Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

APT's Statement of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

APT is committed to the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) within our organization. It is an integral component to our mission and scope. We are at our best when the principles of DE&I are fully integrated into our governance, decision making, processes, and policies. As a part of this commitment, we have created the APT Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Awareness Team (IDEA Team).

History and Purpose

Through conversations had with members regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), the APT Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Awareness (IDEA) Team was born.

The Team's purpose is simple: To provide an open, safe space for members of our organization to feel supported and be heard. We are committed to creating an environment where you feel represented, seen, valued and empowered by recommending DE&I informed programs and processes that will result in meaningful and sustainable organizational change. APT realizes that we must stand up, acknowledge, engage, and act. This is a process; change takes time. We are committed to this, in this together, and for the long-term.

As a first step, the Team created a member-only program survey to evaluate diversity, equity, and inclusion in APT's programs and processes. Your are welcome to view the results.

Commitment to an Inclusive Future

With a commitment to cultivating organizational change and promoting ways to address DE&I at all levels of APT, while keeping APT's mission at the forefront, it is clear three areas require our immediate attention;

Membership: How do we address diversity, equity, and inclusion at the membership level?
Play Therapists: How do we support our therapists of color in their work and as members of the organization?
Children & Families: How do we best educate all therapists on issues faced by children and families of color as they present in play therapy?

Now is the time to turn IDEA’s into realities. With your support, we can do just that.

Resources for Play Therapists

Below are shared resources compiled by APT, The IDEA Team, Members, and other stakeholders related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion so that play therapists are best educated on the issues faced by children and families of color as they present in play therapy.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this list thus far. If there are additional resources you believe are valuable additions to this list, please contact us at info@a4pt.org.

American Counseling Association

American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy