The UVU Play Therapy Conference took place on June 13, 2026, providing a platform for clinicians, students, and mental health professionals to examine the role of play therapy in supporting healing, regulation, and connection for children, teens, and families.
Conference features and structure
The conference featured a keynote presentation, breakout workshops, and practical clinical training designed to help attendees strengthen their therapeutic tools.
Keynote speaker's focus on play
Lisa Dion, LPC, RPT-S, served as the keynote speaker. As an international teacher and founder of the Synergetic Play Therapy Institute, Dion discussed how play serves as a natural language for children to communicate emotions and trauma before they possess the words to explain their feelings.
Dion noted that within a safe therapeutic relationship, play allows children to externalize overwhelming experiences and process emotions in ways that support resilience and healing.
Target audience and professional benefits
The event was designed for various levels of clinicians, including counselors, social workers, psychologists, school-based clinicians, and marriage and family therapists. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from leading play therapy professionals in Utah and earn 6 NASW and APT approved CEUs.
Logistics and venue information
The conference check-in was held at Center Stage in the Sorenson Student Center, with free parking provided in Lot L4. Attendees had access to various dining options within the Sorenson Student Center during the event.
