Clair Mellenthin

From Chaos to Comfort: The Power of Play in Times of Trauma
2025-10-25 09:00 - 16:30 (America/Denver) | 181 E 5600 S #200, Murray, UT 84123, 181 E. 5600 S. #200, Murray, UT, 84123, United States
Applying Play and Play Therapy to Mass Trauma and Critical Events
Description
This interactive workshop provides an overview of an innovative model for intervention in crises and potentially traumatizing contexts called “Coping with the present while building for the future (CPBF)”. The workshop will present the reasons that support a process-oriented approach based on the principles of psychological first aid intervention, the Polyvagal Theory, and the application of the therapeutic powers of play and play therapy.
The presenters will discuss the importance of structuring a multi-layered intervention in which the interlinking of grounding and advanced activities can lead to the realization of the “Safest Possible Environment (SaPE)”. Special attention will be paid to the role of the therapeutic powers of play in the various phases of the intervention to engage and empower children, and to support them in overcoming mental health problems.
In this regard, the reasons that support the use of a prescriptive approach in the implementation of the specialized phase of intervention will be discussed. The workshop will offer opportunities to practice play-based and creative techniques useful in the various phases of a program and introspective activities.
Learning Objectives

Discuss the relevance of a process-oriented approach that includes play therapy as a specialized treatment in crisis contexts.
Describe the main phases of the approach “Coping with the present while building for the future (CPBF)”.
Identify at least 5 play therapy abilities and/or techniques that promote a feeling of safety.
Explain how the therapeutic powers of play and play therapy might be applied at the different levels of intervention from the initial to the specialized stage.
Describe the role play therapists have in the planning and realization of the “Safest Possible Environment (SaPE)”.
Discuss how to operationally address aspects of inclusion and diversity of local resources when intervening with play and play therapy in crisis contexts.

Meet Your Speakers

Claudio Mochi, MA, RP, RPT-S™, is the Director of the University Master’s Program in Play Therapy of the International Academy for Play Therapy (INA) and the European University of Rome, Founder and President of the Association for Play Therapy Italy (APTI). He is a Psychologist and Psychotherapist, a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor™, expert in Emergency Interventions and Disaster Mental Health with 25 years of international field experience. He has worked with major humanitarian organizations in post-disaster scenarios in the creation and development of psychosocial programs dedicated to survivors and training of local staff in many Countries (West Bank and Gaza, Pakistan, Iran, Sri Lanka, Haiti, Nigeria, Lebanon, etc.). He has authored books, chapters and numerous articles.

Isabella Cassina, MA, TPS, CAGS, PhD Candidate, is the Director of Project Management at the International Academy for Play Therapy (INA) based in Switzerland, University Lecturer, Founding Member of the International Consortium of Play Therapy Associations (IC-PTA) and Editor-in-chief of the Italian Play Therapy Magazine. She is a Social Worker, registered Therapeutic Play Specialist, pursuing a PhD in Expressive Arts Therapy. Isabella has been Head of Social Services for the Swiss Red Cross asylum seekers and refugees sector. She is expert in International Cooperation and Project Development with over 12 years of international field experience in contexts of crisis and high vulnerability (India, Serbia, Nigeria, Haiti, Venezuela, etc.). She is author of books, articles and board games for families and schools.

Attachment Centered Play Therapy with High Conflict Families
2025-08-04 09:00 - 17:00
Clinicians are often the “first responders” to families in crisis or when dealing with an unforeseen trauma taking place. As our knowledge about trauma and the impact this has on an individual, a family, and the community grows, so does our understanding as to how these different life experiences play out in the family home and relationships. High conflict families can be challenging to work with in play therapy, as parents and children tend to be highly reactive, yet also highly avoidant. It is easy to only want to see the child and avoid the parent – however, engagement with the parents is a must in order for lasting change and healing to happen.
Throughout this play therapy workshop, we will be exploring our clients through the lens of attachment theory, gaining a new understanding of how children and families interact and bond to one another in healthy vs maladaptive ways. We will be exploring how trauma, abuse, and neglect impact the bonds of attachment within the family system and how the power of Attachment Centered Play Therapy can help to heal these wounds in high conflict families. Issues such as shame, vulnerability, and attachment centered engagement strategies will be addressed. There will be plenty of time to explore difficult cases you are working with, ask questions, develop new assessment skills and explore your own personal style of attachment and how this plays out in your work with clients. You will leave with a toolbox of play therapy interventions to put into practice immediately!
Learning Objectives:

