Introduction to Play Therapy

Course Description

This course provides the theoretical basis for play therapy and is the first course in the Post Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy program. It offers an overview of the essential theories and principles of play therapy, and provides an arena for the direct comparison of the major theoretical models of play therapy and their implications for treatment. In addition, the course teaches the history of play therapy, as required by the Association of Play Therapy for registration as a play therapist. Students learn the role of the play therapist in a variety of settings, the stages of the play therapy relationship, the evolving research that guides play therapy interventions, the basic play therapy skills and the training/supervision guidelines. Foundational to this course is the belief that involvement of family in the treatment of children is imperative, however uniquely family is defined. An experiential component will focus on exposure to basic play therapy skills through observation of local professionals, instructors or videotaped experts performing play therapy. The course develops play therapy practice skills and an understanding of theoretical approaches of play therapy at the level required for eventual registration as a play therapist.

Code

HS 8701

Credits

3

Subject

HS