transfer youth.


            Intermediate| Play Therapy Skills & Methods, Play Therapy Special Topics (cultural competence)


            Participants will be able to:

            1. Understand the unique stressors of transgender/gender expansive youth and their families in play therapy.
            2. Design a gender inclusive play therapy practice.
            3. Utilize play therapy techniques with transgender/gender expansive youth and their families.

            April J. Megginson, PhD, LMHC, RPT™ is an Associate Professor at Bridgewater State University in the Counselor Education Department. She has spent over 20 years working with youth and their families in both school and clinical settings. Her passion for transgender mental health and advocacy began when her own child came out as nonbinary. Dr. Megginson owns SolQuest Therapy, PLLC (www.solquesttherapy.com) and utilizes play therapy with clients of all ages.

            Saturday, April 27th | 9:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

            Fostering Connection and Building Healthy Bonds with Transracial Adoptive Families Using Play Therapy  Sabra Starnes, MEd, LICSW, LCSW-C, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor

            This will be a 3-hour in-person training led by Sabra Starnes, a transracial adoptee and adoptive mother. This transformative session, enriched with hands-on activities, videos, and dynamic small and large group discussions, delves into the powerful impact of play therapy. Sabra will share her personal and professional experiences, providing unique insights into the joys and challenges of working with transracial adoptive families.

            Explore crucial elements such as race, culture, attachment, and family bonds, gaining practical tools for important conversations, improved communication, and enhanced resilience within adoptive families. Learn to create a therapeutic space that embraces diversity and fosters secure attachments, navigating the distinct nuances of transracial adoption.
             

            Foundational|Play Therapy Seminal/Historically Significant Theories, Play Therapy Special Topics

            Participants will be able to…

              1. Demonstrate play therapy techniques tailored to address challenges in transracial adoptive families, promoting secure attachments and addressing cultural nuances.
              2. Discuss ways for creating a therapeutic space that embraces diversity and navigates sensitive conversations around race and culture in transracial adoption.
              3. Analyze the intersection of play therapy, attachment, and family systems to enhance communication and resilience in transracial adoptive families, contributing to overall family well-being.

              Saturday, April 27th | 1:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

              Cultivating Compassion: Play Therapy and Cultural Humility for Therapists Sabra Starnes, MEd, LICSW, LCSW-C, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor

              This 3 hour training will allow you to immerse yourself in this transformative session to support your practice through the infusion of compassion and cultural humility. Engage in hands-on activities, participate in dynamic small and large group discussions, and delve into interactive learning experiences—all aimed at actively nurturing a compassionate mindset.

              Guiding you from understanding to action, this immersive training provides practical insights for navigating diverse cultural contexts within your play therapy sessions. Explore the seamless application of these principles in your therapeutic practice to foster a deeper connection with your clients. Join us for a dynamic and enriching 3-hour experience, as we navigate the nuanced journey of play therapy with a dedicated focus on compassion, cultural sensitivity, and practical application, crafted specifically to enhance your role as a play therapist.
               

              Foundational| Play Therapy Cultural and Social Diversity Topics

              Participants will be able to…

              1. Discuss the influence of our personal and professional values, beliefs, and life experiences on establishing a safe and collaborative therapeutic rapport with clients in play therapy sessions.
              2. Analyze the implications of current and historical racial injustices on clients' possible physical and emotional reactions during play therapy sessions.
              3. Demonstrate techniques and activities in play therapy that foster empowerment, support, and constructive therapeutic bonds with both clients and their families.

              Sabra Starnes, MEd, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S™ is an independent Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maryland, DC, Virginia, and Ohio. She is also a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and Clinical supervisor. She is a national speaker, author, trainer, and digital creator.

              Sabra is known for her work in creating and delivering training consultations on adoption-related issues using both a professional and personal perspective as a transitional adoptee and adoptive mother. Sabre prayings a personal and professional view around the adoption area and amplifies the adoptee's voice.

