Virginia Association for Play Therapy

06/11/2026

Bubbles, laughter, and learning! 🫧✨

VAPT had a wonderful time visiting Radford University to speak with master’s counseling students in an Introduction to Play Therapy course. Sarah Clark, Carrie Young, and Shameka Bolden shared personal journeys into the field of play therapy, discussed practice in a variety of settings, and explored the impact of play-based interventions on children and families.

And of course, we couldn't resist ending with a fun bubble-blowing photo! Thank you to these future counselors for your enthusiasm and engagement—we're excited to see where your professional journeys take you.

06/08/2026

Last chance to register!

Join us on June 12 for an engaging virtual training exploring the ethical complexities that can arise when play therapy and mandated reporting intersect.

Through case examples, experiential activities, and reflective discussion, participants will examine how to navigate difficult situations while honoring the therapeutic relationship, practicing cultural humility, and responding with empathy, authenticity, and ethical clarity.
🔗 Register today: https://VAPTEthicalChallenges.eventbrite.com

06/05/2026

🍩🎨 National Donut Day Rorschach Test... Play Therapist Style! 🎨🍩

Forget ink blots for a moment.

When you look at a donut, what do you see?

👀 A circle of connection?
🌈 A colorful expression of creativity?
💛 A reminder that sometimes the simplest things bring the most joy?
🤔 An opportunity to discuss boundaries ("No, you may not have my last donut.")?

Today we're celebrating National Donut Day with a little imagination and a lot of playfulness.

Tell us in the comments:
What's your favorite donut—and if it were a play therapy metaphor, what would it represent?

We'll start:
🍩 A glazed donut reminds us that even when life feels a little messy, there's often something sweet underneath.

Now it's your turn!

06/02/2026

06/01/2026

NOVA Region...there's still time to join us on Friday, June 5!

This presentation will provide clinicians with a broad overview of traditional play therapy and CBT theories and how to flexibly integrate the two approaches into therapy sessions with children ages 7 to 10. Participants will learn how to take CBT concepts and make them playful, creative, and hands-on.

Register: https://VAPTNOVAJune.eventbrite.com
Seating is limited, so register now!

05/26/2026

How do play therapists balance the heart of Child-Centered Play Therapy with the legal and ethical responsibilities of mandated reporting?

Join us on June 12 for an engaging virtual training exploring the ethical complexities that can arise when play therapy and mandated reporting intersect.

Through case examples, experiential activities, and reflective discussion, participants will examine how to navigate difficult situations while honoring the therapeutic relationship, practicing cultural humility, and responding with empathy, authenticity, and ethical clarity.

🔗 Register today: https://VAPTEthicalChallenges.eventbrite.com

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

05/18/2026

Welcome to our newest members! We're happy to have you with us!

05/15/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us today for “Strengthening Relationships: Integrating Child-Parent Relationship Therapy Principles into Parent Consultation and Play Therapy Practice.”

Participants shared meaningful conversations and engagement.

We are especially grateful to our presenter, Dr. Kimberly Jayne, LPC, LMHC, RPT-S™, PMH-C, for sharing her expertise, insight, and passion for supporting children and families through CPRT-informed play therapy practice.

05/14/2026

Congratulations Anne L. Stewart on this amazing accomplishment! We're so proud of you!

The Association for Play Therapy (APT) acknowledges outstanding lifetime achievement that develops, promotes, or advances the value of play, play therapy, or credentialed play therapists.