By: Ashley Case, OTR/L
When I firs
t heard the news that The P.L.A.Y. Project received a request to conduct an Agency Training in Israel, I was thrilled and began daydreaming about my potential involvement. It wasn’t until months later that I learned I would actually be the person conducting the training! My feelings of excitement quickly turned to apprehension as I contemplated the enormity of facilitating 4-days of professional training to a group of therapists who used English as a second or third language.
All of my concerns faded away within minutes of meeting the amazing group of professionals at the Ziv Medical Center in Tzfat. The first 2 days of the training were open to practicing therapists at the Child Development Center, while the full 4-day training was reserved for practitioners who planned to implement the Home Consultation Program while participating in the follow-up supervision and certification process. The first picture shows the group from the first 2 days of the training, while the second picture captured the 4-day participants.
The therapists radiated enthusiasm as I walked them through the P.L.A.Y. Project methods, techniques, and video analysis process. As with many individuals who attend our trainings, the therapists were excited to finally have a systematic, evidence-based model that was developed specifically for young children with autism spectrum disorders. With each passing day, it became clear that any existing language or cultural barriers would not interfere with this group’s ability to successfully adopt this model.
I am ever so grateful for the openness of each therapist I trained. I can honestly say that I benefited as much (if not more) from this experience as any of the therapists who attended. I speak for Dr. Solomon and our entire staff when I say we are proud to have a P.L.A.Y. Project presence in Israel!
During my stay, some of my favorite post-training experiences included touring the Old City in Tzfat, sight-seeing around the Galilee, visiting Jerusalem, and eating the local fare (fresh juices, grape leaves, olives, hummus, lentils, etc. – everything was delicious!!).
I’d like to give special thanks to: Ilene, Miriam, Mary and Mike Rudolf, Sol, Hagar, and each of the participants who showed me endless generosity and hospitality during my stay.