Based on systematic interviews with children of different ages, psychologist Robert Selman offers a very useful 5-level framework for understanding developmental trends in children’s friendships. Each of these levels is described below. LEVEL 0 Friendship—Momentary Playmates: “I Want It My Way” (Approximate ages: 3-6 years) Children at this stage view friends as momentary playmates, and …
Digital Play TherapyTM is a modality that utilizes highly motivating, immersive activities to incorporate the therapeutic powers of play into the play therapy process to deepen relationships, gain mastery and skill development, psycho-education, mindfulness, decrease anxiety and so much more. Video games may provide an opportunity for exploring important themes in a child’s life, in …
The Evidence-Based Child Therapy site was developed out of an effort to ensure that professionals, parents, and others concerned with the mental health and welfare of children are able to access accurate, peer-reviewed research findings relevant to their interests and needs. The overarching goal of this website is to provide greater visibility for the evidence …
AutPlay® Therapy was created by Dr. Robert Jason Grant. It is a neurodiversity affirming framework for implementing play therapy. The AutPlay framework is neurodiversity paradigm informed and designed to help child and play therapists address the mental health needs of neurodivergent children ages 3-18 (autistic children, those with ADHD, social anxiety, sensory differences, learning differences, …
The Association for Play Therapy (APT) Annual International Conference and Exposition offers post-graduate education and training, networking opportunities, and idea exchange for professionals across disciplines. This annual conference has been so helpful to me; in my education as a Play Therapist, in the development of a wonderful support system, and in acquiring wonderful techniques and …
As a play therapist supervisor, I know that training and supervision to become a play therapist can get pricey. While it’s not possible to get all of the training you need for very cheap or free, I think it’s important that those interested know that there are free trainings and low-cost trainings available. Please check …
Becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) was the best career move I ever made. I always knew I wanted to help kids and teens when I became a counselor, so I could help advocate for them. I noticed in my first few years after graduating graduate school that parents, teachers, and other adults in youths’ …
The Benefits and Steps it takes to Become a Registered Play Therapist Read More »
The Association for Play Therapy defines play therapy as “the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained Play Therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.” Play therapy can help anyone but it is especially helpful …
