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| About
Play Therapy |
What is Play Therapy?
The National Association of 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."
Play therapy was initially developed around 1900 and today, it refers
to many treatment methods. Play therapy differs from regular
play. Registered Play Therapists help children address and solve
their own problems, learn to communicate with others, express feelings,
modify behavior, develop problem solving skills, and learn new ways of
relating. Play provides a safe psychological distance from
problems and facilitates developmentally appropriate thoughts and
feelings.
How Does Play Therapy Work?
Children are usually referred to play therapy to solve problems and
deal with issues that are troubling the child. Often, children
have used up their own problem solving tools and express themselves in
negative ways, such as acting out at home, with friends, or at
school. Trained mental health practioners use play therapy to
help children cope with difficult emotions and find solutions for their
problems. By using a play therapy setting, children find
healthier solutions and learn new ways of coping with their issues.
How Can I Learn More about Play Therapy?
For more information, you can contact the Iowa Association of Play Therapy Board
or contact the Association for Play Therapy at www.a4pt.org or info@a4pt.org. |
Information above adapted from the Association
for Play Therapy website. |
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