What is Play Therapy?

Definition of Play Therapy A method of psychotherapy with children that utilizes both play and verbal communication to understand and help the child. National Assoc. of Play Therapy

Why Play Therapy? . Appropriate therapy for children 12 years old and younger because child might not have the vocabulary to express feelings. Play is a natural process of self expression for a child. Child is encouraged to play out feelings, conflicts, and problems during play

Play therapy assumes that: What is said and done by the child during play has meaning to the child. The therapist will attempt to decipher that meaning to see what effect it can or might have on the child’s behavior. It is is an appropriate therapy especially for a child who has experienced abuse, neglect ,anger issues, separation issues and anxiety.

Process of Play Therapy Assessment Engagement Therapy Termination

Materials Used Drawings Clay/ Dough Specialized games Puppets/Dolls Blocks

What are the connections to EC Professionals? Understand and provide similar risk free environments where similar processes can occur. Be a good observer. Advocate for play therapy for those who would benefit from. Encourage parents to play with children Advocate for the benefits of play. Have a wide range of toys and materials for children to play with.

Qualifications of Play Therapists Master’s degree in mental health or medical degree with course work in child development, theories of psychotherapy, child and adolescent psychopathology and legal and ethical issues 2 years of supervised clinical experience post master’s National Assoc. of Play Therapy

Characteristics of the Therapist Able to establish a warm trusting relationship with child Accept child as she/he is. Sensitive to child’s feelings and reflect them back. Understand the therapy is a slow process. Provide only as much guidance as will move the child forward,

Observe the therapist. What strategies does she use during assessment and follow-up Sessions?