Play in Psychoanalytic Child & Play Therapy Series
This on-demand, self-paced four-session series reviews Psychoanalytic Play Therapy and Play in Child Analysis
Curriculum Overview: Explore the psychoanalytic foundations of play therapy, tracing its evolution from Freud's early work to the groundbreaking contributions of Anna Freud and Melanie Klein. Through this course and membership, participants will gain a deep understanding of play as the natural language of children and learn how psychoanalytic principles are the roots that inform effective, developmentally appropriate therapeutic work with children in play therapy.
Session 1: Roots, History, Foundation of Psychoanalytic Play and Play Therapy
Session 2: Therapeutic Containment, Holding & Frame
Session 3: Maturation and Development
Session 4: Use of Transference & Countertransference in the Playroom
Facilitator: Dr. Elyssa Smith, Ph.D., LPC, RPT-S, NCC, ACS
Learning Objectives:
Explain the psychoanalytic origins of play therapy and describe its connection to broader psychotherapeutic approaches, including the historical contributions of Sigmund Freud, Hermine von Hug-Hellmuth, Anna Freud, and Melanie Klein.
Describe the maturation and development process from infancy onward and their application within psychoanalytic/dynamic play therapy
Identify the overarching goals of psychoanalytic play therapy.
Define play therapy as a relational process, understanding the importance of "being with" children.
Apply foundational psychoanalytic concepts to contemporary play therapy practice, including interpretation, the therapeutic relationship, defense mechanisms, and the role of reassurance in child analysis.
Articulate the use and application of transference and countertransference in psychoanalytic/dynamic play therapy
16 Non-Contact CEs available (including watching videos, reading & reviewing resources, research/scholarly papers, & an optional meeting with Dr. Elyssa)
What You'll Learn
Build Confidence in Foundational Technique and ConceptualizationThe roots of Psychoanalytic Play and Play Therapy Technique are foundational to all play therapy practice.
Understanding Development and MaturationMaturation, Development, and vital considerations for the treatment process, work with caregivers, and support the child’s transformation.
Gain Practical Tools for Being and Becoming with the Child Each lesson is designed to equip you with useful strategies to integration into clinical practice and explore with self.