Course Description

Using mainstream media as the metaphor, this 3 hour training will explore the psychology behind superheroes, analyze the latest research and will discuss how to use these metaphors in the counseling setting and in play therapy. We will cover evidence-based practices including: play therapy, ACT, CBT, bibliotherapy and more. We will establish how comic book narratives and a client’s love for a certain character can promote engagement to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and maladaptive behaviors. 

Learning objectives: 

1) Participants will analyze the latest research on the use of the pop culture metaphor in clinical practice and communicate the impact of this in mental health practice and play therapy.

2) Participants will establish how to identify strengths and foster the therapeutic alliance in play therapy using the client’s passion for a particular mainsteam media.

3)The participants will review case conceptualizations, treatment plans and interventions us ing popular-culture references such as Harry Potter, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Disney and Anime/Manga, Dungeons and Dragons and Minecraft and in play therapy. 

4) Participants will articulate how video games can be used therapeutically in play therapy, and the pros and cons of technology in the playroom. 

Instructor Ragan Snyder-Smith, LSCSW RPT-S

Ragan is a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker who is currently in practice at Andover Family Counseling. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Wichita State University. She also has a Master’s in Education from Newman University. In her 20 years in mental health, she has worked in schools, psychiatric hospitals, foster care and adoption agencies, and nonprofits. She is passionate about helping women heal from what may interfere with emotional, psychological and social well being. She specializes in women's issues, including: trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships, and barriers to sexual health. Ragan has spoken to audiences throughout the United States and Australia.

Instructor Bea Burchill, LSCSW, RPT

Bea Burchill, LSCSW, RPT received her BSW from Wichita State University and then went on to receive her MSW from the University of Kansas. Bea has many years of experience as a child therapist working with children aged 2-20 who have experienced childhood trauma. She has worked in domestic violence agencies as well as community mental health. Currently she is an elementary school social worker. Bea is a big nerd and loves all things Harry Potter, Superheroes and pop culture. She is passionate about play and fostering moments of joy and connection. She loves spending time outside and reading picture books with her toddler, husband and family.

Course curriculum

    1. Welcome to the Course

      FREE PREVIEW

    1. PowerPoint: Pop Culture Webinar

    2. Video: Using Pop Culture in Play Therapy & Counseling

    3. References & Resources

    1. Course Evaluation (Required)

    2. Quiz (Required)

About this course

  • $65.00
  • 6 lessons
  • 3 hours of video content
  • Approved Provider Logo is a circle with blue
  • Jen Taylor holding a green sign that spells PLAY.