Psychodynamic Play Therapy

Question 1

Psychodynamic Play therapy =

Answer 1

Applying psycho-d theory to children - unconscious urges / fantasies / wishes are in conflict.

• Want to provide environment to bring these unconscious conflicts to the surface
• Really dig symbolic play

Question 2

Psycho-D vs Child Centered?

Answer 2

Both are non-directive, however psycho-d uses interpretation (say why you think child is doing something)

Question 3

Anna Freud Conceptualization of PsychD

Answer 3

• try to restore child to path of normal development
• emotional energy driving development and therapy removes obstacles to that energy
• help child understand what’s getting in the way (via interpretation)

Question 4

PsychD Play Therapy Interpretations

Answer 4

• depends on psychd orientation (self vs relational)

Question 5

Unconscious of the Child

Answer 5

Is in flux; self - other representations are still forming

Question 6

Main conflicts for younger children

Answer 6

External vs Internal drives (I want that, but if I take it I get in trouble)

• If conflict is external (i.e. w/ mother or father), help negotiate interpersonal rlx.
• If older than 4 or 5, problem may seem external but more likely a problem with self concept

Question 7

The therapeutic rlx in PsychD

Answer 7

• Creating a “holding environment” - safe place to express feelings
• regressive (messy) play is permitted
• therapist s.t. “axillary ego” by setting boundaries, hopefully internalized over time
• Relationship is central to cure

Question 8

Role of Insight in PsychD

Answer 8

• cornerstone of PsychD play therapy
• insight in children is limited to here and now (I’m mad at you b/c mom yelled at me)
• working through = still imperative to change