Recording and slides for delegates only
This engaging 2-hour online session on the therapeutic power of play, and play therapy, is thoughtfully divided into dynamic segments that blend concise presentations with interactive activities. Participants will explore the profound therapeutic powers of play, learning how to apply these techniques safely across diverse settings.
Designed to be both informative and hands-on, this webinar fosters understanding through small group discussions and active participation, making it ideal for child mental health professionals seeking practical skills to enhance their therapeutic practice. The session will also provide practical guidance on identifying when a child might benefit from play therapy as a clinical intervention, enriched with reflective and experiential learning.
About the session
Integrating play into interventions and direct work with children and adolescents should not be an ‘add on’. Too often, play is considered a reward after the ‘real work’ is done, but play is a necessity for children. Informed by theories of child development and neurobiology, the therapeutic power of play can be applied to enhance everyday practice to promote effective working relationships and positive outcomes for children.
This webinar will highlight the principles of child centred practice, the therapeutic powers of play and will give practical tools for integrating play into clinical and social care practice, primarily for building rapport with children accessing services.
The speaker is a Senior Lecturer on the MSc Play Therapy (BAPT) at USW, and will include an introduction to therapeutic play and Play Therapy as a therapeutic approach. This will help participants differentiate between services available to children and begin to recognise therapeutic need.
Learning outcomes
A. Be able to name various therapeutic powers of play
B. Understand why different play activities can accelerate rapport building
C. Have practiced using some playful activities and will be able to recognise when activities are and are not appropriate for use.
D. Recognise the difference between therapeutic play and Play Therapy as defined by BAPT (British Association of Play Therapists).
Ebook
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About the speaker
Dr. Laura Hanks – ACAMH Branches Liason Officer
Laura joined the Association as a graduate from Cardiff University school of Psychology in 2010, when she attended a Wales branch conference on Sleep. Shortly after joining the Wales Branch, Laura became the youngest Chair in ACAMH. Laura worked in Social Care before training as a BAPT Accredited Play Therapist ® and Filial Therapist, working with families with children who are Care Experienced. Laura is newly appointed as a Senior Lecturer in University of South Wales alongside her private practice. She has worked within both the public and private sectors, and is currently an associate trainer for a charity. In her time as Chair of the Wales Branch, Laura founded ACAMH’s first student committee. Laura joined the board as Branches Liaison Officer in December 2020.
Responding to the changing context during and post Covid19, Laura is passionate about the benefits of ACAMH membership to professionals working across sectors and in diverse roles in providing evidence based practice in mental health and wellbeing for the benefit of children and adolescents.