Participants will learn how attachment theory applies to play therapy and to view family systems through the lens of attachment.
Analyze attachment theory as it applies to play therapy to provide integrated therapeutic treatment.
Conceptualize attachment patterns that impact parent-child relationships to further advance your clinical practice.
Implement play therapy interventions to foster engagement with parents in family play therapy in order to repair and enhance the parent-child relationship.
Determine the developmental stages of attachment needs and behaviors to identify maladaptive responses in children and families.
Implement play therapy interventions to decrease conflict in parent-child relationships

Continuing Education Credits:
6 Non-Contact APT hours

Creative Play Therapy Interventions for Children, Teens, and Families
2025-05-09 09:00 - 2025-05-10 17:00 | Scenic View Academy, 5455 River Run Dr, Provo, 84604, United States
Presented By: Liana Lowenstein, MSW, RSW, CPT-S

Day One
Play Therapy Techniques with Hard-to-Engage Children, Teens, and Families
Working with difficult-to-engage clients can be frustrating and challenging, even for seasoned play therapists. The challenge of working with children in therapy can be further compounded by their fear of entering therapy, their lack of control over the decision to attend therapy, and their developmental capacity which can make it difficult for them to respond to traditional talk-therapy. This training will explore factors that underlie therapeutic resistance and will present creative play therapy interventions for working with hard-to-engage children, teens, and families. Videos of client sessions will illustrate techniques, and experiential activities will augment the learning process.
Learning Objectives:

Describe the factors underlying therapeutic resistance.
Implement creative play therapy interventions to establish rapport-building with children of all ages.
Describe creative play therapy interventions to facilitate goal setting.
Utilize innovative strategies to engage resistant, hard to serve parents.
Implement play therapy techniques with clients who are reluctant to verbally articulate their thoughts and feelings.
Utilize activities to engage families in play therapy sessions.

Day Two
Creative Evidence-Based Play Therapy Interventions for Traumatized Children
There have been a number of treatments developed and tested in recent years specifically geared to treating traumatized children. These approaches share many of the same core components: Engaging clients; conducting a systemic assessment; providing psychoeducation; addressing traumatic stress reactions; enhancing emotional regulation; facilitating adaptive coping; completing a trauma narrative; enhancing safety skills; and strengthening parenting skills. The effectiveness of trauma-treatment with children is enhanced by integrating playful, developmentally appropriate interventions so clients will engage in treatment. This training will present innovative play therapy techniques for each of the core components of evidence-based trauma treatment. Participants will come away with many new and creative interventions they can use with traumatized clients from preschoolers to teens.

Learning Objectives:

Define acute and complex trauma/
Describe the core components of evidence-based trauma treatment.
Discuss the benefits of integrating play therapy techniques when treating traumatized children.
Apply at least three play therapy techniques to assess traumatized children and adolescents.
Implement at least five new play therapy techniques to treat traumatized children and adolescents.
Describe two techniques to strengthen parenting skills.

Accommodations:
There is a room block available at the Marriott Townesuites and the Fairfield Inn and Suites. Attendees can choose between either hotel option to best suit your individual and group needs.

