Play therapy Play therapy refers to a method of psychotherapy with children in which a therapist uses a child's fantasies and

the symbolic meanings of his or her play as a medium for understanding and communication with the child.

Purpose The aim of play therapy is to decrease those behavioral and emotional difficulties that interfere significantly with a child's normal functioning. Inherent in this aim is improved communication and understanding between the child and his parents. Less obvious goals include improved verbal expression, ability for self-observation, improved impulse control, more adaptive ways of coping with anxiety and frustration, and improved capacity to trust and to relate to others. In this type of treatment, the therapist uses an understanding of cognitive development and of the different stages of emotional development as well as the conflicts common to these stages when treating the child. Play therapy is used to treat problems that are interfering with the child's normal development. Such difficulties would be extreme in degree and have been occurring for many months without resolution. Reasons for treatment include, but are not limited to, temper tantrums, aggressive behavior, non-medical problems with bowel or bladder control, difficulties with sleeping or having nightmares, and experiencing worries or fears. This type of treatment is also used with children who have experienced sexual or physical abuse , neglect , the loss of a family Play Therapy The primary purpose of play therapy is to help troubled children express their conflicts and anxieties through the medium of play in the context of a therapeutic relationship. The therapist's conscious direction of the child's play gives it purpose, meaning, and value in treatment. Play therapy: Aids diagnostic understanding Helps establish the treatment relationship Provides a medium for working through the defenses and handling anxieties Assists in the verbalization of feelings Helps the child act out unconscious material and relieve the accompanying tension Enlarges the child's play interests for eventual use outside of play therapy

Each child's situation is unique; therefore the work with individual children will have different emphases, depending on the child's problem situation. What are the benefits of Play Therapy? Play is essential for children to develop physically, emotionally and socially. Play Therapy, in any setting, has numerous benefits: It provides a safe space for emotional expression Children learn how to express their thoughts and feelings in constructive ways It fosters decision-making and acceptance of responsibility It facilitates the development of problem-solving, coping skills and resilience It helps children to explore and practise social skills It helps children to make friends and learn about their ever expanding world It allows children to learn from mistakes safely It encourages confidence and concentration It fosters imagination and creativity It supports emotional healing and growth

Within the school setting Play Therapy benefits both the child and teaching staff by facilitating improvements in

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Assessment questionnaires are used to establish individual therapeutic goals and to monitor progress and changes. These assessment tools are linked to SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning) objectives and can therefore support the school's focus on PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) education.

Play therapy meets and accepts each child where he or she is at in life and provides support to promote personal development and to facilitate each childs capacity to be healthy.

Benefits of play therapy Reduces anxiety about traumatic events in the child's life Facilitates a child's expression of feelings Promotes self-confidence and a sense of competence Develops a sense of trust in self and others Defines healthy boundaries Creates or enhances healthy bonding in relationships Enhances creativity and playfulness Promotes appropriate behaviour

Bibliotherapy Definition Bibliotherapy is an adjunct to psychological treatment that incorporates appropriate books or other written materials, usually intended to be read outside of psychotherapy sessions, into the treatment regimen. Purpose The goal of bibliotherapy is to broaden and deepen the client's understanding of the particular problem that requires treatment. The written materials may educate the client about the disorder itself or be used to increase the client's acceptance of a proposed treatment. Many people find that the opportunity to read about their problem outside the therapist's office facilitates active participation in their treatment and promotes a stronger sense of personal responsibility for recovery. In addition, many are relieved to find that others have had the same disorder or problem and have coped successfully with it or recovered from it. From the therapist's standpoint, providing a client with specific information or assignments to be completed outside regular in-office sessions speeds the progress of therapy. Bibliotherapy has been applied in a variety of settings to many kinds of psychological problems. Practitioners have reported successful use of bibliotherapy in treating eating disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, agoraphobia , alcohol and substance abuse, and stress-related physical disorders.

