A 3-Hour Foundational Training for Clinicians

Play has always been the language of children, but the field of play therapy has evolved dramatically over the past century. This engaging three-hour training explores why children play, how play therapy emerged as a clinical discipline, and why it remains essential to children’s healing today.

Participants will trace the evolution of play from early pioneers and theoretical foundations to modern neuroscience and culturally responsive practice, while examining how shifts in culture, technology, family dynamics, and social environments have transformed the way children engage in play.

By the end of this workshop, clinicians will understand the roots of play therapy, recognize major milestones in its development, and articulate why play is a vital, developmentally necessary component of effective mental health treatment.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to: