Play Therapy
Dr. Lark Eshleman is trained by the TheraplayŽ Institute in
Chicago, IL.
Theraplay is a short-term therapeutic technique developed by
Ann M. Jernberg, Ph.D., founder and clinical director of The
Theraplay Institute in Chicago. Theraplay is a structured,
intensive, and active therapy that uses play similar to that
of parent and infant, or parent and child. The basic aim of
Theraplay is to replicate the healthy parent/infant
relationship that is characterized by five essential
qualities:
- Structure
- Challenge
- Intrusion/Engagement -
ICF refers to this as "emotional intimacy"
- Nurture
- Playfulness
In Theraplay, the focus is
on pleasurable activities that have one or more of these
qualities and that create an active and affective connection
between the child and the therapist and, ultimately, between
the child and the parents. Theraplay encourages the parents
first to observe their child's session, then to participate
together with the therapist in the treatment room. Finally,
they continue at home the Theraplay approaches they have
learned. Even in situations where the parents cannot be
involved in treatment, Theraplay is still of benefit to the
child. In the Theraplay process, the child comes to see
herself or himself as competent, special, and fun to be
with.
A Theraplay Group is an adult-directed, structured play
group in which all the participants, adults included, are
actively involved together in pleasant, enjoyable
activities. Through the use of cooperative and often
nurturing games, a Theraplay Group fosters a child's
self-esteem, the sense of belonging, the ability to care for
oneself and others and the opportunity to develop increased
trust.
The four rules of a Theraplay Group:
- No Hurts
- Stick Together
- Have Fun
- The Adult Is In Charge
These rules provide the
framework for group experiences that are structuring,
challenging, engaging, nurturing and playful. Within this
atmosphere of fun, caring, acceptance, and encouragement,
children are able to grow socially, emotionally, and often
intellectually as well.
Which Children are
Appropriate for a Theraplay Group?
Children that:
have
unmet emotional needs
are withdrawn or quiet
are overactive-aggressive or bossy
are frightened or shy
are compulsive or rigid
have learning problems |
have speech-language
problems
have intellectual deficits
have academic problems
have associated emotional problems
come from broken homes or have working parents
have under growing pressure to achieve and perform
|
Modern-day children can
benefit from the experience of being appreciated not for
what they accomplish, but just because they are.
What are the Benefits of a Theraplay Group?
Theraplay is a doing rather than a talking experience.
It is important to attend not only to what the children say,
but to what they do. When the needs of children for
nurturing, stimulation, structure, and challenge are
attended to, the children begin to internalize this
experience and extend it toward others spontaneously. Rather
than using external controls, a Theraplay Group promotes
internal self-control and the desire to relate
appropriately. Instead of being suppressed, problems are
allowed to surface so that the leader and group members can
help children take in the positive experiences offered.
Because a Theraplay Group is playful and upbeat, it appeals
to children. It also can be a way to "teach" social and
communication skills to older children. Finally, it is an
excellent way to bring fun and exuberance into the lives of
all children. |
