About this ebook
At last, clinical readers have a book that takes seriously the importance of play and brings a scientific eye to this most important aspect of life. Drawing on concepts of interpersonal neurobiology, the benefits of play interventions to achieve attunement, neural integration, healthy attachment, and the development of resilience and well-being become clear.
The book is organized into three parts. The first part lays a conceptual foundation for considering play in relation to the neurobiology of the developing brain and mind. The next part explores specific topics about play including the therapeutic playroom, the collaborative relationship between therapist and clients, storytelling, and mindfulness. The last part of the book asks questions about the state of play in our families, clinics, and schools. How did we get to a place where play has been so devalued, and what can we do about it? Now that we know how important play is across the lifespan from a scientific standpoint, what can we do to fully integrate it into our lives?
After reading this book, clinicians, teachers, and even parents will understand why play helps children (and adults) heal from painful experiences, while developing self-regulation and empathy. The clinical examples in the book show just how powerful the mind is in its natural push toward wholeness and integration.About the author
Theresa A. Kestly, PhD, is a psychologist, educator, consultant, and a registered play therapist/supervisor with the Association for Play Therapy. She maintains a private practice in Corrales, New Mexico for children, adults, families, and couples, and she specializes in play therapy and sand tray therapy. Theresa is past president of the New Mexico Association for Play Therapy and the founder and director of the Sand Tray Training Institute of New Mexico. For more information, visit her website at sandtraytraining.com.
