Therapist Training Calendar

The Play Cafe – Monthly Lunch and Learn

November 4th, 12-1 PM,EST

This virtual, one-hour lunch and learn session will be held monthly. Earn one Play Therapy CE while discussing various aspects of play therapy, including techniques, theories, and the process of becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). This is also a great opportunity to network with fellow and aspiring play therapists. Register for this month’s session using the link below!

November TOPIC: Beyond the Surface: Understanding Complex Themes in Play Therapy—Part 2

Building on The Language of Play: Identifying 10 Core Themes in Play Therapy, this Play Therapy Café will take a deeper look at complex and overlapping themes that may emerge in children’s play. Participants will explore themes of revenge, attention and connection, overwhelm and chaos, loyalty, guilt, confusion, rescue, rejection, mastery, and repair.

Through case examples and discussion, clinicians will examine how these themes may reflect children’s relationships, internal conflicts, unmet needs, and efforts to make sense of difficult experiences. The training will also address how to distinguish between themes that may appear similar, identify shifts and patterns across sessions, and avoid interpreting a single play behavior in isolation. Participants will gain practical strategies for complex play themes, using them to guide treatment, and communicating observations to caregivers without overinterpreting or labeling the child.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify at least five complex themes that may emerge in play therapy.
2. Differentiate between overlapping themes by considering the child’s developmental level, relationships, context, and patterns across sessions.
3. Apply strategies for tracking and documenting complex play themes to support treatment planning and caregiver consultation.

CE’S: 1 hour for APT, NBC, ASWB

Cost $10.00

Location: Virtual Event-The Play Cafe- Monthly Lunch and Learn

Upcoming Training Sessions