Speaking the Client's Language: An Exploration of Everything from Pokemon to Tech
Presented by Jessica Stone, Ph.D., RPT-S
Speaking the client's language transcends fundamental theory. Each theory within play therapy includes the important component of the client-therapist relationship. Human beings want to be heard, understood, and deemed important; inter-personally, intra-personally, and within oneself. One of the ways a play therapist conveys that s/he is hearing the client is through verbal and non-verbal communications that the therapist remains connected with the client and is interested in the interaction.
When exploring the concept of speaking the client's language, a person can think of anything from literally the dialect the person is most comfortable speaking to the discussion and sharing of interests, as this allows for embarking on and accessing the therapeutic powers of play. Through the expressed interest shown by both the client and the play therapist, a connection is formed and an experience of safety and trust is formed.
Sometimes clients present in therapy with interests that the therapist is either not familiar or comfortable with. This presentation will focus on ways to explore these topics within and outside of session and how to work with these interests within the therapeutic process. The importance of social media, gaming, Pokemon, Youtube stars, vlogging, apps, games, toys, music, and more will be explored. Experiential exercises will highlight the learning throughout the presentation.
Learning Objectives:
Participants will be able to:
1) identify at least 3 components of a structured approach to using Board Game Play Therapy;
2) identify at least 3 components of a structured approach to using Digital Play Therapy;
3) identify at least 2 board games which are identified as appropriate to be used in Play Therapy;
4) identify at least 2 digital tools which are identified as appropriate to be used in Play Therapy; and
5) identify the importance of speaking the client’s language in Play Therapy.
Level of training: Foundational, Intermediate, Advanced
6 CEUs toward the Techniques/Methods Content Requirement
About our presenter: Jessica Stone is a licensed psychologist who runs an office in Fruita, Colorado. She has been providing psychological services to children, teens, adults, families, and prospective parents since 1994. Services provided include consultation, short and long term therapy, Play Therapy, psychological testing, and supervision of other therapists.
For young children, Dr. Stone specializes in Play Therapy which focuses on meeting the complex and specific needs of younger children. She also has extensive experience with teens and young adults. Some areas of expertise include but are not limited to: behavioral issues, sexual abuse, trauma, children of divorce, attachment difficulties, adoption, grief/loss, life changes, anxiety, depression, social difficulties and defiance.
Dr. Stone also works with families pre- and post- natally to assist with anxieties and formation of healthy attachment.
Comments about Jessica's trainings:
"I had a fascinating conversation today with one of the play therapists in my sand tray class. We were talking about my upcoming class on video games and play therapy. She (wisely and insightfully) said, 'Most mental health professionals choose the continuing education workshops they attend based on subjects that interest them and not subjects that interest their clients. I was so struck by this and wanted to share it with you. Video games are important to most of your clients--even if they are not important to you, might it be important to learn about them and how you could use them in your sessions?'" - Terry Kottman, Ph.D.
"I attended in your seminar the past weekend. It was fascinating to learn using board games in therapeutic ways."
AZAPT Members $75
NonMembers $90
Check in at the door begins at 8:40 a.m. Lunch included.
AZAPT is approved by the Association for Play Therapy to offer continuing education specific to Play Therapy. Our provider number is 97-035. AZAPT maintains responsibility for the program. Registrants understand and agree that any photograph, video or audio recording of themselves may be used to further promote the Annual Conference or AZAPT.