SWK 673 - Experiential Therapy Across the Life Course

3 Credit Hours

This course provides students with the philosophical basis for play therapy, including a review of the history of play therapy, how to develop a relationship with a client through several (Client-centered, Prescriptive, Adlerian, Eco systemic, etc.) theoretical frameworks and modalities, and an introduction to various applications and best practices. This course applies research and theories of play and other experiential processes to the practice of therapy in various contexts.  Research about the neurological, social, biological, psychological, and emotional impact of play is integrated into the understanding and development of therapeutic interventions.  Multicultural and ethical issues in the practice of these therapies are addressed.  The course includes both didactic and experiential components.

Students will become familiar and practice group and individual skills, the purpose and application of goals of expressive therapies, therapeutic stages and themes, ethical issues, cross cultural/ diversity implications, basic developmental and neurological implications, treatment planning in expressive therapy including development of treatment goals and assessment of treatment progress and applications to a variety of populations and therapeutic contexts.

The various models of expressive therapies will be learned and practiced as both diagnostic and therapeutic tools for a variety of problems including PTSD, abuse/neglect, disruptive behavior disorders, chronic illness, self-esteem, end of life issues,  self-care, well-being and developmental delays. Additionally training on therapy techniques will be provided as approaches for use in schools and long-term care facilities. Special emphasis is placed on identifying techniques used for various treatment considerations, setting up the therapy room, and working with individuals, families, parents and the community in the treatment clients.