Play Therapy
Play is a child’s natural medium of self-expression. Building on the work of Virginia Axline, Violet Oaklander, Garry Landreth and others, it is a primarily non-verbal approach, in which children are free to explore their difficulties, hurts and feelings via play with toys, sand, puppets, clay, art, dance and music. A secure and predictable relationship between child and therapist is crucial, in order for the child to feel safe, accepted, and free to explore and grow. Consistent with UK and US research approximately 80% of children display a reduction in maladaptive behaviours. Play therapy has a growing evidence-base and is effective in addressing difficulties including psychosocial issues, behavioural disorders, chronic illness, trauma, abuse, ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss.
Sonita's Training
I am a therapeutic play consultant. In order to have this designation I have met the following criteria:
Play is a child’s natural medium of self-expression. Building on the work of Virginia Axline, Violet Oaklander, Garry Landreth and others, it is a primarily non-verbal approach, in which children are free to explore their difficulties, hurts and feelings via play with toys, sand, puppets, clay, art, dance and music. A secure and predictable relationship between child and therapist is crucial, in order for the child to feel safe, accepted, and free to explore and grow. Consistent with UK and US research approximately 80% of children display a reduction in maladaptive behaviours. Play therapy has a growing evidence-base and is effective in addressing difficulties including psychosocial issues, behavioural disorders, chronic illness, trauma, abuse, ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss.
Sonita's Training
I am a therapeutic play consultant. In order to have this designation I have met the following criteria:
- Master’s degree in the area of mental health
- Licensure as a mental health practitioner
- Specific core credit courses as part of your degree. This includes: child development, theories of personality, principles of psychotherapy, child and adolescent psychopathology and legal, ethical and professional issues.
- 180 hours of play therapy training from a CAPT Approved Provider. I have trained with Lorrie Yasenik and Ken Gardner at the Rocky Mountain Play Therapy Institute (RMPTI).
- Clinical Experience (working with children) 2000 – 2500 hours