By Gary Allen


Use of play items in therapy is useful in addressing certain issues that individuals, especially children, grapple with . It is highly recommended for children between the ages of three and eleven. This form of treatment can also be applied in adults under special circumstances. Examples of items used include dolls, pets and stuffed animals. These are some of the basics of play therapy Littleton Co residents may find worthwhile.

This form of intervention can be said to be either directive or non-directive. In directive management, the therapist literally directs the process. Directive treatment is sometimes used interchangeably with cognitive behaviour therapy. Non-directive treatment, also known as psychodynamic management, gives the client complete freedom allowing them to express themselves in a way that they see fit.

As there is very minimal intrusion, if any, in non-directive therapy, the client is able to sort out their problems as they go through the sessions. This awareness during play works more for adults than children since the brain of the former is more developed and is capable of making intuitions. The non-directive option also aids the therapist in making diagnostic formulations based on how the client makes decisions during the sessions.

In the case of directive method, guidance has to be provided by the psychiatrist to ensure the client makes the right moves. The disadvantage of this is that it denies the individual the will to act as they wish. In spite of this, the client is able to rightly approach matters after a short period of time, thanks to the insight provided by the therapist.

For the purposes of bonding, parents can take part in playing together with their children. Children who have been through trying moments such as admission to hospital, motor vehicle accidents and kidnaps can greatly benefit from familiar company as they undergo the treatment. The child gets the assurance that someone does care about them.

Because the directive approach requires a certain level of cognition, it may not be suitable for the very young. Children may not be able to make useful deductions based on the guidance provided. A high level of creativity is therefore needed for this method to be successful. To facilitate this, the therapist can create interesting but relevant stories using pets, dolls and stuffed animals.

The effectiveness of treatment depends on a number of factors including the number of sessions, the exact underlying problem, willingness and attitude of the client and many others. While some people may require only a few sessions, others may take longer for their issues to be sorted out. According to research, effectiveness of therapy is equal across all age groups.

In a nutshell, any person can benefit from play therapy regardless of their age. It can also be given to groups of people such as families. The aim, at the end of the day, is to achieve healing for concerned individuals. Clients also need to be patient and portray the right attitude for the process to be successful. Moreover, the therapist should have enough experience regarding this method if success is to be achieved.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment

top