Evidence-based CBPT Basic Theoretical Model — taught by Susan M. Knell
Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy integrates evidence-based cognitive-behavioral techniques within the play therapy paradigm, making structured, developmentally appropriate treatment accessible to children — including at preschool age.
What you will be able to do
CBT with young children breaks at the same point every time: the child can't identify thoughts, won't do homework, and communicates through fantasy — not logic. CBPT gives you the framework to deliver cognitive-behavioral interventions indirectly, woven into play so seamlessly the child never knows they're in therapy.
Learn the method from those who created it, and bring it into session from day one.
About this course
The Basic Theoretical Model course introduces the conceptual foundations of Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT), the evidence-based approach developed by Susan M. Knell, Ph.D. Participants will explore how cognitive and behavioral principles are integrated within a developmentally sensitive play therapy framework, and how CBPT differs from other child therapy approaches.
This course provides the essential theoretical grounding for all subsequent CBPT clinical applications. It is designed for practicing clinicians who want to understand the empirical basis of CBPT and begin applying its principles with children.
Course objectives
- Understand the theoretical foundations and empirical basis of CBPT
- Differentiate CBPT from other approaches to child therapy
- Apply the theoretical model to clinical case conceptualization
- Understand how cognitive and behavioral principles are adapted for children
Course requirements
- Psychiatrists
- Psychologists
- Clinical Social Workers
- Licensed Professional Counselors
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists
- Licensed Mental Health Clinical Nurse Practitioners
The delivery of the certificate of attestation at the conclusion of the course will be tied to the evaluation of participants' requirements. In the absence of the requirements, the course hours will not be certified.
Curriculum · 4 lessons + Learning Test · 2h 22min
Instructor
Frequently asked questions
What is Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT)?
Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT) is an evidence-based, structured treatment approach developed by Susan M. Knell, Ph.D. that integrates cognitive-behavioral principles with play therapy techniques, adapted to a child's developmental level.
What will I learn in the CBPT Basic Theoretical Model course?
You will learn the conceptual foundations of CBPT: how cognitive and behavioral principles are integrated within a play-based framework, and how CBPT differs from non-directive and purely behavioral child therapy approaches.
Who is the CBPT Basic Theoretical Model course for?
The course is designed for child psychologists, psychotherapists, counselors and other mental health professionals who work with children and want to build a solid theoretical foundation before applying CBPT in clinical practice.
How long is the course and is a certificate included?
The course consists of 4 lessons plus a learning test, totaling about 2 hours and 22 minutes. It is self-paced and online, and includes a certificate of completion.
Is CBPT an evidence-based method?
Yes. CBPT was developed by Susan M. Knell, Ph.D., an APA-published author, and is grounded in published, evidence-based clinical research on cognitive-behavioral and play therapy approaches.
Who this course is for
Psychologists and psychotherapists · Psychiatrists · Clinical and licensed independent social workers · Licensed professional counselors · Marriage and family therapists · Mental health clinical nurse practitioners.
A certificate of attendance is issued on completion, tied to the final learning test.