Rooms $134/night (double bed or king option) @ Fairfield Inn
Rooms $115/night (double bed or king option) @ Towneplace Suites
Conference room rate expires May 1st

Address:
901 North 1200 West
Orem, UT 84057

About Liana:

Liana Lowenstein is a Registered Clinical Social Worker, Certified Play Therapist-Supervisor, and Certified TF-CBT Therapist who has been working with children and their families in Toronto since 1988. She is internationally known as a dynamic speaker and presents trainings across North America and abroad. She provides clinical supervision to mental health practitioners and consults to several mental health agencies. Liana’s 14 books on child and family therapy are known internationally for their innovative and practical techniques. She is winner of the Monica Herbert award for outstanding contribution to play therapy in Canada.

12 CEU APT & NASW {Pending}
9:00 am – 5:00 pm each day (lunch 1.5 hour and on your own each day)

The Therapeutic Powers of Play
2025-03-07 09:00 - 12:00 | Office Space 01, 181 E. 5600 S. #200, Murray, UT, 84123, United States
Description:

Have you ever wondered what makes play such a transformative tool in your work with children and teens?
Do parents ever ask, “Why am I paying you to play with toys?”
Are you looking to deepen your understanding of the foundational principles behind play therapy?

Join Clair Mellenthin, LCSW, RPT-S, for an engaging three-hour workshop exploring the remarkable therapeutic powers of play. This session will focus on four key areas critical to a child’s and adolescent’s development:

Communication
Emotion Regulation
Relationship Enhancement
Personal Strengths

Through hands-on, experiential learning, you’ll gain practical tools and techniques to integrate these 20 different therapeutic powers into your clinical work. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of why play therapy works, as well as a treasure trove of fun, effective play therapy interventions to use with your clients.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the Therapeutic Foundations of Play Therapy
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the therapeutic principles underlying play therapy and its effectiveness in supporting communication, emotion regulation, relationship enhancement, and personal strengths in children and adolescents.
Develop Practical Play Therapy Techniques
Participants will learn and practice a variety of hands-on play therapy interventions designed to address core areas of a child’s and teen’s development, enhancing their ability to create lasting change in clinical practice.
Communicate the Value of Play Therapy to Stakeholders
Participants will acquire strategies to articulate the benefits of play therapy to parents and caregivers, effectively addressing common concerns and misconceptions about its role in the therapeutic process.
Continuing Education Credits:
3 Live Webinar Non-Contact

Playful Healing: Integrating Attachment Centered Play Therapy and Emotionally Focused Family Therapy
2025-01-10 08:30 - 2025-01-11 16:30 | Utah Valley University, 800 W University Pkwy, Orem, UT, 84058, United States
Get ready to dive into a hands-on, heart-centered workshop! Join us for TWO DAYS as we blend the powerful approaches of Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) and Attachment-Centered Play Therapy (ACPT) in a fun, immersive experience. Perfect for mental health professionals, psychotherapists, and play therapists, this workshop will deepen your skills in culturally sensitive play therapy. Discover new ways to use ACPT techniques—like Family Play Therapy and EFFT—while embracing the richness of diverse cultural perspectives. Come ready to learn, play, and connect!
You will leave with a toolbox full of new play therapy interventions, ways to incorporate parents into the playroom, and an understanding of the nuances of relationship patterns that exist within families.

Learning Objectives:

Conceptualize core tenets of EFFT, highlighting its fundamental principles and techniques. Particular focus will be on understanding emotional responses within family systems.
Explore how EFFT can be adapted and integrated into the context of play therapy for a holistic healing experience.
Develop insight into the fundamentals of Attachment-Centered Play Therapy (ACPT), emphasizing the significance of secure attachment in childhood development.
Evaluate the four key concepts of attachment theory and how these concepts apply to attachment-centered play therapy.
Practice three practical play therapy techniques for incorporating play as a medium for expression, exploration, and healing within the therapeutic process.
Implement play therapy interventions with a cultural lens to suit EFFT and Attachment-Centered Play Therapy (ACPT).
Address potential complexities in play therapy when combining EFFT, ACPT, and cultural adaptations.
Utilize practical play therapy strategies for navigating areas of intersectionality within the family play therapy process.
Conceptualize how attachment theories apply across different cultural contexts, including recognizing attachment style variations and behavior influenced by cultural norms and family dynamics.
Ascertain and respect cultural differences in therapeutic environments, including the playroom.
Develop skills for building cultural competence, including awareness, knowledge, and skills necessary for effective cross-cultural communication and intervention.
Enhance the professional development of play therapists by emphasizing the importance of ongoing learning and ethical practice in culturally informed play therapy.

