Relationship Play Therapy

Renowned child therapist Clark Moustakas demonstrates how play can be used to affirm and liberate children_children who suddenly become troubled in their school or family lives and can work out their anger and fear in just a few sessions, as well as children who are seriously disturbed and must struggle to achieve emotional maturity, respect for others, and faith in themselves.

About the Author :
Clark Moustakasb, Ph.D., Ed.D., is President of the Center for Humanistic Studies in Detroit as well as Senior Consultant and Core Faculty Member in Psychology at the Union Institute in Cincinnati, where he co-chairs a consortium of alternate graduate programs in psychology. His development as a person and as a psychologist is reflected in his studies, which are grounded in psychological, philosophical, educational, and literary perspectives. His publications on loneliness, creativity, conformity, the teaching and learning of psychotherapy, and qualitative research retain an interdisciplinary, humanistic unity of mind and soul. Dr. Moustakas's current work focuses on the integration of philosophy and psychology in the training of humanistic clinical psychologists, which includes the application of legal and ethical standards in professional practice and human affairs.

Review :
The work of an artist, elegant in its simplicity. In Relationship Play Therapy, the child-centered approach comes alive. Seasoned and aspiring practitioners alike can participate in the process through the encounters between child and therapist, which are vividly portrayed in verbatim sessions ranging from transitional situation to serious disturbances in behavior. Moustakas's presentation allows us to witness the development of the therapeutic relationship, the child's use of the raw materials of the playroom, and finally the resolution of the child's internal conflict with the external world. Required reading for anyone in the field. Clark Moustakas's new book keeps us grounded in the essential qualities of the play therapist and the play therapy relationship: faith, acceptance, and respect. Moustakas brings to life a wealth of theoretical principles, values, and methods with abundant case material from his experience with children and families. For both the student and the beginning play therapist, he provides orientation and a strong foundation for entering the world of the children with whom they will work; the experienced play therapist will recognize a return to basic, natural ways of being with children as we engage them in the powerful healing process. Relationship Play Therapy represents an enriching opportunity to share the current thinking of one of the pioneers in the field. In my own quiet way I follow the path of the firebrand, daring to live, to be, to create in the rhythms of darkness and light, believing that in every learner, in every person, there is a bright and unique spark of energy and meaning that is often hidden or denied. I rejoice when I can inspire the trust, confidence, and support that frees energy and spirit for creative expression. My participation as an educator and psychotherapist has focused on the healthy resources of the person, while not ignoring the dark side: I am firmly committed to the future and possibilities for emergence and growth rather than barriers from the past of blockages to the present.