East Regional Workshop 2026
Best Practices for Parent Consultations in Play Therapy: Developing Confidence in Parent Meetings
Presenter: Ahou Vaziri Line, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S™, CSC, CCPT-S, NCC
Play therapists often state that involving parents is one of the most challenging aspects of their work (Ray, 2011). Through this workshop, attendees will review best practices for parent consultations in play therapy and complete activities to develop their confidence.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: As a result of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- discuss relevant research related to parent consultations.
- discuss why it is difficult to work with parents in play therapy.
- outline best practices for play therapy parent consultations according to research.
- utilize proposed documentation model for preparing for play therapy parent consultations.
- evaluate implicit biases and personal characteristics that may make working with parents difficult in play therapy and will develop empathy for parents and caregivers.
- collaborate with parents in setting and clarifying effective play therapy goals with their theoretical orientation and cultural sensitivity in mind.
BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Dr. Ahou Vaziri Line is the founder of Parent Partnership Consulting and co-founder of Thread Counseling Group in Dallas. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Certified School Counselor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor™, Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Certified Child-Centered Play Therapy Supervisor. Over the course of her career, Ahou has had the privilege of working as an author, speaker, and former graduate professor. She has authored several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters that focus on supporting parents in play therapy, Middle Eastern children and families, and helping preservice educators incorporate counseling skills into their teaching. Additionally, Ahou was selected to author a blog through Psychology Today where she candidly discusses the intersection of play therapy and parenting. Most recently, Ahou has authored a forthcoming Routledge textbook discussing best practices for play therapists when engaging with parents. Ahou is an international speaker and has been invited to speak at local, state, national, and international conferences and events on topics such as teacher and parent support, as well as multicultural considerations in play therapy.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Play Therapy Primary Areas of Instruction: Play Therapy Skills and Methods
Seating is limited so register early!
6 APT Contact CE.
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 April 15, 2026. 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 workshop, 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.
