Description:

In many ways a school is an ideal setting for Play Therapy to occur, however there are some challenges. This workshop will aim to explore how children can be appropriately identified to receive Play Therapy and how Play Therapy can be undertaken effectively in the school setting. It will look at factors that may impact on the Play Therapy and the Play Therapist. It will explore the different aspects of being employed in the school and of being a freelance Play Therapist commissioned for specific time periods. This workshop will look at the relationship between the Play Therapist and school staff, explore perceptions that school staff may have in regards to the process of Play Therapy and how the Play Therapy will impact back in the classroom. It aims to provide a theoretical basis whilst providing practical strategies that will equip trainee and experienced Play Therapists to provide a Play Therapy service within schools.​

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss the ethical issues of undertaking Play Therapy in Schools
• Develop procedures for setting up effective Play Therapy in Schools
• Explain what the different parties (Play Therapists, child, parents/carers, teachers) need to know to undertake Play Therapy in schools
• List the benefits of undertaking Play Therapy in Schools
• Identify factors that may impact the Play Therapy in Schools
• Plan strategies to support the effectiveness of Play Therapy in Schools