(WC 150489 WHITEHEAD 2025) Disruptive Behavior Disorders Integrative Systemic Play Therapy (ISPT) for Kids, Families & School

Course overview

"Problem children." Sadly, that's how kids with Disruptive Behavior Disorders-like ODD, Conduct Disorder, and PDA-are often labeled. And instead of focusing on how to connect with these kids, most treatment models focus on controlling, suppressing, or eliminating the behavior. But behavior is communication. And when children feel powerless, misunderstood, or unsafe, their "defiance" is really a call for relationship, regulation, and repair. This training flips that script. Led by Dr. Michael Whitehead-author of Treating Children with Disruptive Behavior Disorders-you'll learn a play-therapy-centered, relationship-based model that empowers children and re-engages the systems around them. Through child-centered, filial, and directive play therapy interventions, you'll discover how play therapy unlocks safety, trust, and self-expression-while also helping caregivers and teachers shift from authority to attunement. You'll leave with a toolbox of experiential, neurobiologically informed play therapy strategies-from LEGO, SORRY!, origami, and juggling games to HeartMath and somatic play therapy activities-that strengthen co-regulation, foster resilience, and transform family and classroom dynamics. This isn't about "fixing" children. It's about reshaping the relational environment through play as the language of healing-so kids, families, and schools can grow together. Whether you work in private practice, schools, or community mental health, you'll walk away with a flexible, compassionate roadmap for creating real, lasting change.