              Sabra owns Next Place Therapy Services, a group practice in Largo, MD, that serves clients ages 3 to 18 and their families using play therapy and expressive therapies. She also owns Next Place Lounge, which offers hybrid training to mental health clinicians nationally and internationally. she creates and delivers her training on adoption play therapy and sand tray. Along with offering therapy enter practice, she provides clinical and play therapy supervision to mental health therapists.

              Sabra ensures that training, supervision, and consultation bring in the work as a therapist to work on cultural humility, understanding intersectionality, and working with all clients.

              Sabra earned her Bachelors of Social Work from Bennett College, her Master's in Social Work from Catholic University, and her Master's in Education from the American University. She has training in IFS, EMDR, Brainspotting, Trust Behavior-Related Intervention, Sandtray, and Theraplay.

              For CE, participants will need to download the form (we will provide a link once received from ICE), complete and mail to ICE with payment of $30.

              SEATING IS LIMITED. REGISTER EARLY!

              CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:

              Friday, April 26, 2024

              8:00 a.m. Registration

              9:00 a.m. Sessions Begin (Choice of #1 or #2)

              12:15 p.m. Lunch on Own 

              2:00 p.m. Sessions Begin (Choice of #3 or #4)

              5:15 p.m. Sessions End

              Saturday, April 27, 2024

              8:00 a.m. Registration, Continental Breakfast and Coffee

              8:45 a.m. Welcome and Opening Remarks

              9:00 a.m. Session Begins

              12:15 p.m. Lunch, Annual Meeting (all invited)

              1:45 p.m. Session Begins

              5:00 p.m. Conference Concludes

              HANDOUTS: In an effort to reduce paper waste and be more “green,” our policy is to email all handouts. Please include a valid email address with your registration to receive the handouts.

              PARKING: Complimentary parking is available at the hotel for participants.

              HEALTH AND SAFETY: At NEAPT, your safety is a priority. As NEAPT moves forward with producing live meetings and conferences, we will continue to monitor the continually evolving guidance released by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as all federal, state, and local government mandates, to provide an environment that is as safe as possible for all event participants. By participating in person, I agree to follow the meeting’s health and safety policiesAttendees of NEAPT events voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to Covid-19 and its variants, and are advised to undertake precautions deemed necessary, to include those recommended by the CDC and the State of Connecticut. NEAPT will provide hand sanitizers and will allow for social distancing. Let us know if you need something to make you feel more comfortable.

              PHOTO RELEASE: By registering for this conference, you are giving permission for NEAPT to use any photographs that are taken at the event containing your likeness for as long as NEAPT deems appropriate and desirable. Photographs may be used on the NEAPT website, social media pages, and/or newsletter for any purpose. By completing the registration, you are also consenting to waive any rights to the photographs indefinitely. If you do not wish to have your photo used, it is your responsibility to notify registration of your request to be omitted.

              CANCELLATION POLICY: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than April 1, 2024. Cancellations are subject to $35 processing fee. No refunds after April 1, 2024. Substitutions (allowing another person to attend in your place) may be made in writing for no additional cost. No refunds are given due to inclement weather.  

              HOTEL INFORMATION: Hilton Mystic, 20 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic, CT 06355. Attendees are responsible to make hotel reservations. The hotel number is 800-445-8667. Please mention NE Play Therapy Room Block when making reservations. Online booking link may be accessed here. Hilton Mystic website may be accessed here. 

              New England Association for Play Therapy: NEAPT is a professional organization striving to advance the theory and practice of play therapy through activities such as conferences, seminars, and networking in order to serve the mental health needs of New England children, families, schools and communities. For more information on the Conference visit our website at www.newenglandplaytherapy.org.

              EXHIBITS: Exhibitors will be welcome to provide books and therapeutic materials for sale Friday & Saturday. 

              CONTINUING EDUCATION: This program  is co-sponsored, by the New England Association for Play Therapy and The Institute for Continuing Education.  The Conference offers a total of  12.00 CE Hrs. (6.00 hrs. per day), with full attendance required for the days you attend.     

