Exploring Diversity in Play Therapy
A Day of Intercultural Learning at the Canmore Nordic Centre or join online
Play Therapy and the Indigenous Child
Georgina Henderson, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Play therapy is a psychotherapeutic approach primarily used to help the Indigenous child explore his/her life and freely express repressed thoughts and emotions through play in a culturally safe, respectful, and welcoming setting that honors the uniqueness of the child. Come and learn of the history of Indigenous people in Canada and the present-day impact and how to mindfully navigate counselling from a holistic perspective while honoring the scared grandfather teachings and building an understanding of concepts, terms and knowledge to support the advancement of Truth and Reconciliation in a play therapy setting. The Medicine Wheel teachings will be explored, and participants will have the opportunity to craft a piece that speaks to their heart and resonates with their being.
Africa in Wonderland; Play Therapy with ‘Black’ Children in Canada
Mercy Yeboah-Ampadu, PhD, RSW
In in this session you will learn about working with communities of colour through playful connection to African traditions, culture, language and art. This playful session will explore cultural considerations when practicing play therapy with children within Canada’s ‘Black’ communities. Learn how to connect not just with children through play but with their families too.
Beyond the Rainbow: Increasing Gender Sensitivity in Play Therapy
Abigail Ellazar, MS Psych.
Beyond the Rainbow is a presentation aiming to increase therapist’s gender sensitivity in Play Therapy. In this presentation we identify the most common gender identities as of 2021 and how therapists could be more sensitive to these identities. Creating a safe space for clients is highlighted in this talk as we highlight gender identity in the playroom including what symbols to look for, toys one should have present, activities that can be done, and verbiage to be used. Beyond the Rainbow aims to arm therapists with the tools needed to face diversity in Play Therapy. We explore, acknowledge, and break through our own biases as therapists to fully immerse ourselves in the therapeutic relationship.