Play Therapy with Vulnerable Populations

Green and Myrick advocate evidence-based play therapy in conjunction with a range of different problems. Recognizing that there is often a need for integrated therapies targeted at particular needs, the editors have assembled a range of authorities who explore a variety of techniques. Each essay reviews the particular problem children may have and describes the research and the appropriateness of each type of play therapy, culminating in a case history that demonstrates the impact of the particular approach. Children on the autism spectrum, those with physical disabilities, and those with obsessive compulsive disorder are among the populations discussed. Individuals recovering from trauma—be it a specific occurrence, such as a natural disaster like Hurricane Katrina, or complex chronic trauma from multiple causes, such as sexual abuse or dysfunctional family situations—are examined and the most appropriate treatment is described. The various examples offer much useful information. Even more valuable is the emphasis on recognizing that the treatment must be appropriate to the particular individual and the specific problem he or she faces, and should include working with the children’s families. A valuable resource. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Graduate students, researchers, faculty, professionals.