              Continuing education credit is awarded on a daily basis, with full attendance required for the days attended. The CE processing fee is $ 30.00, to be paid by participants who wish to submit application for CE credit for their participation in the program. Application forms and other required CE materials will be available for download for submission to The Institute for Continuing Education. If you have questions regarding the program, continuing education learning objectives, faculty, contact The Institute at: 800-557-1950 / email: instconted@aol.com

              NOTE: To receive continuing education credit, applicants must complete all CE materials, sign in/out at designated locations, and submit an evaluation form for the sessions attended. 

              NOTE: It is the responsibility of the attendee to determine if CE credit offered by The Institute for Continuing Education meets the regulations of their state licensing/certification board(s).  

              NOTE: This program offers no “ethics hours”. The program workshops are not academic and may not be used toward fulfillment of a degree.

              Psychology: Not offered for this training.

              Counseling: For counselors seeking CE credit, The Institute for Continuing Education will submit a co-sponsorship application to NBCC for this program.

              New York: The Institute for Continuing Education is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors.  Provider MHC-0016.

              Social Work: Application for social work continuing education credit has been submitted. This website will be updated regarding approval.  

              New York: The Institute for Continuing Education is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers, Provider SW-0025.

              New JerseyThis program will NOT  be submitted for pre-approval for New Jersey social workers.

              Marriage/Family TherapyThe Institute for Continuing Education is a recognized provider of continuing education by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for MFT, Provider MFT-0012. 

              Massachusetts: This program has not been submitted for pre-approval  for MA MFTs. 

              Play Therapy: The Institute for Continuing Education is approved by The Association for Play Therapy to sponsor continuing education specific to play therapy. The Institute maintains responsibility for the program. APT Provider 98-040. 

              Non-U.S. Professionals: The Institute for Continuing Education holds no CE provider status with Canadian or other Non-U.S. licensing/certification boards.  It is your responsibility to check the regulations of your licensing/certification board to determine CE requirements for training activities.

              Non-Credit Events: Breakfast, lunch, reception events, committee/business meetings, networking sessions.

              Skills Level:  Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced. Attendees are urged to review the session descriptions to determine appropriateness for professional and personal needs.

              Instructional Methodology: May include lecture, demonstration, audio/visual, experiential practice of techniques, case examples, large and small group discussion.

              ADA: If you have special needs, please contact NEAPT at neapt@newenglandplaytherapy.org.

              • 31 May 2024
              • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
              • Northeast Health Services, 108 Grove Street, Suites 307-310, Worcester, MA 01065
              Register

              Utilizing the Powers of Play with Deaf Youth

              Compared to hearing peers, research has shown that deaf children have a greater risk of being exposed to interpersonal trauma (e.g., emotional abuse, neglect, physical and sexual abuse).

              Approximately 90% of deaf youth have hearing parents, with 88% of those hearing parents not knowing sign language (Marks, 2023). Due to language barriers early in life, social learning may  be impacted. A child may not have been able to access their family as models for co-regulation, understanding their emotions, processing their trauma, learning how to safely and clearly express their emotions, or develop a strong sense of beliefs/perspectives.

              In order to best serve deaf trauma-impacted youth, experiential-based models must be a priority in order to accommodate language gaps. Play therapy enhances social relationships by using the impact of the therapeutic relationship and direct communication to provide opportunities for social learning and co-regulation in a safe and trusting space that may not be present in a non-signing environment (Drewes & Schaefer, 2016; Ray & Tapia-Fuselier 2018) Due to how trauma is stored in the amygdala, for some youth expressing and exploring their trauma using language can be challenging and at times, impossible. The combination of symbolic play and direct communication through American Sign Language, facilitates communication and fosters emotional wellness by using play to re-create and re-enact experiences to help youth problem solve, utilize higher executive functioning, and express their perceptions, and in turn increases personal strengths, through the use of interactive and hands-on activities (Greenberg, Rice, & Safran, 1998).

