Child-Centered Play Therapy

Child-centered play therapy (CCPT) is a powerful, empirically supported approach that allows children in distress to freely express their feelings and take the lead in solving their own problems. This practical, instructive, and authoritative book offers a complete overview of CCPT: what it is, why it works, and how to conduct it with clients. The authors are master clinicians who concisely explain core therapeutic principles and techniques, using vivid case material to illustrate the concepts discussed.

The introductory section presents essential background information, comparing and contrasting CCPT with other widely practiced play therapy approaches. Part II takes a closer look at the nuts and bolts of intervention. Flexible yet systematic guidelines are provided for setting up a playroom, structuring sessions, and understanding and responding empathically to children's play themes. The role of parents in therapy is covered in Part III. Chapters demonstrate the process of consulting with parents, involving them in treatment, and helping them interact with their child in more productive ways. Part IV offers insights into treating a broad range of child and family difficulties, including anxiety disorders, trauma, divorce, and attachment problems. Other key topics include how to deal with challenging behaviors in session, maintain appropriate boundaries, collaborate effectively with other professionals, and develop competence for working with culturally diverse clients. Rounding out the volume, Part V distills the evidence base for CCPT and describes recommended training resources.

Rich with clinical wisdom, this accessible guide is invaluable reading for play, art, and expressive therapists; child psychologists; social workers; counselors; family therapists; and child psychiatrists. It is a highly informative supplemental text for clinically oriented graduate-level courses.

Risd VanFleet, PhD, RPT-S, is President of the Family Enhancement and Play Therapy Center in Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania. She has trained thousands worldwide in the practice of CCPT and Filial Therapy, and is the author of numerous books, articles, and DVDs on these topics. Dr. VanFleet is a past president and board chair of the Association for Play Therapy. She is a recipient of the Bernard G. and Louise F. Guerney Award for Outstanding Contributions to Practice and Training in Filial Therapy, from the Association for Filial and Relationship Enhancement Methods, and of the Play Therapy Professional Education and Training Award, from the Association for Play Therapy.
Andrea E. Sywulak, PhD, RPT-S, is in private practice in Southampton, Pennsylvania, specializing in the treatment of families with young children. She has trained many professionals in CCPT and Filial Therapy and regularly supervises professionals in their use of these methods. She conducted some of the first research on Filial Therapy, has authored book chapters and manuals, and has presented at international conferences.
Cynthia Caparosa Sniscak, LPC, RPT-S, is in private practice with children and families in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, specializing in trauma and attachment problems. She has trained many professionals and authored several book chapters. Ms. Sniscak presents at international conferences and provides supervision in CCPT and Filial Therapy. She is a recipient of the Outstanding Contributions to Professional Training in Filial Therapy Award from the Family Enhancement and Play Therapy Center.