A manual of dynamic play therapy
Subtitle: helping things fall apart, the paradox of play
By: Dennis McCarthy ; foreword by David Crenshaw
Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Published: 2012
Place of publication: London; Philadelphia
Language: eng
Number of pages: 173
ISBN-13: 9781849058797
Subjects: Child development; Play therapy
Description: Children will experience natural growth and change throughout their lives. Play, by its very nature, always results in things falling apart, often literally, and children generally find satisfaction in this process of collapse and renewal. This book harnesses the power of the reorganising process to elicit positive and profound change in children dealing with social, neurological, developmental, health and family issues. The author clarifies the theory behind this innovative play therapy approach, and explains its practical application to a full spectrum of client needs, using inspirational, real-life anecdotes as examples. He also describes the importance of using symbols in play therapy and focuses on ways to enable children to act out their internal aggression in a safe and healthy manner. This will be essential reading for play therapists and other professionals working therapeutically with children and their families. Showcases adaptable methods that can by used with a full range of clients. Author uses case studies from his extensive experience as a playtherapist. Innovative new approach grounded in theory.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.
Table of contents: title: Invoking the spirit of play; title: Paradox, the essence of play therapy; title: The roles of the therapist -; title: Witnessing, containing, provoking, envisioning; title: Synchrony and mirroring; title: Imaginative play; title: The meaning and necessity of symbol; title: Symbols as vehicles of emotion; title: Sand as vehicle for symbols; title: Aggressive play; title: The function and necessity of aggression; title: Aggression and connection to selfonsters; title: Aggression and connection to others; title: Play materials that facilitate healthy aggression; title: Helping things fall apart; title: The mythological perspective; title: The natural world as evidence.