Camp Theraplay

The Theraplay® Institute is thrilled to invite you to be an Event Sponsor for our second annual Camp Theraplay.  This year, Camp Theraplay will be held July 17-21, 2023 and will occur at our facility in Chicago.

Since the 1970s, The Theraplay® Institute facilitates child and family emotional well-being by maintaining global standards for the practice of Theraplay through professional certification and development, engagement, and education in Theraplay.  At our clinic in Chicago, we offer clinical therapy services to address a multitude of mental health and behavioral challenges for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.  In the past year, we served 110 families, which includes work with individuals, families, couples, and groups.

Our week-long day camp focuses on building a child’s social skills and expanding their capacity for emotional regulation. Each day includes Theraplay group activities, opportunities for movement and creative expression, and calming breaks designed to help children downregulate. We had 16 campers between the ages of 5 and 10 for our 2022 summer camp, and provided scholarships to any family who needed it.  All of the children who attended camp last year struggled with emotional and physical regulation.  Each of our campers experienced some relational trauma prior to attending, such as physical abuse, neglect, divorce, or a failed adoption.  

This year, we intend to replicate and improve upon last year’s outcomes.  After a week of Camp Theraplay, children made friends and were able to play cooperatively.  They learned to share.  They were better able to verbalize their needs, rather than express their needs through problematic behaviors.  They were able to negotiate conflicts more easily.  And, most importantly, they felt connected to adults who met them with unconditional positive regard each day. 

Aftercare is available too!