May 27, 28, 29 and 30, 2013
9am – 5pm | $750 (textbook included)
Instructor: Dr. Evangeline Munns, PhD, C Psych, RPT-S
This workshop is co-sponsored by the Theraplay Institute of Chicago.
APT Approved Provider #12-878
CACPT Approved Provider #11-110

This workshop will discuss the fundamentals of theraplay, a model of directive play therapy. Its theory, underlying dimensions and research, as well as the importance of attachment and nurturing physical contact, will be covered. Brain research related to this will also be presented. The format will include the use of lecture, videos, case illustrations and experiential activities.

This is a certified workshop that will serve as the first step towards certification as a theraplay therapist.

Theraplay is an attachment-based treatment method that is based on replicating normal parent/child interactions. Its main purpose is to enhance positive parent-child attachments and/or relationships and to promote trust and the self-esteem of each family member. Helping parents be more attuned and responsive to their children’s needs and to help the child self-regulate is also a focus. It is short-term, cost effective, mainly non-verbal and uses playful interactions between participants that are physical and fun. It is applicable to all ages, from infants, toddlers, preschoolers, latency-aged and adolescents to the elderly. Its four dimensions of structure, challenge, engagement and nurture can be applied to individuals with a wide variety of emotional, social and behavioral difficulties from severely withdrawn children to acting out, aggressive children. It has been particularly effective in children with attachment difficulties (i.e. adopted, foster, institutionalized, stepchildren and autistic children). This workshop will also cover the Marshak Interaction Method (MIM) which is used in assessing parent/child relationships and family dynamics.

The objectives of this workshop are to cover:

• the history, theory and research underlying theraplay and its main features as a model of directive play therapy
• the four basic theraplay dimensions of structure, engagement, nurture and challenge
• the theraplay process of involving parents directly with their child
• modeling and role play experiential activities related to the four basic dimensions
• the significant changes made within families using theraplay through the use of videos and case studies of troubled children
• recent brain research that supports the tenets of theraplay

Required textbook: $62 has been added to the registration fee to cover the cost of Theraplay: Helping Parents and Children Build Better Relationships Through Attachment-Based Play by Phyllis B. Booth and Ann M. Jernberg.