The HEARTS® Counseling Approach

In this workshop, Dr. Kathleen Chara, Ph.D., LPCC, RPT-S, will provide an overview of the HEARTS® Counseling Approach: A trauma-informed and attachment based integrative approach to counseling children using both experiential and directive therapy that relies on seminal play therapy theories and approaches. Emphasis is placed on understanding the needs of the child and the child’s family, the role of attachment in child issues, and playful ways to include parents and children as partners in the play therapy process. This training provides awareness for the play therapist in working with child clients with issues such as abuse, adoption, and anxiety and explores ways to empower parents in managing regulation, connection, and mastery. Participants learn how to educate parents to engage in therapeutic play. Case conceptualization and planning are discussed.

Training Objectives:
1. Expand knowledge in the theoretical underpinnings and value of using integrative treatment approaches for child clients.
2. Understand the need and process of educating parents on client needs and explore ways to empower parents with child and parent regulation, connection, and mastery.
3. Advancement in professional growth by demonstrating specific therapeutic interventions while using the HEARTS® Counseling Approach.

Time: 2:00pm-4:00pm CST
Date: Friday, January 10, 2025
Cost: Members: $40
CEs: This training meets APT’s definition of Live Webinar and is approved by the Wisconsin Association for Play Therapy (APT Approved Provider 03-139) for 2 APT Live Webinar CEs. Play Therapy credit may not be given to non-mental health professionals.
Participants: Registration will remain open for a maximum of 50 participants.
Cameras: Participants are required to keep their cameras on for the duration of the training.
Post-test: A post-test will be mandatory to obtain a certificate of completion.

Host or Publisher Wisconsin Association for Play Therapy