145 | Navigating the First Session: Achieving the "Touchstone Story" Goals with a Child-Centered Approach

Episode summary

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address a question from Marian in Ireland regarding the Touchstone story, a method sometimes used in initial therapy sessions. While acknowledging the intention behind the Touchstone story, I delve into why it doesn't align with child-centered play therapy principles. Instead, I propose ways to achieve similar goals through child-centered approaches. I emphasize the importance of creating a safe and comfortable environment for children in their initial sessions, focusing on building rapport and trust. I also discuss how to approach the topic of parental involvement and sharing information with children, emphasizing the child's autonomy and the therapist's role in facilitating a positive therapeutic experience.