1. WHAT IS BIBLIOTHERAPY? Simply stated, bibliotherapy can be defined as the use of books to help people solve problems. Another, more precise definition is that bibliotherapy is a family of technique for structuring interaction between a facilitator and a participant based on mutual sharing of literature

The idea of healing through books is not a new one--it can be traced far back in history, from the days of the first libraries in Greece. The use of books in healing, however, has been interpreted differently by classical scholars, physicians, psychologists, social workers, nurses, parents, teachers, librarians, and counselors. There is, in fact, confusion in determining the dividing line between reading guidance and bibliotherapy . And the vast amount of professional literature that is available on bibliotherapy naturally mirrors the point of view of the helping professional who wrote it and the field in which he or she is an expert. The purpose behind BIBLIOTHERAPY is threefold:

1. To Rebuild Thought Structures As the natural mind functions in accordance with a long-standing pattern of egocentric thoughts and desires which, in turn, produce all kinds of conflicts, the human mind, if it is to be renewed, must be able to "think God's thoughts after Him". This best achieved by memorizing and meditating upon important passages of Scripture. 2. To Refocus the Emotions The Word of God, if it is to 'live' in our hearts, must become the full expression of our emotions. To do this effectively, we must show a counsellee how to take portions that have been memorized and, wherever possible, add personal pronouns. This personalizes the matter and enables the counsellee to express himself to God in a new way. 3. To Redirect the Will The human will, apart from the action of the Holy Spirit and the Word f god, is bent on having its own way. Scripture, however, when memorized, personalized and meditated upon, can bring about grreat changes in this part of the human personality. Based on writings by Ridley Usherwood. 3. WHEN SHOULD BIBLIOTHERAPY BE USED? Bibliotherapeutic intervention may be undertaken for many reasons: (1) to develop an individual's self-concept; (2) to increase an individual's understanding of human behavior or motivations; (3) to foster an individual's honest self-appraisal; (4) to provide a way for a person to find interests outside of self; (5) to relieve emotional or mental pressure; (6) to show an individual that he or she is not the first or only person to encounter such a problem; (7) to show an individual that there is more than one solution to a problem; (8) to help a person discuss a problem more freely; and (9) to help an individual plan a constructive course of action to solve a problem. Before undertaking bibliotherapy, however, a practitioner must remember that it is more than just the casual recommendation of a certain book to an individual--it is a deliberate course of action that requires careful planning. 6. GUIDELINES: Regardless of whether the practitioner chooses the individual or group approach, the basic procedures in conducting bibliotherapy are: (1) motivate the individual or individuals with introductory activities; (2) provide time for reading the material; (3) allow incubation time; (4) provide follow-up discussion time, using questions that will lead persons from literal recall of information through interpretation, application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of that information; and (5) conduct evaluation and direct the individual or individuals toward closure--this involves both evaluation by the practitioner and self-evaluation by the individual.

1. Identify student needs. This is done through observation, parent conferences, student writing assignments, and the review of school records. 2. Match the student(s) with appropriate materials. Find books which deal with divorce, a death in the family, or whatever student needs have been identified. Keep the following in mind: a: The book must be at the student's reading ability level. b. The text must be at an interest level appropriate to the maturity of the student. c. The theme of the readings should match the identified needs of the student. d. The characters should be believable so that the student can empathize with their predicaments. e. The plot of the story should be realistic and involve creativity in problem solving. 3. Decide on student. Design drama). the setting and time for sessions, and how sessions will be introduced to the

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5. Motivate the student with introductory activities. 6. Engage in the reading, viewing, or listening phase. 7. Take a break or allow a few minutes for the student to reflect on the material. 8. Introduce the follow-up activities. 9. Assist the, student in achieving possible-solutions, or some other activity. closure through discussion and a listing of

