Counselling children and engaging caregivers: Utilising a neurobiologically informed integrative play therapy approach

Key Learning Objectives

• Integrate the use of play into existing therapeutic approaches with children.

• Apply principles from neuroscience and the Play Therapy Dimensions Model–Revised to the therapeutic process when using play-based approaches.

• Formulate therapeutic interventions based on the child’s expressed needs, and which engage caregivers and systems around the child in the therapeutic process.

• Consider a range of therapeutic approaches for engaging caregivers in child therapy (e.g. PACE, dyadic therapy, filial play therapy).

• Identify special considerations when working with specific client situations (e.g. Out-of-Home Care, family violence, parental separation)

• Consolidate clinical skills through participation in experiential activities, including play-based activities and providing feedback to caregivers.

Developing the therapist identity: Gaining insight and clarity into your developing individual approach to therapy

Key Learning Objectives

• Deepen awareness of one’s emergent identity as a therapist and capacity to describe this

• Consolidate your ‘toolbox’ of therapeutic approaches into your therapist identity

• Apply principles from interpersonal neurobiology to make meaning of your experiences of yourself in your work context

• Identify personal and professional vulnerabilities for focus of self-care for sustainability in your practice

• Participate in immersive activities using expressive arts mediums for reflection and exploration

Given the personal development nature of this workshop, it will be preceded with, and followed by a 1:1, half-hour online consultation with Katherine to support your individual process.