The VAPT Annual Conference buzzed with excitement as we converged into the space with over 100 of our colleagues, a lobby jam-packed with goodies from the Self Esteem Shop and Marshall’s Miniatures, and our stellar speaker, Marshall Lyles.
Marshall was a compelling trainer. He weaved together theory, techniques, case stories and calls to social justice action into what felt like a deep and interesting conversation on the intersection of trauma attachment and the arts. Participants created art and miniature sand trays, and shared stories about the power of their work around the table. We listened to poetry and music, and reflected on how to ground ourselves so we can show up for our clients. We even mapped our own personal polyvagal nervous system states using miniatures! Personally, I left with a new excitement for crafting the play therapy process and playroom in unique ways, with an expanded view of expressive media and how they help us speak about speechless experiences. Thank you to everyone who brought energy into this learning community.
We honored the service of our past President, Sheri Mitschelen, who will move on to other areas of service for VAPT after four dedicated years of leading VAPT. We welcomed Maggie Parker into her new role as the VAPT President. We also celebrated the accomplishments of our Anne Stewart Award and Play Therapist of the Year award winners, for 2022, 2021 and 2020. Please congratulate Lisa Wright and Michelle Walker for earning these distinguished awards in 2022. VAPT continues to grow stronger, and we welcome all of you to get involved in this wonderful community of creative leaders.
Submitted by Mary Beth Murray, LCSW, RPT-S
VAPT sponsors professional development for it members and other mental health providers. Our statewide and chapter training opportunities are approved for continuing education and will be listed on the APT site and our Facebook fan page.
In addition to courses offered by institutions of higher education, the Association for Play Therapy accepts play therapy credit to satisfy its Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and Supervisor (RPT-S) credentialing criteria for trainings offered by APT Approved Providers. VAPT is an approved provider.
Trainings may also be approved by other mental health disciplines for licensure or certification purposes. Each training event will note the continuing education hours it is awarding.
