Advanced Play Therapy Seminar

Course Description

This is the final course within the graduate play therapy certificate program. It is an advanced seminar in Play Therapy theory and practice. The goal of this course is to increase each student's effectiveness with and knowledge of play therapy through intensive study of theoretical approaches to play therapy with an emphasis on the dimensions of the process (i.e., the student's understanding of children's behavior and their perceptions of self, the client and the therapeutic play relationship). Students have supervised opportunities to discuss and examine the value conflicts and ethical dilemmas that arise in the practice of play therapy with vulnerable populations. This course reviews the use of play therapy practice strategies, approaches, and collaborative interventions. Students will learn about different methods of practice assessment and evaluation and will be able to select appropriate forms of evaluation for use in their practice. Throughout the seminar, students will have exposure to and/or involvement in mock play therapy sessions, group supervision of a play therapy session, and supervision of play therapy sessions. This will provide students with opportunities to process the clinical experience of play therapy with emphasis on advanced skill development, assessment, treatment planning, intervention and evaluation of practice. In short, this seminar sets the stage for transition from the learning environment to professional practice as a play therapist. Students have the opportunity to practice skills in simulated settings; field settings may be available. Lecture, large group discussion, role playing, group supervision, video demonstration and participation on play therapy session labs are primary methods of instruction.

Code

HS 9001

Credits

3

Subject

HS