Looking Beneath the Behavior: Play-Based Approaches for Understanding Child

This two-day continuing education conference explores play-based and relational approaches for understanding children, supporting emotional regulation, and strengthening caregiver collaboration. Grounded in child-centered play therapy principles, participants will explore behavior as communication, nervous system development, co-regulation, therapeutic responses, and practical strategies for supporting children and families across clinical and helping settings. Topics include understanding dysregulation, supporting flexibility and connection through play, and translating clinical observations into parent-friendly communication. Designed for counselors, social workers, school professionals, PLPCs, graduate students, and helping professionals working with children and families.

Info: Sign-in
Coffee/light refreshments
Training materials distributed

Info: Topics Include:
Understanding behavior as communication
Developmental and relational perspectives
Emotional expression through play
Looking beneath surface behaviors
Building curiosity instead of quick conclusions

Info: Topics Include:
Bottom-up brain development
Stress responses in children
Regulation and dysregulation
Window of tolerance
Why children lose access to skills under stress

Info: Activities Include:
Small group discussion
Reflection prompts
Case application
Practical takeaways for professionals working with children

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Amber Hughes LPC-S, Registered Play Therapist