Play Therapy-Deeper Dive into Synergetic Play Therapy (TM) and Theraplay (TM)
What You Will Learn
This training will focus on understanding the framework and application of Synergetic Play Therapy and Theraplay. Modalities will be experiential in nature including practical application, case conceptualization, interactive exercises, modeling and role plays to encourage and promote practice of techniques being taught.
By the end of this training, participants will be able to:
- Identify signs of nervous system dysregulation in both client and therapist during play therapy sessions.
- Apply Synergetic Play Therapy’s co-regulation framework to real-time clinical decision-making.
- Differentiate the four Theraplay dimensions (Structure, Engagement, Nurture, Challenge) and select the right one for a given clinical presentation.
- Analyze transference and countertransference material as a therapeutic resource rather than an obstacle.
- Integrate Theraplay’s structured activities into a single session plan.
- Demonstrate at least one experiential practice technique from each modality through role-play.
Time: Friday, October 2nd, 9 am – 3 pm
Mathews Counseling Durham Office (Virtual attendance for out of town/ state only. Please reach out to Amber for additional questions.)
Sara Bagramian, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S (she/her)
Sara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S), and single mom to two young boys. With over 25 years of post-graduate experience, she specializes in play therapy for children of all ages, parent coaching, trauma, and supporting teens, young adults, and single parents.
Sara founded Oak City Counseling in 2007 with a vision of building a practice rooted in clinical excellence and play therapy expertise. She holds advanced training in Theraplay®, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), and is a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist® — bringing a trauma-informed, neuroscience-backed approach to her work with children and families.
One of only six therapists in the area to hold the RPT-S credential, Sara is passionate about both direct client care and the growth of the next generation of play therapists. She provides clinical supervision to LCSWAs, LCMHCA Associates, and those pursuing the RPT credential, and has presented on play therapy and child trauma to agencies and university programs throughout the community.
Get in touch with Sara via email at: sara@oakcitycounseling.com