Covering the process of therapy from beginning to end, this engaging text helps students and practitioners use play confidently and effectively with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with emotional or behavioral problems or life challenges. With an accessible theory-to-practice focus, the book explains the basics of different play therapy approaches and invites readers to reflect on and develop their own clinical style. It is filled with rich case material and specific examples of play techniques and strategies. The expert authors provide steps for building strong relationships with clients; exploring their clinical issues and underlying dynamics; developing and working toward clear treatment goals; and collaborating with parents and teachers. A chapter on common challenges offers insightful guidance for navigating difficult situations in the playroom.
Industry Reviews
"I wish this text had been available when I was taking play therapy courses, and I am deeply grateful for it now that I am teaching them! The authors clearly explain theory and techniques and show the reader how to develop a personal style that flows naturally from a solid theoretical base. Their informal writing style makes complex ideas accessible, and the case studies are relevant and applicable. The book will give play therapy students a solid grasp of practice and will help seasoned professionals sharpen their skills and deepen their understanding. I plan to use this text both personally and in my classes."--Jeffrey S. Ashby, PhD, ABPP, RPT-S, Department of Counseling and Psychological Services, Georgia State University
"A fresh, relevant guide to play therapy that speaks to play therapists-in-training and has hidden gems for those of us with more experience. This volume broadens the traditional view of play therapy to encompass multiple modalities, and to include adolescents and adults as well as children. Unique interludes throughout the book help the reader become more reflective and integrate personal and professional growth. Kottman and Meany-Walen tackle some of the tougher questions in play therapy regarding interpretation, questioning, and insight, among many other complicated issues. The book is filled with activities and resources to help play therapists at any level improve their everyday practice."--Dee C. Ray, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, RPT-S, Director, Center for Play Therapy, and Professor, Counseling Program, University of North Texas
"This is a unique and needed addition to the play therapy literature--Kottman and Meany-Walen have filled a gap like only they could! The text presents a cross-theoretical, practical perspective, and manages to offer techniques based on theory (no easy task). It should be used for all Introduction to Play Therapy classes and should be in the libraries of all play therapy graduate students, as well as seasoned practitioners."--Daniel S. Sweeney, PhD, LMFT, LPC, RPT-S, Professor of Counseling and Director, Northwest Center for Play Therapy Studies, George Fox University
