The Healing Power of Play: Working with Abused Children - Tapa dura

"Both the novice child therapist and experienced clinician will learn abundantly from Dr. Gil's instruction about effective intervention with even the most severely neglected and abused children."-- (03/18/1991) "Eliana Gil occupies an unparalleled position among professionals in the child abuse field. No one has worked longer, more faithfully, and more responsibly with such a diverse array of abusive interactions." --Roland C. Summit, M.D. "After reading The Healing Power of Play, child therapists from every professional background will feel better equipped to confront the enormous challenge of treating the abused child....Dr. Gil's readable guide should inspire the field and thereby benefit all of our patients." --Spencer Eth, MD

Abused and traumatized children have special therapeutic needs. This book focuses on the impact of trauma and how to help children achieve a positive resolution. Issues such as facilitating and intervening in post-traumatic play are highlighted along with clinical examples of treatment planning and technique selection. Case vignettes of child victims of physical and sexual abuse and neglect demonstrate the use of nondirective and directive play therapy.
With its valuable insights and practical guidance, this book is an essential resource for all mental health professionals who work with abused children, as well as for those who work with adult survivors of abuse. Other professionals who come into contact with abused children such as protective service workers, medical professionals, clergy, teachers, and day-care professionals will find much of interest.