WHAT IS PLAY THERAPY?
"Play Therapy is based upon the fact that play is the child's natural medium of self-expression. It is an opportunity which is given to the child to 'play out' his feelings and problems just as, in certain types of adult therapy, an individual can ‘talk out' his difficulties." Virginia Axline
Play therapy offers children and adolescents a safe and secure environment with which they can freely express their emotions. In play therapy, toys are like the child's words and play is the child's language (Landreth, 2002). Through play, therapists may help children learn more adaptive behaviours when there are emotional or social skills deficits (Pedro-Carroll & Reddy, 2005). The positive relationship that develops between therapist and child during play therapy sessions can provide a corrective emotional experience necessary for healing (Moustakas, 1997).
WHO IS IT FOR?
Play therapy can help children with the following:
Developmental disorders (including Autistic Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, ADD)
Anger/aggression/tantrums/violent behaviour (e.g. fighting and biting other children)
Attachment difficulties (difficulty within the child-parent relationship)
Difficulties with concentration/motivation
Difficulties with relationships (parents, siblings, peers, teachers)
Low self esteem, disengagement, sadness, bullying
Trauma (eg: bereavement, domestic violence, abuse - physical, neglect, emotional and sexual)
Anxiety (separation, general anxiety)
Separated parents
Withdrawn behaviour
BENEFITS OF PLAY THERAPY
Play therapy can help children:
Develop self-efficacy so they can feel more assured about their abilities
Learn new social skills
Develop better interpersonal skills
Cultivate empathy and respect
Learn to identify and express emotions in a healthy way
Learn and practice better problem-solving skills
Become more responsible for their behaviours
PLAY THERAPY TOOLKIT
The Play Therapy Toolkit will include the following items:
Art for creativity Creative Visualization for understanding and thinking
Storytelling for morals and spiritual development
Sand-tray for emotional development
Music for communication
Dance and Movement for physical development
Drama-therapy for social relationships
Puppets & Masks for self care
THE THERAPY PROCESS
Before commencing therapy an initial consultation is carried out. This meeting is used to determine the suitability of the referral.
If it is felt that play therapy would be beneficial, treatment will commence. It is made up of three phases
Intake Phase
This phase involves meeting with the child's parents/care givers to explore the child's current emotional state, the reasons behind the referred behaviour as well as well as their coping skills. A complete history of the child/family circumstances will be undertaken. The meeting is of great benefit to parents/care givers as it allows them to become familiar with the play therapist and air any queries. The meeting also allows the parent to see the Play Therapy room/practice.
Therapy Phase
The therapy phase is where the child attends play therapy on a weekly basis. At intervals of approximately 6 sessions review meetings are held with parents/care givers to assist them in regulating the child. It also affords them the opportunity to discuss any issues that may be emerging throughout the process.
Closing Phase
The final stage is where healthier behaviours have replaced the initial concerning behaviours.lay Therapy