Supporting Children with Mood Dysregulation Disorders: A Neurodivergence-Affirming Prescriptive Play Therapy Approach

Course overview

This workshop will equip mental health professionals, counselors, and educators with practical insights and effective play therapy techniques to support neurodivergent children who struggle with mood dysregulation. Participants will learn strategies that empower children, helping them recognize their strengths, develop effective self-advocacy skills, and gain a sense of control over their powerful minds. While the focus of this workshop will be bipolar disorder, it will also be applicable for a range of neurodivergence that may include autism, bipolar, ADHD, anxiety and PTSD. This workshop will help participants gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by these unique children and develop skills to engage them in therapeutic play therapy techniques. The workshop will incorporate juvenile bipolar research and best practices as well as personal insights from a mother and son within the context of their family legacy of bipolar. Presenter will also share her experiences with her son participating in a Psychoeducational research study at OSU for juvenile bipolar disorder. Learning Objectives 1. Recognize misconceptions about juvenile bipolar disorder and identify the life-threatening dangers associated with untreated juvenile bipolar. 2. Identify 5-6 play therapy techniques to empower children to actively engage with their treatment and develop 3-4 specific modifications to child-centered play therapy techniques to help a dysregulated child feel safe in the playroom. 3. Implement strategies and gain resources to engage parents and families in treatment.