              Learning Objectives: After successful completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:

              1. identify the impact of language deprivation on social emotional learning.
              2. describe the adaptations necessary for working with deaf clients in play therapy.
              3. select 3 play therapy interventions appropriate for use with deaf clients.

              3 Contact CE | Beginning | Play Therapy Special Topics, Play Therapy Cultural and Social Diversity Topics

              About our presenter: Sarah Wintman is an independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts and Registered Play Therapist. Sarah also became certified in Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment and recently completed level 1 in Theraplay. Sarah is originally from NY but moved to MA in 2016 when she became a mental health therapist at the Walden School under The Learning Center for the Deaf in Framingham. There she worked with residential deaf youth ages 7-22 who had additional behavioral, social, and or Trauma needs. In 2022, Sarah joined a group practice and continues to provide play therapy services to deaf youth and their families. Sarah is hearing but has been working with deaf youth for about 10 years and utilizes American Sign Language. Over the past 8 years, Sarah has provided trainings and presentations related to the importance of play, understanding of healing-centered work, providing trauma informed care, and cultural competence regarding working within the Deaf community. 

              NEAPT Members $75; Guests $125; NEHS Staff $50

              This training is approved by APT Approved Provider 02-123 for 3 CE hours. NEAPT maintains responsibility for the program. Registrants understand and agree that any photograph, video or audio recording of themselves may be used to further promote NEAPT.

              Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than May 10, 2024. Cancellations are subject to a $20 processing fee. Substitutions (someone else attending) or transfer of registration to another training date may be requested. No refunds or partial refunds after May 10, 2024.

              By registering for this training, you are giving NEAPT permission to add your email to our email list and you are giving permission for NEAPT to use any photographs or screenshots that are taken during the event containing your likeness for promotional purposes.

              • 31 May 2024
              • 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
              • Virtual
              Register

              Using Reflecting Feelings in Your Play Therapy Practice: The Foundational Skill That Benefits Both Children and Their Parents

              One of the most foundational skills in Play Therapy is Reflecting Feelings, but recent data shows that it is the most underused skill among play therapists. In this workshop, you will receive a Reflecting Feelings crash course, that includes a deep dive into the skill (both theoretically and practically), tips for effective application with parents, articulation of the skill,  why it is necessary,  and strategies to make it more of a routine in your Play Therapy practice. 

              Learning Objectives: After successful completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:

              1. Demonstrate effective use of Reflecting Feelings in Play Therapy practice
              2. Utilize knowledge of Reflecting Feelings skills to communicate and coach parents
              3. Apply knowledge of new emotions to clinical practice, as part of an expanded emotional vocabulary

              3 APT Live Webinar CE | Intermediate| Play Therapy Skills and Methods

              This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar."

              About our presenter: Dr. Brenna Hicks, PhD, LMHC-S, RPT is a licensed, private-practice play therapist and owner of The Kid Counselor Center in the Tampa Bay area. Brenna has been blogging and podcasting about play therapy and parenting since 2006. Her newest podcast, Play Therapy Podcast, has become the epicenter for Child-Centered Play Therapists worldwide. She has been featured in The New York Times, and on CNN and iVillage. She has taught for the University of Wyoming and the University of South Florida, and authored the book, Device Detox: A Parent s Guide To Reducing Usage, Preventing Tantrums, And Raising Happier Kids. A native Floridian, she loves the beach, the sun, and Rays baseball with her husband and son.

              NEAPT Members $50; Guests $60 | Limited to 50 participants

              VIRTUAL: This will be a virtual meeting. Participants will be awarded LIVE WEBINAR CE upon successful completion of a post test. Participants must be visible throughout the presentation. This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar."

              NEAPT is approved by the Association for Play Therapy to offer continuing education specific to Play Therapy. APT Approved Provider 02-123. NEAPT maintains responsibility for the program. Registrants understand and agree that any photograph (screen shot), video or audio recording of themselves may be used to further promote NEAPT.

              Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than May 3, 2024. Cancellations are subject to a $15 processing fee. Substitutions (someone else attending) or transfer of registration to another training date may be requested. No refunds or partial refunds after May 3, 2024.

              By registering for this training, you are giving NEAPT permission to add your email to our email list and you are giving permission for NEAPT to use any photographs or screenshots that are taken during the event containing your likeness for promotional purposes.

              • 22 Jun 2024
              • 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
              • Hallowell Center, 144 North Road, Suite 2450, Sudbury, MA 01776
              Register

              Climbing the Symbolic Ladder: How Principles of DIR®/Floortime Support Play Therapy

              If you take a course on child development, you will learn all of the stages of development and expected milestones including skills in social emotional learning.  However, many children who enter play therapy arrive with developmental differences that impact the child's ability to make progress in reducing interfering symptoms. The Developmental, Individual-differences Relationship-Based Model (DIR®)/Floortime provides a framework for understanding the key social emotional skills that are required for healthy development. Any child with any developmental presentation can benefit from support in developing skills to ‘climb the ladder’ to achieve a new stage of function in self-regulation and social interaction. By focusing on chains of attuned interaction, the play therapist and caregiver support the child in reaching higher order symbolic thinking and relating(Wieder & Greenspan, 2003). In this workshop, participants will learn application of principles of the DIR®/Floortime framework to play therapy through reflection, role play, and case discussion.

              Learning Objectives: After successful completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:

              1. Identify and explain the first six Functional Emotional Developmental Capacities of DIR® and how these relate to children’s play and social interactions and participation in play therapy.
              2. Discuss how shared attention and shared problem-solving support a child’s developing capacity to regulate emotions.
              3. Assess a child’s ability to use spontaneous symbolic play in order to set play goals for play therapy.
              4. Observe and count circles of interactions in adult-child interactions including opening and closing of circles by each partner in order to set interaction goals for play therapy treatment. 

              2 Contact CE | Intermediate| Play Therapy Special Topics

              About our presenter: Denise Galford-Koeppel, PMC, MS, MS Ed, LMHC, RPT™ is a special educator, licensed mental health counselor, trainer, and registered play therapist™ with years of experience. Denise supports children, parents, and educators through the approaches of the Hanen Program®, the Pyramid Model, and Developmental Individual-Differences Relationship -Based Model® with specialization in working with young children.

              NEAPT Members $75; Guests $125; NEHS Staff $50

              This training is approved by APT Approved Provider 02-123 for 2 CE hours. NEAPT maintains responsibility for the program. Registrants understand and agree that any photograph, video or audio recording of themselves may be used to further promote NEAPT.

              Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than June 1, 2024. Cancellations are subject to a $20 processing fee. Substitutions (someone else attending) or transfer of registration to another training date may be requested. No refunds or partial refunds after June 1, 2024.

              By registering for this training, you are giving NEAPT permission to add your email to our email list and you are giving permission for NEAPT to use any photographs or screenshots that are taken during the event containing your likeness for promotional purposes.

              • 2 Aug 2024
              • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
              • Virtual
              Register

              Clinical Applications of Play Therapy with Sexually Victimized Children and Adolescents

              This workshop will explore an integrative approach to using play therapy with victims of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Research and literature pertaining to the dynamics of CSA will be reviewed. The use of directive and expressive play therapy interventions will be discussed. Lecture & case examples will provide participants with a comprehensive learning experience.

              Learning Objectives: After successful completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:

              1. Identify common dynamics of childhood sexual abuse as defined by the literature and the use of these dynamics to underpin play therapy interventions
              2. Identify components of evidence-based treatments that can be used to ground play therapy interventions
              3. Describe 10 play therapy techniques for use in individual and/or group therapy with victims of childhood sexual abuse

              3 APT Live Webinar CE | Intermediate| Play Therapy Skills and Methods, Play Therapy Special Topics

              This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar."

