Introduction
Play therapy is a well-established, evidence-based practice for helping children cope with difficult emotions and experiences. Non-directive play therapy (NDT) is a specific type of play therapy that is used to promote self-expression and self-healing in children. This article will provide an overview of NDT, including its history, theory, and research on its effectiveness.
History of Non-directive Play Therapy
The concept of NDT can be traced back to the work of two psychoanalysts, Carl Rogers and Anna Freud. Rogers developed the concept of client-centered therapy, which involved non-directive, self-directed conversations between a therapist and a client. Anna Freud took a different approach, developing the concept of play therapy. Her approach involved the use of toys, games, and stories to facilitate self-expression and self-healing in children.
Theory of Non-directive Play Therapy
NDT is based on the idea that children are naturally creative and resourceful. It is believed that by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment, children can explore their feelings and experiences through play and can learn to express themselves in healthy ways.
NDT is a non-directive approach, meaning that the therapist does not provide advice or direct the child’s play. Instead, the therapist creates an environment in which the child is free to explore and express themselves. The therapist may provide some guidance and support, but the focus is on allowing the child to direct their own play.
Research on Non-directive Play Therapy
Research suggests that NDT can be an effective intervention for a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral problems. A meta-analysis of 45 studies found that NDT was associated with significant improvements in psychological functioning in children (Rodriguez-Srednicki & Bratton, 2019). Other studies have found that NDT can be effective in reducing symptoms of trauma in children (Landreth & Sweeney, 2020).
Conclusion
Non-directive play therapy is an evidence-based practice for helping children cope with difficult emotions and experiences. It is based on the idea that children are naturally creative and resourceful and can learn to express themselves in healthy ways when provided with a safe and non-judgmental environment. Research suggests that NDT can be an effective intervention for a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral problems.
References
Landreth, G. L., & Sweeney, D. (2020). Trauma-focused play therapy: An evidence-based practice for helping children heal. New York, NY: Routledge.
Rodriguez-Srednicki, O., & Bratton, S. C. (2019). Effects of non-directive play therapy on children’s psychosocial functioning: A meta-analysis. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 50(2), 113–123. https://doi.org/10.1037/pro0000152