Presented by: Clair Mellenthin LCSW, RPT-S &amp and Liliana Baylon, LMFT-S, RPT-S, ICEEFT EFT Supervisor
About Clair:

Clair Mellenthin, LCSW, RPT-S is an international speaker, award winning author, and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. She is the creator of Attachment Centered Play Therapy. Throughout her career, she has specialized in providing play therapy to children, teens, and their families. Ms. Mellenthin frequently presents professional play therapy and family therapy nationally and internationally.
Ms. Mellenthin is the Past-President of the Utah Association For Play Therapy. She is the author of several books including Attachment Centered Play Therapy; Play Therapy: Engaging & Powerful Techniques for the Treatment of Childhood Disorders; and My Many Colors of Me Workbook. In addition, she has authored several chapters and articles. Ms. Mellenthin frequently appears on local and national television and radio as an expert on children and family issues.

About Liliana:

Liliana Baylon, LMFT-S, RPT-S, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, MBA, is a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural therapist holding a Master’s Degree in Counseling & Marriage, Family, & Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix. With extensive speaking, training, and consulting experience spanning a range of organizations and topics, Liliana is particularly sought-after for her specialist expertise in mental health and its links to cultural diversity and social justice in a global context.
Liliana brings a unique cultural lens to her therapy, supervision, workshops, and presentations drawing on over a decade of in-depth clinical experience primarily treating LatinX community members, and providing bilingual therapy and supervision in English and Spanish. Liliana has become a well-respected expert and thought leader in the specialist fields of treating families, couples, and children with experiences of global migration along with trauma, abuse, and multicultural issues.

Guide to Play Therapy With The Modern Family
2024-11-15 09:00 - 17:00 | VBFA, 181 E. 5600 S. #200, Murray, UT, 84123, United States
Embark on a transformative journey into the realm of play therapy with our workshop, “Guide to Play Therapy with the Modern Family,” led by experts Clair Mellenthin, LCSW, RPT-S, and Holly Willard, LCSW, RPT-S. As family dynamics evolve, we’re seeing more diverse family systems including single-parent households, biracial families, grandparents raising children, LGBTQ+ parents, and other non-heteronormative arrangements. It’s crucial that our approaches honor these unique family systems, ensuring that every child and caregiver feels seen, supported, and empowered. Explore innovative play therapy techniques tailored for modern families navigating challenges like divorce, abuse, trauma, and neglect. This workshop offers a creative toolbox of tips and techniques, all grounded in attachment theory, providing valuable insights into family dynamics.
Discover the profound impact of attachment styles on relationships within the family system. Dive into practical applications of play therapy that go beyond the basics, offering a fresh perspective on healing and resilience. Gain a clear understanding of how to address the unique needs of modern families and leave with a renewed spirit and approach to play therapy with families. Join us for this dynamic workshop and elevate your skills in guiding modern families through the complexities of their healing journey.
Learning Objectives
1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of attachment theory and its application within the unique dynamics of modern family systems affected by divorce, abuse, trauma, and neglect.
2. Practice 3 play therapy techniques designed to address parent-child conflict
3. Determine the developmental stages of attachment needs and behaviors to identify maladaptive responses in children and families.
4. Articulate the psychological impact and long-term effects of emotional trauma on a client’s mental health.
5. Create guided imagery exercises to foster self-esteem and self-worth for increased self and co-regulation.
6. Implement two play therapy strategies aimed at fostering resilience within modern family systems.
NASW approved

