Play in Expressive Arts Therapy: Theory and Practice (XAT505)

XAT505 Play in Expressive Arts Therapy: Theory and Practice offers an exciting and in-depth journey into the transformative power of play across all stages of life, from childhood through adulthood. It uncovers how play shapes and influences key aspects of personal growth, providing students with insights into the dynamic elements that drive therapeutic change. Participants will explore various forms of play vital to human development, including the importance of pre-verbal communication and sensory integration through playful interactions. The curriculum is rooted in the philosophical, developmental, and neurological foundations of play therapy, offering a rich understanding of its history and key theories. Students will also learn how to build therapeutic relationships within play therapy sessions, applying best practices to create effective outcomes. Combining experiential learning with lectures, this course provides both a solid theoretical foundation and hands-on practical skills in using play as a tool within expressive arts therapy. Students will also develop essential play therapy microskills, preparing them to harness the full potential of play in therapeutic settings.

• The role and importance of play in growth and development
• Different types of play
• The therapeutic powers of play model
• Seminal theories of play therapy in therapeutic interventions
• Client onboarding and communication strategies
• Play therapy space and materials
• Building relationships in play therapy
• Play therapy microskills I
• Play therapy microskills II
• Case documentation and treatment planning
• Case studies and applications
• Ethical guidelines in play therapy sessions

• Discuss the application of play in work settings and personal lives from different standpoints.
• Apply the therapeutic powers of play model that address the unique needs of children, adolescents, and adults.
• Examine the effectiveness of play-based interventions through systematic observation and analysis of behavioural changes.
• Recommend optimal room arrangements and play material selections that facilitate engagement, safety, and developmental appropriateness in play therapy settings.
• Create play-based interventions that adapt traditional techniques to meet the contemporary challenges faced by individuals in therapy.
• Design a comprehensive play therapy plan that integrates play-based activities, relational dynamics, and developmental theories to foster therapeutic change.