Gaming in Play Therapy: An Introduction to Video Games, VR and Technology
Presented by: Tyler Z. Tooley, LPC-S, RPT™
This workshop introduces how to implement techniques and strategies within the play therapy setting that involve technology, video games and virtual reality as a means of building trust and developing a therapeutic relationship - for all ages - so that the therapist can address trauma, social and communication skills, and other cognitive or behavioral needs. These techniques and interventions can be used as a directive or non-directive approach to facilitate change and can therefore be implemented using several different theoretical lenses. Children and teens use symbolic language as a way of communicating Where words are used by adults, toys and games are used by children and teens. Currently, children's toys, games, and play are dominated by technology. Gaming and technology, therefore, is a way for the therapist to meet the child where they are to facilitate opening the door to difficult conversations.
Learning Objectives
Participants will be able to:
- Apply and articulate two (2) specific interventions/strategies for implementing and utilizing video games, virtual reality, and/or technology devices in play therapy.
- Explain and differentiate between ethical and unethical gaming in play therapy and provide at least one (1) example of an unethical intervention.
- Recognize at least two (2) populations in which utilizing video games, virtual reality and/or technology devices in play therapy is most beneficial and appropriate and provide at least one (1) corresponding evidence-based intervention for each of those populations.
- Discuss relevant research and identify how video games, virtual reality and/or technology devices in play therapy can be applied by at least three (3) different theoretical orientations.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how to document the use of video games, virtual reality and/or technology devices effectively and adequately in at least one (1) play therapy progress note.
- Identify at least one (1) neuropsychological benefit of utilizing video games, virtual reality, and/or technology devices in a play therapy setting.
Level of training: Foundational | Play Therapy Special Topics, Play Therapy Skills and Methods
This training is approved by APT Approved Provider 97-035 for 3 Non-Contact CE hours.
About our presenter: Tyler Z. Tooley, LPC-S, RPT™ is a licensed professional counselor supervisor (LPC-S), Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT™), a certified AutPlay® Therapist and approved supervisor for AutPlay Therapy. Tyler completed his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Missouri State University in May of 2020 and his Bachelor’s in Psychology at Missouri State University in May of 2017. Tyler is currently a PhD Candidate for Education Counseling at the University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL). Tyler specializes working with individuals of all ages who are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, gifted, etc.) and integrates AutPlay® Therapy with neurodivergent adolescents, teenagers, young adults & adults, by utilizing technology, including video and computer games, iPads, and virtual reality (VR) into sessions. Tyler is the developer of Gaming Therapy and he is currently conducting research and developing training programs for other clinicians. Tyler serves as an Advisory Board Member for AutPlay® Therapy, where he provides strategic advice and assistance regarding management, operations, marketing, and the overall direction of programs. Tyler also serves as the Committee Chair for Social Media and Media Support on the Board of Directors for the Missouri Association for Play Therapy.
AZAPT Members $50; Guests $60
AZAPT requests that video cameras be on and participants be visible throughout the presentation to facilitate engagement. Participants will be awarded APT Non-Contact CE upon successful completion of a post test.
AZAPT is approved by the Association for Play Therapy to offer continuing education specific to Play Therapy. APT Approved Provider 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 AZAPT.
Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than July 25, 2025. Cancellations are subject to a $20 processing fee. Substitutions (someone else attending) or transfer of registration to another training date may be requested. No refunds after July 25, 2025.
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