Description: 

This training explores the intersection of expressive arts therapy within play therapy using the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) as a framework for clinical conceptualization and intervention. Participants will explore how the ETC supports play therapists in developmentally appropriate materials, structuring interventions, and facilitating therapeutic change.

The seven components of ETC, kinesthetic, sensory, perceptual, affective, cognitive, symbolic and creative, will be presented with application to play therapy processes. The training will include an overview of each component, the goal of each component, the healing function of the component, the emergent function when working with the component, examples of activities facilitating each component, and examples of materials/toys to utilize each component.

Through experiential activities, case examples, and guided discussion, participants will practice applying the ETC to clinical decision-making. Attention will be given to selecting directive and non-directive approaches, adjusting levels of structure, and utilizing materials along the fluid to resistive media continuum.

Participants will leave this training with practical strategies to integrate expressive arts techniques into play therapy sessions across developmental levels and clinical settings.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Describe the similarities and differences between play therapy and expressive arts therapy
2. Identify the 7 components of the Expressive Therapies Continuum
3. Describe how at least three ETC components support therapeutic change within play therapy
4. Apply the ETC to case examples to inform intervention selection in play therapy
5. Identify 3 expressive arts interventions for use in play therapy sessions
6. Identify 3 developmentally appropriate play therapy interventions for use in play therapy sessions

Presenter:

ANREAH HULCE

LPC, Registered Play Therapist™, M.A. 

Anreah is a trauma-informed clinician and trainer who specializes in translating complex theory into practical, accessible tools for clinical work. She works with children, teens, and adults, integrating play therapy, EMDR, and parts-based approaches in a way that is both developmentally attuned and relationally grounded. Her work is especially shaped by expressive and art-based interventions informed by the Expressive Therapies Continuum, a model she is passionate about helping clinicians understand and apply with clarity and intention.

Anreah began developing and presenting her own trainings early in her career, including a presentation selected for the Colorado Association for Play Therapy Conference. That foundation continues to shape her approach today. She is known for thoughtfully bridging research and real-world application, creating trainings that are engaging, clinically grounded, and immediately usable in session. She brings a high level of intentionality to pacing, clarity, and ethical scope, particularly when working with trauma-focused material, and is committed to helping clinicians grow in both skill and confidence as they develop their own voice in the room.