              About our presenter: Sueann Kenney-Noziska, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S™, specializes in using play therapy in clinical practice with abused & traumatized children and adolescents. She has developed trauma informed interventions, is a contributing author to several publications, and has testified as an expert witness in the areas of child abuse and trauma on the state and national levels.

              NEAPT Members $50; Guests $60 | Limited to 50 participants

              VIRTUAL: This will be a virtual meeting. Participants will be awarded LIVE WEBINAR CE upon successful completion of a post test. Participants must be visible throughout the presentation. This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar."

              NEAPT is approved by the Association for Play Therapy to offer continuing education specific to Play Therapy. APT Approved Provider 02-123. NEAPT maintains responsibility for the program. Registrants understand and agree that any photograph (screen shot), video or audio recording of themselves may be used to further promote NEAPT.

              Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than July 12, 2024. Cancellations are subject to a $15 processing fee. Substitutions (someone else attending) or transfer of registration to another training date may be requested. No refunds or partial refunds after July 12, 2024.

              By registering for this training, you are giving NEAPT permission to add your email to our email list and you are giving permission for NEAPT to use any photographs or screenshots that are taken during the event containing your likeness for promotional purposes.

              • 7 Aug 2024
              • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
              • Virtual
              Register

              Transformative Practice in Play Therapy Intersectionality with SOGIE Children, Adolescents, & Their Families

              This three-hour didactic and experiential training is designed to empower play therapists and mental health practitioners in their work with individuals and families within the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE) Community. Through a comprehensive exploration of SOGIE and its intersectionalities, participants will gain insights through an eco-systemic and cultural humanity approach to applying play therapy interventions and aligning mental health practice with the diverse needs of this community.

              Using an integrative approach, the training focuses on the role of identity and developmental play in addressing the unique challenges faced by SOGIE children and adolescents. Culturally sensitive language, gender-affirming practices, and play therapy interventions are focused on by emphasizing the therapeutic potential of play in navigating SOGIE-related issues and enhancing multicultural competencies. The workshop delves into the historical, political, and policy perspectives shaping SOGIE communities, examining identity formation, health, mental health, familial dynamics, and childhood and adolescent issues.

              Participants will acquire a toolbox of relevant play therapy interventions, ensuring their ability to create inclusive, affirming, and culturally sensitive therapeutic environments for individuals navigating the complexities of SOGIE through play. This training offers theoretical perspectives on the intersectionality of SOGIE issues, equipping play therapy practitioners with the knowledge and skills to promote positive mental health outcomes and enhance multicultural competency.

              Learning Objectives: After successful completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:

              1. Showcase an understanding of the influence of personal bias and intersectionality on play therapy and clinical practice while proficiently naming three standard vocabularies and culturally sensitive terms related to SOGIE for application in clinical practice and play therapy with clients and their families.
              2. Analyze and describe two social, emotional, and psychological impacts of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression on children's and adolescents' development and daily lives utilizing a play-focused lens.
              3. Demonstrate five affirmative play dynamics tailored to SOGIE clients and their families, incorporating therapeutic powers of play and relevant clinical considerations into treatment approaches.

              3 APT Live Webinar CE | Intermediate| Play Therapy Skills and Methods, Play Therapy Special Topics

              This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar."

              About our presenter: Kurt W. Oster, LBS (PA), LICSW (AL), LCSW (FL & TX), ACSW, BCD, RPT™, with 16 years in mental health, leads VonOstir Innovation Services, PLLC. As an LCSW, he specializes in working with children, adolescents, LGBTQIA+, and families.  Mr. Oster is also an author of LGBTQ+ fantasy fiction for young adults.

              NEAPT Members $50; Guests $60 | Limited to 50 participants

              VIRTUAL: This will be a virtual meeting. Participants will be awarded LIVE WEBINAR CE upon successful completion of a post test. Participants must be visible throughout the presentation. This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar."

              NEAPT is approved by the Association for Play Therapy to offer continuing education specific to Play Therapy. APT Approved Provider 02-123. NEAPT maintains responsibility for the program. Registrants understand and agree that any photograph (screen shot), video or audio recording of themselves may be used to further promote NEAPT.

              Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than July 17, 2024. Cancellations are subject to a $15 processing fee. Substitutions (someone else attending) or transfer of registration to another training date may be requested. No refunds or partial refunds after July 17, 2024.

              By registering for this training, you are giving NEAPT permission to add your email to our email list and you are giving permission for NEAPT to use any photographs or screenshots that are taken during the event containing your likeness for promotional purposes.

              • 21 Sep 2024
              • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
              • Northeast Health Services, 25 Birch St Building B Suite 204, Milford, MA 01757
              Register

              Assessing Progress for Young Children in Play Therapy

              Play therapy involves delivery of supports tailored to the presentation of the child client. This has led critics to say that play therapy is not evidence based in spite of research to the contrary. How can play therapists use standards of assessment to document change in child clients? How then can play therapists track progress in young children who are unable to particularly verbalize change? In this workshop, participants will discuss the process of initial intake assessment using screening tools focused on young parents including rating scales by caregivers. Participants will examine several tools that can document entrance to therapy and be utilized to review progress and track changes. Tools will include ratings to support diagnosis and referral for additional assessment as well as ways to monitor change in Child Centered Play Therapy. Because there are often limited resources, all screening tools will be ones that are free and available to clinicians.

              Learning Objectives: After successful completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:

              1. Identify appropriate screening and assessment tools for identifying baseline symptoms in young children who present to play therapy
              2. Critique types of information on child presentation based on caregiver rating scales utilized in delivery of play therapy
              3. Discuss application of assessment information to diagnoses, referrals for services and monitoring progress in young children presenting to play therapy

              2 Contact CE | Intermediate| Play Therapy Skills and Methods

              About our presenter: Denise Galford-Koeppel, PMC, MS, MS Ed, LMHC, RPT™ is a special educator, licensed mental health counselor, trainer, and registered play therapist™ with years of experience. Denise supports children, parents, and educators through the approaches of the Hanen Program®, the Pyramid Model, and Developmental Individual-Differences Relationship -Based Model® with specialization in working with young children.

              NEHS Staff $50; NEAPT Members $75; Guests $125; NEHS Staff $50

              This training is approved by APT Approved Provider 02-123 for 2 CE hours. NEAPT maintains responsibility for the program. Registrants understand and agree that any photograph, video or audio recording of themselves may be used to further promote NEAPT.

              Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than September 1, 2024. Cancellations are subject to a $20 processing fee. Substitutions (someone else attending) or transfer of registration to another training date may be requested. No refunds or partial refunds after September 1, 2024.

              By registering for this training, you are giving NEAPT permission to add your email to our email list and you are giving permission for NEAPT to use any photographs or screenshots that are taken during the event containing your likeness for promotional purposes.

