Neurodiversity-Affirming Play Therapy: Strength-Based Interventions

This specialty workshop explores how play therapy can be intentionally designed to affirm and support neurodivergent children (including ADHD, Autism, and related developmental differences). Participants will learn strength-based, inclusive interventions that build empathy, deepen connection, and support executive functioning while honoring the unique ways neurodivergent children experience the world.

Through case discussion, experiential practice, and practical application, clinicians will learn to integrate neurodiversity-affirming practices into both directive and non-directive play therapy. The training emphasizes relationship-centered, empowering approaches that help children and families thrive.

Friday June 19, 2026:

1. Explain key principles of neurodiversity-affirming care and their application in play therapy.
2. Identify strengths and common processing patterns in children with ADHD and Autism.
3. Demonstrate play therapy interventions that promote empathy, connection, and inclusion.
4. Apply play therapy strategies to support executive functioning and self-regulation.
5. Develop individualized treatment goals aligned with a strengths-based framework for neurodivergent children.
6. Integrate inclusive, affirming practices into both directive and non-directive play therapy sessions.

• 9 :00-10:30 Instruction Time
• 1 0:30-10:45 Break
• 1 0:45-12:00 Instruction Time
• 1 2:00-1:00 Lunch Break (on your own, fridge space is available)
• 1 :00-2:30 Instruction Time
• 2 :30-2:45 Break
• 2 :45-4:00 Instruction Time

Early Bird – General: $115

• Early Bird Deadline: Friday, May 8, 2026

Standard – General: $135

• Standard Pricing: May 9 - June 18, 2026

Student: $90

• Live, In-Person
• 1-Day Workshop
• Earn a total of up to 5.5 hrs Play Therapy Contact CE APT Approved Provider #16-457
• Workshop Level: All-Clinical(Post Graduate)

✨ Save with the Bundle Pass!Register once and attend all three 2026 Play Therapy Trainings at a reduced rate:

• Early Bird General: $315 (through Dec 19, 2025)
• Standard General: $360 (Dec 20 – Jan 29, 2026)
• Student Bundle: $240

👉🎓 Earn 16.5 APT-Approved Play Therapy CE Hours!

This 3-part training series provides 16.5 contact hours approved by the Association for Play Therapy (APT). Completion of the bundle meets the full CE requirement for RPT or RPT-S renewal and also applies toward the 150-hour training requirement for new RPT applicants.

Want to attend all 3 trainings and save?

Play therapy credit available to mental health professionals & graduate students in a mental health program. APT Approved Provider #16-457

Play therapy credit available to mental health professionals & graduate students in a mental health program. APT Approved Provider #16-457

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Meraki Institute of Learning at Tanager, 1030 5th Avenue Southeast, Cedar Rapids, United States