Theraplay builds and enhances attachment, self-esteem, trust in others, self regulation and joyful engagement. 

 

Theraplay helps the parent or carer (who participates in the sessions) be more attuned to their child and understand the motives of their child’s behaviour and their underlying needs.

 

I often combine Theraplay with some talking time, using a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) approach, discussing things that have gone well and which have been tricky during the week, helping the family work through the challenges in a safe therapeutic space.  I am guided here by the principles of DDP, "Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity & Empathy" (PACE).  

 

I include in the session other approaches that I feel will be helpful for the family, such as, therapeutic stories, life story work, brain training, somatic body work and non directive play therapy.

 

Developed in the late 1960s by Ann Jernberg, Theraplay is a child and family therapy, based on attachment theory, that aims to address behavioural, emotional, and developmental issues.  It is endorsed by the Association for Play Therapy and practiced across the world.

 

Strong attachment between a child and the important adults in their life has long been believed to be the basis of lifelong good mental health, as well as the mainstay of resilience in the face of adversity.  Modern brain research and the field of neuroscience have shown that attachment is the way in which children come to understand, trust and thrive in their world.

 

In treatment, the Theraplay Practitioner guides the parent and child through playful, fun games, developmentally challenging tasks, and tender, nurturing activities.  The very act of engaging each other in this way helps the parent regulate the child's behaviour and communicate love, joy, and safety.  It helps the child feel secure, cared for, connected and worthy.

  

Theraplay can be used to help children and families manage a range of challenges arising from emotional distress, developmental differences or neurodivergent experiences.  As the model is rooted in attachment theory, it is particularly effective in addressing the impact of relational ruptures and attachment difficulties.  It also helps create a felt sense of safety, providing a strong foundation for processing trauma.

 

Theraplay can be adapted for all ages.

 

For more information see https://www.theraplay.org.uk/about