Extended Play-Based Developmental Assessment (EPBDA)
The EPBDA is a unique, developmentally responsive tool designed to uncover the rich complexity of a child's inner world while identifying key emotional and relational needs. By transitioning from traditional observation into deeper therapeutic intervention, our clinicians use this play-based approach to not only assess development but to identify strengths, areas of concern, and recommendations for meaningful support.
The 8–12 Session Journey
The EPBDA provides a thorough understanding of a child’s developmental world. This process is especially helpful for understanding complex emotional needs and can be tailored for toddlers, young children, and children of all ages.
Observation & Spontaneous Play
Through child-led play and developmentally appropriate play therapy activities, clinicians observe the child’s natural ways of expressing emotions, communicating needs, approaching relationships, and interacting with their environment. This deeper exploration of the child’s inner world can reveal important strengths, vulnerabilities, coping strategies, relational patterns, and developmental milestones. Clinicians may also observe how the child responds to boundaries, transitions, challenges, and opportunities for connection, providing a fuller understanding of the child’s emotional and developmental functioning.
Thematic Interpretation
Clinicians thoughtfully observe and analyze recurring themes, patterns, and shifts within the child’s play to better understand how they may be processing emotions, relationships, worries, and life experiences. Themes may emerge through stories, characters, artwork, sand tray scenes, or repeated play sequences. These themes are considered within the context of the child’s developmental level, history, relationships, and current circumstances rather than interpreted in isolation. This process can help caregivers better understand the feelings and needs that may be underlying a child’s behaviors, anxieties, or relational patterns.
Structured Directives
The child participates in thoughtfully selected activities designed to explore specific areas of functioning. These may include drawing, storytelling, sand tray, family representations, expressive arts, or developmentally appropriate paper-and-pencil activities. Directives are introduced gradually and adapted to the child’s age, comfort, communication style, and individual needs. This allows for a multi-faceted view of the child's cognitive and emotional landscape within a safe relationship.
Summary Report and Clinical Recommendations
At the conclusion of the EPBDA, caregivers receive a written summary report and individualized clinical recommendations based on the child’s unique needs. The clinician integrates information gathered through spontaneous play, structured activities, caregiver interviews, clinical observation, and relevant background information to provide a comprehensive understanding of the child’s strengths and areas of concern. Recommendations may include therapy, caregiver support, school-based accommodations, additional evaluations, or referrals to other professionals. Each recommendation is intended to build upon the child’s existing strengths while identifying meaningful opportunities for continued support and growth.
Reach Out for EPBDA
We invite caregivers to reach out to see if the EPBDA is a good fit for your child.
Please note that the EPBDA is not a custody or forensic evaluation.