CBPT Research Center
A global reference institution advancing Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy through research, publication and training — under the scientific direction of Maria A. Geraci and Susan M. Knell, pioneer of the model.
A global home for the CBPT model
The CBPT Research Center is the operational structure dedicated to promoting Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy worldwide. It exists to advance an evidence-based, APA-grounded model that integrates cognitive-behavioral technique with play, supporting the development and well-being of the child.
It is not a national body but a worldwide point of reference — bringing clinicians, trainers and researchers together around a shared scientific standard. Learn more about us.
Three areas of work
The Center brings the CBPT model forward through clinical practice, the training of professionals and an active scientific research agenda.
Research
It conducts and defines the future research agenda of the model — consolidating the evidence base and orienting the next questions for the field.
Publication
It advances the model through publication, including manuals on Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy with a preface by Susan M. Knell. See the publications.
Training
It trains mental-health professionals worldwide in the application of Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy and its clinical tools.
Directed by Susan M. Knell
The scientific direction of the CBPT Research Center is held by Susan M. Knell, the pioneer who first formalized Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy. Her direction anchors the Center's work in the original, evidence-based foundations of the model.
Under her direction the Center safeguards the integrity of the method — ensuring that everything it teaches, publishes and researches remains faithful to the APA-grounded principles of CBPT.
- Scientific direction by the pioneer of CBPT
- Evidence-based and APA-grounded model
- Manuals published with a preface by Knell
- A worldwide reference for the method
A model is kept alive by those who research it, publish it and teach it — faithfully, and worldwide.
Train with the institution behind the model
Study Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy with the Center that directs, publishes and advances the method.
Explore the CBPT courses