Chapter 12 Typical problems in play therapy

Silent Child Respond verbally to what child is doing Patience is key

Child want to bring toys or food in Don’t allow toys that would not be typical in playroom Snacks can stay with the parent “I know you would like to take the cookie into the playroom, but it stays here in the waiting room. It will be here after we finish playing”

Child is overly dependent Return responsibility to child if it is something he/she can do. “You would like me to get those crayons for you, but you can get the crayons if you want them” “In here, you can decide what you want to play” “In here, that is something you can do’.

Child seeks praise Children should be free to evaluate own work, so Make comments about what you see in the picture “you painted a yellow sun, and red flowers” “What is important is what you think about the picture”

If child says you talk weird “oh, I sound different to you than other people” “I’m just trying to let you know that I am interested in how you feel and what you are doing”.

Child wants you to guess.. “You have something planned” “You can tell me”

Child asks for expressions of affection If child asks, “Do you like me?” respond with “you are special to me, and this is a special time together.”

Child wants to sit in therapist’s lap If child is enacting a “baby” scene, the counselor might allow it, but be aware of potential problems such as child being provocative, or allegations of abuse. If child hugs, return hug If child leans on counselor, allow If child has history of sexual abuse, be cautious and provide alternative, “You can be a baby and use the bottle in the baby bed.” Videoing can help

Child wants to steal toy If you see the child take the toy, “I know you would like to take the car with you, but that car in your pocket stays here so it will be here for you to play with next time” If won’t admit, “I know you would like to pretend you don’t know where the car is, but the car in that picket stays in the playroom” Don’t question. Don’t ask if you know.

Child refuses to leave playroom Give 5 minute warning After 5 minutes. “our time in the playroom is up for today” If child complains, or ignores, “I know you are having fun, and would like to stay, but our time in the playroom is up for today”. Stand up and move towards door. “This is really fun for you, but our time is over.” Open door Continue to reflect feelings and keep walking a few feet. Look expectantly at child.