WENDY WHITLOCK
What I Do: I play at Soar for Life in Hollidaysburg, PA. I enjoy being outside hiking, fishing, walking our dog, and crafting.
Where I learned to play (school/trainings): I graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2004 and 2006 with BA in Social Work and Masters of Social Work degrees. I was a home visitor in an Infant, toddler, and young child program called Starfish Family Services in Wayne County/Metro Detroit, Michigan. This is where I began my journey with play therapy and working with young children and their families. I attended several of Child Savers trainings with VCU. I also had the privilege of direct clinical supervision including play therapy with Starfish Family Services.
Why play therapy: I believe that children have the power to heal which occurs both in the context of trusting relationships and through their language – play!
My favorite play therapy book/reason: Child-Centered Play Therapy: A Practical Guide to Developing Therapeutic Relationships with Children by Nancy Cochran, William Nordling, Jeff Cochran. This book has been my go to for reference as I work to enhance my play therapy skills. I also enjoy Supervision
Can Be Playful: Techniques for Child and Play Therapist Supervisors by Sue Bratton, Peggy Ceballos, David A. Crenshaw PhD et al. as I work to support colleagues with developing their on play therapy practices.
My favorite children’s book: Where the Wild Things Are. This book is filled symbolism and metaphors and ultimately the healing (through play) and repair of relationships. I also enjoy The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss because it embraces differences and promotes equality.
My favorite play therapy technique/tool/intervention: Many children struggle to find the words to explore, express, and process their feelings. My favorite intervention is Child Centered Play Therapy with the use of expressive arts (painting!) and sand tray (build your world).
My favorite play therapy quote: “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” Mr. Rogers
Other information I want to share: I would love to network with anyone in Central PA to bring awareness to the healing power of play therapy.
I believe that children have the power to heal which occurs both in the context of trusting relationships and through their language – play!