Welcome to An Introduction to Play Therapy. This 90-minute presentation introduces the foundations of Play Therapy and explores how play can be a tool for emotional expression and healing in children. Participants will gain an understanding of the core principles of Play Therapy, the therapeutic role of the clinician, and how to create a safe, engaging environment for children to explore their feelings through play. The session will also include demonstrations of practical interventions.

Earn 1.5 CE Hours

Presenter Information: Rachel M. Ross, LCSW, RPT-S

Rachel Ross is an Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Tennessee's College of Social Work since August 2022. In this capacity, she teaches students in practicum settings and co-leads a project that focuses on online simulations for master's students. Prior to this, she served as a Clinical Instructor and Program Coordinator at the University of TN, College of Nursing, where she managed the Vine School Health Center, providing interprofessional healthcare services to children in Knox County. Rachel earned her master’s degree from the University of Tennessee, College of Social Work, and became a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor in 2019. Currently, she holds the position of President of the Tennessee Play Therapy Association. Over her 22-year career, Rachel has passionately worked to improve mental health services for children, adolescents, and families in Knox County and the surrounding areas.

Learning Objectives:
Attendees will be able to:

  1. Identify at least three theoretical foundations of Play Therapy and describe how they support children’s emotional expression and healing in the therapeutic process.
  2. Explain the role of the clinician in Play Therapy and review the 8 basic skills for a play therapist
  3. Demonstrate or describe at least two Play Therapy interventions appropriate for helping children explore and express their feelings.

Intended Audience
This workshop is for counselors, psychotherapists, marriage & family therapists, social workers, life coaches, case managers and other healing professionals

This learning event is sponsored by The Next Step Behavioral Health (ACEP #7075)

If you need special accommodations or have questions, please contact us. 

Contact Information: 
Address: 9041 Executive Park Drive, Ste 275- B  Knoxville, TN 37909
Phone: (865) 338-5384
Email: learning@tnsbh.com
Web: www.tnsbh.com