Foster Care Training

During this course participants will be introduced to the theory and technique components of play therapy. The language of children has always been best represented through play. This premise is the basis for the emerging specialization of play therapy. This experiential workshop will introduce and explore play in a clinical context, particularly for use with children and adolescents who are in foster care. From building a trusting therapeutic rapport to gathering psycho-social history, play therapy can be a powerful tool and resource for those who utilize it in their clinical work with the children and adolescents they serve. Main areas of focus include: how foster care workers can develop an individualized repertoire of play therapy skills-base , basic and popular creative arts interventions to employ i.e. sand tray, coloring therapy, basic interpretative skills and other techniques relative to play therapy.

Objective:

1. Participants will understand and be able to explain the the history of play therapy and review the current research that supports the use of play therapy.
2. Participants will be able to identify clinical assessment and interpretation skills as related to play therapy. Illustrate the rationale and effectiveness of play-therapy for children, teens, parents and providers.
3. Participants will be able to describe specific play therapy techniques for youth in foster care.