Introduction to Attachment Centered Play Therapy - LIVE IN PERSON EVENT
2024-01-19 09:00 - 17:00 | Utah Association for Play Therapy, 181 East 5600 South #200, Murray, UT, 84123, United States
Introduction to Attachment Centered Play Therapy
Through the lens of attachment theory, participants will gain a new understanding of how children and families interact and bond to one another in healthy vs maladaptive ways. We will be exploring how trauma, abuse, and neglect impact the bonds of attachment within the family system and how the power of Attachment Centered Play Therapy can help to heal these wounds.
Participants will spend the day learning new and innovative play therapy techniques including hands-on experiential activities, sand tray interventions, and expressive arts. You will leave with a creative toolbox of tips, techniques, and a clear understanding of how attachment styles impact relationships.
This is an APT APPROVED LIVE IN PERSON EVENT for 6 APT Hours.
Learning Objectives:
1. Identify how attachment theory applies to play therapy and to view family systems through the lens of attachment.
2. Conceptualize attachment patterns that impact parent-child relationships.
3. Conceptualize generational attachment patterns and how these manifest in family-based play therapy.
4. Analyze attachment theory as it applies to play therapy to provide integrated therapeutic treatment.
5. Evaluate the four key concepts of attachment theory and how these concepts apply to attachment-centered play therapy.
6. Analyze various family systems through the lens of attachment theory to strengthen clinical assessment skills.
This is an APT APPROVED LIVE IN PERSON EVENT for 6 CE Hours.

August 2024 Play Therapy Mountain Top Retreat - Pay in Full
2023-12-13 00:00
Day 1: Foundations of Prescriptive Play Therapy – Engage in a comprehensive introduction to the philosophy and implementation of Prescriptive PT. Who are you? At which stage are you? Explore various play therapy theories through “My Prescriptive Wheel,” facilitating a reflective examination of your current knowledge and identifying areas for further learning. Key topics include competency, fidelity, and the history and core tenets of prescriptive play therapy. And we are going to play!
Day 2: Expanding your Play Therapy Horizon – Delve into the application of Prescriptive Play Therapy with an emphasis on overcoming roadblocks and building confidence. How do you engage in the decision making process and choose what will work best for each client? Dive into the process by navigating and reflecting on a case example and implementation of play approaches through a structured decision making questionnaire. Consider external approaches beyond traditional play therapy theories, and engage in interactive discussion to strengthen competence in prescriptive methods. And we will play some more!
Day 3: Charting the Course Forward – Focus on personal and professional growth within the play therapy field. Participate in experiential case example exercises and create a future-oriented “Miro Board” to visualize your development journey. Conclude with a comprehensive discussion on integrating learned theories and crafting a unique, prescriptive approach to play therapy. Oh yes, and we will be playing!
Each day is structured to include theoretical learning, practical application, reflective self-work, and a leveling up case example question and answer time. Each day is designed to ensure you leave with a profound understanding of Prescriptive Play Therapy and a clear direction for your practice.
Key Components:

In-depth exploration of the Therapeutic Powers of Play

Examination of core tenets and theories of Prescriptive Play Therapy

Ethical considerations and competency in play therapy

Practical case study exercises and interactive/reflective discussions

Personalized learning experiences with “Choose Your Own Adventure” case discussions

Creation of a professional development plan using innovative digital tools

Who Should Attend: This workshop is suited for mental health professionals, play therapists, and practitioners who are looking to enhance their skill set in play therapy with a prescriptive, individualized approach. Whether you’re new to the field or an experienced therapist, this course will offer valuable insights and strategies to elevate your therapeutic practice. Come and join us and embark on a journey towards therapeutic excellence and transformative client outcomes.
