Aggressive Play in the Playroom & Transitioning Kids to CCPT: Three Questions Answered

Oct 2, 2024

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to three insightful questions from Texie in Michigan. She asks about managing aggressive play where a child consistently “kills” her in the playroom, handling what to do when the therapist is “dead,” and transitioning children from directive therapy into child-centered play therapy. I break down each question, offering practical guidance for therapists navigating similar challenges in their sessions.

For the first question, I discuss the importance of understanding the deeper themes behind aggressive play and how we, as therapists, should follow the limit setting criteria. Texie’s example of good guy versus bad guy play is a powerful theme, and I emphasize the significance of not interfering with this processing work unless it violates our personal boundaries.

Regarding the second question about being “dead” in the playroom, I highlight that therapists should continue engaging with the child, even if they’ve been “killed,” unless the child explicitly tells them to remain silent.

Lastly, I provide a step-by-step approach to transitioning children from directive therapy to CCPT, ensuring parents are on board and helping children adjust to the new approach where they are in charge of the play.

If you would like to ask me questions directly, check out www.ccptcollective.com, where I host two weekly Zoom calls filled with advanced CCPT case studies and session reviews, as well as member Q&A. You can take advantage of the two-week free trial to see if the CCPT Collective is right for you.

Ask Me Questions: Call ‪(813) 812-5525‬, or email: [email protected]
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APT Approved Play Therapy CE courses: https://childcenteredtraining.com
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References:

Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G. L. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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