Author Description

by Ann Cattanach, MSc, CSTD, RDTh An excellent, stimulating read with a manageable style and numerous sensitive insights into the world of play for the child and how it can become a therapeutic process where children 'play out' their perception of their own experiences...uses clear, straightforward language to discuss the theoretical basis for play therapy...seems to offer a means towards constructively working through traumatic experiences for children. CONTENTS 1. Play - A Mirror Into the World of the Child. Making sense of the world through play. Exploring the world of the awakening senses. Embodied play. My space in the world - what is `me' and `not me'. Making symbolic worlds. Playing the social world - dramatic play - learning the rules/breaking the rules. 2. Play Therapy. Using the Creative Expressive Play of the Child to Heal the Hurt. Playing the memories of the past. Playing an imaginary past - starting again. Re-making a world. Mending and healing. 3. The Roles of the Therapist. The social role of the therapist. The therapist as transference figure. The therapist as a character in the play. 4. Structuring the Play. Structure of the therapy. Settings and materials. Contracts with the child. 5. Methods and Processes in Play Therapy. Creative free play. Dramatic play. Task-based play. 6. Work Settings for Play Therapy. Play therapy in social services. Play therapy in the education service. Play therapy in hospitals. 7. The Adult Playground. Finding the roots of creativity. Creative-expressive play. Paperback, 176 pages, 9.25in x 6in About the Author: Ann Cattanach MSc, CSTD, RDTh, is a play therapist and dramatherapist in private practice. She has wide experience of teaching and lecturing in drama, dramatherapy and speech communication, and has also worked as a child psychotherapist, family therapist and dramatherapist for Social Services and NHS Trusts. This book qualifies for free domestic shipping!