Objectives:

1. Discuss the theoretical foundations of play therapy and its application in addressing abuse and trauma in children. 

2. Examine the signs and symptoms of abuse and trauma in children.

3. Describe the cognitive, developmental, attachment, and nervous system impact of trauma on children.

4. Discuss the ACEs and its relevance in working with traumatized children. 

5. Analyze 3 theoretical orientations and psychotherapy approaches that can be utilized when working with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. Examine what it means to create a felt safety and the basic tenets of Polyvagal Theory and its application to addressing trauma with children. 

6. Identify strategies to support trauma healing in the playroom while managing triggers and emotional dysregulation

7. Identify play therapy activities that help a child regulate within their window of tolerance

8. Describe how a child’s nervous system needs impacts our intervention choices

9. Discuss ethical considerations and APT best practices when working with children who have experienced trauma

10. Examine ways to engage and foster collaboration with caregivers and multidisciplinary teams in the therapeutic process to create a holistic support system

11. Analyze personal boundaries and self-awareness when working with trauma