In 2010, after I completed my play therapy certificate program, I took a graduate level course, in Theraplay®. I chose to take the course, because I wanted to learn more about ways to work with those children and adolescents who struggle with attachment disorders.  I wanted some tools for my tool box in helping families mend after traumas, or helping adoptive families build a connection with their adoptive children.  After completing the course, I started implementing Theraplay® techniques in my practice, in my groups and even using some of the techniques in parenting the children in my home.   After a few years, of seeing the results, I’m hooked!  What a great resource for my clients and their families!   I absolutely love how simple, and yet how powerful it is.

I am excited to share that as of this month, I am starting the credentials to eventually be a Certified Theraplay® Therapist. I am honored to be working on additional training and supervision to become a Certified Theraplay® Therapist through the Theraplay Institute. In order to be a Certified Theraplay® Therapist, one must go through three phases, of training and supervision. I am currently working to complete the first level at this point in time.  This will be a great addition to my private practice and to our community.

How is Theraplay® different from other therapies?
Theraplay® is a therapist directed therapy that involves the caregiver and the child.  The parent is taught or coached to be in tune with the child’s mood or affect, and respond to that.  Some sessions are taped, so the parent and therapist can review and discuss. Theraplay focuses on the “doing” things together rather than the verbal communication aspect of the relationship.

Tell me more about Theraplay®
The MIM (assessment) helps give the clinician a baseline of what the attachment looks like, and is a powerful tool to determine where the family strengths are,  and what the needs are.  Theraplay®, reduces difficult behavior by strengthening the caregiver/child relationship.  The activities are interactive and fun for both the child and the caregiver. Positive change can be seen immediately, as it is easily transferable to home.  One of the goals of Theraplay®, is for the parent to meet the child on their level, based on his/her emotional age.

Want to learn more?

Video that discusses what Theraplay®is:   http://vimeo.com/16501641

More helpful links:

• Theraplay® Institute’s website  ( Official Website) 
• http://www.goodtherapy.org/theraplay.htm (Brief overview)
• http://crossroadsdbq.com/?page_id=241   (Discusses the dimensions)
• http://www.attach.org/resources/members/listing/protocols/theraplay_inst.pdf   (What treatment looks like)
• http://blog.lifelinechild.org/adoption/theraplay-playing-with-purpose/
• http://nh-gettingthere.blogspot.com/2012/06/theraplay.html

If you are a parent or you know of a family that is interested in participating in Theraplay please contact me directly at 636-255-0002 or JennieWilson@StepByStepCounselingLLC.com.

Blessings,
-Jennie

Jennie Wilson is a child and adolescent therapist. She holds the credentials of a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor