Play Therapy to Empower Black Children Across the Lifespan

Black children and families are often navigating negative race-based experiences on a daily and continuous basis. However, this is often overlooked in the diagnosis and assessment of their moods and behaviors. This webinar will explore important cultural factors to consider in individual, group and family play therapy with Black children and families. Attendees will also review play-based activities to help build rapport and empower Black children dealing with depression, low self-esteem, anxiety and more. Additionally, individuals will review cultural considerations when implementing play-based interventions in the playroom, along with key items to equip in the playroom to promote cultural inclusivity.

Learning Objectives:

1. Explore play themes that may signal racial trauma in Black children
2. Discuss cultural considerations when gaining play therapy buy-in with Black youth and families
3. Analyze play therapy seminal theories to address mental distress in Black children

Participants limited to 50.

Level of training: Intermediate | Play Therapy Special Topics

This virtual event is sponsored by the Virginia Association for Play Therapy (VAPT). The program offers 3.0 LIVE WEBINAR CE upon successful completion of post-test; full and visible attendance is required. This workshop meets APT's definition of "Live Webinar." VAPT is approved by the Association for Play Therapy to offer continuing education credits specific to play therapy. VAPT maintains responsibility for the program. APT Approved Provider 01-109

About our presenter: April Duncan, DSW, LCSW, RPT-S™ obtained her Bachelor’s in Arts & Science from the University of Missouri-Columbia (2006), Masters of Social Work from Saint Louis University (2012) and Doctorate of Social Work from the University of Southern California (2021). Dr. April is a racial trauma expert and the founder of BMH Connect, an organization focusing on using play therapy to address racial trauma in children of color. She also is an adjunct instructor in the online MSW program at Tulane University and serves on the advisory board for the World Association of Sand Therapy Professionals.

HANDOUTS: Handouts (if available from preseneter) and confirmation will be sent a few days prior to the training.

CANCELLATION POLICY: No refunds.

PHOTO RELEASE: By registering for this training, you are giving permission for VAPT to use any photographs (screen shots) that are taken during the event containing your likeness for as long as VAPT deems appropriate and desirable. Photographs may be used on the VAPT website, social media pages, and/or newsletter for any purpose. By completing the registration, you are also consenting to waive any rights to the photographs indefinitely. If you do not wish to have your photo used, it is your responsibility to notify VAPT of your request to be omitted.

Host or Publisher Virginia Association for Play Therapy