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By: Amy Charles | April 7, 2026
The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) School of Social Work has received national recognition for its leadership in mental health education, earning designation as an Approved Center for Play Therapy Education from the Association for Play Therapy (APT).
The newly established Appalachian Institute for Play Therapy at UPIKE is now officially recognized by APT, marking a significant step forward in the university’s efforts to expand applied mental health training and professional pathways for students.
The designation affirms that UPIKE meets rigorous national standards for play therapy instruction and positions the institution as a regional and national leader in this specialized area of mental health care.
“The Appalachian Institute for Play Therapy will serve as a hub for education, clinical training, and community engagement, equipping current and future mental health professionals with specialized skills in evidence-based play therapy practices,” said Genesia Kilgore-Bowling, Ph.D., MSW, CSW, professor of social work and chair of the School of Social Work. “Children communicate in ways that are often beyond words, and play therapy gives them a voice. Through this work, we are not only preparing skilled professionals—we are creating pathways for children and families in Appalachia to be seen, heard and supported.”
Play therapy is an evidence-based approach that helps children express emotions, process experiences and develop coping skills through guided play. UPIKE’s new designation supports the development of a pathway toward play therapy certification, enhancing the university’s social work curriculum and expanding career opportunities for graduates.
As part of the recognition, the APT will highlight UPIKE’s new status in an upcoming issue of Play Therapy Magazine. The feature will also recognize Renee Krebel, DSW, MSW, LCSW, RPT-STM, associate professor of social work, who will serve as center director for the Appalachian Institute for Play Therapy.
“This designation reflects the dedication and expertise of our faculty and our commitment to providing high-quality, experiential learning opportunities,” Krebel said. “There is a tremendous, growing need for specialized mental health services tailored to children. I am honored to lead the Appalachian Institute for Play Therapy, where we will equip Master of Social Work students and community professionals with specialized skills through our dedicated Play Therapy Path.”
The Appalachian Institute for Play Therapy is part of UPIKE’s broader mission to address mental health needs across Central Appalachia by preparing a highly skilled workforce and expanding access to innovative, evidence-based care.For more information about UPIKE’s play therapy program, please complete the following form: https://forms.gle/ob5wU9VRvneRaKpQA. Please visit www.upike.edu for more information about UPIKE’s social work programs.