Athena A. Drewes

An updated take on a fundamental decision-making framework, this practical guide explores the dimensions of play therapy and how they apply to today's practitioner. In-depth case studies illustrate the interplay between theory and practice, demonstrating an integrative case conceptualization approach. Scales have been updated to reflect current best practice and developments in the field, and combine with the core decision-making framework for a deeper, expanded use of the model. New chapters delve into parent work and case conceptualization utilizing observational and self-reflective forms. Downloadable video content brings the text to life, including a new video illustrating the essentials of consultation with parents. The interface between practitioner and client also takes centre stage. New sections on self-reflection and cultural sensitivity guide you through ways to foster a welcoming, compassionate environment throughout your practice. Whether you're a seasoned play therapist or just starting out, this fresh take on the dimensions of play therapy will foster self-reflection of the who, what, when, why, and how of play therapy.

A practical look at how play therapy can promote mental health wellness in children and adolescents Revised and expanded, The Therapeutic Powers of Play, Second Edition explores the powerful effects that play therapy has on different areas within a child or adolescent's life: communication, emotion regulation, relationship enhancement, and personal strengths. Editors Charles Schaefer and Athena Drewes—renowned experts in the field of play therapy—discuss the different interventions and components of treatment that can move clients to change. Leading play therapists contributed to this volume, supplying a wide repertoire of practical techniques and applications in each chapter for use in clinical practice, including: Direct teachingIndirect teachingSelf-expressionRelationship enhancementAttachment formationCatharsisStress inoculationCreative problem solvingSelf-esteem Filled with clinical case vignettes from various theoretical viewpoints, the second edition is an invaluable resource for play and child therapists of all levels of experience and theoretical orientations.

An integrative approach to play therapy blending various therapeutic treatment models and techniques Reflecting the transition in the field of play therapy from a “one size fits all” approach to a more eclectic framework that integrates more than one perspective, Integrative Play Therapy explores methods for blending the best theories and treatment techniques to resolve the most common psychological disorders of childhood. Edited by internationally renowned leaders in the field, this book is the first of its kind to look at the use of a multi-theoretical framework as a foundation for practice. With discussion of integrative play treatment of children presenting a wide variety of problems and disorders—including aggression issues, the effects of trauma, ADHD, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, social skills deficits, medical issues such as HIV/AIDS, and more—the book provides guidance on: Play and group therapy approachesChild-directed play therapy with behavior management training for parentsTherapist-led and child-led play therapiesCognitive-behavioral therapy with therapeutic storytelling and play therapyFamily therapy and play therapyBibliotherapy within play therapy An essential resource for all mental health professionals looking to incorporate play therapy into treatment, Integrative Play Therapy reveals unique flexibility in integrating theory and techniques, allowing practitioners to offer their clients the best treatment for specific presenting problems.