Child-Centered Healing: Trauma Processing in the Playroom

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Marisol, a newcomer to play therapy, who’s working in a community impacted by a traumatic school shooting incident. We delve into understanding trauma in the playroom, emphasizing that the child-centered approach remains consistent even with kids who have experienced trauma. Exploring nuances in handling recent traumatic events versus a history of trauma, I highlight the importance of building trust and rapport with these children, who might be slower to establish connections due to guardedness for self-preservation. Stressing the child’s autonomy, I discuss how kids naturally bring forth trauma when they’re ready, guiding their healing process through play. I outline methods to support kids processing trauma, emphasizing the significance of providing a safe space and unconditional acceptance in the playroom.

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