School-Based Play Therapy

An essential guide that focuses on play therapy in schools This landmark reference presents an A-to-Z guide for using play therapy in preschool and elementary school settings to help children prevent or resolve psychosocial dif?culties. Coedited by three experts in the ?eld, School-Based Play Therapy offers school counselors, psychologists, teachers, and social workers the latest techniques to help them develop their own creative approaches to utilizing the therapeutic powers of play. Beginning with an overview that addresses multicultural concerns, a description of play instruments, and observational techniques, this practice-oriented book explains how to implement play therapy in schools, with solid advice on gaining acceptance from other staff members and administration. Covering both individual and group play therapy, it clearly describes proven approaches such as child-centered play therapy, Theraplay, sandplay, and art exercises. The thorough treatment of the subject combined with the contributors' incomparable expertise makes this an essential volume for all mental health professionals working in schools. * Describes play therapy approaches for special populations, such as sexually abused children, ADD/ADHD, children of divorce, and others * Includes innovative play therapy programs and tools * Outlines how to construct portable play kits and set up a play space

ATHENA A. DREWES, PsyD, RPT-S, is Senior Psychologist and Clinical Coordinator of the Astor Home for Children, a residential treatment center in New York. She is the founder and past-president of the New York branch of the Association for Play Therapy.