In this video interview, Ken Schwartzenberger discusses how children approach therapy at an experiential level through play and play activities. In this interview the presenter introduces Experiential Play Therapy, a developmentally-based model of play therapy to reach children through sensory-based play activities and provide effective treatment for emotional and behavioral problems (Norton & Norton). The presenter reviews the theory, basic tenets and five therapeutic stages of the experiential play therapy model. Four steps to forming safe and empowering therapeutic relationships with children are explained and demonstrated. Four therapeutic responses and helpful statements to use in pretend play with toys are reviewed. The presenter also provides information about the neurobiology of play and examples of imaginative play techniques and sensory play strategies that calm the child’s nervous system, provide immediate access to the child's emotional pain and facilitate healing from trauma experiences. 

Learning Objectives:

1.Learn the theory, basic tenets and five therapeutic stages in Experiential Play Therapy.

2. Learn four playful steps to use in building safe, ‘honoring’, and respectful relationships with children.

3. Learn four therapeutic reflections, imaginative play techniques, and helpful statements to make in pretend play with toys.