Play is a child’s natural language, Winnicott referred to it play as a child’s “work”, and play therapy provides a powerful way for clinicians to help children engaging in the therapeutic “work” of expressing emotions, processing trauma, and developing coping skills in developmentally appropriate ways. This introductory course will provide clinicians with a foundational understanding of play therapy, including its theoretical underpinnings, core principles, and practical applications. Participants will explore how play therapy differs from traditional talk therapy, how to create a therapeutic play environment, and how to use play-based interventions to support emotional and behavioral regulation. Through case examples, interactive discussions, and experiential learning, attendees will gain the essential tools to begin integrating play therapy techniques into their clinical work with children and families.

Upon completion of the webinar, participants will be able to:

• Define the history, theoretical foundations, and core principles of play therapy, including directive and non-directive approaches.
• Identify essential play therapy tools, materials, and interventions to support emotional expression, social skills development, and trauma processing in children.
• Utilize practical strategies for incorporating play therapy techniques into sessions.