The Play Therapy Workshop on Neurodiversity
The Play Therapy Workshop on Neurodiversity, held on April 7, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon in the Auditorium, was organized by the Department of Education and Psychology in collaboration with the India Autism Center as part of the observance of Autism Awareness Day. The primary objective of the program was to promote awareness and understanding of neurodiversity, with a particular focus on autism spectrum disorder, and to introduce participants to play therapy as an effective and inclusive therapeutic approach. The workshop aimed to equip students, educators, and mental health professionals with foundational knowledge and practical skills to support neurodivergent individuals using play-based strategies. The event began with a serene prayer by the students, followed by a welcome address by the Teacher-in-Charge. The facilitators, Ms. Puja Dutta (Primary Facilitator) and Ms. Medha Dey (Secondary Facilitator), were introduced and felicitated for their contributions to the fields of play therapy and child psychology.
The core of the program consisted of a series of interactive and informative sessions. These included an introductory regression exercise to help participants connect with their own inner child, followed by detailed discussions on the principles and types of play therapy, the setup and environment required for effective sessions, and practical demonstrations through group play activities. Participants engaged in hands-on experiences, reflected on their observations, and took part in discussions that highlighted how behaviors and emotions are expressed through play. A special focus was given to the application of play therapy for children with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, with the facilitators sharing case examples and strategies. The final session included interactive activities that emphasized the therapeutic value of creativity and emotional expression through play.
The program concluded with an interactive session where participants shared feedback and asked insightful questions, followed by a vote of thanks acknowledging the efforts of the facilitators and organizers. The outcomes of the workshop were notably positive—participants reported an increased awareness of neurodiversity, a clearer understanding of play therapy techniques, and a greater sense of empathy towards neurodivergent individuals. The workshop successfully met its objective of sensitizing future educators and mental health professionals to inclusive, child-centered practices, and inspired further interest in therapeutic approaches that foster holistic development and emotional well-being.
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