Not All Heroes Wear Capes: Considering Diversity and Using Superheroes in Play Therapy

Video Course Therapists equipped with the ability to follow a child's lead, guided by child-centered play therapy (CCPT) principles, also need appropriate toys. Therefore, therapy playrooms should be stocked with superheroes, including superheroines, to encourage children’s expressions of their exterior shells, as well as their hidden inner strengths. This workshop lays the foundation for the selection, usage, and potential therapeutic interpretations of superheroes from a CCPT framework. Moreover, considerations for gender and culture are explored for play therapy and frequently asked questions are answered along with a play therapy case example for further reflection and learning. By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to: 1. Consider at least two aspects of culture related to superheroes and play therapy when working with young children who have experienced trauma. 2. Discuss one therapeutic strength for each presented superhero to use in play therapy. 3. List at least four potential outcomes related to childhood trauma. 4. Identify at least three healing properties of child-centered play therapy when applying superhero play. 5. List at least five superhero toys or materials that are recommended for play therapy settings. 6. Compare similarities between superheroes and villains for play therapy themes. Play therapy credit is only awarded to mental health professionals. Play therapy credit may be awarded to graduate students enrolled in a graduate mental health program. 4 APT CEs may be awarded. No partial credit is offered. Registration is final. No refunds. PlayfulLeigh Psyched is a CE provider through the Association for Play Therapy APT 26-805.