Play Therapy

Play is a child’s natural language, and in the hands of a trained professional, it becomes a powerful tool for growth and healing. Play therapy uses evidence-based techniques to help children express emotions, resolve challenges and build resilience in ways that words alone cannot. Grounded in theory and fueled by creativity, it allows practitioners to meet children where they are through play.

VCU Continuing and Professional Education is an approved continuing education provider (APT Approved Provider 15-397) and our Play Therapy courses equip participants with the advanced training and experience required to use this therapeutic approach effectively. Each workshop is designed to deepen your understanding of play as a clinical tool and strengthen your connection with the children you serve.

About

Play Therapy Training Program

VCU’s Play Therapy training program offers workshops designed for professionals in the behavioral health and school social work field who are looking to enhance their skills in this area. This program includes foundational workshops such as “Principles of Play Therapy,” which covers the history, theories, and techniques of play therapy, and “Games, Activities, and Children’s Literature,” which focuses on using creative methods to engage children. All VCU play therapy workshops meet the requirements for the Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT), Registered Play Therapist—Supervisor™ (RPT-S), and School-Based Registered Play Therapist™ (SB-RPT) credentials, as established by the Association for Play Therapy. With both in-person and virtual options, this program provides flexible learning opportunities for professionals aiming to integrate play therapy into their practice.

VCU play therapy workshops are for individuals who are employed and/or pursuing education in the behavioral health or school social work field. This would include licensed clinicians, school social workers, students working toward a master’s degree in social work, counseling, school social work or counseling, or psychology. We welcome resident clinicians who have graduated with a master’s degree and are in supervision toward licensure.

Additional scheduling and custom training options are available for groups. Please contact Shelly Schuetz at ssschuetz@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1322 for more information.

Upcoming Opportunities

Instructors

Kelly Cramer

Katie Francis

Zach Gibson

Jessica Gregory

Robert Nickles

Jan Williamson