The benefits of bibliotherapy to individuals Bibliotherapy is not an exact science - there are no right or wrong books to read, and every response to the novel is unique to the individual. However, it works - we can measure this to a degree, from personal responses to what people have read - for example "I like reading about people worse off than me - it makes me feel better. Does that make me a bad person?" Of course it doesn't, but it is the reaction to what has been read that is interesting. The quote I have used was made by a client who had suffered varying degrees of depression for most of her life. Depression is isolating, lonely and by nature a selfish illness. What entering the realms of fiction does is enable us to enter another world that not only takes us out of our own experience, but can also reflect on our own lives and gives us cause for reflection. We can experience pain, suffering and what we may not be able to examine in the real world can be explored at a step removed in the safer world of the novel, or in poetry. Any novel takes us out of our own experience, in effect we are allowing the world into the realms of our own selves. Bibliotherapy allows this broadening of our experience in a safe, non-judgemental way. It can free a person from the confines of crippling loneliness. By entering future worlds, fantasy worlds, any world apart from our own we can explore our own selves in alternative realities and make better sense of the real world we inhabit. Reading is by no means a passive, escapist activity. I think we have all heard of someone bemoaning the fact that reading was considered doing nothing at all - "Put that book down and DO something!". Choosing our own reading matter is a powerful, pro-active decision we make whether we are aware of it or not. From personal experience, when a client who, say may be unable to make a reading choice, decides to branch out and try other things I feel that bibliotherapy has started to work. It can take real courage to develop the confidence to make that decision and try new things. When I first see a new client I often suggest that they buy a notebook - the nicest they can find and start to keep a reading diary. I have kept one myself for many years and it is a very interesting, not to say invaluable way of examining ourselves and our moods at any particular time. All readers understand that our reading choices reflect our unique state of being at any given time. For example, we may be constricted by a change in lifestyle - a busy young mum may not have the time, or the energy to tackle "War and Peace", but it could be the perfect book for a retired person with time on their hands and days to fill. Reading is unique in that it is an activity that can fit in with our lives at any stage, and there are countless books waiting for us to open them. That's just it - they are waiting for US. We can read whatever takes our fancy. Whenever we want to. Knowing this is empowering - and one of life's greatest pleasures. Keeping a reading diary is also a useful way of measuring our reactions to what we have read, and how our individual responses are affected by our state of mind at any given time. To quote one lady - "When I look back to what I was reading then, I can remember exactly how I was feeling at the time. I don't want to go back there into that horrible place, but I now know that if I should be as ill again, I will be able to come through it." Reading groups, or Bookchats are another way in which we practice bibliotherapy. Whilst reading is an intensely personal experience, sharing our reading experiences can be enjoyable, stimulating and can open the doors to friendship for the lonely, or socially isolated individual. Reading groups engender an environment where social skills and confidence can blossom in the individual - they are a "safe" place where books may be explored, and opinions expressed in the

knowledge that all responses to a book, or poem are valid. There are no rights or wrongs about what we have to say. Bibliotherapy is a unique way of exploring ourselves and our place in the world we inhabit.

Art and Music Therapy Art Therapy Art therapy is a unique opportunity for people of all ages - children, teens and adult - to express themselves creatively while dealing with stress, grief and loss. Art can produce a powerful release of feelings that can be healing to the mind, body and spirit. Our licensed art therapists offer encouragement and guidance while emphasizing the process of the artwork, not the final product. Artistic talent or prior training is not required. Common goals of art therapy include relaxation and stress relief, providing insight on emotions, and encouraging communication between loved ones. For those who are grieving, art therapy can also be a creative tool for sharing memories and exploring coping skills. These goals may be achieved through: Self-Espressive Art - creating artwork spontaneously, based on current emotions, moods and thoughts Art Studio - creating artwork for relaxation and as a healing outlet for stress and life transitions Legacy Projects - gift making, intergenerational art projects, memory books, albums and memory boxes

