What is Theraplay®?
Theraplay® is a parent child form of therapy that helps to build the foundational relationship between the child and caregiver. Theraplay is an experiential form of play therapy that involves the parent(s), child, and therapist. The therapist facilitates fun, engaging activities between the participants. Through these activities, the parent child relationship is able to grow in structure, engagement, nurture, and challenge. These principles are the foundational pieces of Theraplay and guide the therapist in choosing the best activities for the child and parents.
How does Theraplay work?
Step 1: During the initial parent intake, the therapist may suggest Theraplay as the recommended form of treatment instead of traditional individual play therapy.
Step 2: If the therapist and parents feel that Theraplay will be best for the child, the next step following the parent intake is to schedule a parent child assessment. During this assessment, the parent(s) and child will complete some activities together. The assessment is recorded and watched at a later time by the therapist. This assessment helps the therapist to see the strengths and challenges within the parent child relationship.
Step 3: After the assessment, the parents and therapist have a session to discuss the assessment, explain the process of Theraplay, and prepare parents for the session format.
Who is Theraplay for?
Theraplay is beneficial when there has been a disruption in the child’s attachment to the caregiver. The following list includes examples of potential attachment disruptions:
-Foster or Adopted Child
-NICU stay as a baby
-Extended hospital stay of parent or child
-Military Deployments
-Sudden departure of one parent
-Death of a parent or close caregiver
Theraplay can also be beneficial for children that struggle with emotional regulation. If you’ve tried individual therapy for the child and feel like it’s not working, Theraplay may be a good option for your family.
At Memorial Child and Family Therapy, Ashlea Szanto uses her training in Theraplay to provide sessions based on the Theraplay principles. If you are interested in Theraplay for your family, set up an appointment with Ashlea.
Theraplay® is a registered service mark of The Theraplay® Institute, Chicago, IL, USA.
Call us at 832-615-5508 to schedule an appointment today!