Clinical Problem-Solving Using the Play Therapy Dimensions Model: Taking an Integrative Approach to Meeting the Needs of Neurodivergent Clients in Therapy with Raelene Dundon

Please note this is an intermediate/advanced-level workshop suitable for experienced therapists.

This workshop explores an integrative approach to identifying and addressing therapeutic challenges with neurodivergent clients using the Play Therapy Dimensions Model (PTDM) as a framework for clinical decision-making in psychotherapy.

Participants will learn to recognise when specific therapeutic approaches aren't meeting client needs and how to flexibly shift between directive/non-directive and conscious/non-conscious dimensions based on individual preferences. The session emphasises how thoughtful integration of approaches can be more effective than rigid adherence to single methodologies. Through case studies and experiential activities, attendees will practise applying the PTDM's quadrants to develop individualised intervention strategies that honour neurological differences, sensory profiles and communication preferences.

Creative arts therapists will find particular relevance in discussions of how various modalities naturally align with different PTDM quadrants, offering additional pathways for engagement when traditional approaches stall. This neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed approach emphasises collaborative adaptation based on client feedback and therapeutic response. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Apply the Play Therapy Dimensions Model as a clinical decision-making framework to identify when current therapeutic approaches are not effectively meeting the needs of neurodivergent clients and determine which quadrant shift may be most beneficial.
• Develop collaborative strategies that meaningfully engage neurodivergent clients in evaluating therapeutic effectiveness and guiding dimensional shifts in the therapeutic approach.

PRESENTER BIO

Raelene Dundon is an Autistic and ADHDer Educational and Developmental Psychologist, Registered Play Therapist and Author, with over 20 years' experience supporting neurodivergent children and their families and working with educators and clinicians. She is the Director of Okey Dokey Childhood Therapy and a lecturer in Child Play Therapy at Deakin University.

When: Wednesday 18 June 
Time: 11am–1pm AEST (1pm NZST, 9am AWST/HKT/SGT)
Duration/CPD: 2 hr
Where: Zoom
Cost: $40 (+GST for Aust. members)
Open to: Practising members (Professional, Tier, Provisional) - Experienced practising members only
Max: 30 participants
Recorded session: No (Privacy Reasons)

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