All Behavior Makes Sense: Play Therapy with Kids with Vulnerable Nervous Systems

Sponsoring Organization: The Theraplay Institute

Date: September 5th, 2025

Time: 9am to 12:15pm central, 10am to 1:15pm eastern

Location: Virtual

Description:All behavior makes sense- except the ones that don’t! Some children have big, baffling behaviors that leave even seasoned play therapists confused, overwhelmed, burned-out or referring-out.  This confusion leaves play therapists feeling ineffective and parents feeling hopeless.

Theories of human development and behavioral neuroscience, including polyvagal theory (Stephen Porges), the neurosequential model of therapeutics (Bruce Perry), and attachment theory (John Bowlby) help us make sense of even the most baffling behaviors in our play therapy clients.  Understanding what behavior really is begins the roadmap for treatment planning.  Play therapists (and parents) can stop playing behavior whack-a-mole and experience better client outcomes by shifting the focus away from behavior and toward the brain and autonomic nervous system.  

Attendees will learn a playful paradigm that will decode even the most confusing behaviors in children, as well as in parents and even ourselves. When children learn how their challenging behaviors are the heroic ways their watchdog and possum brains are working hard to keep them safe, they can develop the inner felt safety to connect with and soothe these overworked and confused parts of self. Playfully connecting to our client’s inner communities decreases shame and increases integration, ultimately decreasing challenging behaviors.  

Registration Information: Registration is open to the public! Check back soon for registration details or visit https://theraplay.org