Play Therapy is to children what counseling is to adults. Play Therapy utilizes play, children's natural medium of expression, to help them express their feelings more easily through toys instead of words.
First developed:
Play Therapy dates back to the early 1900s. In the ‘40s and ‘50s, Dr. Virginia Axline became something of a pioneer in her use of Play Therapy. Standardized training for Play Therapy began in 1992.
Overall Philosophy:
Play Therapy builds on the idea that although children might lack the cognitive skills to express themselves with words, therapy through play gives them the opportunity to communicate as well as express feelings, modify behavior, problem-solve and learn to relate to others. Play Therapy also provides a safe, psychological distance from the problem, and allows age-appropriate expression. Even the most troubling problems can be confronted in Play Therapy and lasting resolutions can be discovered, rehearsed, mastered and adapted into lifelong strategies
The practice of Play Therapy requires extensive specialized education, training and experience. A Play Therapist is a licensed (or certified) mental health professional who has earned a master's or doctorate degree in a mental health field, with considerable general clinical experience and supervision.
With advanced, specialized training, experience and supervision, mental health professionals may also earn the Registered Play Therapist (RPT) or Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S) credentials conferred by the Association for Play Therapy (APT).
Popularity:
Play Therapy is a well-regarded and highly respected method of therapy. It is non-invasive, non-aversive, and is internationally recognized.
Where does the treatment take place?
Generally in an office/clinic setting.
Time Required:
Weekly sessions last approximately 30-50 minutes. Research suggests that an average of 20 therapy sessions are required to resolve the issues of an average child.
Treatment Cost:
Cost varies by state and provider.
Training Materials Needed:
Materials are provided by the therapist.
How is Success Defined?
By the improved social and emotional interactions of the child as well as increased problem-solving skills.
Biggest Success Story:
In the book, Dibs: In Search of Self, Dr. Virginia Axline describes how she uses Play Therapy to bring a child (who fits the later description of Asperger’s Syndrome) out of a world of silence and helps him grow into the gifted and loveable young man she believes he is. Because this work was done during a time when mental illnesses were treated with institutionalization, the work of Dr. Axline is considered groundbreaking in the field. Today, Play Therapy is used to guide children through many levels of emotional trauma.
Website:
http://www.a4pt.org/
Another website that offers good information is: http://autism.about.com/od/autismtherapy101/a/playbasics.htm
Main Concern:
Your child’s play therapist may want to keep certain details of the therapy private – or may choose to involve members of the family in the therapy. Make sure your therapist understands your wishes before you begin treatment.