Happy New Year!!! Or maybe I should say Happy “Flu” Year! This year has already been a challenge for many who have suffered with the flu and the vaccine has only proven minimally effective. According to statistics gathered, WV is one of the states in the highest bracket of states with widespread flu cases reported across the state. Nearly 6000 cases reported in November through January.
These health challenges point us in the direction of wellness. Play therapy is a path to wellness for many children and families. In honor of the significant contribution play therapy provides, February 1-7, 2015 has been designated as National Play Therapy Week. It is an opportunity to recognize the tremendous impact play therapy can provide children and families experiencing a variety of challenges in their pursuit of wellness. If you or your organization have any events or activities planned for Feb 1-7, please email us or message us on our website. We will post your event on Facebook and the Website to spread the word!
The National Play Therapy Conference was held in Houston Texas this year. The keynote speaker, Dr. Bruce Perry spoke about the hot topic of brain development and impact on mental, emotional and behavioral dysregulation. Watch for more research of Play Therapy utilized as a solution! The next conference is planned for October 6-11, 2015, in Atlanta, Georgia.
During the national conference the branches achieving Gold Branch are recognized and West Virginia again achieved Gold Branch status. As a requirement to maintain this status we must report at least five presentations, events or activities where Play Therapy is explained and promoted. Please send us you or your organization’s events and activities for the year to help us maintain our Gold Branch status. Send us a message on facebook at WV APT.
The next annual WV Association for Play Therapy Conference is being planned for Spring, in April or early May. This year Ethics will be offered for all counseling and social work professional requirements. Topics and venues are being explored so any recommendations are acceptable at this time.
Keep your eyes out for a survey to assess your professional needs and how WVAPT might help to meet those! Email us at: .