What is Play Therapy?
The Association for Play Therapy defines play therapy as "the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development."
Objectives
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Develop a more positive self-concept
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Assume greater self-responsibility
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Become more self-directing
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Become more self-reliant
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Engage in self-determined decision making
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Experience a feeling of control
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Become sensitive to the process of coping
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Develop an internal source of evaluation
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Become more trusting of himself
Landreth, G. (2012). Play therapy: The art of the relationship. (3rd edition). New York: Routledge.
Therapeutic Powers of Play
Schaefer, C. E., & Drewes, A. A. (Eds.), (2014). The therapeutic powers of play: 20 core agents of change (2nd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Who Can Benefit From Play Therapy?
Play therapy is especially beneficial for children aged 3-12, however the use of play in therapy can be beneficial to individuals at a variety of developmental stages.