Incorporating Religious Awareness or Cultural Holidays in
Therapeutic Spaces is An Act of Social Justice Advocacy MARLA BERGER, LMHC, ATR, RPT-S
concept of therapeutic neutrality, play therapy is grounded in the a relationship, there is an understanding that each party will have differing values, beliefs and cultural experiences. “[T]herapists should not assume they can keep their own values and needs compartmentalized and
As our clientele has become more racially diverse, play therapists the last decade, the numbers have barely shifted (Ceballos et al., 2012, Elmadani, 2020). In 2022, APT updated the Play Therapy Best Practices to include the need for clinicians to examine their own and their client’s needs, values, attitudes and beliefs. The need for a deep understanding of “diverse populations by increas[ing] their understanding of multicultural counseling from a social context… play therapists shall support and respect the culture, cultural identity,
In recent years there has been a shift in the play therapy community, towards a better understanding of cultural competence, as well as a move toward cultural humility. This includes a belief in social
COUNTER POINT
2010). Play therapists often acknowledge that social justice is an important piece of counseling, however do not have a method for putting social justice advocacy into action (Chase et al, 2022).
Implementing social justice advocacy can be a part of the clinician’s social media outreach efforts, adding play, sandtray or art activities to the playroom, or information provided in the waiting room. This on the religious, cultural or advocacy observance that day, week toys, puppets, sandtray or art supplies (Chang et al., 2005). For directive clinicians, incorporating activities to advance knowledge and target treatment goals can be included (Ceballos et at, 2022). As part of a community that experienced communal trauma on a holiday, this writer acknowledges that triggers must be addressed in the sharing of information.
It is not enough to be a repository of knowledge. If clinicians as a community believe in social justice, it is important to embody this concept. By introducing social justice advocacy practices into accepting clients for their gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, religion, culture and more (Brown et al., 2020).
providers can help people leverage their religious and spiritual resources as a source of strength during challenging times.
Sensitivity and Flexibility: Listening to Client Needs Central to the mission of any therapeutic space is the well-being of its clients. Thus, it is crucial to listen and adjust accordingly if anyone expresses discomfort with religious holiday
decorations.Clients come from various walks of life, and what is comforting to one may be disquieting to another.
In this light, feedback should be actively sought and responded to with grace and understanding. The inclusion of decorations should be dynamic, capable of being adapted based on the needs and feelings of those who utilize the space. Inform clients that their comfort is a priority and make it clear that the therapeutic space is for them—a place where their voices are heard and respected.
Inclusivity: Celebrating Diversity Embracing inclusivity could mean acknowledging multiple traditions during the holiday season. Providing space for a menorah alongside a Christmas tree, or recognizing festivals like Diwali or Kwanzaa in decor can send a powerful message of unity and respect for diversity. It invites conversations about different traditions and can be incredibly enriching for both children, parents and therapist(s) alike.
However, recognizing every holiday might not be feasible or appropriate for and neutrality. This approach can help ensure that no one feels excluded or uncomfortable due to the promotion of one particular belief system over another.
A Season for All: Crafting a Welcoming Atmosphere Ultimately, the goal in our playroom is to create an environment that religious holiday decorations in a therapeutic space should hinge upon this spirit without excluding or offending, they have the potential to foster a sense of community and shared joy.
By approaching holiday decorations with sensitivity and care, we can cultivate spaces that truly encapsulate the essence of the season: peace, goodwill, and a deep respect for the individual journeys of all who enter.
To those who helm therapeutic environments, consider this opportunity as a canvas—not to paint your own beliefs, but rather to create a mosaic of not just with ribbons and wreaths but with the ultimate intention of inclusivity, empathy, and harmony.
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