The Importance of Getting the Whole Picture in Play Therapy
presented by S. Lynn Etheridge, PhD, JD, LPC-S, RPT-S
Play therapists, because of their work with children, are often put in the position of maneuvering through parental conflict and high conflict divorces. At times, play therapists may be called as expert witnesses to address parental alienation or within custody disputes. Therefore, it is vital that play therapists are aware of how to successfully, therapeutically, and ethically maneuver the system to ensure the child's well being is maintained. This presentation will explore the various roles play therapists may be called to serve in and the other stakeholders that are likely to be involved in high conflict divorce cases. The presenter will also discuss how play therapists uphold their ethical duties to the child by remaining neutral and not succumbing to confirmation bias. As a play therapist and former lawyer, Dr. Etheridge will also explore how play therapists can gain confidence in their various roles within these difficult, yet common cases.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After attending this workshop, participants will:
- differentiate between the different roles that Play Therapists may be asked to engage in when participating in cases of high conflict custody matters.
- identify which of the roles often asked of Play Therapists that they are comfortable and competent to perform.
- explore the confirmation bias, and how Play Therapists can protect against it.
- review the importance of avoiding any triangulation when working with children clients who are involved in a high conflict custody case.
Session limited to 40 participants. | 2 APT CE | Beginner-Intermediate Level | Play Therapy Special Topics
Please note that CEs are only for APT hours.
ABOUT OUR PRESENTER: S. Lynn Etheridge, PhD, JD, LPC-S, RPT-S is both an attorney and a Licensed Professional Counselor, with a PhD in Counselor Education. She is a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor™ who has been working with children since 2002. During that time, she became aware of the difficulties that can occur when children have to be involved in the court system. The awareness of this issue is what inspired her to become a Registered Play Therapist™ and then to continue with her education, earning a PhD in Counselor Education, basing her dissertation on mental health professionals in courtrooms. She also participated in the training offered by the National Children’s Advocacy Center in Huntsville, AL in Forensic Interviewing. She sees assisting children caught in high conflict custody situations as a social justice issue and is very grateful to be included as a presenter!
VIRTUAL: This will be a virtual meeting. Participants will be awarded APT CONTACT CE after successful completion of a post test. Participants must be visible throughout the presentation. Due to COVID-19 health concerns, this one-time online event has been approved by APT for 2 CONTACT CE Hours.
MIAPT is approved by the Association for Play Therapy to offer continuing education specific to Play Therapy. APT Approved Provider 99-050. MIAPT maintains responsibility for the program.
PHOTO RELEASE: By registering for this training, you are giving permission for MIAPT to use any photographs (screenshots) that are taken at the event containing your likeness for as long as MIAPT deems appropriate and desirable. Photographs may be used on the MIAPT website, social media pages, and/or newsletter for any purpose. By completing the registration, you are also consenting to waive any rights to the photographs indefinitely. If you do not wish to have your photo used, it is your responsibility to notify MIAPT of your request to be omitted.
CANCELLATION POLICY: If you notify MIAPT you are canceling, and we are able to fill your spot, you will receive a refund for the registration fee minus $15 administrative fee. Cancellation requests must be made in writing. No refunds after March 10, 2022.
EMAIL LIST: By registering for this training, you are giving MIAPT permission to add your email to our email list.
ADA/Section 504: If you have special needs, please contact mymiapt@gmail.com.
Skill Level: All skill levels
