West Regional Workshop 2023
Inside the Poly Lab/Body Lab: Whole Body Playful Learning, The Polyvagal, Neuroscience Way
Presenter: Dora Henderson, LMHC, CST, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor™
Kids can get stretched to the max with their feelings and need a fun way to learn about their bodies, the senses, and regulating their nervous system. By treating the lower brain with embodiment play, including sensory play, movement & rhythm, we can help our bodies recover and reorganize our nervous systems, to bring us back to supporting safety, thus help children learn to regulate from the BIG emotions and get back to learning.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: As a result of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Demonstrate understanding of the components of polyvagal theory as they relate to play therapy and the therapeutic powers of play and “felt sense.”
- Describe the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the play therapy process as it applies to play therapy and complex trauma.
- Identify 3 key aspects of the neuroception of safety and their importance in play therapy applications when working with children who have experienced trauma
- Articulate the “Ceptions” and demonstrate how play therapy can be utilized to teach and explore the nervous system of students and clients.
- Apply 10 or more play therapy techniques to assist children in regulation, stress reduction, and social interactions.
- Compare and contrast a bottom-up, top-down, and Autonomic Nervous System approach to play therapy.
BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Dora Henderson is a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor™ (RPT-S™) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor Qualified Supervisor (LMHC-QS), specializing in integrating the power of play with EMDR and the integration of neuroscience with play therapy. She is also a TraumaPlay® Supervisor and an EMDR Consultant-in-Training, and the co-host of the Neuroscience of Play Therapy Summit at the Beach. Dora is passionate about helping individuals of all ages heal from traumatic experiences and move towards a happier, healthier life. She has training and certifications in various areas, including Sand Tray Therapy, TraumaPlay TM ,Theraplay®, MAP, and the Safe & Sount Protocol. Dora is also the creator of beautiful puppets and books, including Neuro & The Ception Force Friends, Polly Vagale & The Ception Force Friends, The Vagus Nerve Super Highway ™ series, and The Adventures of Sandi & Clammy series. Her trainings, consultations and supervision, and professional work integrates play, puppetry, and neuroscience are easy-to-use and family-friendly ways.
Skill Level: Foundational
Play Therapy Primary Areas of Instruction: Play Therapy Special Topics
6 APT Contact CE: Please note that CEs are only for APT hours.
Payment must be made online at the time of registration to guarantee your seat.
Workshop Schedule
Registration: 8:30-9:00 a.m.
Workshop Session: 9:00-10:30 a.m.
Break: 10:30-10:45 a.m.
Workshop Session: 10:45-12:15 p.m.
Lunch (on your own): 12:15-1:15 p.m.
Workshop Session: 1:15-2:45 p.m.
Break: 2:45-3:00 p.m.
Workshop Session: 3:00-4:30 p.m.
End of the Workshop: 4:30 p.m.
FOOD: Food and snacks are NOT provided at this workshop. You may bring your own food or go to a local restaurant during break.
CANCELLATION POLICY: All cancellations must be requested in writing and received no later than October 10, 2023. Cancellations are subject to $25 processing fee. Substitutions may be made in writing for no additional cost. No refunds are given due to inclement weather.
HANDOUTS: In an effort to reduce paper waste and be more “green,” our policy is to email all handouts. Please include a valid email address with your registration to receive the handouts.
PHOTO RELEASE: By registering for this conference, you are giving permission for MIAPT to use any photographs 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 someone at registration of your request to be omitted.
CONTINUING EDUCATION: This workshop for mental health professionals is sponsored by the Michigan Association for Play Therapy. APT Approved Provider 99-050. CE credit is offered for play therapy. The program offers 6.00 contact hours, with full attendance required.
ADA: If you have special needs, please contact Sabrina Slagter at mymiapt@gmail.com.
