PSY

In this course, students will learn the basic principles of play therapy, the most developmentally appropriate intervention for young children. The major theories of play therapy and the utilization of play to facilitate the child's self-exploration, self-expression, self-understanding, and personal growth will be explored. This course is taught through lecture and experiential methods to provide the knowledge and philosophical basis for play therapy, including a review of the history of play therapy, how to develop a relationship with a child, and play therapy best practices. Students will become familiar with play therapy micro-skills, cross cultural/ diversity implications, and basic developmental and neurological implications.