            Past events

            8 Mar 2024 Humor in Play Therapy
            2 Feb 2024 4 + 3 = Goals of Misbehavior in Adlerian Play Therapy
            1 Dec 2023 Telehealth and Play Therapy: A Practical Guide to Teleplay
            17 Nov 2023 Back to Basics: Adlerian Play Therapy
            27 Oct 2023 Play Therapy and Divorce: How to Stay Out of Court
            29 Sep 2023 Welcome to the Darkside: Understanding and Using Villains in Play Therapy
            25 Aug 2023 Bibliotherapy: A Play-Based Approach
            27 Jul 2023 Self-Compassion: A Call for Play Therapists Self-Care
            21 Jul 2023 Core Attachment Therapy©-Prescriptive Play Therapy Approach for Working with Developmental Trauma and Attachment
            14 Jul 2023 A Little, Medium, Big, and Biggest: Family play therapy for young children
            1 Jul 2023 See The Apple? Examining Symbolic Play and Play Therapy™
            30 Jun 2023 See The Apple? Examining Symbolic Play and Play Therapy™
            16 Jun 2023 Superheroes and Pop Culture in Play Therapy
            5 May 2023 NEAPT 2023 Annual Conference
            7 Apr 2023 The Culturally Informed Play Therapist: Creating an Inviting Environment
            10 Mar 2023 A play therapy based approach to treating fears and phobias in young children with or without ASD, Williams Syndrome, or other developmental disabilities
            24 Feb 2023 Integrating Internal Family Systems into the Play Therapy Practice
            7 Feb 2023 Utilizing the Integrative Developmental Model of Supervision to Supervise Play Therapy
            27 Jan 2023 Becoming an External Regulator for Trauma Integration in Play Therapy
            9 Dec 2022 Basic Principles of Drama Therapy for Play Therapists
            18 Nov 2022 History and Theory of Play Therapy
            7 Oct 2022 Polyvagal in the Playroom
            10 Jun 2022 History and Theory of Gestalt Play Therapy
            13 May 2022 NEAPT 2022 Annual Conference
            13 May 2022 NEAPT 2022 Annual Conference EXHIBITOR & SPONSOR REGISTRATION
            29 Apr 2022 Filial Play Therapy
            18 Mar 2022 Core Attachment Therapy©: Secure Attachment for the Adopted Child - A Prescriptive Play Therapy Approach
            3 Mar 2022 Introduction to Child-Centered Play Therapy
            17 Feb 2022 Sensory Processing in Play Therapy
            28 Jan 2022 Exploring Relationships through Play Therapy Techniques
            17 Dec 2021 Utilizing Child Centered Play Therapy to Advocate and Support Transgender and Gender Expansive Children and Adolescents
            5 Nov 2021 Nuts and Bolts of Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy
            1 Oct 2021 Adlerian Play Therapy through a Neurobiology Lens
            17 Sep 2021 High Conflict Divorce: Understanding the Whole Picture
            27 Aug 2021 Co-Regulation in Play Therapy: Harnessing the Power of Relational Neuroscience to Improve Your Practice
            29 Jun 2021 Why You Playin’- Using Play to Empower and Build Self-Esteem with Girls
            15 Jun 2021 School-Based Play Therapy: Responding to Children’s Disruptive Behaviors
            13 May 2021 Play Therapy and Children with Disabilities: Going Out on a Limb
            27 Apr 2021 Utilizing Reality Play Therapy to Explore a Child's Quality World
            26 Mar 2021 Supervision of Play Therapy with Traumatized Children
            24 Feb 2021 Looking Deeper into the Presenting Problem: Practicing Cultural Humility in the Play Therapy Setting
            22 Jan 2021 Bibliotherapy: A Play Therapy Approach
            12 Nov 2020 Addressing Grief and Loss in the Play Room
            31 Oct 2020 NEAPT Virtual Conference: Session 5 - Let’s Play (Therapy) Outside!
            30 Oct 2020 NEAPT Virtual Conference: Session 4 - Core Attachment Therapy©: Secure Attachment for the Adopted Child – A Prescriptive Play Therapy Process
            30 Oct 2020 NEAPT Virtual Conference: Session 3 - Playful Supervision Skills for All Levels…Basics and Beyond!
            29 Oct 2020 NEAPT Virtual Conference: Session 2 - Identifying and Utilizing the Therapeutic Powers of Play in Play Therapy
            29 Oct 2020 NEAPT Virtual Conference: Session 1 - Circles and Sticks: Foundational Basics of Play Therapy
            29 Oct 2020 NEAPT Virtual Conference - Continuing Education
            30 Sep 2020 Play Therapy Skills for Building Resiliency with Military Families
            28 Aug 2020 Integrating Play Therapy with EMDR
            7 Aug 2020 Digital Play Therapy
            16 Jul 2020 Playful Ways to Help Children with Anxiety and Anger
            17 Jun 2020 A Play Therapy Approach to Attachment-Disrupted Children
            23 Nov 2019 Movie Day: It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

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            New England Association for Play Therapy is a 501(c)6 nonprofit organization. 

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