PDA 101 Training during Play Therapy Week
Fri, Feb 07
|via Zoom
PDA 101: Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance and how it shows up in the Playroom and Beyond
Time & Location
Feb 07, 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
via Zoom
Guests
About the Event
Presenter
Jessamy (Jess) Whitsitt, LMFT, RPT, is a dedicated Child and Family Therapist, AutPlay Therapist™, and Registered Play Therapist™ based in Seattle. With a lifelong commitment to working with children of all neurotypes, Jessamy brings extensive experience and expertise to their practice and advocacy efforts.
Abstract
This presentation aims to enhance the recognition of PDA within play therapy and differentiate it from generalized demand avoidance. We will provide specific strategies and interventions tailored to individuals with PDA, focusing on language, communication, and best practices in the therapeutic process. The discussion will also include a brief exploration of the neurodiversity-affirming paradigm, highlighting the importance of understanding autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder (SPD). The session will showcase how play therapy can be integrated within a neurodiversity-affirming framework, emphasizing the need to adapt therapy practices, interventions, and playroom environments to meet the needs of neurodivergent clients. We will also address the significance of engaging parents…