ECVET compliant Play Therapy training towards early child intervention (PLAYTHER)
Play therapy is a method of therapy that uses play to uncover and deal with psychological issues. It can be used on its own, particularly with children, or along with other therapies and medications. Play therapy is a form of therapy used primarily for children. That’s because children may not be able to process their own emotions or articulate problems to parents or other adults. While it may look like an ordinary playtime, Play Therapy can be much more than that. A trained therapist can use playtime to observe and gain insights into a child’s problems. The therapist can then help the child explore emotions and deal with unresolved trauma. Through play, children can learn new coping mechanisms and how to redirect inappropriate behaviours.
The benefits of Play Therapy are:
- taking more responsibility for certain behaviours
- developing coping strategies and creative problemsolving skills
- self-respect
- empathy and respect for others
- alleviation of anxiety
- learning to fully experience and express feelings
- stronger social skills
- stronger family relationships
- encourage the use of language
- improve fine and gross motor skills.
Play therapy can furthermore be used alone or alongside other therapies such as psychomotortraining and Montessori based therapies. Although people of all ages can benefit from Play Therapy, it’s typically used with children between the ages of 0 and 12.
Play therapists should be well-trained in child development, attachment, and the use of play as a way to communicate with children. The play therapist should also be trained in a recognized therapeutic approach, such as child-centred, cognitive-behavioural, Adlerian, or Gestalt therapy. In addition to having the appropriate educational background and relevant experience, the therapist should be adequate in working on personal and family issues and make the connection with the parent(s).
Target groups and beneficiaries:
- Target groups:
- psychologists and psychiatrists
- behavioural and occupational therapists
- physiotherapists
- social workers
- Beneficiaries (although everyone benefits):
- children ages 0 through 12 years old
- their families
- wide community
- child caregivers
Start date: 01 November 2021
End date: 31 October 2023