2 ECVET/ECTS / EQF Level 7 / 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year of study – IDAP
Module Description:
This module provides participants with theoretical and practical knowledge of projective techniques and play therapy in work with children and adolescents. The focus is on applying symbolic, creative, and non-verbal methods that enable the child to express inner states, emotions, and unconscious content. The module includes projective testing techniques, expressive therapeutic methods, and play therapy, which are used in the assessment and treatment of children with emotional and developmentally specific difficulties.
The module includes:
- Projective Techniques – use of drawings, storytelling, metaphors, and symbolism in psychotherapy.
- Play Therapy – fundamental principles, developmental significance of play, and its role in the therapeutic process.
- Interpretation of Non-Verbal and Symbolic Expressions – recognising and analysing the child’s play, drawings, and narrative forms.
- Sandplay Therapy and Other Expressive Methods – use of sand, figurines, and creative materials in therapy.
- Use of Puppets and Role-Play – methods to facilitate the expression of emotions and experiences.
- Projective Techniques in Diagnostic Context – assessment of emotional states, relationships, and unconscious conflicts.
- Work with Children Who Have Experienced Trauma through Play and Projective Methods – facilitating emotional processing within a safe therapeutic framework.
Learning Outcomes:
Competencies
By the end of the module, students will be able to:
a) Apply projective techniques in the therapeutic process (diagnosis and intervention) with children and adolescents.
b) Use play therapy as a tool for expression and processing of emotional experiences.
c) Adapt creative methods to the individual needs and developmental capacities of the child.
Knowledge
By the end of the module, students will have acquired:
a) Knowledge of the basic principles of play therapy and its application in psychotherapy with children.
b) Understanding of symbolic and expressive forms of expression in therapy.
c) Awareness of the importance of non-verbal communication and play in the assessment and treatment of children.
Skills
By the end of the module, students will develop:
a) The ability to interpret projective techniques and analyse the child’s play.
b) The skill to use creative methods in the assessment and therapy of children and adolescents.
c) Competence to structure the therapeutic process through symbolic work and play.
Assessment of Knowledge and Competencies:
The module is assessed through:
– Case analysis applying projective techniques and play therapy
– Practical exercises in interpreting drawings, stories, and play in the therapeutic process
– Group discussion on symbolic methods in child and adolescent therapy
Total Learning Hours:
| Total learning hours: 60 hours | Independent study: 15 hours |
| Contact hours: 40 hours | Assessment of knowledge (examinations and presentations): 5 hours |