Playful Foundations: Introduction to Theories and Core Concepts in Play Therapy

This introductory 2-hour live Zoom training is designed for mental health professionals and graduate students who are new to the field of play therapy. Participants will explore the foundational definition of play therapy and examine the critical therapeutic distinctions between directive and non-directive play therapy approaches. Through an integrative review of basic play therapy room setup, essential toy selection, and core historical frameworks, attendees will learn how the therapeutic powers of play are mobilized to facilitate child-centered growth. This training balances conceptual models with practical application, addressing how to intentionally integrate these basic play therapy skills within diverse professional clinical contexts. By the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to: +Define the clinical parameters of play therapy and identify how the therapeutic powers of play distinguish it from recreational play. +Differentiate between directive and non-directive play therapy approaches, analyzing the clinical rationale for selecting each method based on client presentation. +Identify the essential categories of toys and materials required to establish an ethically sound, culturally sensitive, and structurally functional play therapy room.