Music Therapy Music therapy is a creative opportunity for patients and families to express emotions within an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation. Individuals may join in the making of music or choose to listen - or both. Therapeutic experiences may include song writing, music performances, vocal or musical improvisation. No musical background or experience is necessary to enjoy the many benefits of music therapy, including: Positive changes in mood, relaxation, peace and comfort Anxiety and stress reduction Social interaction with caregivers and family members Memory recall, reminiscence and satisfaction with life

Music therapy can be used for special needs as well. For patients with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, music therapy can enhance socialization, assist in recall and language skills and decrease the frequency of agitated behavior. Those coping with a crisis can benefit from lower blood pressure, reduced heart rate and less muscle tension. Music therapy can help children manage pain and stressful situations; it may also encourage self-expression, communication and motor development. Goals of art and music therapy For hospitalized children and adolescents: Encourage the self-expression of thoughts and feelings related with illness/hospitalization Help children process and work through traumatic experiences associated with hospitalization Facilitate positive self-esteem and positive body image Promote a sense of independence and feelings of control Provide peer interaction and a sense of community within the hospital environment Encourage the development of healthy strategies for coping with hospitalization

For children and adolescents living with chronic pain or chronic illness: Encourage the self-expression of thoughts and feelings related with chronic pain/illness

Facilitate children/adolescents' understanding of how chronic pain/illness affects their lives Understand how situations may increase pain perception and/or stress Learn effective techniques to promote self-management of chronic pain Learn effective techniques to self-manage stress and anxiety related to chronic illness Facilitate the process of acceptance for children struggling with a chronic condition

For children with newly acquired physical limitations: Facilitate adaptation to physical limitations Promote problem-solving skills Facilitate hand-eye coordination and gross motor skills Encourage non-verbal communication skills

For children recovering from brain injury: Raise awareness and orientation to things such as time, date and place Increase attention-span and decrease frustration level Follow step-by-step directions more easily Organize thoughts to make independent decisions Facilitate the process of representing thoughts symbolically Encourage the process of cause and effect problem solving

What Is the Purpose of Occupational Therapy Activities? The purpose of occupational therapy activities is usually to help patients cope with physical and mental disabilities in daily life. Occupational therapy activities can help patients learn or re-learn ordinary skills, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Occupational therapy also often seeks to help patients manage leisure-time activities. Patients can use this therapy to overcome physical and cognitive disabilities as much as possible so they may live independent, functional lives. Activities incorporated in occupational therapy usually include learning how to meet one's own physical needs, learning how to perform work-related tasks, and learning how to enjoy oneself alone and in company, in spite of the limitations created by physical and cognitive handicaps. Occupational therapists typically try to focus on the physical, mental, and emotional needs of their patients. Some patients suffer congenital conditions that can limit their activities and independence from birth. Other patients suffer injury or illness later in life, and need to re-learn skills that once may have come easily. Occupational therapy activities seek to help patients function in daily life to the best of their abilities. Some patients may never be able to function as well as persons who aren't disabled, but occupational therapy generally seeks to help these patients function as well as possible. The Benefits of Occupational Therapy Occupational therapy has extensive benefits both for elderly persons who have suffered from a life altering event, such as a fall or a stroke, and for elderly people who have a reasonably high quality of life. Elderly people who have occupational therapy after a life altering event can regain a certain measure of independence. Occupational therapy can provide training in the use of adaptive devices, such as wheelchairs, walkers, and orthotics, to elderly persons with limited mobility. Occupational therapy also provides support to elderly persons suffering from depression and other psychological conditions that impact the daily life of the elderly person. The main goal of occupational therapy is to increase independence and better the quality of life for people who partake in occupational therapy. A skilled nursing facility should provide occupational therapy, with a trained occupational therapist, to residents in order to increase or maintain mobility, elevate the mood state, and contribute to a higher quality of life. Occupational therapy is being used in an increasing number of ways due to the myriad benefits of occupational therapy for patients. Asking questions about occupational therapy and the frequency of occupational therapy can help families determine whether a particular skilled nursing facility can provide the optimum level of care to an elderly loved one.